Fall 2025 - Edgardo Guel, The Palm Cabaret and Bar, Coco Cabaret

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FALL 2025 3

INDEX

Fall ISSUES

WELCOME TO PUERTO VALLARTA AND THE FALL

2025 ISSUE OF OUT AND ABOUT PV MAGAZINE.

The heat is on its way out and the glorious fall weather is beginning to

grace our shores, making it the perfect time to get out and explore all that

Puerto Vallarta has to offer. This issue is packed with stories celebrating

our community, with three fantastic features taking center stage.

We take you into the world of luxury real estate with Casa Luxe Real

Estate, where we sit down with Edgardo Guel, the company's broker and

founder, to learn how he turns clients' dreams into reality. His approach

blends deep market knowledge with a personal touch, making him a

trusted professional in the Banderas Bay region.

We also celebrate two entertainment powerhouses with a special

dual-feature. First, we shine a spotlight on The Palm Cabaret & Bar as it

kicks off its 26th season. We catch up with two of its most anticipated

tribute acts: Maru Prado Conti, who brings a new show to her celebrated

tribute to Lady Gaga, and Roy Gomez Cruz, who returns with his revered

performance as Freddie Mercury. Then, we head over to Coco Cabaret,

which is celebrating its first anniversary with the return of its high-flying,

heart-racing show, Tease, a daring fusion of circus and burlesque.

Beyond our covers, we have a number of other engaging stories for you.

Don't miss our features on a fascinating "Life as Three," the new home

of Bar Frida, and a look at some of the most prominent Lesbian Couples

shaping our community. We also check out new hotspots like The

Banana Factory and Jet's New Club, get a peek inside the thriving bear

scene with events that will happen in late November, and see what's new

at the newly expanded Sir & Son.

This issue also features stunning pictorials from Pride 2025, stories on

local community builders like Poncho Davalos and Salvatore the Pianist,

and a fun look at the local drag scene. Plus, we've got you covered with

a feature on the best boat tours and a look at the wellness care available

at Vallarta Medical Center.

We hope this issue inspires you to get out, explore, and enjoy all the

magic that Puerto Vallarta has to offer this fall.

Jerry Jones

EDITOR AND PUBLISHER

PUBLICISTA Y SOCIO PROPIETARIO

Jerry Jones Jerry@outandaboutpv.com

VENTAS Y RELACIONES PÚBLICAS

Gerwin Rutten Gerwin@outandaboutpv.com

DISEÑO GRÁFICO Y PUBLICITARIO

Marco Encinas Direccion@marcoencinas.com

EVENTOS Y DISTRIBUCIÓN

Pepe Zendejas Events@outandaboutpv.com

ASISTENTE ADMINISTRATIVO

Max Buendia Max@outandaboutpv.com

VÍDEO Y REELS

Benito De La Cerda

COLABORADORES

Jamie Alexander, Rande Lee, Ed Poteck

Victor Lara, Fotógrafo; Mike Laking, Fotógrafo;

Mike Thomas, Fotógrafo

MODELO DE PORTADA

Edgardo Guel, Casa Luxe Realty, Photo by Michael Fluck.

Location: Blue Chairs Hotel Rooftop

The Palm and Coco Cabaret, photos provided.

06 12

TURNING DREAMS HIGH-FLYING,

INTO KEYS: HEART-RACING, AND

HOW EDGARDO GUEL AND UNAPOLOGETICALLY

CASA LUXE REAL ESTATE BOLD:

ARE HELPING BUYERS AND ‘TEASE’ RETURNS TO COCO

SELLERS

CABARET

24

STOCKS, ALLEN AND KENT

BLEND ART, DESIGN AND

MUSIC IN PV VENUES

36

ONE COMMUNITY LIFTING

ANOTHER: THE LGBTQ+

SUPPORT BEHIND THE

VALLARTA SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

52

TASTING LIFE AS THREE:

THREE’S COMPANY: LOVE,

FOOD AND LIFE IN PUERTO

VALLARTA

64

FETISH, FASHION, AND FUN:

SIR & SON EXPANDS

74

FLOAT YOUR BOAT: TWO

UNFORGETTABLE WAYS TO

CRUISE QUEERLY THROUGH

PUERTO VALLARTA PROMISES

NIGHTS YOU’LL NEVER FORGET

83

CLUB JETS: VALLARTA’S NEW

PLAYGROUND FOR MUSIC AND

NIGHTLIFE

28

DIVA DANIELA: TWO DECADES

OF GLAMOUR, GRIT AND

COMMUNITY IN PUERTO

VALLARTA

46

58

68

GOING BANANAS: PUERTO

VALLARTA’S NEW BAR BRINGS

THE FUN

78

86

DIRECCIÓN DE OFICINA Y DE CORREO

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BAR FRIDA OPENS NEW

CHAPTER IN PUERTO VALLARTA

AS IT MOVES INTO LARGEST

LOCATION

LEADING LESBIANS:

CELEBRATING INFLUENTIAL

FIGURES IN OUR COMMUNITY

STRIKING THE RIGHT CHORD:

SALVATORE RODRÍGUEZ’S 45

YEARS OF MUSIC

BEARS TAKE OVER VALLARTA:

LEATHER, FUR AND FESTIVAL

HEAT IN NOVEMBER

ACERCA DE NOSOTROS

Out & About PV es una publicación de O&APV, S. de R.L de C.V., copyright@2024-2025, Publicación

trimestral gratuita de Puerto Vallarta con contenido LGBTQ+ de Puerto Vallarta y áreas colindantes. Out

& About PV es un estilo de vida enfocado a información de viaje, eventos, negocios y noticias locales

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FALL 2025 5

TURNING DREAMS

INTO KEYS:

6 outandaboutpv.com

How Edgardo Guel and Casa Luxe Real

Estate Are Helping Buyers and Sellers

BY

JERRY JONES

"

SAHILY

MAURER | JASON SÁNCHEZ | NENA BATISTA | BEN OWEN NEBERGALL | TERESA NÚÑEZ | EDGARDO GUEL | FERNANDO LANDÁZURI | CAROLINA GANEM |

WYNAND JONKER | BEATRIZ ZAMORA | GUSTAVO CONTRERAS | NANCY GUTIÉRREZ. | PHOTO TAKEN AT CHIC BY PINNACLE - PINNACLERESORTSPV.COM

FALL 2025 7

FOR EDGARDO GUEL,

THE KEY TO SUCCESS

IN REAL ESTATE IS

UNDERSTANDING HIS

CLIENTS AND THEIR

NEEDS. IT'S ABOUT

THEIR LIFESTYLE AND

HOW HE CAN HELP

CLOSE THE DEAL.

The Puerto Vallarta Market:

Opportunities and Hotspots

Puerto Vallarta’s real estate market

continues to see steady demand,

particularly from international

buyers looking for vacation

homes, investment properties, and

retirement residences.

Pros:

• Lower entry prices compared to

fully built units.

• Flexible payment schedules.

• Build equity from day ONE.

• A brand-new condo to call home.

• Low-hassle investment.

“The questionnaire is our roadmap,”

Guel explained. “It saves clients time

and ensures we’re only showing

properties that fit their needs.”

From there, Casa Luxe provides

a curated selection of listings,

schedules tours, and discusses the

pros and cons of each option.

Guel, Broker and Founder of

Casa Luxe Real Estate, has built

a reputation as one of the Bay of

Banderas region’s most trusted

and forward-thinking real estate

professionals. With a career

spanning more than two decades

in sales, real estate, marketing, and

development, his approach blends

deep market knowledge with a

personal touch.

“When people invest in Vallarta,

they are buying more than a home,

they're buying into a dream," Guel

said. “It’s my job to guide them with

honesty, strategy, and a little bit of

fun along the way.”

From Vision to Reality

Before launching Casa Luxe Real

Estate, Guel worked in both the

corporate and boutique sides

of real estate, honing skills in

negotiations, marketing campaigns,

and client relations. His portfolio

includes managing luxury presale

developments and agency resale

listings, assisting international

buyers and sellers and leading

teams to deliver projects on time

and on budget.

In 2021, he opened Casa Luxe Real

Estate with a vision of combining

high-level professionalism with

approachable service. What started

as a small operation has since grown

into a full-service agency with 12

team members and a wide range of

exclusive listings.

“Our growth has been organic,”

Guel said. “We focus on creating

relationships, not transactions.

That’s what keeps clients coming

back and referring their friends.”

