<![CDATA[The TC Vallarta Properties - Mexico Travel Tips]]>

<![CDATA[The TC Vallarta Properties - Mexico Travel Tips]]>Mon, 18 May 2026 21:22:52 -0600Weebly<![CDATA[COVID-19 & Mexico]]>Wed, 18 Mar 2020 06:00:00 GMThttps://www.thetcvallartaproperties.com/mexico-travel-tips/covid-19-mexicoWho would've thought that a new decade would bring so much stress so early on in the year? COVID-19 has been a total game changer for the travel & tourism industry and most companies are noticing a significant impact. We are certainly no exception. Today we will review how this new virus is impacting Puerto Vallarta.

As of yesterday, Jalisco (the state of Puerto Vallarta) there were only 6 confirmed cases of COVID-19, however, Governor Enrique Alfarao implemented procedures and protocols to strengthen the preventative action and to keep that number very low. Found on the Out & About PV website the following will be taken in both seaports and airports for those continuing to travel internationally.

"Detection points will be installed in airports and seaports operating 24 hours a day to provide preventive information to travelers and carry out evaluations through temperature detection and interviews.
There must be a detailed report of any suspicious passenger aboard before the aircraft or ship arrives in Jalisco and it will be requested to record the information and send it to the health authorities awaiting its arrival.
Before and after any aircraft or ship’s arrival, it must start operating procedures to take care of the rest of the crew and the general public at the point of entry to Jalisco. After the activities prior to arrival, once in our state, the isolation of any suspected person or persons will be assessed and the corresponding epidemiological study will be applied until the infection is confirmed, ruled out or put the patient under treatment if it is the case. "

Schools are also taking action to prevent the spread and the following will be set forth:

There will be no basic level school in the state without sufficient soaps and antibacterials for children and young students.
Each teacher is receiving all the information necessary to detect, prevent and react to the symptoms of COVID-19 in their classrooms.
Classes for some universities will take place virtually starting Tuesday; more schools will be added in the following days to the suspension of activities.

According to the Mexicanist website Deputy Health Secretary Hugo Lopez-Gatell announced this morning at the federal government's conference that Mexico will not close commercial borders at this time. The United States and Guatemala have already closed their land borders with Mexico, thus preventing transit from one country to another, with the expectation that this mechanism could prevent the spread of the virus. However air transportation borders are still accessible under the following guidelines that we addressed earlier in the post.

So, bottom line, is it safe to go to Mexico? In my personal opinion, I feel that what is best for most of us is to allow the panic and hysteria to subside and let's reevaluate where we are at as an economy, a business, an employee, and a family member after the 2 week quarantine is up. Do I think that those who have travel booked towards the end of April and beyond need to cancel immediately? No, not at all. I think canceling now is a bit premature, but if it gives you piece of mind, you are welcome to do so. What an interesting time of 2020 but I am confident we will get through this and come out stronger once it has passed.

]]><![CDATA[February Styled Shoot]]>Mon, 16 Mar 2020 06:00:00 GMThttps://www.thetcvallartaproperties.com/mexico-travel-tips/february-styled-shootThis post has been one I have been waiting to write about. In early February I worked on showcasing the rooftop terrace of Casa Campana as an opportunity to host weddings and special events and it was so fun & so beautiful.

I knew I wanted to go for a Spanish Bohemian theme to bring out some color from the crisp, white linens as well as the white glassware.

I had hired a dear friend and amazing photographer, Rachel Hudson, with Kylee Ann Studios to collaborate & photograph the set up. Our glassware is from a local small business in Puerto Vallarta called, Mundo de Cristal. Every piece is glass blown, handcrafted, and absolutely beautiful.

Our rooftop ceremony site is set for 50 guests in the below photo, but we believe we can get upwards of 65 to comfortably seated up here. Our arch overlooks the city, the lush mountains and the captivating pacific ocean. We can't wait for our first wedding as the bell that hangs in the arch way is available to ring in celebration of the newlyweds!

The back half of rooftop is covered in the event of inclement weather--which is perfect for our couples to have a backup plan! No one likes to be rained on when wearing white!

After sunset the space just came completely alive! We loved the romantic ambiance from the bistro lighting and when you add in the cool breeze-- it's truly a perfect spot to enjoy such a memorable night!

We are looking forward to a successful wedding season & can't wait to create more amazing memories with those who share our space!

