New Local Craft Beer: Dos Islas Pineapple Beer Artisanal

Tara A. Spears

Get hydrated, enjoy the taste and get mellow, all at the same time. This fruity- beer beverage is perfect for sharing with friends and family, especially on a hot day when you’re looking to unwind. Tepache helps people to slow down, relax, and celebrate. Talented local entrepreneur, Jairo Bernal Lopez, 322 146 8368, is the creator and brewer of a new craft beer, Dos Islas.

Typically, Tepache is a fizzy, Mexican drink made with fermented fruit but Jairo took it to another level by developing a version with 3% alcohol content. The result is a refreshing adult drink that goes perfectly with snacks, dinner, relaxing at the beach. You can enjoy Dos Islas at Pineada Restaurant or purchas directly from the brewer.

If you’re like me, I wasn’t familiar with Tepache before trying Dos Islas. It’s a true cultural beverage that originated with the Inca, Maya, Aztecs dating from Pre-Columbian Mexico as a popular drink among the Nahua people of central Mexico. The word tepiātl means “drink made from corn” because originally, corn was the base of tepache, but the contemporary recipes for tepache use fruit.

“When I was developing the drink, my main priority was creating a great taste,” said Jairo through an interpreter. “I worked for some years as Bartender, and having experience in the preparation of alcoholic beverages, for me it is essential that a drink has an excellent flavor profile.”

Jairo continued, “I combined my taste for preparing drinks with the world of craft beer, until I reached the Tepache, since this fermented drink is made with pineapple, a fruit that occurs in abundance in the region of Jaltemba Bay.” Once you try Dos Islas Tepache Fermented Pineapple Beer, you’ll love it! To me, it captures the essence of tropical Mexico in a bottle.

When asked what category of beer Dos Islas falls into, Jairo explains: “Whether my drink can be called “beer,” technically it is not a beer because it is not made based on barley or hops, such as traditional beers. However, because of its presentation, the fermentation process and the level of alcohol that it has, many people associate it with a craft beer.  Dos Isla is a fermented pineapple drink, which looks like a beer due to its freshness, its natural gas and its tropical flavor.”

Perhaps the reason that I immediately took to drinking Dos Islas Tepache is because it is delicious over ice, my prefered way to drink any type of beverage.  It’s also satisfying right out of the bottle. From the moment that you pop the top and the exotic scent reaches you, drinking Dos Islas is a memorable experience! If you’re already NOTB, put getting some Dos Islas Pineapple Beer at the top of your bucket list for next winter.

If the flavor doesn’t hook you, perhaps knowing that Tepache has good health benefits will interest you. When you drink pineapple beer besides getting a buzz, the health benefits of tepache are that it has probiotic properties that soothe digestion; due to its probiotic properties, tepache can help prevent gastrointestinal diseases, its flavonoids help combat and prevent damage caused by free radicals to the body’s cells.

Let’s face it, pairing beer with meals can be tough. It can be difficult to guess what combination of foods and beverages will excite your taste buds. Fortunately, tepache goes well with different spicy foods, fruits, and meats that make the perfect food pairing for a refreshing glass of tepache.

If you want to balance the fire of a spicy snack, the bubbly, fruity flavor of tepache just might be the perfect match. Love street food, tacos Pastor, or chicken wings? Dos Islas Tepache Artesanal is a great pairing. Chicken, seafood and salads are enhanced when accompanied by chilled Tepache.

Hold the tequila, don’t uncork the wine, and keep the rum in the bottle. Drinking Tepache ensures as good of time plus it has a delicious taste. Dos Islas is like the best of the Mexican tropics in a bottle: vivid flavor, relaxing, exotic, try it!

Celebrate Spring at the Beach for Semana Santa: Thousands Choose Jaltemba Bay

Tara A. Spears

≈Whoop! Whoop! It’s spring break in Mexico, let’s head to the beach!  Everyone looks forward to holidays because it offers respite, a change of pace, and gives us a chance to unwind and take a break from our normal day-to-day lives. There’s nothing like a vacation to relax the mind/ body and make memories.

Better yet, a vacation at a beautiful Mexican beach- to watch the tide come in and relax with family and friends- is a dream come true for many. Because of its amenities and lovely shores, Coastal Nayarit is one of the most visited destinations during Holy Week/semana santa. The government estimates that more than 1.6 million visitors will arrive in the coastal towns from Nuevo Vallarta to San Blas during this two-week holiday period. When it comes to celebrating, Mexico does it best!