Casa Luxe Real Estate now offers

sales, rentals, property management,

and development consulting. The

team’s multilingual agents work

with clients from Canada, the United

States, México, and beyond.

“The city’s charm, safety, and

infrastructure make it an enduring

favorite,” Guel said.

“We’re seeing growth in the

Versalles neighborhood, with

its trendy restaurants and new

condos,” he added. “Zona

Romántica remains popular,

especially with the LGBTQ+

community, and the Marina is

attracting boat owners and those

looking for a quieter lifestyle.”

North toward Bucerías and La Cruz

de Huanacaxtle, new developments

are transforming once-sleepy

fishing towns into vibrant enclaves.

South toward Conchas Chinas

and Mismaloya, ocean-view villas

continue to draw high-end buyers.

Best Area for the LGBTQ+

Community

For LGBTQ+ buyers, Guel says

Zona Romántica remains the top

choice — a colorful, walkable

neighborhood packed with cafés,

nice restaurants, art galleries,

beach clubs, and nightlife.

“Zona Romántica is more than a

neighborhood — it’s a community

built on strong relationships,” he

said. “It’s welcoming, diverse, and

has some of the best dining and

entertainment in the city.”

Still, he notes that many LGBTQ+

clients are exploring nearby

Versalles for its affordability and

emerging dining scene, or Amapas

and Conchas Chinas for a quieter,

more residential feel while still

located close to the vibrance of

Zona Romántica.

Presale Properties

Presales — buying into a

development before it’s completed

— can be one of the smartest

moves in Vallarta’s market, Guel

says, but it’s not for everyone.

Cons:

• Construction delays are possible.

• Keep in mind the logistics and

costs of furnishing your new

condo, as most presale properties

are delivered unfurnished.

• You need to wait until the delivery

of your new property to use it or

rent it.

The developer’s reputation is critical

— buyers and their AMPI Real Estate

Agent should carefully review the

developer’s track record, ensure all

permits are in place, and confirm

that the developer is represented by

an AMPI Real Estate Broker.

“In presales, the key is due

diligence,” Guel said. “Know the

developer’s track record, ask for

timelines in writing, and understand

your presale unit’s payment

structure.”

Making an Offer: What to Expect

Once you’ve found the right

property, the process of making an

offer in Mexico has a few distinct

differences from buying in the U.S.

or Canada.

Typically, offers are made in writing

in both Spanish and English,

followed by a good-faith deposit

held in escrow. Negotiations can be

swift or drawn-out, depending on

the seller.

“We prepare clients so they know

exactly what’s next,” Guel said.

“From offer acceptance to closing,

we’re managing inspections, closing

appointments, and bank trust set-up

for foreign buyers.”

First Steps for New Buyers

At Casa Luxe Real Estate, the

process for first-time buyers starts

with a detailed questionnaire.

This covers budget, property type,

preferred neighborhoods, lifestyle

goals, and investment plans.

Key Differences from Buying in

the U.S.

Foreign buyers in Mexico purchase

property through a bank trust

(fideicomiso) if it’s within 50

kilometers of the coast. A Mexican

bank holds the title on behalf of the

buyer, who has all ownership rights

to sell, rent, or will the property.

Closing timelines can vary — 30 to

60 days is typical — and transactions

are overseen by a Notario Público, a

government-appointed legal official.

“In the U.S., your title company

handles closing,” Guel said. “Here,

the Notario is like the ultimate

authority — their word is law.”

Property taxes are generally much

lower than in the U.S., and annual

homeowner fees for condos can vary

widely depending on amenities.

Advice for the First-Time Buyer

Guel’s best advice: Take your time,

but be ready to move when the

right property is agreed on.

“Vallarta is a competitive market,” he

said. “If you fall in love with a home,

don’t wait too long. Good properties,

priced right, can sell in days.”

He also recommends visiting at

different times of year, budgeting

for closing costs (usually 3–5% of

purchase price), and working with a

licensed, reputable broker.

From modest beginnings to a thriving

12-person agency, Edgardo Guel’s

Casa Luxe Real Estate is not just

selling homes — it’s helping clients

write the next chapter of their lives

in Puerto Vallarta.

“I’ve seen people’s lives transformed

by their move here,” Guel said.

“That’s what keeps me passionate

— knowing we’re not just selling

property, we’re helping people find

their place in this world.”

8 outandaboutpv.com

"EDGARDO

GUEL,

PRESIDENT & BROKER

“When people invest in Vallarta, they are buying

more than a home, they're buying into a dream,"

Guel said. “It’s my job to guide them with honesty,

strategy, and a little bit of fun along the way.”

FALL 2025 9

TOP TEN QUESTIONS

Buyers Are Asking

"EDGARDO

GUEL,

PRESIDENT & BROKER

CHARLIE

"

BEN OWEN

NEBERGALL,

VICE PRESIDENT

1 Can foreigners legally own

property in Mexico?

Yes. In coastal areas like Puerto

Vallarta, foreigners buy through a

fideicomiso (bank trust) or a Mexican

4 How can I find a good real

estate agent and what is

their role? Work with an

established AMPI-certified

agent who comes with strong

recommendations.

7 What types of properties are

available and what are the most

popular areas?

Puerto Vallarta offers a wide range

of properties, from beachfront

property taxes. There are also taxes

on rental income, if applicable, and

capital gains when selling. Consult

tax advisors in Mexico and your

home country.

corporation.

2 What is a fideicomiso and how

does it work?

A bank trust giving foreigners

full ownership rights—sell, rent,

inherit. It lasts 50 years, renewable

indefinitely.

3 What is the buying process like

in Puerto Vallarta?

Similar to abroad: make an offer,

place earnest money in escrow, and

close with a government-appointed

notary who handles legal and tax

matters.

Their role is to provide reliable

market data, negotiate on your

behalf, represent your best interests,

and coordinate every step of the

transaction.

5 What are the closing costs and

other fees?

Typically 3-5% of the price, covering

notary, registration, fideicomiso, and

fees. Property taxes are low; condos

may have HOA fees. Real estate

commissions are paid by the seller.

6 Are there financing options

available for foreign buyers?

condos and luxury villas to singlefamily

homes. Popular areas for

investment and living include the

Romantic Zone, Marina Vallarta, the

Hotel Zone, and Nuevo Vallarta,

each offering a unique lifestyle and

amenities.

8 Is buying real estate in Puerto

Vallarta a good investment?

Yes. Strong vacation rental demand,

the city's growing tourism and expat

community contribute to a steady

demand for properties, offering a

solid return on investment (ROI).

9 What are the tax implications of

owning property in Mexico?

10 What is the difference between

buying pre-sale versus a resale

property?

Pre-sale properties are brand-new

and offer modern amenities, but you

have to wait for construction to be

completed. Re-sale properties let

you see exactly what you're buying,

but they may be older and require

maintenance or upgrades.

Learn more at:

www.casaluxerealestate.com

Photos location credits:

www.pinnacleresortspv.com

Yes, but limited and with higher rates

than the U.S./Canada. Many buyers

During ownership, homeowners

Versión en español:

outandaboutpv.com

pay cash or finance abroad.

pay the predial, which is the yearly

10 outandaboutpv.com

FALL 2025 11

HIGH-FLYING,

HEART-RACING, AND

UNAPOLOGETICALLY

BOLD:

‘Tease’ Returns to Coco Cabaret

BY

RANDE LEE


Coco Cabaret Marks

One Year With A

Daring Fusion of

Circus and Burlesque

COCO CABARET IS

CELEBRATING ITS

FIRST ANNIVERSARY

THE ONLY WAY

IT KNOWS

HOW—BIGGER,

BOLDER, AND

UNAPOLOGETICALLY

BREATHTAKING.

In just one year, the intimate Puerto

Vallarta venue has become a mustsee

destination for world-class

entertainment, and this season

it’s raising the stakes with the

triumphant return of Tease.

Created by internationally acclaimed

showmaker Stéphane Haffner, Tease

fuses high-flying aerial artistry,

sultry burlesque, and cuttingedge

theatrical design into an

unforgettable night of seduction and

spectacle. From Times Square to the

Zona Romántica, Tease is proof that

Coco Cabaret isn’t just surviving—

it’s soaring.

Tease is just one of the many

shows that will help Coco Cabaret

celebrate its one year anniversary

in style.

Coco Cabaret Entertainment

Director, Mark Rome, shared his

initial vision upon opening Coco’s

last year, and how it has evolved in

the time since.