]]><![CDATA[What to expect when staying with us]]>Fri, 13 Mar 2020 06:00:00 GMThttps://www.thetcvallartaproperties.com/mexico-travel-tips/what-to-expect-when-staying-with-usAs we are ramping up to our busier time of year with Spring break and summer approaching we thought it would be a good time to review some of the most popular questions we get asked for those traveling with us. Today I have covered our top 10 frequently asked questions!

FAQs

1. Is food included in my stay?

In your nightly rate, the staff (concierge, housekeeper and cook) are included. They prepare two meals a day, breakfast & lunch as well as ensure daily housekeeping duties are completed. Food that is purchased for your arrival will be additional.

2. How is the meal/food cost handled?

Prior to your arrival, we will send you an electronic Guest Arrival Questionnaire that asks about your meal & beverage preferences as well as any dietary restrictions/ allergies. We collect a grocery deposit from you and use those funds to supply your stay. If we need additional funds, we will request it from you upon receipt.

3. I am a picky eater, can I tell them exactly what I want?

Yes! In the Guest Arrival Questionnaire there is a section for you to list any foods you must have or want to avoid. There is also an option for Chef's choice each day!

4. Do I need to brush my teeth with bottled water?

No. All of our homes are supplied with a state of the art, triple-stage, water filtration system. This means our water from any faucets are safe to drink and use.

5. How do I tip the staff?

Our staff makes a living wage but always kindly appreciates the gesture for a job well done. We have created a guideline for guest groups that you are welcome to reference: These numbers are for stays that are 5-7 days.
1-6 guests:
Cook: $200 USD total for group
Housekeeper: $150 USD total for group
Concierge: $150 USD total for group

7-12 Guests:
Cook: $250 USD total for group
Housekeeper: $200 USD total for group
Concierge: $200 USD total for group

13-20 Guests:
Cook: $300 USD total for group
Housekeeper: $250 USD total for group
Concierge: $250 USD total for group
Tip envelopes will be left out the morning of your departure on the kitchen counters with each staff members name. Please leave your tips in these envelopes upon check out.

6. What is the exchange rate in Mexico?

The exchange rate in Mexico changes daily. An average that we typically see is anywhere from 17 to 20 pesos for every $1 US dollar.

7. Do I need to arrive with Mexico's currency?

We suggest arriving with smaller US bills (50s, 20s, 10s, 5s, & 1s) and Edith (your concierge) can direct you to an exchange that gives the most fair exchange rate. Lots of places in Mexico prefer to do business in cash, so having cash on hand is important.
If you do need to get more cash during your stay you are welcome to withdrawal money from an ATM. They will dispense in pesos. Be sure to contact your bank prior to your trip to let them know you will be traveling to Puerto Vallarta in addition to review if you have any international transaction fees.

8. Is Montezuma Revenge a real thing?

The short answer, yes, it's a real thing.
The long answer, still yes, but there are so many precautions to take to avoid getting it. In addition, Puerto Vallarta has expanded their filtration standards and is now known as one of the safer towns in the country that has drinkable water.
If you don't know what Montezuma's Revenge is consider yourself lucky! I will do a full blog post about this later. If you're curious, a google search will introduce you to the nemesis of vacation.

9. How do I get around in Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is a great town that has good public transportation options. Upon arrival you are welcome to take a taxi directly from the airport at your own costs, or we can pre-schedule a private transportation for you using our partner, Vallarta Travel & Incentives.
The most cost effective mode of transportation during you stay is hands down, Uber. Uber is an app that will connect directly to a card or your bank and you don't have to worry about carrying pesos. It is a very simple, user-friendly platform and one that I would suggest you download prior to your trip.

10. Will my phone work in Mexico?

This question is so common and for the most part the answer is yes, your phone will work. I typically suggest our guests to reach out to their phone provider to review their cellular plan and see if it comes with international options.
Most phone plans include free texting and calls from Mexico and Canada but additional charges for anywhere outside those destinations. If your phone plan doesn't include this you can ask about a daily rate (typically no more than $5 per day) to have this feature added just for your trip.

]]><![CDATA[Casa TC Vallarta]]>Wed, 11 Mar 2020 19:00:00 GMThttps://www.thetcvallartaproperties.com/mexico-travel-tips/casa-tc-vallartaDid you know that our two properties, Casa TC Vallarta & Casa Campana, are both one block from one another? Worried about your group being over 16 people? don't fret you can reserve BOTH houses for maximum celebration and fun! Today I want to show you our "original"/first house of the TC Vallarta Properties triad.