I think everyone should experience the explosion of tourists at least once because the Semana Santa social phenomenon is so unique. You don’t know if it’s for you unless you try it with an open mind.   Most of the national visitors, are coming from a landlocked place to explore a different environment, to appreciate the outstanding natural beauty and perfect weather that defines Jaltemba Bay.

When I lived in Puerto Vallarta, I HATED Semana Santa because it is a meca for underaged international teenagers who come solely to get drunk and high, puking and passing out on the streets. The difference here is that it is predominantly multigenerational family groups, and while there is much ceberza and music all night, there are still some boundaries to the partying because grandma and mom are here. Let’s look at what attracts so many visitors to our slice of paradise.

All schools, public and private, primary through university level, are closed until classes resume Monday, April 28. While the Federal holiday is officially a four – day weekend, many people use their personal days to round it up to a week. All federal holidays close government offices, banks, schools and many non-emergency businesses, hence creating the opportunity for travel.

≈Ten years ago, JB hotels and bungalows were reasonably priced (compared to Vallarta and Cancun) therefore, this community would be overbooked for this 2-week period.  However, there have been several new large hotels built since then so I doubt that is still the case. There literally were no room vacancies for any price. Any last-minute arrivals sometimes tried to sleep on the beach if they couldn’t hook up with someone who had a room. It’s important to note that in our tourist driven economy, the income from these two weeks makes or breaks a family owned business to survive the low season financially.

Typically, the weather is absolutely perfect for any outdoor activity which is often a big temperature change from the interior mountain towns. The bay is so beautiful! Who doesn’t like to sit and watch the waves roll in? The strolling musicians enliven the afternoons, often creating impromptu dancing on the sand while the kids giggle at mom and dad. The breeze carries the overlapping sound of several bands playing simultaneously. Such a happy, joyful scene.

Yes, there are some issues with such a massive swell of humanity to one place: this influx of people creates a tremendous amount of trash; the internet and WIFI service is strained due to the increased demand;  ATMs run out of money and aren’t promptly refilled because employees are on vacation; the traffic is unbelievable, making it triple time to get from point A to B due to volume; there are empty shelves for popular items. If one needs propane, ha ha ha, it won’t happen unless you go pick up the cylinder yourself. The disgusting professional robbers come by bus to swoop into town for a few hours, therefore the ‘snatch and grab’ robberies increase.

I’ve been impressed the last few years because the Guayabitos Hotel Association, in tandem with the Nayarit state government, have pre-planned to help ensure that visitors and residents enjoy a safe holiday. Firstly, there are incleased trash collection throughout the area. Secondly, according to Regalador Lulu Nunez:  At the start of the 2025 April holiday operation, an increased number of first responders are assigned to step up availability.

Local Tourist Police will patrol and increase surveillance tours in the towns and on the beaches of Peñita de Jaltemba, Rincón de Guayabitos and Los Ayalas. In addition, the National Guard, State and Municipal Police, arrived Friday to guarantee the safety of the vacationers. Several additional ambulances, jet ski patrol, many squad cars arrived Friday morning to the whoop of sirens as they drove through the towns. It is the increased police and military presence that helps deter the bad guy, the increased paramedics, lifeguards, and ambulances help save lives.

The best advice I have for any resident as to how to cope with their first- time spring break/semana santa, is this: simply relax and go with the flow…join in the fun.

“Grandmother’s Playground” at Plaza de La Peñita de Jaltemba.

!! ️!! CAUTION !! ️!! ️

Friends as many of you have already noticed a project is being carried out in Plaza de La Peñita proposed by our friend Susan Oliver titled “Grandmother’s Playground”.

A space meant for the smallest ones at home.

Marine themed

Asking for the favor of your support and collaboration so that young or old do not enter as there are fresh pieces and the project is not yet finished.

Let’s have a little patience to complete it and make it safer and more attractive for the enjoyment of those who have worked on it.

You will also have the opportunity to be part of this beautiful project!

Thank you for your understanding

Pass the word

There will be safety.

Mexican Burro: Cultural Icon

Tara A. Spears

From the rugged terrains of rural communities to bustling markets in city squares, burros in Mexico continue to play an indispensable role in various aspects of daily life, making them a cherished and valuable asset in this vibrant and complex country. At first glance, the burro’s distinctive, clownish face, floppy ears and small stature make it easy to overlook the animals’ strengths.

The diminutive burro is one of the smartest equine species, lives for 40 years, has excellent pulling power, a calm, loyal character, and is very successful living in harsh environments that a regular horse cannot. Often called the poor man’s horse, the burro today is still prized for its great energy and endurance especially its ability to acclimate to heat and water shortage which is typical throughout much of Mexico.