Mark commented, “Our vision was

to get the younger crowd, as Coco

Cabaret is in close proximity to

many of the other nightclubs, we

thought it would be a great place

for people to start their night, enjoy

a show at Coco’s, and then hit the

clubs afterwards.”

“The vision since then has evolved,

the matinee shows have become

very popular, there is a great

selection of fantastic restaurants

all within a two block radius of

Coco Cabaret, which brings in a

sophisticated dinner crowd,” Mark

continued. “One of the things I have

always been honored by is that we

are a safe space, a fun place for

everyone, for people from all walks

of life, it’s heartwarming to see

large families come together, and to

welcome groups that are celebrating

a special occasion.”

“We have so much repeat business,

it gives us an opportunity to really

get to know our clients, we’re really

happy, it’s been very successful,”

he said.

Stéphane Haffner was born in

France in 1977, where he was raised

surrounded by creativity and the

performing arts. This upbringing

led Stephane, along with his

brother Alexandre to co-found

Les Farfadais in 1999. Stephane

became CEO, and the French circus

company is now world renowned for

featuring breathtaking productions

that combine circus artistry with

sensuality, theatricality, and

innovation.

With Stephane’s leadership,

Les Farfadais rapidly became a

pioneering leader of contemporary

circus, producing uniquely seductive

and visually striking extravaganzas

that have toured the world in

collaboration with prestigious

venues, and festivals alike.

Stephane’s creations are renowned

for their fusion of fantasy,

sexuality, and technical mastery,

transforming traditional circus

performances into an unforgettable

theatrical experience. His

visionary approach has led to the

creation of spectacular shows that

perfectly blend acrobatics, aerial

choreography, and burlesque, with

magnetic staging. His productions

have captivated audiences across

Europe, the United States, and

throughout the world.

Among Stephane’s most celebrated

productions are; Airotic Soirée, a late

night burlesque circus experience

that ran at the Théâtre du

Gymnase in Paris, and also toured

internationally. He also created Érotic Soirée, a sultry and acrobatic cabaret

show that has played in major cities such as Paris and Chicago.

FALL 2025 13

Coco Cabaret

C. Fco. I. Madero 289, Zona

Romantica, Emiliano Zapata,

48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal.

Mexico

cococabaretpv@gmail.com

+52 322 222 2017

Box Office Open

Monday to Sunday 11:00am –

11:00pm

Tease, a hugely successful Broadway

burlesque circus production

blended striptease, aerial acrobatics,

and live music, and the uniquely

celebrated Puerto Vallarta

production of Tease is highlighted in

this article.

This year Stephane launched

Dreamtopia, an imaginative circus

spectacular for children and families

that premiered on Broadway to rave

reviews. The production features

magical creatures, aerial dragons,

and fairytale inspired characters.

He is also producing BITE, a sensual

Halloween circus experience

premiering in Dallas and Chicago.

Beyond the stage, Stéphane is

also a prominent entrepreneur,

overseeing artistic residencies,

immersive event productions, and

international tours. With homes and

creative bases in Paris, Barcelona,

and the United States, Stephane

continues to expand his artistic

universe, collaborating with top

choreographers, designers, and

performers from around the globe.

His mission is to create shows that

inspire awe, celebrate sensuality,

and re-imagine the boundaries of

live performance

Stephane has deep connections

here, and by bringing Tease to

Puerto Vallarta, often called Mexico’s

LGBTQIA+ capital, his vision is to

create a production that not only

showcases astonishing acrobatics

and burlesque artistry, but also

becomes a tribute to diversity,

acceptance, and a celebration of

love, and the beauty of the human

body in all its forms.

Stephane envisions this vibrant

city as the perfect home for

his distinctive version of

Tease, which will embrace

and celebrate the LGBTQIA+

community, and provide a

cultural statement of inclusion

and empowerment. Tease

combines; a burlesque flair,

storytelling in a theatrical

setting, magnificent circus

performances, while

simultaneously creating an

intimate yet high energy

experience.

perfectly with the spirit of Tease,

and of Puerto Vallarta itself.

The re-imagined production of

Tease, which will open at Coco

Cabaret in October, has been

created especially for Puerto

Vallarta.

“Tease is an amazing production, it’s

a very sexy, very classy show, and

they are expanding this season to

be bigger and better than ever, we

are very excited to have them back,”

Mark shared.

The breathtaking performance

is a perfect blend of world

class aerial acrobatics, a

contemporary circus act,

cabaret, and arousing

choreography. Tease features

stunning costumes, dazzling

lighting, and daring aerial

acts that merge artistry,

elegance, and a deep eroticism.

Throughout the event, each

performance revels in an

atmosphere of freedom, pride,

and celebration that aligns

Show times for Tease will be every

Wednesday at 7pm, and every

Friday at 9 p.m., respectively, at

Coco Cabaret.


outandaboutpv.com


FALL 2025 15


FALL 2025 17

Legends Live Again:

THE PALM’S 26TH SEASON

PROMISES NIGHTS YOU’LL

NEVER FORGET

BY

RANDE LEE


AS THE SUMMER HEAT FADES, AND THE FAMILIAR FACES

OF HIGH SEASON TRICKLE BACK INTO PV, THE CURTAIN IS

RISING ON ANOTHER INCREDIBLE SEASON OF UNMATCHED

ENTERTAINMENT AT THE PALM CABARET AND BAR. WITH THE

NEW SEASON STARTING OCTOBER 15, 2025, THE UPCOMING

YEAR IS THE PALM’S SILVER ANNIVERSARY PLUS ONE, AND

EVERYONE INVOLVED IS DEDICATED TO MAKING EACH

AND EVERY PERFORMANCE AN UNFORGETTABLE

EXPERIENCE FOR ALL TO SAVOR.

Among the standouts are two artists

who have become synonymous with

The Palm’s reputation for world-class

entertainment: Maru Prado Conti is

unveiling her daring new Lady Gaga

tribute, Mother Mayhem. Roy Gomez

Cruz is presenting an evolved,

deeply personal take on Freddie

Mercury: The Man, The Voice, The

Legend. Together, these two shows

showcase the passion, artistry, and

innovation that continue to make

The Palm a cornerstone of Puerto

Vallarta’s nightlife.

Both entertainers are introducing

all new shows this year that are

certain to delight longtime fans.

In a special tribute, Mark Rome,

entertainment director for The Palm

Cabaret and Bar and Coco Cabaret,

spoke of his gratitude for the

contributions of Maru and Roy, as

they celebrate their fifth anniversary

of unparalleled pageantry here in

Puerto Vallarta.

Mark shared, “Both Maru and Roy

have helped change the face of

entertainment here in PV, and have

collectively set the bar for live

performances everywhere.”

Maru Prado Conti Transforms the

Stage With ‘Mother Mayhem,’ Her

Most Daring Lady Gaga Tribute Yet

Maru Prado Conti is widely

recognized in PV as the embodiment

of Lady Gaga. She is a brilliant

artist, originally hailing from

Rosario, Argentina, though now

living here in Puerto Vallarta. Maru

is co-founder and director of the

“TEB New York” program, where

she helps artists from around the

world train in musical theater,

singing, and dancing. She has

performed extensively in Spain and

Argentina in various musical theater

productions, and also works as a

vocal and performance coach.

Maru shared, “I admire those who

fight for their dreams and work

tirelessly to create art, even when

they often feel they are not enough,

or struggle with the challenges of

personal growth,” she continued,

“my goal is always to fulfill dreams

and create art from the love and

vulnerability that we sometimes

experience on this path that is life.”

Speaking in reference to her

new show at The Palm, Maru was

thoughtful, “After four years touring

with the tribute show, I felt the

need to return with something

more personal and artistic, infused

with a distinct “Maru” touch, she

continued, “during this time, I’ve

gone through profound personal and

artistic growth, I’ve been inspired

by shows that I’ve had the privilege

to see in New York, and most of all,

by experiencing Lady Gaga live, an

encounter that reignited my energy,

and pushed me to pour all that

growth into this new season.”

Maru’s new Lady Gaga tribute

extravaganza is titled Mother

Mayhem, and pays homage to

Mayhem, Lady Gaga’s latest tour.

It will feature highlights from her

most recent album, which includes;

Abracadabra, Garden of Eden, and

Vanish into You, alongside iconic

classics such as; Judas, Scheiße,

Alejandro, Poker Face, and many

more.

