•  Viva Productions: Livelier than Ever!

The editorial company that runs this site along other editorial projects such as Vallarta Lifestyles, Yates y Villas and Multi-List Vallarta, has recently presented Vallarta Negocios. The official launching of this business magazine was held last September at the Westin Regina Hotel, where several personalities from Vallarta's world of politics and businesses attended alongside different local newspapers and radio stations. Vallarta Negocios has set itself to become a non-partisan objective forum for Vallarta's businesspeople, at a time when old local companies are maturing and new innovative ones are arriving.

During the same reception, the team from Producciones Viva presented yet another project, Vallarta 2000, a special book-like publication celebrating Lifestyles tenth anniversary at the end of the millennium. This detailed editorial project is to deliver a comprehensive reflection on the town's past, present and future: a Viva gift to the community. At the ceremony, John Youden, Producciones Viva's General Director, stated that the company was committed to doing business in Vallarta.

•  The Millennium in Vallarta

Just how popular a destination is Puerto Vallarta for this upcoming new year's eve? Recently, the owner of a 100' plus yacht phoned Carl Raggio, the Marina Manager, to see if he could rent a slip for the New Year Millennium dates. He was told there was nothing available, but the yacht owner persisted, he had to have the slip. Carlo informed him the only way he'd get one was to buy one. So he did. The slip cost him $150,000 USD, so he'd have it for New Year's week. We hope he uses it a little more than that, at that price!

And for all of you planning to spend the winter holidays at Vallarta, here are some of the options this beautiful destination has available for you, every thousand years or so.

Hotelito Desconocido:
This charming hideaway is starting its festivities early from December 27th through January 2nd. Activities include an evening temazcal (an Aztec purification ritual similar to a sauna), theme nights with live music, sunset cocktail parties, a gala dinner on new year's eve, and many other surprises. Reservations can be made at 223-0293; for more information visit their web site at www.hotelito.com.

Marriot Casa Magna:
"Mexico's Golden Years," a time when the economy had an Anglo twist but the culture had a French turn, otherwise known as the Porfiriato. Join the revival of Mexico's pre-Revolutionary aristocratic splendor amidst two orchestras and fine dining. Reservations: 221-0004 ext. 6326.

Westin Regina:
Grand and Mexican, their celebration offers a gastronomic retrospective of Mexican food throughout the millennium, Mariachi concert, in-situ made handcrafts, fireworks, and other surprises. Information and reservations at 221-1100.

Reef Club Embarcadero:
From December 26 to January 2nd, enjoy an array of theme nights where you'll be transported through notable historic moments in this century: from the crazy 20's to the eclectic 90's, all with their corresponding food, activities and entertainment programs. The 31st is to be a night where a "little bit of everything" will be there to boost your millennium welcoming. Information and reservations at 221-1177.

Sheraton Buganvilias:
First, enjoy a superb international buffet by the beach, where the traditional count-down will also be held. Shortly after, a family discotheque at the hotel's convention center where cocktails, live music, gifts and raffles will go on until sunset.

Terra Noble:
If you're planning to start the new millennium with a totally different mind set, Terra Noble is where to go. Celebrations start early at 8 am, December 31st, with a special Tibetan meditation. Different activities will also be available during the day, as the eclectic menu will be readied to offer pre-Hispanic, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Arab and Hindu flavors. Four different types of coffee and 30 tea varieties will also be offered with several other surprises. Make your reservations at 223-0308, or visit their site at www.terranoble.com.mx.

Café des Artistes:
"The Last Romantic Ball of the Century" is the theme Baron Ektor Von Hoffmeister has designed for setting the atmosphere to owner/chef Thierry Blouet's grand gourmet menu with a modern touch. Two orchestras will be welcoming the new millennium until 5 am. The USD$400 per person entrance includes a full seven course dinner, a Moët & Chandon bottle per person, unlimited international drinks, gratuities and much more. Reservations should be made with Mónica Luna at 222-3228, or by e-mail at artistes@pvnet.com.mx

Le Kliff Restaurant:
From mariachi to fireworks, this restaurant's new year's ball promises to deliver exquisite food and dance for USD$220, including services charges and Moët Chandon champagne for count-down. You can see their menu at www.lekliff.com or call 224-0975 for more information.

Expediciones Cielo Abierto:
For those interested in receiving the new century with mother nature on the side, Cielo Abierto offers two interesting options: Whale Watching 2000 and River Trail Hiking 2000. The tours include specialized bilingual guides, special menus and plenty to see and admire.

Vallarta Adventure:
Join these guys for a hedonist's wild adventure at Caletas (John Huston's former beach house), where a 13 member Cuban band will set the tone to a wine and champagne dinner. You can get there on one of their catamarans or arrive in your own vessel. Price per person: USD$200. Information: 221-0657.