There are no exact figures for how many burros are in Mexico since the expansion of cities and urban areas have significantly absorbed the burro’s wild habitat. But, according to local ranchers, there are no wild burros in Nayarit. The wild burros exist in the five northern states where it is mostly dessert landscape.  Prior to mechanized mining, the burro was used extensively in that industry. Burro enthusiast, Karish said that though some burros escaped during the Gold Rush, many more appeared in the wild after people switched to motorized vehicles as their main form of transportation. As the lead picture shows, burros were Mexico’ first Uber!  While the burro is no longer common or necessary, one can still find the burro working in rural and very remote areas.

On the other hand, the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (Negi) revealed that from 1994 to 2016 the number of burros in Mexico was reduced by 61.9%, going from 1.5 million animals to approximately 300,000 in the wild. Some of the causes that could lead this noble species to extinction are the modernization of agricultural work, exploitation of the species, and disinterest in burro conservation. Because Mexico has large scale slaughter facilities, animal activists monitor to see if the wild burro is being poached and taken and sold to kill centers. 

For centuries the burro was an important part of Mexican rural life. By the early 2000s the burro had virtually disappeared from the wild. The director of the Jalisco Office of Rural Development, Francisco Lugo Serrano, came up with a plan to repopulate with quality stock. He imported 11 donkeys from the USA to reintroduce strong genetic qualities.

Hopefully, this renewed interest in the lowly Mexican burro will help it survive in the wild. Respecting the burro’s long relationship with rural Mexico’s indigenous people remains an important tradition.

In 2006, the first sanctuary for wild burros was opened in Otumba, State of Mexico.  Burrolandia sanctuary is dedicated to the rescue of wild burros, as well those that suffer from abuse and exploitation.   

                                            

This sanctuary is open to the public.  Visitors can go to learn about the burro, learn their history, what the animal needs and get to interact with the animals. The facility has restaurants, and other aspects of a thematic tourist park to help make it self-sustainable.

The song ‘El Burro’ by Cardenales del Exito is a lively piece that celebrates the humble yet indispensable role of the burro. The burro is used extensively to symbolize loyalty, intelligence and hard work in many other songs and literature.

The burro is more than a beast of burden, it is an accurate symbol of a simple but industrious culture. Nothing sums up Mexico as well as burro, tequila and music.

The Beauty and Power of the Ocean: Red Tide

Tara A. Spears

“First the tide rushes in/Plants a kiss on the shore…” Ebb Tide

There’s something so beautiful and magical about being next to the ocean. The sandy beaches of Mexico’s Pacific Coast attract people from all over the world to enjoy the soothing whoosh of the waves, wiggling your toes in the warm sand, and letting go of the day-to-day stress of home. If you are a beach enthusiast or ocean lover, you’ve heard about red tide.

While it may sound mysterious or even ominous, red tides are a fascinating natural phenomenon that can have both beautiful and serious impacts on marine environments. The purpose of this article is to educate those that love Jaltemba Bay about the challenges of red tide. The biggest message is to avoid going in the water or consuming local shell fish when red tide is present. As of Saturday, 29 March, all of the Jaltemba Bay beaches are open for swimming as the red tide has moved on.

Doctor Lorena M. Durán-Riveroll, UAN Microbiology Department explains what constitutes Red tides. This phenomenon, also known as harmful algal blooms (HABs), occur when certain species of algae grow rapidly and accumulate in coastal waters. Despite their name, red tides don’t always appear red. They can range in color from brown to green to even purple, depending on the type of algae present. The “red” in red tide comes from the reddish pigments produced by some algal species, which can tint the water when present in high concentrations. 

During a HAB, the abundance of these microorganisms becomes so high that sometimes a change in the color of the water surface can be observed, which can be reddish, orange, green or bioluminescent, producing a beautiful nocturnal spectacle. (Lead photo) I have lived here more than 20 years and this is only the second occurrence of red tide I’ve witnessed. The first was in 2023. The most common harbinger of red tide approaching is the landing of dead sea animals on the beach. In the weeks before the actual red tide was visible, in JB, there were dead fish, sea turtle, and eels coming ashore.

In recent decades, there has been an increase in the frequency, duration, distribution, and intensity of HABs worldwide. This has also increased the human poisonings caused by the consumption of fish or shellfish, which, in turn, have consumed these microorganisms. Hypotheses for this increase point to global climate change, the impacts of human activities on coastlines due to the production of goods and services, and the exploitation of coastal resources.