This unique stage journey brings

Lady Gaga to life with a powerful

combination of music, theater,

and amazing visual performances.

The event will include brand new

costumes; custom designed staging,

and wonderfully re-imagined music

celebrating this new and exciting

chapter.

The show will be filled with high

energy choreography, unexpected

shifts, and a never before seen stage

element that will transform the

theater into an unexplored universe,

where the sacred, as well as the

chaotic coexist, and where each

audience member will become part

of the final victory. Designed to tell

the story of the eternal war between

the light and the dark, it will leave

the audience spellbound. The

performance moves effortlessly from

the depths of gothic drama, to the

highs of an exhilarating celebration,

all the while, reveling in the amazing

voice and unique presence of Maru.

FALL 2025 19

In each act, the themes of inner

turmoil, forbidden desire, and

liberation will emerge, and are

Acclaimed for his phenomenal

tribute to Freddie Mercury, his

signature act has theatrical flair,

explored, as is the final triumph

vocal authenticity, and emotional

of the light, in all its beauty. This

season’s musical production

will be led by Edgar Bernache,

whose guidance will shape the

performance in a distinctly artistic

direction, which is deeply personal.

One of the most heartfelt moments

arrives with Shallow, a song that

Maru feels will resonate profoundly

in the hearts of all who hear it.

Check out Maru’s website at: https://

mpcshows.com/

Showtime for Mother Mayhem

is every Saturday night at 9:30

p.m. Don’t miss this brand new

look at one of the world’s biggest

entertainers by one of Puerto

Vallarta’s all time greatest stars.

Roy Gomez Cruz Explores the

Heart of a Rock God in a Powerful

Freddie Mercury Reinvention

Roy Gomez Cruz is a Mexican singer,

actor, and producer celebrated

for his powerhouse vocals and

commanding stage presence. With

over two decades of experience in

the performing arts, Roy has become

a standout figure in Puerto Vallarta’s

vibrant cabaret scene.

depth. Roy captivates audiences

with heartfelt performances that

channel the music and spirit of

Queen, while simultaneously

infusing each show with his own

unmistakable artistry.

Offstage, Roy is a PhD candidate

in Performance Studies at

Northwestern University. His

academic research explores queer

performance, tribute acts, and the

voice as an embodiment of memory,

and transformation. Above all, Roy

is honored to be the joyful father of

two marvelous children, his proudest

and most meaningful role.

Roy’s new tribute extravaganza is

titled Freddie Mercury: The Man,

The Voice, The Legend. Five years in

the making, Roy’s Freddie Mercury

tribute show was created in the

midst of the COVID-19 pandemic

in 2020. Though he had been

performing Freddie with a full band

since 2018, creating a solo theatrical

version of the show in 2020 was a

turning point.

Roy shared a tribute to Mark Rome,

and his fellow entertainers, who

like him, will always remember that

challenging time, “Due to COVID-19,

the international acts had stopped

traveling, most local stages were

quiet, the whole world paused, but

The Palm Cabaret didn’t go dark,

the light shone, and thanks to Mark

Rome, that sad period became a

little bit brighter.” Roy continued,

“I’ll always be grateful to artists like

Maru Prado Conti, Mateo Erdocia,

Chris Lopez, Sebastian Coronel, and

Tonny Kenneth, they helped ignite a

light, and shape this tribute from the

beginning.”

Roy described how he got to

know Freddie, sharing, “I threw

myself into research, I read every

biography, I watched every concert,

I studied Freddie’s rare interviews,

and tracked how his style evolved

alongside Queen’s music and the

world around him, especially during

the AIDS crisis.”

Continuing, Roy shared, “I found

a Freddie full of contradictions:

bold and shy, outrageous and

measured, deeply romantic and

often heartbroken, he was not just

a rock god, he was a profoundly

human artist.”

Over the past five years, Roy’s show

has evolved continuously. Each

season has explored a new facet of

Freddie. This season’s title, Freddie

Mercury: The Man, The Voice, The

Legend, reflects not just Freddie’s

larger than life legacy, but also Roy’s

evolving relationship with him as a

performer and creator.

This year Roy is building on each

past season, but taking it to an

even higher level. The music is

completely revamped, creating a

sonic landscape that uses sound

design to evoke a journey. Sounds

of nature, city noise, cinematic

references, and other aspects of life

that moved Freddie himself will all

be woven into a beautiful tapestry.

The show is even more visually

striking, as costumes are upgraded,

and choreography expands. The

result is a mesmerizing, and deeply

emotional experience. There will be

surprises, including piano renditions

of favorite ballads, as well as, the

biggest Queen hits of all time.

Roy shared his thoughts, regarding

the upcoming extravaganza.


The Palm Cabaret and Bar

Olas Altas 508, Zona

Romantica, Emiliano Zapata,

48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal.

Mexico

thepalmcabaret@gmail.com

+52 322 222 0200

Box Office Open Monday to

Sunday 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

“I’m excited to collaborate again

with Chris Lopez, he brings an

external eye for staging, Mery

Zambrano will be returning, she

has danced in the show since the

beginning, and brings not only talent

but heart.” Roy continued, with

tributes, “Bryan Santana, Waleska

Rondón, and Francisco “Paco”

Guízar, have been my pillars, as

dancers, acrobats, and friends, and

I’m looking forward to continuing

to work with them to bring Freddie

back to life in all his magic.”

Concluding, Roy was contemplative,

“Five years in, the show continues

to challenge and inspire me,

it has been one of the most

transformative journeys of my

life; artistically, personally, and

professionally, and as long as

Freddie keeps whispering through

his music, I’ll keep listening.”

Check out Roy’s website at:

www.roycruzmusic.com

Showtime for Freddie Mercury: The

Man, The Voice, The Legend will be

every Tuesdays at 5:00pm, and every

Friday at 7:00pm, respectively. Don’t

miss this brand new look at one of

the world’s biggest entertainers

by one of Puerto Vallarta’s all time

greatest stars.

THE 2025-2026 SEASON

AT THE PALM CABARET

AND BAR BEGINS

OCTOBER 15TH 2025


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FALL 2025 21


FALL 2025 23

Photos by: Victor Lara

Stocks, Allen and Kent

BLEND

ART, DESIGN

AND MUSIC

IN PV VENUES

BY

JERRY JONES

THE WOOD-FIRED HEAT AT BASILIO BADILLO

447 IS MORE THAN A DESIGN CHOICE — IT’S

THE CENTERPIECE OF THE BRICK OVEN, THE

NEWEST PROJECT FROM PUERTO VALLARTA

BUSINESS PARTNERS BRYAN STOCKS, ROGER

ALLEN AND BRIAN KENT.

The restaurant opened May 17,

2025, in the city’s Romantic

Zone, serving antipasti,

salads, desserts and pizzas

fired at 800 to 900 degrees

Fahrenheit in a custombuilt

oven. Menu highlights

include the Margherita, Spicy

Chicken, Burrata Rocket and

The Vallarta, topped with

marinated shrimp.

Partnership Built on

Distinct Strengths

The trio’s path to partnership

began with a shared idea for an

upscale lounge. They launched

One Six One, a craft-cocktail

club that marked its four-year

anniversary on April 1, 2025,

and helped cement their

working rhythm.

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“The wood-fired oven gives

our pizza a smoky flavor and

a crust that’s crispy on the

outside and chewy on the

inside,” Kent said. The open-air

garden setting features a full

bar and a design meant to flow

easily into the partners’ other

nightlife space directly above.

That space, The Social Club,

opened Nov. 20, 2024. Its

speakeasy-style format

invites guests to step through

a discreet door, climb a

staircase and press a buzzer

to enter. Inside, four distinct

rooms — including two

outdoor bars — are decorated

with vintage pieces, such as

items from Elizabeth Taylor’s

estate. The entertainment is

deliberately unannounced,

ranging from jazz and piano

to burlesque, magicians and

surprise guest performers.

Hours stretch from 9 p.m. to

4 a.m.

Stocks, an American visual artist,

is known for large-scale murals

and a vibrant, modern style. His

artistic sensibility shapes the

look of each venue, from the

flower mural at The Porch Café

to the color and texture inside

The Social Club and The Brick

Oven’s airy dining area.

Allen, an interior designer

and Stocks’ life partner, is

responsible for creating

ambiance and flow. He sources

period-appropriate furnishings

and unique décor elements that

help distinguish each concept.

