New year, new beginnings, new goals, and new inspirations. What does that mean for you? For some it’s the “shed some pounds” time of year.
Others “up” their exercise game, some learn a new hobby, while a few try to give up a bad habit. But more than ever, folks are telling me “living life again” is their mission.
• For 2020, Alfredo of the Tree House Bar in La Cruz says: “Nos encanta servir y poner en alto el nombre de La Cruz de Huanacaxtle en todos los niveles.” (We love to serve and raise the name of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle at all levels). This is the place for concerts on the bay—open air and fabulous! It’s getting rave reviews for recent shows such as the one featuring Amy Armstrong. “How is Amy not a worldwide success?” someone asked. We say, she is!
Then there is Us Too and The Dancing Band Orchestra—simply wow! Enjoy The Bay Roots, a group of Canadians, Americans and nationals that will inspire you to dance the night away, playing Saturday, January 8.
• Says artist Silvia: “My goals for this year are to make my art present everywhere I go, creating happy and meaningful spaces for people to enjoy.”
• “It’s so wonderful to see such life again in our part of the Bahia de Banderas,” says Sandra of Sandrina’s. “Many people are returning after two years and there are many first-time visitors.” Sandrina’s will continue offering cooking and art classes and serving meals to all, she says.
• The Octopus´ Garden in La Cruz is excited to be back in action — over Christmas the hostel was buzzing with guests and the dance floor busy with yoga and dance classes. The café is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every day except Sunday; and weekdays from 5 to 8 p.m. You can purchase organic Nayarit coffee beans freshly roasted or savor a latte or espresso. Many say it is “the best cup of joe in La Cruz!” The garden patio provides a cool oasis with fiber-optic wi-fi and multiple outlets for computers.
The crew there says, “Visitors to La Cruz and the sailing community are all welcome and invited to experience the Octopus Garden’s unique vibe. We wish you all a very happy New Year!” Hostel bookings can be made at www.octopusgarden.mx.
• Our favorite oasis and pool day experience is in Bucerias at Los Arroyos Verdes. Their goal of renting houses to people looking for peace and friendship has been achieved. As a community, people keep coming back, whether for a pool day, their art shows and/or long-term rentals. Sunday pool parties include a “pop-up” restaurant each week with a guest chef that ensures something different and delicious each time. The next pool party is Sunday, January 9, 12:30 to 6 p.m. featuring a guest chef from La Patagonia Cocina Argentina and The Remedy rock band. A cover charge of 300 pesos includes enjoyment of the pool and music. Food and drink are extra.
Upcoming open-air concerts with an open bar, local artisans, and food stands include a Soul fest in the Garden + Market Day on Wednesday, January 19, 4 to 10 p.m., and a CD Release Party for Luna Rumba and Market Day on Wednesday, January 26, 4 to 10 p.m.
• The Amigos de La Cruz look after the community in so many ways including the children’s dental clinic at the Kids Club. For the 18th year, Dr. Gordon Croft, from Boise, Idaho, will lead a team of dentists to check and give oral treatments to children from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, January 14-23. They will be assisted by two new graduate dentists from the local community who have volunteered to participate, and develop an educational program to continue throughout the year.
• The Britannia pub in La Cruz — which brought Santa Claus to town, thrilling throngs of children lined up around the block, and then served Christmas dinner to many — return to their regular schedule: Monday game night; Tuesday open-mic with musical group The Turn; Wednesday afternoon bingo; Thursday game night. Mandy and her team wish all a happy and healthy 2022.
• The delightful couple Sergio Ayabar and Araceli Reyes, musicians extraordinaire, provide musical services of all kinds to local hotels and restaurants. Enjoy them at the rooftop of La Cruz Inn. They also provide dinner services, particularly their specialty — Mexican food. For private parties, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Their new project is a great success in Sayulita: Michoacan-style Carnitas Cheko. Araceli and Sergio hope they can meet you and wish you all the best in 2022.
• The “go to” dancing place in Bucerias is Jax. For sports, venture across the street to Yoyo Mo’s. The art district on Lazaro Cardenas brings you all the best of art and dining. Embrace the Thursday night Art Walk to find treasures. Karen’s on the beach is a sunset watcher’s paradise, has fabulous food and different music most nights of the week.
• For something completely different and oh so Mexican, I highly recommend The Tequila Experience. They come to you teaching you about the various types of tequila as you sip.
May 2022 bring you blessings, love, and fabulous health!