While most people are aware of the factors that create ideal conditions that cause algae bloom, many people are not aware of the human health hazards.  Oceanographer and diver, Gabriela Carranza Castillo, explains: “Exposure to red tide toxins can affect humans in several ways: Inhalation: Breathing in toxin-laden air can cause respiratory symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and throat irritation. Skin Contact: Direct contact with contaminated water may cause irritation or rashes.”

“Another danger is ingestion: Eating shellfish contaminated by red tide toxins can lead to foodborne illnesses and gastrointestinal issues. It may also affect blood pressure or cause dizziness. Symptoms typically appear 30 minutes to 3 hours after consumption.” While these symptoms may appear quickly, they typically subside with reduced exposure. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice.

Some groups are at higher risk of experiencing more severe symptoms from red tide exposure. Due to their developing respiratory systems, children are especially susceptible to inhaling toxins from red tide. Older adults, whose immune systems may be weaker, might have a more challenging time managing the effects of the toxins. Additionally, individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or COPD, may see their symptoms worsen as the toxins irritate their airways and aggravate existing health issues.

Taking simple steps can help reduce your risk of exposure to red tide. Staying informed and following safety measures is important for protecting yourself and your family.

Many people are fascinated by the ocean, enjoying a dip and feel like they are touching eternity. The mesmerizing roll of waves seems to go on forever until it returns to shore… let the ocean stir your heart, inspire your imagination and bring peace to your soul. But, remember to respect the power of the ocean and stay out of the water if you see any beach flag color but green.

 

Nursery Rancho Las Palmas is Ground Zero for Gardeners

Tara A. Spears

 Bet you can’t buy just one! Whether digging in the dirt is your passion or just a means of making your space pretty, Rancho Las Palmas Vivero in north Penita is the starting point. The large nursery carries every size container, potting soil, fertilizer, 40 types of palm trees, perennials, shrubs, and annual bedding flowers. The nursery is open continuously from 8 am to 5 pm M-F; 8-1 pm on Saturday with cash only purchases.

For the brothers, Benjamin and Mario Arriola Trujillo, who grew up in La Penita, maintaining healthy plants and a large variety of plants suitable for the local climate is not a job, it’s their calling. They also deliver and install (plant) items for you!

Unsure what you want? Bengy, 322 192 8887, has more than 25 years of experience in propagating and planting. His eye for aesthetics, coupled with his firsthand knowledge of the area’s soil and growing conditions, will design a beautiful tropical yard for you. 

For many people, gardening is more than just a hobby; it’s a therapeutic and fulfilling activity that provides numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Engaging with nature through planting, nurturing, and harvesting plants offers a way to slow down, connect with the earth, and reap rewards that go beyond fresh produce or beautiful flowers. Research has proven that gardening enhances physical health, reduces stress, improves mood, and fosters a sense of purpose.

Not only does gardening benefit the person who is actually getting their hands in the mud but it benefits the earth. As Kijarro said, “Plants are solar-powered air purifiers whose filter never needs replacing.” There is something so soothing about the sound of a breeze rustling the palm fronds or tree leaves.

The intense sunlight of this latitude needs plants to absorb some of the heat and glare. Lastly, plants and shrubs add beauty while softening the hardscape.  Because there is almost unlimited natural variety of colors for flowers and trees, it makes it easy to satisfy your craving for a favorite color.

Bengy and Mario at Rancho Las Palmas are my go-to plant doctors. When weird things happen to a plant, I bring it, or at least a cutting, besides a close-up photo of the problem.  Most of the time it’s an easy fix, such as, change the watering schedule or the plant needs fertilizer. 

If you are at a loss of words in Spanish, Mario has a book of plants in order for you to point to a picture so he understands what you want. One needs to be aware that not all plants that we love NOTB have a tropical version… and even many species that thrive in Tepic will tolerate the hot nights and salt air to live here in Jaltemba Bay.

 Kara

Both brothers are devoted family men. When not working, Mario likes to cruise on his spiffy motorcycle and go to the beach with his wife, Karla, and daughters Mariana 11, Melanie 8.  Bengy enjoys going to the mountain river with his two kids to relax.

As stewards of living things, both men said that the biggest challenge is to keep the plants alive and healthy.  “I love seeing the plants grow. The fun is getting new ones (cloning) from a mature plant.” said Marco. “I enjoy working outside and meeting new people. It makes me happy to have repeat customers that had success growing our stock. I can’t imagine working anywhere else. When asked how he learned to speak English, he explained he “picked it up talking to the gringos.”  

Whether you need one small pot and plant for a window sill or to landscape a new build yard, Las Palmas Vivero is sure to have what you need.