Kent, a Billboard-charting

recording artist, DJ and

producer, directs sound, lighting,

entertainment and brings his

creative eye to the design and

concepts as well . His music

career continues alongside the

hospitality work — in March

2024, he released his single

“Carry Your Light” at ParrotFish


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FALL 2025 25

restaurant, telling the audience he

had been “working on it for over

a year” and was “super excited to

share the song with everyone.”

Together, the three have developed

a formula: Stocks drives the visual

identity, Allen shapes the physical

space, and Kent curates the

experience. “We all bring out the

best in each other,” Kent said. “We’re

an amazing force when we are

working together.”

Earlier Ventures Set the Stage

Their first joint business, One Six

One, opened in early 2021 at

Rodolfo Gómez 161. The lounge

features craft cocktails, beer on tap

and a lineup of house-music DJs,

drawing a crowd looking for a more

cosmopolitan vibe within Puerto

Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ nightlife scene. It

marked its four-year anniversary on

April 1, 2025.

In January 2024, they expanded

into daytime dining with The Porch

Café at Amapas 299. The breakfast

and coffee spot sits on a leafy patio

shaded by palms, accompanied by

soft jazz. Stocks’ mural of colorful

flowers covers one wall, while

Allen’s design touches give the

space a relaxed, open-air charm.

Beyond their shared projects,

Stocks and Allen co-own Anónimo

Video Bar, a neighborhood LGBTQ+

venue they purchased in 2017.

Opened originally in 2009, Anónimo

remains a long-standing stop in the

Romantic Zone’s nightlife circuit.

A Strategic Approach to Location

and Timing

By placing The Brick Oven below

The Social Club, the partners

have created a vertical hospitality

hub that can carry guests from

dinner to late-night entertainment

without leaving the building. Other

locations, such as The Porch and

One Six One, capture different parts

of the day and different crowds.

From speakeasies to cafés, and from

DJ-driven lounges to wood-fired

pizza, the trio’s ventures reflect the

same core mix of design, music and

hospitality — all rooted in a deep

connection to Puerto Vallarta’s

creative and social scene.


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FALL 2025 27

Photos by: Michael Fluck

DIVA

DANIELA:

Two Decades

of Glamour,

Grit and

Community in

Puerto Vallarta

BY

JERRY JONES


FALL 2025 29


FOR MORE THAN TWO DECADES,

THE LIGHTS OF PUERTO VALLARTA’S

NIGHTLIFE HAVE REFLECTED OFF THE

SEQUINS, WIGS AND HIGH HEELS OF

DIVA DANIELA, ONE OF THE CITY’S

LONG-TIME DRAG PERFORMERS. BUT

BEHIND THE SPARKLE LIES A STORY

OF SURVIVAL, RESILIENCE AND A DEEP

COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY.

"Born Daniel Estrada Jiménez in

Autlán, Jalisco, Diva Daniela arrived

in Puerto Vallarta 20 years ago,

seeking a fresh start. She has been

performing professionally for 25

years — and dressing in drag for

nearly three decades — but says her

path to the stage was anything but

planned.

“I never imagined doing drag,” she

said. “I started dressing as a woman

when I was rejected by my parents

for being homosexual. It was a way

to get by and survive in a society

where everyone marginalized us.”

Her earliest performances took

place in bullrings, where she and a

partner performed popular lip-sync

duets by the Argentine pop duo

Pimpinela. Her first solo number was

Paulina Rubio, but putting together

the costume was a challenge.

“Getting things to dress myself was

difficult,” she recalled. “It was all

about making do with what I had.”

In Puerto Vallarta, she found a city

that embraced her artistry and

identity. For the last 14 years, she

has been a fixture at the Blue Chairs

Resort by the Sea, a well-known hub

of LGBTQ+ nightlife in the Romantic

Zone. Her shows combine live

interaction, humor, and a knack for

reading the room, something she

says is her favorite part of the job.

“I enjoy the stage in all its splendor,

but what I love most is interacting

with the audience,” she said. “That

connection is everything.”

When the lights go down, Daniela’s

life extends far beyond the club.

She cooks meals to sell and helps

promote fellow entertainers online,

using her social media skills to

support others in the industry. She

also has a passion for walking —

“my way to clear my mind” — and

works as a radio host, where her

voice carries a mix of charm and

candor.

Her life story is also one of activism.

Over the years, Diva Daniela has

become an outspoken advocate for

Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ community.

She promotes drag culture, mentors

up-and-coming performers, and

participates in community causes

and mobilizations. During the

COVID-19 pandemic, she organized

relief efforts for those most affected,

combining entertainment with

solidarity.

She also leads Conexión LGBT,

a grassroots collective that

provides social assistance. Through

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FALL 2025 31

fundraising and donations, the group has

reached vulnerable families with food,

clothing and essential supplies. “It’s about

showing that we take care of each other,”

Daniela said.

Her work and her art are rooted in the same

principle: visibility. “Drag is about more

than looking beautiful,” she said. “It’s about

breaking down stigmas and showing the

world that we exist, that we have talent, and

that we contribute to society.”

That visibility, she notes, has been easier to

achieve in Puerto Vallarta than in many other

cities. Long known as a haven for LGBTQ+

travelers and residents, the resort city has

built a reputation for inclusion, both on its

beaches and in its nightlife.

she also recognizes the work still to be done to

ensure equality and acceptance year-round.

“Tourism helps, but we have to keep building

spaces where local LGBTQ+ people can feel safe

and thrive,” she said.

For young people looking to enter the drag

world, Daniela’s advice is grounded in both

artistry and self-worth. “Be authentic. Learn

from others, but don’t try to be someone else.

And don’t be afraid of the work behind the

glamour — because there’s a lot of it.”

As she reflects on her career, Daniela sees

her journey as a testament to the power of

reinvention. From the hardships of her early life

to the applause-filled nights in Puerto Vallarta,

she has built not just a persona but a platform.


“What I love most about Puerto Vallarta is its

people,” Daniela said. “It’s a place where I

feel safe and without stigmas.”

Her presence in the city’s drag scene has

coincided with Puerto Vallarta’s rise as

one of Mexico’s most prominent LGBTQ+

destinations. From beach clubs to cabarets,

drag shows are now a cornerstone of the

tourism economy, drawing visitors from

across North America and beyond. Daniela

has been part of that transformation, but

“There’s pain in my past, but I turned it into

something beautiful,” she said. “Every time I

step on stage, I remember why I started — to

survive — but also why I continue — to live

fully and help others do the same.”

Whether she is commanding the spotlight in a

glittering gown or delivering food to a family

in need, Diva Daniela is proof that drag can

be both an art form and a lifeline — and that

sometimes, the brightest lights shine from the

hardest-earned places.


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FALL 2025 33

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FALL 2025 35

One Community Lifting Another:

THE LGBTQ+ SUPPORT

BEHIND THE VALLARTA

SCHOOL FOR GIRLS


BY

EDWARD POTOCEK

A VISION BORN

FROM CRISIS

Founded in January 2023 by Cecil

Kerfont and Francie Nguyen, the

Vallarta School for Girls emerged

from the hardships of the COVID-19

pandemic. While delivering food

to remote communities, Cecil and

Francie witnessed firsthand how

women and girls struggled to

care for their families with limited

opportunities for a better future.

As the two volunteers worked side

by side at the Vallarta Food Bank,

their conversations shifted from

urgent needs to lasting solutions.

With Francie’s experience in

building schools in Vietnam and

Cecil’s vision of empowering young

people, they founded the Girls

Education Fund and its beneficiary,

the Vallarta School for Girls.

In January 2024, after months of

planning and fundraising, the school

proudly opened its doors to 15

students.

The Power of Community

Founder Francie Nguyen reflects:

“We are focused on providing

possibilities for our students. One

of the most beautiful parts of

our journey is the support we’ve

received from Vallarta’s LGBTQ+

community. They’ve given their time,

their talents, and their hearts to help

us create opportunities for these

girls. It’s one community standing

with another—and it shows how

FALL 2025 37 37

love and inclusion can change lives.”

Francie knows firsthand how

powerful that support can be.

Having immigrated to the United

States from Vietnam as a child, she

experienced how the kindness of

strangers could transform a young

life. Inspired by her own journey—

and fueled by deep gratitude—she

is dedicated to giving back to Puerto

Vallarta’s next generation.

Voices of Support

Volunteer Casey Wilcox adds,

“It’s remarkable to see people

from diverse backgrounds come

together to build and support the

Vallarta Girls School. As a member

of the LGBTQ+ community, I’ve

experienced the strength that

comes from unity and the power it

has to transform lives. The girls are

witnessing this solidarity firsthand—

and it’s providing them with a living

example of how community can

create change.”

Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ community has

been an anchor of support for the

school. Entertainers headline benefit

shows, local businesses sponsor

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Artisanal Sausage Dogs


T H E O W N E R S O F

T H E P O R C H B R I N G Y O U

Introducing The Brick Oven,

the latest gem in Puerto Vallarta’s

Romantic Zone!

Step onto our rustic patio & savor the

aromas f rom our custom brick oven.

•Full Bar

•Firewood Pizza

•Calzones

•Pizza Empanadas

•Dessert Pizza

•Salads & More

T H E B R I C K O V E N P V . C O M

B A S I L I O B A D I L L O 4 4 7, Z O N A R O M A N T I C A , P U E R T O V A L L A R T A

FALL 2025 39

events, and countless volunteers

give their time and expertise. This

alliance reflects the city’s spirit:

inclusive, generous, and stronger

together.

A Holistic Education

Today, the school serves more

than 40 students, offering a free,

comprehensive education from

elementary to high school, taught

by an all-female teaching staff.

Alongside strong academics,

students study English, physical

education, art, music, and

photography—programs designed

to spark creativity and confidence.

Through a partnership with the

University of Guanajuato, high

school classes prepare students

for higher education, careers, and

leadership roles. With the coming

expansion, programs in health,

wellness, and nutrition will ensure

every girl receives a truly holistic

education.

Milestones of Growth

Since June, the Vallarta School

for Girls has celebrated two

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FALL 2025 41

extraordinary milestones:

its first graduation and the

groundbreaking of a new campus.

whose artistry underscores the

deep connections within the

community.

On June 13, 2025, nine young

women proudly crossed the

courtyard in the school’s

inaugural graduation ceremony.

Surrounded by family, friends,

teachers, and supporters,

they celebrated not only their

achievements but also the

opportunities ahead of them.

Thanks to generous donors, each

graduate received a one-year

scholarship to pursue further

studies—whether at a university,

a music conservatory, or the

Mexican Navy. Scholarships cover

full tuition and expenses, with

students reapplying annually to

maintain support.

Just weeks later, on July 2, the

school broke ground on a stateof-the-art

campus in Los Sauces,

Puerto Vallarta. Designed in

collaboration with architect and

developer Alfonso Aguilar and

Home Improvement PV, the new

facilities will feature modern

classrooms, a library, a gym,

rooftop space, and gardens. When

completed in 2026, enrollment

will grow from 40 to 60 girls—

increasing the opportunity to

transform lives.

Building the Future

Earlier this year, the Girls

Education Fund established

its first Board of Directors and

launched two major fundraising

efforts: the Capital Campaign to

build the new school and the

Annual Operating Fund to sustain

ongoing expenses.

As of August 15, 2025, the Capital

Campaign has reached 60% of its

$500,000 USD goal. Construction

is underway, but more than

$200,000 USD is still needed to

complete the project.

Events that Inspire

To meet annual operating

needs, the Vallarta School

for Girls is launching its most

ambitious fundraising season

yet—three major events

that blend entertainment,

community, and purpose. Many

will feature Vallarta’s celebrated

LGBTQ+ performers and allies,

• Tropical Christmas Garden

Party – December 14, Los

Mangos Library. A festive

soirée with local bites, live

entertainment, a silent auction,

and dancing under the stars.

Guests are encouraged to wear

playful tropical holiday attire.

• Stars with a Heart – January

25, Teatro Vallarta. Produced

by Mary Porter, this dazzling

showcase brings together

Vallarta’s beloved entertainers

in an unforgettable night of

music and talent.

• Black & White Gala – March 2,

Sayan Tropical Condominiums.

The season’s most elegant

event, featuring a gourmet

buffet, open bar, silent auction,

and oceanfront dancing.

“These events aren’t just

fundraisers,” says Co-Fundraising

Chair Michelle Burnett. “They’re

experiences that bring our city

together. They give individuals and

businesses the chance to stand

with us, gain visibility, and most

importantly, help change lives.”

Sponsorship opportunities at

Gold, Silver, and Platinum levels

highlight businesses’ commitment

to education and equality while

supporting the operating fund.

Stronger Together

The Vallarta School for Girls

is more than a school—it is a

movement of hope, opportunity,

and transformation. Each

milestone, from the first

graduation to the new campus,

demonstrates what is possible

when communities lift one

another up.

With your support—whether

through a donation, sponsorship,

attending an event, or simply

spreading the word—we can

continue to open doors, nurture

dreams, and create lasting change.

Please visit the Girls Education

Fund and Vallarta School for

Girls to learn more, make a

donation, become an event

sponsor, or purchase tickets to an

upcoming event.



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FALL 2025 43

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BAR

FRIDA

Opens New Chapter

in Puerto Vallarta

as It Moves Into

Largest Location

BY

JERRY JONES

BAR FRIDA, ONE OF PUERTO VALLARTA’S

OLDEST LGBTQ+ VENUES, RECENTLY

MOVED TO ITS MOST EXPANSIVE LOCATION

TO DATE AT FRANCISCO I. MADERO 418

Opening at its new location on

August 1, 2025, the restaurant/

bar marked the occasion with

a grand opening celebration

featuring live performances

from Jordon Carnegie, Freddy

Otello Pacheco, Tonny Tk,

Sargento and Patriz.

The new space, formerly

occupied by The Salty Caesar

and originally the longtime

Gilmar Restaurant, is Bar Frida’s

fifth location since opening

in June 2001. It is more than

double the size of its previous

venue and features seating for

80 guests, 18 tables, outdoor

patio seating and a remodeled

interior.

“We are very happy,” said

owner Tom Finley. “It’s a big

move and it’s on a wonderful

street.” Finley described the

new venue as “our shining

jewel,” adding, “We’ve come

full circle, back to the area that

we originally started. Oldest

gay bar and proudly so.”

Adjustments Leading Up to

the Move

In the months before the

relocation, Bar Frida unified

its kitchen and bar under one

roof — eliminating the practice

of issuing separate checks for

food and drinks. Chef Alberto

Cueva, who had run Frida’s

Kitchen independently for 13

years, closed that operation

on May 18, 2025, enabling the

new integrated menu to launch

with the opening of the new

location.

“With Frida’s Kitchen closing,

we will now consolidate the

kitchen and the bar into one

business,” Finley said earlier

this year. “That will result in

one check for meals and drinks

instead of separate checks as in

the past.”

Credit card payment, previously

unavailable, is now accepted at

the new site.

A Look Back: Bar Frida’s

History

Bar Frida opened in June 2001,

when Finley purchased the

business license of a lesbianowned

bar on Lázaro Cárdenas

Street and kept the name in

homage to the artist Frida

Kahlo. At the time, the area

was considered less open to

LGBTQ+ businesses, but the bar

found a following in the Zona

Romántica.

FALL 2025 47

The bar relocated in 2009 to Avenue

Insurgentes #301 — known as Bar

Frida 2.0 — and remained there until

the lease expired in 2020. Its third

iteration opened on Lázaro Cárdenas

#481 in October 2020. In October

2022, Bar Frida 4.0 opened at the

corner of Naranjo and Venustiano

Carranza, alongside Frida’s Kitchen.

Community Presence

Bar Frida has participated in local and

regional LGBTQ+ events, including

Guadalajara Pride as early as 2002.

It marked its 24th anniversary in

June 2025 with a celebration where

Finley thanked customers for their

continued support.

Finley has said the bar’s longevity

is tied to maintaining a consistent

environment. “It’s always been about

offering a place where people can

feel comfortable,” he said in a 2022

interview.

Looking Ahead

Now in its new home, Bar Frida

has expanded its footprint while

maintaining the approach it has

followed for nearly a quarter-century.

Murals from earlier locations have

been incorporated into the décor, and

Finley said the bar intends to keep its

established style of service.

“It’s a big change, but we’re ready for

it,” Finley said. “We’ve been here a

long time, and this is the next step.”


outandaboutpv.com


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FALL 2025 49

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Photo by: Mike Thomas

50

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Pink Dinner

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Experience Authentic

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FALL 2025 51

STEP INTO OUR WORLD, WHERE

LOVE IS A SHARED JOURNEY

OF THREE HEARTS, WOVEN

TOGETHER IN JOY, CONNECTION,

AND DISCOVERY—SAVORING

LIFE’S FLAVORS, ONE MEAL, ONE

ADVENTURE AT A TIME.