This house was the test-run on real estate in Puerto Vallarta, and man, did we hit the jackpot! We have had so many friends, family members & guests from around the world stay here and have nothing but glowing reviews & recommendations to their friends.

This house is equipped with 7 bedrooms; 3 king suites, 2 double queen suites, and 2 more queen suites with bunk beds! This is a great space for entertaining families with small kiddos as it has a plethora of pool toys and a shallow kiddie area located on one end of the pool. In addition the pool deck is a great space to enjoy the sunshine and start a competitive game of ping pong!

Our main floor has a stunning commercial grade kitchen where our staff prepares breakfast & lunch for you during your stay! The living room entertainment center has board & card games available for you during your stay as well!

This place is truly the perfect spot for an affordable family vacation! One last thing you have to see is this amazing virtual tour done by our friends at SCAN. CASA! For best results, open the tour and expand the view to full screen--you will not be disappointed.

]]><![CDATA[Casa Campana debut!]]>Tue, 10 Mar 2020 01:00:00 GMThttps://www.thetcvallartaproperties.com/mexico-travel-tips/casa-campana-debut

We are so excited to say that our new build, Casa Campana is officially ready for guests & events! This place has every square inch covered in only one phrase-WOW.

The grand entryway is the biggest statement piece to me! With over 25+ plants & flora greeting you as you are welcomed home it is a space of serenity. The Spanish Bougainvillea (flowering plant right next to the doorway) will only get more lush and vibrant as it grows and I can't wait to watch it do so! As you walk through the first of 4 arch ways, you will walk into a paradise of tucked away luxury.

Upon entrance you are greeted with a stunning oasis that includes a crystal-clear pool and relaxing waterfall that sets the ambiance just right. Our main floor pool deck is equipped with a two pools-both saltwater, a wood-fire pizza oven & plenty of lounge chairs to enjoy the best, hand-squeezed margarita prepared by our staff.

The terracotta accents found within the roof, awnings and lights bring out the richness of the Mexican theme and add so much warmth to the space.

This villa is equipped with 6 bedrooms. 4 king suites, 2 Queen & bunk bed suites, and 2 kitchenettes. All rooms include their own, private bathroom ensuite!
Casa Campana can easily accommodate 16 guests for sleeping and 50-65 guests on the rooftop for a special event such as wedding, elopement, dinner party or family reunion!

Can you even believe the details in this space?! It's absolutely stunning & we would love to host you, your friends, family, in-laws, outlaws and everyone in between! Feel free to check out our availability calendar to reserve your dates for 2020!

]]><![CDATA[The BEST authentic guacamole recipe!]]>Sat, 07 Mar 2020 02:00:00 GMThttps://www.thetcvallartaproperties.com/mexico-travel-tips/the-best-authentic-guacamole-recipeIf you're anything like me, once your Mexico trip is all booked you begin counting down the days to not only sit on the beach and relax, but to also completely gorge yourself on chips, salsa and authentic guacamole. Today we are going to share the staff's take on the Mexican classic. Your concierge, Edith, has provided this recipe and let me tell you it does not disappoint.

Edith's Guacamole Recipe

Ingredients:
5 Avocados
2 fresh tomatoes (diced)
1/2 red onion (diced)
1 green chile (also known as a serrano pepper) finely diced
1 cilantro bushel finely chopped *added to taste
salt to taste
2 lemons

1. Slice avocados down the middle and remove the pit(s)
*save one pit
2. Add avocados to a large bowl and smash with a fork to desired consistency.
3. Add tomatoes, onion, green chile to bowl. Stir well.
4. Slice lemons in half and squeeze both lemons juice into bowl. Stir.
4. Add salt & cilantro to taste. Stir again.
5. Add one avocado pit back into the bowl. This will keep freshness and prevent browning of avocados.
6. Enjoy!!

If you're anything like me you've been using limes in lieu of lemons, and let me tell you that was hands down the secret ingredient to taking my guac up a notch! I hope you enjoy!

