Travel & Lodging Tips for Victoria’s Courses
About Barra de Navidad:
Barra is a quiet fishing village located on Christmas bay, about 4 hours south of Puerto Vallarta on the west side of Mexico and about 25 min. north of our nearest airport: ZLO Manzanillo. This beautiful safe town is located at the north end of the bay and Melaque is at the south end, about a 10 min car/taxi ride.
*UPDATED 10/3/22: The major concerns of the pandemic are now over, most all of the population has been vaccinated. Some folks from out of town do wear masks, however there is no requirement to do so in any store now. We have a very outdoor lifestyle with plenty of room to move around.
We all walk, ride bikes or motor bikes around town. We have good restaurants (mostly with outside seating), hotels, Airbnb, and great shopping. Melaque (10 min away by car ) has more. We have many “snow birds” who live here 6 months out of the year, and are part of the expat community, mostly from Canada. Our class will be mostly outside.
Generally speaking it is a cash preferred town. Most hotels and a few restaurants will take charge cards, but local vendors, taxis etc. want cash. You can change dollars at our bank (better rate than the airport) (Bank: Intercam, English spoken) is $100 min. ATM can work as well. Current rate of exchange will change, so do check before you come. Prices are very reasonable compared to the states, at current rates, lodging from $50- $150 (our one 5 star hotel) a night. Meals average $7-10 for breakfast and lunch, $15-25 or 30 for a dinner with drinks. Grocery stores abound.
Flights:
1. There are several ways to arrive, however I recommend direct from Los Angeles. We have traveled LAX to ZLO (Manzanillo, Mex.) many times both directions. From ZLO its a 25min taxi ride (300 - 400 pesos, roughly $15 - $20 USD) to Barra.
2. I recommend avoiding flights via Mexico City unless you have been there before. Often flights get cancelled, it's a huge airport. Certainly can save on flights if you are travel savvy. It may seem too far to go to LA, but the short direct flight south is worth it and LAX terminal 6 is easy to navigate.
3. I’m happy to discuss any travels questions with you!
Lodging: booking.com works well for Barra de Navidad hotels, plenty of recommendations on Trip advisor. Cost depends on current exchange rate and can change. I recommend booking as soon as you register for classes.
Hotels in order of proximity to Victoria’s home:
1. Cabo Blanco Hotel: at the south end of our street Calle Armada, about $80/night (1560 pesos), pool, restaurant. 2 min walk to Victoria’s. About 7-12 mins walk to town/ocean.
2. Villa La Joya: owned by good friends who have a bakery in town. Beautiful property, about 6 min walk to our house or town.
3. Hotel Barra de Navidad: in town, on the ocean, pool, good restaurant (especially breakfast) about 10-12 min. walk to Victoria’s, about $50 night (964 pesos).
4. Hotel Bogavante: in town, on the ocean, lovely open area, pool, restaurant, about 10-12 min. walk to Victoria’s, about $66 (1300 pesos).
5. Grand Isla Hotel & Resort: our only 5 star hotel, amazing pools, good restaurants etc. A water taxi ride across the lagoon to town is roughly 30 pesos one way, then a 17-22 min. walk to Victoria’s. About $150 night (2998 pesos.)
6. Air B & B: some locations will be better than others, please contact me before booking and we can discuss details.
Packing tips:
Barra is a casual town. We have some cobblestone and dirt streets. Bring a good pair of sneakers or walking sandals along with your swim suit and beach flip flops. Hat, sunglasses, insulated water bottle and a small lightweight backpack is very handy. Try to pack light and avoid big purses and bags. Comfy cool clothes, a sweater or shawl for evenings is recommended. Avg. temp 83f degrees day, 67-72 at night. Humidity 65-70 % Nov- Mar.
Hope this is helpful. Contact me with any questions: victoriasilks.barra@gmail.com
Love and Light,
Victoria
