Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Looking for something different to give to family or friends this holiday season? Shoppers on the lookout for unique gifts are in luck! Puerto Vallarta Walking Tours offers two fun ways to give everyone on your shopping list something special.
MILAGROS WORKSHOP
So, what is a Milagro you might ask? These are symbols of gratitude and hope coming from a 4000-year-old tradition of the indigenous cultures of Spain brought to Mexico by the Conquistadors. Come to this hands-on workshop to make one or more.
Once you have chosen your icons and hammered them on to a colorful wooden base, the entire piece can have a special significance. Francisco will help you with the assembly and his wife Lupita will interpret the meanings for you or the person you have made it for. Francisco and Lupita have been Milagro artisans for over 30 years. You may have met them at one of the Banderas Bay area’s many outdoor markets.
This workshop is held Mondays from 10 am to 1 pm in their outdoor garden. All materials, your local guide Sandra, and a personal interpretation by Lupita are included in the cost. Fees are based on the size of Milagro you chose to make.
Further details, photos, registration, and payment online at: PuertoVallartaWalkingTours.com. Hurry, only two Mondays left before Christmas! The workshops will also continue after the holidays.
GUIDED WALK THROUGH ARTE VIVIENTE GALLERY
This two-story space is filled with some of the most unusual works of art handmade by one of the 50 local artisans who are members of this artists’ cooperative, the largest in the entire Banderas Bay area. Thousands of choices, but how to decide?
Join a private walk through with Sandra, artist, author, and co-op member, while she shares the history and stories of many of the artists represented and their creative techniques, some of which are a reflection of the Mexican culture.
There will be time for questions, conversation, and shopping at the end while you savor a cup of local organic coffee and perhaps an artisan chocolate.
Some of the artists may be present, including Marcia and Kim, who are also the directors of the Gallery. A local 4th generation herbalist will be available Monday and Wednesday evenings to answer questions about the numerous Mexican herbs he uses in his products.
Cost is just $10 per person, including complimentary coffee. Walk through takes about an hour. Available on Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 5 pm, and Tuesday and Thursday at 10 am. Register and pay online at: PuertoVallartaWalkingTours.com.
Sandra Cesca has lived in Puerto Vallarta for 12 years. She is a cultural tour guide with her own small business: Puerto Vallarta Walking Tours. She is also a freelance writer and cultural photographer whose work can be found on Your Cultural Insider and Sandra Cesca Photography. Contact her: sun4sandra(at)gmail.com.