... Continued from the summer 2025 edition of Out &

About Magazine. (Want to read the first story, visit

outandaboutpv.com)

TASTING

LIFE AS

THREE

Three’s Company:

Love, Food and Life

in Puerto Vallarta

The Second Date

The show-goers must go! Sticking

to our slightly obsessive (read:

fabulous) habit of seeing every

show in town, there was no way we

could miss the event of the season:

CelloVoci at The Palm Cabaret.

For Jamie and Josh, Effie had already

become a beloved friend, and this

night was extra special—our big

introduction to Mau and vice versa.

Drinks in hand—me with my wine,

Josh with his signature gin & soda,

and Mau with a cold Modelo—we

settled in for what turned out

to be one of the most magical

performances we’ve seen.

Mid-show, Mau leaned over and

whispered, “She’s amazing! Has she

been on TV? I think I’ve seen her

before.” Little did he know, he was

watching a real-life American Idol

alumna who has toured the globe

with Postmodern Jukebox (yes, she

is that iconic). The entire audience

was spellbound as the group

performed “Seasons of Love.” Cue

tears. As one found its way down my

cheek, Mau reached for my leg and

wrapped his arm around Josh.

It was the perfect moment.

The perfect second date.

The Chosen Family

From that moment on, the three of

us were basically inseparable. If we

weren’t working, we were together—

talking, laughing, planning meals,

and occasionally finishing each

other’s drinks (and sentences).

Then came the big one: the

introduction of our new formed

“Throuple” to our chosen family.

Every year, we host a post-Christmas,

post-holiday dinner at the Villa—

one last glittery hurrah before

everyone pretends they’re doing a

January cleanse.

This year, we were bringing Mau

home for the holidays.

Between the string lights, the

candles, and the divine holiday

dinner prepared by the culinary

dream team Pepe & Charlie Private

Chefs, it was a night to remember.

(Pro tip: never leave their dinner rolls

unattended. They make the most

dangerously addictive dinner rolls!)

Maybe it was the wine, or the

warmth, or the simple joy of

watching our friends embrace Mau

like he’d been with us forever. But

something beautiful happened that

night. We all felt it—that magic that

can’t be faked.

It felt warm and full of love. It was

family. And we were all-in.

The First Meal Made Together

A few weeks later, Mau suggested

a dinner to celebrate Three Kings

Day—a name that, admittedly, felt

very on-brand for us. The menu? A

cultural fusion delight: Mau’s famous

Mexican enchiladas paired with a

classic French galette des rois for

dessert.

What Mau may not have realized was

how meaningful that combo was.

Josh and I both come from French

backgrounds. We didn’t even speak

English until our awkward teenage

years, while Mau was born and

raised in Toluca, Mexico. This meal

was more than food—it was a sweet


FALL 2025 53

(and spicy) symbol of blending our

lives.

And here’s the best part:

traditionally, a galette des rois

contains a small token—whoever

finds it is crowned “King for a Day.”

Inside our galette? Two Canadian

coins and one Mexican peso.

Three coins. Three kings. One new

tradition.

Sometimes, life writes the most

poetic stories.

About

the

three...

Jamie Alexander is a regular

contributor of Out & About

Magazine and can be seen

most days sitting behind his

desk at PVRPV as Director of

Business Development.

Mauricio Osorio is a trained

professional Massage Therapist

and can be seen throughout

Puerto Vallarta offering inhome

services to his clients or

at our New Salon & Spa, BOA

Boutique Salon & Spa

Josh Breau is the Manager of

a boutique villa with 10 short

term vacation rentals at Villa

Sorpresa and can be seen

most days assisting guests

and running around Zona

Romantica.


outandaboutpv.com


Lesbian on Bike

PRIDE PARADE 2025


"El Diamante"

and Miss Bibi

PRIDE PARADE 2025

Photo by: Jerry Jones

FALL 2025 55

5 BEDS | 6.5 BATHS | 17,470 SQFT | $3,800,000 USD

Nestled across two lots on the upper side of the gated community of Coto San Xoaquin, in

the South Shore of Puerto Vallarta, Villa Nube Blanca is a custom-built luxury villa that has

been meticulously remodeled, with every detail thoughtfully designed to perfection. The Villa

features 5 spacious suites, an infinity-edge pool, expansive terraces, outdoor dining areas,

and a wealth of premium amenities, all perfectly curated to offer breathtaking views of the

bay and an extraordinary living experience.

David De los Rios

+52 (449) 173-2852

david.delosrios@theagencyvallarta.com

Harriet Murray

(+52) 322 205-7550

harriet@casasandvillas.com

56

outandaboutpv.com

FALL 2025 57

Leading Lesbians:

CELEBRATING

INFLUENTIAL

FIGURES IN OUR

COMMUNITY


BY

JAMIE ALEXANDER

PUERTO VALLARTA ISN’T JUST A TROPICAL PARADISE—IT’S A HEARTBEAT.

A RHYTHM OF COLOR, LAUGHTER, ADVOCACY, AND BOLD, BEAUTIFUL

QUEERNESS. IT’S A PLACE WHERE IDENTITIES DON’T JUST SURVIVE, THEY

THRIVE. AND IN THIS KALEIDOSCOPE OF CULTURE AND COMMUNITY, TWO

POWERHOUSE WOMEN ARE LEADING THE WAY, EACH WITH THEIR OWN

STORY, THEIR OWN STYLE, AND THEIR OWN IMPACT.

This edition, we’re proud to shine

a spotlight on two women whose

journeys couldn’t be more different,

yet whose spirits align in strength,

compassion, and unapologetic

authenticity.


FALL 2025 59

Paulina Gonzalez Mondragon:

Curating Excellence with Every

Stay

Born in Guadalajara, Paulina

Gonzalez Mondragon knew from

a young age that art, culture, and

beauty would shape her future. As a

child, she imagined a life immersed

in history and creativity—dreaming

of being a historian, anthropologist,

or curator. But fate, as it tends to do,

had other plans.

Paulina's heart, however, found its

true compass during her teenage

years. It was in high school that

she felt the first spark—an electric

connection with her Spanish teacher.

At the time, lesbian identity wasn’t

even part of her vocabulary, but the

feeling was unforgettable. Years

later, at 18, she met another woman

and that familiar spark returned—

this time with clarity, certainty, and

joy. It was the beginning of a love

story with herself and her truth.

“Thanks to my parents, I was

fortunate to travel a lot as a kid,”

she recalls. “I always wondered

how hotels and restaurants worked

behind the scenes. It fascinated me.”

Paulina's professional path took her

into the world of tourism.

Today, that fascination has turned

into a full-fledged career at the

prestigious Casa Karma, one of

Puerto Vallarta’s premier private

villas, where she serves as a

manager—and more importantly, as

a leader.

She holds degrees in Tourism

Business Management and

Cultural Management, and though

her Culinary Arts degree was

interrupted by COVID, Paulina

never stopped learning. From butler

training to wine expertise, she’s

leveling up in every possible way to

bring unmatched luxury and care to

her guests.

“Every Guest, each person we serve

is unique. The formula is never the

same and that keeps me constantly

learning,” she says. “My work

inspires me to be a better person

and to be better at what I do. It

inspires me to constantly improve.”

Paulina’s motivation isn’t just

professional—it’s personal. “I

moved to Vallarta because of a

"PAULINA

GONZALEZ

MONDRAGON


"

LYDIA

DAMATO

girl,” she laughs. “But in the end,

Vallarta stole my heart.” Now 11

years into her life here, she calls this

town home, even if she’s more of a

mountain girl than a beach babe.

Born in Newark, New

Jersey, Lydia was raised in a

hardworking blue-collar family

that showed her how to live

richly—even without money.

Paulina is also working with a group

of women to promote lesbian-owned

businesses in Vallarta and launching

a sustainable clothing project later

this year. Fashion should be fun,

responsible and “avoid fast fashion,”

she adds.

When asked what advice she’d

pass along to other queer women,

her answer is clear and strong: “Be

yourself. Be honest. Be proud. As

Frida Kahlo said: fall in love with

yourself, with life, and then with

whoever you want.”

Lydia Damato: The Quiet

Powerhouse with a Big Heart and

Loves to Laugh

If you’ve ever attended charity bingo

at Nacho Daddy’s or rescued an

animal in Vallarta, chances are you’ve

encountered Lydia Damato—or at

least felt the impact of her work.