]]><![CDATA[What to expect upon arrival in Puerto Vallarta]]>Wed, 04 Mar 2020 17:21:17 GMThttps://www.thetcvallartaproperties.com/mexico-travel-tips/what-to-expect-upon-arrival-in-puerto-vallartaSo it’s your first time abroad, you’ve got your passport and that burning excitement fueling your heart. You board your plane in the U.S. and you have no idea what it’s going to be like once you land in Puerto Vallarta. Maybe you’re like me and you’re a planner and want to know of every detail so that you can plan ahead for timing or transportation purposes, if this is you—keep reading. If you’re an easy going, can handle whatever life throws at you, then this post might be irrelevant. Today I will discuss how processing works when entering a foreign country, specifically Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Pre-Arrival:
When you board your flight in the U.S. the airport suggests arriving 3 hours prior to your departure time because you are traveling internationally. My first suggestion is to throw this right out. Yes, you are traveling internationally but you will not be going through any different procedures than you would for a domestic flight, so the typical 2 hours will suffice.
Next, upon boarding in the U.S. most airlines want to see that you have your passport in your possession, so keep it readily available. They won’t need to check any information on it, just that you have it.
In flight:
You’ll board your flight and settle in for the next few hours as you make your way to Mexico. Typically about 60-90 minutes before your arrival the flight attendants will pass out an immigration form that you will want to fill out in either blue or black ink. It will ask you questions about the duration of your stay, what port are you arriving in (this will be your arrival airport PVR), flight number, etc. Please make note that they want your birth date listed as DD/MM/YYYY. Ensure that you are truthful on this form because customs and/or immigration can question you upon arrival. Similarly to the U.S., you are at the discretion of your customs agent upon entry.
I suggest using the bathroom on the plane prior to arriving in Puerto Vallarta. This is to assist with potential long wait times in the customs & immigration line. If you are traveling with a group, there are bathrooms in the waiting area and you are able to remove yourself from the line and then jump back in with your group but that’s a quick way to get dirty looks & annoy other travelers who have been waiting as well.

Arrival:
As your plane arrives at the gate, you will want to have your completed immigration form & passport in hand. You will then take a ramp down to the main terminal where you will begin waiting in the immigration area. It’s a well air-conditioned space that I have seen take 10 minutes up to an hour or more. Once you are directed to step up to the immigration agent counter, please hand your passport and immigration form to the agent. In addition, remove any hats, sunglasses and put away your phone. They may ask you a few questions about your stay, or they may review your documents and stamp both your form and passport and have you move along. A small section of your immigration form will be removed on a perforated edge and handed back to you. DO NOT LOSE THIS. You will need this to board your flight back to the U.S. I suggest keeping it with your passport in a safe and secure place. If you happen to lose this on your trip, arrive to the airport 3 hours early from your departure and be prepared to pay a hefty replacement fee.
Once through the immigration checkpoint you will proceed to baggage claim. It is a little chaotic at this point as there are multiple carousels moving lots of luggage at one time. It’s customary in Puerto Vallarta for your luggage to be removed from the carousel by an airport staff member and grouped into similar size pieces standing up near that corresponding carousel. Sort through the pieces, pick up yours and then proceed to the customs line.
Here you will wait with your luggage until you are directed to the customs agent. Similarly to immigration, the agent may ask a few questions about your stay as well as ask you if you have anything to declare. Items that are not permitted into the country are seeds, nuts, plants, food/drink, weapons, etc. If you do have these items, notify they agent immediately. If not, you get to press a small red button that will determine if you are randomly selected for a bag search. Its button roulette! If you get a green light you may proceed, if you get a red light you will be directed to a TSA scanner to insert all of your luggage and personal belongings into the scanner to be inspected.
After you are through this checkpoint you will want to make your way outside to meet your mode of transportation. There is going to be roughly 100 feet of very pushy salesman trying to sell you something or give you a “free” margarita. These salespeople are trained to compliment you or make it seem that they’ve been “waiting for you”. Do not stop, keep on going until you are outside the terminal and connect with whomever is picking you up.
Try not to get overwhelmed with this process as this post is very thorough to set your expectations but the whole process is relatively easy! Enjoy your trip & be sure to not lose that perforated sheet!

]]><![CDATA[What do I need to travel outside the country?]]>Mon, 02 Mar 2020 19:42:28 GMThttps://www.thetcvallartaproperties.com/mexico-travel-tips/what-do-i-need-to-travel-outside-the-countryA question we get a lot is how is it traveling in Mexico? Better yet, what documents do I need to begin traveling? In this post, I'll give you a basic run-down of what you'll need to prepare for your first trip outside the USA, specifically focused on Mexico.
Traveling is such a fun and exciting way to experience cultural differences as well as meet new people & try unique cuisines. Mexico is no exception! When traveling outside the U.S. you are required to have an U.S. passport that has been issued within 10 years and will be valid for 6 months from your departure date, regardless if you're stay doesn't equate to 6 months abroad.

Applying for a U.S. passport can be done online using the US Department of State website found here. travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/forms.html This whole process is relatively easy, and the website will prompt you on which form to fill out. (For example: Is this your first time applying for a passport? Or are you renewing your passport?)
You will need to show proof of citizenship through ONE of the following items:

Fully-valid, undamaged U.S. passport (may be expired)
U.S. birth certificate that meets the following requirements:
- Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
- Lists your full name, date of birth, and place of birth
- Lists your parent(s)' full names
- Has the date filed with registrar's office (must be within one year of birth)
- Has the registrar's signature
- Has the seal of the issuing authority
Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
Certificate of Naturalization
Certificate of Citizenship

In addition you will also need to provide proof of identification which can be shown using ONE of the following:

Valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book or passport card
In-state, fully valid driver's license or enhanced driver's license with photo
Certificate of Naturalization
Certificate of Citizenship
Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
U.S. military or military dependent ID
Current (valid) foreign passport
Matricula Consular (Mexican Consular ID) - commonly used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) - commonly used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
Trusted Traveler IDs (including valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI, and NEXUS cards)
Enhanced Tribal Cards and Native American tribal photo IDs
Other documents: In-state, fully valid learner's permit with photo, In-state, fully valid non-driver ID with photo, and temporary driver's license with photo. Note: you may be asked to present an additional ID when presenting one of these 3 documents

Prior to submitting your passport application, you will be asked for a photo that will go inside your passport book. You can get this 2 inch by 2 inch photo taken at a local Walgreens or some U.S. Postal Offices offer this service for a minimal charge, typically $20 or less.
Once you have all of your documents & photos in order you are ready to submit & pay for your application. A U.S. passport book costs $110 and you can either pay with credit card through the website or print out your application and mail it with a check payable to the U.S. Department of State for $110 U.S. dollars. Once you submit your application you will receive an email when your application has been received and you can track your passport up until it is delivered in your mailbox. (Standard processing rates are 4-6 weeks).
Once your passport arrives in the mail, open it and review all of your personal information to confirm accuracy on spelling, date of birth, photo, as well as issue/expiration date. If all is well, begin happy dancing and book your flight abroad!! If you do happen to have any error, you will want to notify the passport agency that issued your passport immediately to correct the error, this information will be provided to you in your envelope that your passport arrived in.
Although the timing to receive a passport is long awaited, I assure you it is so worth it! This little document that is readily available for you to experience the world in a whole new light is not only refreshing but also encouraging! So if travel is in on your list of accomplishments this year--get your passport now!

]]><![CDATA[How it all began]]>Mon, 24 Feb 2020 21:52:55 GMThttps://www.thetcvallartaproperties.com/mexico-travel-tips/how-it-all-began

The triad of TC Vallarta Properties (Casa TC Vallarta, Casa Campana & TC Beach House) came to fruition after years of traveling all over the world with our family of 5 and spending countless sleepless nights in rowdy resorts, crowded hotels, and even private villa rentals that just didn’t fit the bill for an affordable family vacation.

Having a successful background in hosting and promoting sporting events, Puerto Vallarta became home to our College Challenge Softball Tournament in February 2015. We hosted 12 softball games by 4 U.S collegiate softball teams. It was then that we invested money into the local community to renovate and repair the Nancy Almaraz Stadium that is only 5 blocks from our two homes.

While repairing and updating the softball field & stadium we drew a deep connection to those who frequent the ballfield; the local businesses that corner the field, and the local community members who took responsibility in maintaining our progress. It was these people that we shared this experience with whom consistently welcomed and supported us and ultimately impacted us in wanting to purchase a house right in the heart of this community.

We purchased our first home, Casa TC Vallarta in 2017 and this is where the vision came into place. With our core purpose in sporting events & creating events that rock, we carried that into our home. We wanted to be able to give a vacation experience for those in corporate retreats, family reunions and weddings where it would always be special. We knew it had to always be a step above a rental and therefore every detail within the house was heavily thought out. From the fine furnishings and art work, to the layout of the pool(s) to the views from the rooftop terrace, I knew they needed to be a place where those moments are frozen in time and forever told as a moment that truly rocked.
After 2 years sharing Casa TC Vallarta with our closest family and friends, we knew we wanted to accommodate larger groups that could travel together, so the second & third houses (Casa Campana and the TC Beach House) were purchased in hopes of doing just that. Now that we have expanded and can accommodate up to 45 guests between the 3 homes, we dream of sharing our homes to those from all over the world where we can appreciate our similarities and celebrate our diversities together.

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