“We may have been considered

poor,” she says, “but we never

knew it. We were rich in love

and values.”

As a child, Lydia dreamed of

becoming a veterinarian, and

though she ended up spending

19 years in operations at

Bloomingdale’s, her passion for

animals never waned.

“In the end, I have been able to

be a dominant supporter in the

animal rescue world” she says

proudly.

She has helped animals in

other ways. For 18 years, she’s

been a force in the local rescue

community, coordinating

spay and neuter clinics and

advocating fiercely for animal

rights.

60

outandaboutpv.com

Lydia first felt her attraction to

women in first grade. Her teacher,

with her beehive hairdo and

timeless poise, left an impression.

“I didn’t know what it was at the

time, but I knew I wanted to marry

Maria from The Sound of Music,” she

chuckles.

In 2003, she visited Puerto Vallarta

with her partner and fell in love—

not just with each other, but with

the city. Two years later, they made

the leap, moving down from New

Jersey and opening the legendary

Uncommon Grounds Buddha

Lounge.

Set in a remote neighborhood

at the edge of the Rio Cuale and

Sierra Madre Mountains, it was a

bold move—two American women

creating a destination restaurant

centered on Buddhist teachings.

“We weren’t exactly welcomed with

open arms,” Lydia admits. “But we

earned our place with perseverance

and respect.”

Ten years later, Uncommon Grounds

had become a cherished community

space, known for its vibe as much as

its values.

Though retired from the lounge,

Lydia never slowed down. Today,

she’s deeply involved in several

community efforts:

• Schedule Coordinator for Colina

Free Spay & Neuter Clinic

• Charity Bingo host at Nacho

Daddy

• Volunteer with Art Vallarta Museo

• Supporter of the local

entertainment scene

• “Captain Lydia” for Gouda Gabor’s

Open Mic at Nacho Daddy

When asked what keeps her going,

Lydia says simply, “I am a firm

believer in coexistence and doing

right by others. Especially animals—

they don’t have a voice, so I try to

be one.”

Her advice to younger LGBTQ+

folks?

“Stay your course and to thine own

self be true. The rest will follow.”

So What

Makes a

Leading

Lesbian?

There’s no single mold or manual.

One might wear chef’s whites; the

other, a rescue T-shirt. One may be

a hotelier, the other a community

emcee. But both Lydia and Paulina

are united in their love—for this

town, for their work, for the LGBTQ+

community, and most importantly,

for themselves.

They remind us that leadership

doesn’t always mean speaking the

loudest or standing on the biggest

stage. Sometimes it means staying

true to your values, showing up for

your neighbors, and creating spaces

where others feel seen and safe.

Puerto Vallarta is lucky to have

them. And so are we.

Know a Leading Lesbian

we should feature next?

Drop us a line—because

this town is full of stories

worth telling.


outandaboutpv.com

FALL 2025 61

*Scan the code below for a sneak peek. Just not at work. ;)

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62

outandaboutpv.com

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screams "sucia." And our cum rags always get a comment during

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www.burlybottomdesignspv.com.mx

FALL 2025 63

Fetish, Fashion,

and Fun:

SIR & SON

EXPANDS


BY

RANDE LEE

SIR & SON, A FASHION BRAND KNOWN FOR ITS

EDGY MEN’S WEAR AND PLAYFUL DESIGNS, HAS

MOVED INTO A LARGER SPACE, MARKING A BOLD

NEW CHAPTER IN THE BOUTIQUE’S TWO-YEAR

RUN IN THE CITY’S ZONA ROMANTICA.

SIR & SON, formerly located

at Constitucion 347, recently

expanded to its new home at

Basilio Badillo 321. Originally

based in San Diego, California, SIR

& SON swept into PV in 2023 as

a concept clothing store perfectly

tailored for the Sirs and Sons of

Puerto Vallarta.

Meeting SIR Richard Romano,

owner and designer of SIR & SON

for the first time on the occasion

of that grand opening, I was

immediately impressed with the

space and the amazing collections

that were offered. He explained

to me that the SIR line is much

more masculine, more fetish, more

subs in men’s clothing. The SON

line is more of a playful twist of

bright, gay colors from Amsterdam,

London, and New York.

Fast forward two years, and thanks

to the passionate dedication of SIR

Richard, a larger store was needed.

As SIR Richard shared, “I have

always wanted a bigger store since

I opened my first SIR & SON in San

Diego, they have all been about the

same size, which meant not much

room for growth,” he continued,

“in my search for a new spot

I was either five minutes too

late, or it was a total disaster, so

when I discovered this space was

available, I jumped on it, and it’s

absolutely perfect.”

One thing to make clear, SIR

& SON isn’t just a store, it’s a

lifestyle experience concept,

providing a curated shopping

delight. SIR Richard describes it

as “SEXY FETISH WEAR,” that you

have to see to believe.

Quality is woven into each and

every piece of clothing sold in

this space, and the designs that

are featured here cannot be

carried in any other store within

50 miles of the Basilio Badillo

location.

Amazingly, these designs cannot

be purchased online either,

providing that extra touch of

exclusivity. SIR & SON has also

been hard at work expanding

their own unique line of clothing,

which includes; ultra sexy shorts,

button down shirts, knit shirts,

and many other surprises.

SIR Richard explained, “everyone has

an edge, sometimes we just need a

little push to bring it out,” continuing

with a laugh, SIR Richard stated,

“remember, it’s just fashion, you are

not curing cancer, so why not have

fun with it, and do things you never

thought you would.”

Beginning this season SIR & SON will

be the only store in Zona Romantica

to carry bearwear. They will be

expanding to include larger sizes

befitting their commitment to the Bear

community. Currently the shop carries

designs from extra small to 3XXXL.

The new collection will have shorts up

to a 38 inch waist, the most expansive

in town.

As SIR Richard explained, “fashion

should be for everyone, just because

you have more to love, doesn’t

mean you can’t look awesome, ”he

continued, “my biggest thrill is seeing

someone who has been looking for

something special to fit them, and

they come into SIR & SON, and walk

out looking great, and feeling great.”

Being at the new address isn’t just

about an expanded physical location;

it’s about an expanded mindset, that

is ready and willing to take SIR & SON

to a whole new level. SIR Richard’s

passion was showing, as he stated

with enthusiasm, “there is so much

that I want to do, I am like a kid in a

candy store right now.”

Coming soon is “NAKED SHOPPING

NIGHT,” Also in the works are seasonal

fashion shows with a twist, and special

events to be held on a monthly

basis, so stay tuned as details will be

forthcoming.

On November 22nd 2025, a large

grand opening celebration will take

place to commemorate the move, and

introduce the fabulous new collections

for the Fall/Winter season. SIR Richard

will also roll out his fashion forward

new collections just in time to honor

the two year anniversary of SIR & SON

here in Puerto Vallarta.

I asked SIR Richard if he has a

message for those guys who have

never shopped at SIR & SON? Always

counting on him for a perfect answer, I

got one, as SIR Richard enthusiastically

stated “Get your ass in here; what are

you waiting for, me to come get you.”

As our conversation drew to a close,

SIR Richard generously shared his

thoughts on the move, and how it has

affected him personally, beaming, he

said, “I come into the store, stop at the

front door, and smile, this is my dream,

and it came true,” he continued, “I am

older now, but always remember, age

has nothing to do with dreams.”


outandaboutpv.com


FALL 2025 65

EZEQUIEL

LOZANO

Finalist Best

Photographer

Puerto Vallarta Gays:

Best of 2024 Awards

+521 5633660202 | WWW.VALLARTAEXPERIENCES.COM | @VALLARTA_EXPERIENCES

EZEQUIEL LOZANO

CELEBRATED AS

FINALIST FOR BEST

PHOTOGRAPHER AT

PUERTO VALLARTA

GAYS: BEST OF 2024

AWARDS

some naked options!

Ezeqkiel, who moved to Puerto

Vallarta from Mexico City four years

ago, describes his various business

ventures as his "children." His latest,

Vallarta Experiences, promises

clients intimate connections to the

area's rich cultural history, from

scenic hikes to stunning hidden

self-expression, exploring magical

traditional places around PV.

Through his lens, Ezeqkiel captures the

raw emotions of his clients, whether

nude or clothed, revealing the joy and

authenticity of each person.

“I wanted to show Vallarta not just

through my eyes, but through my

Congratulations to Ezequiel as a

finalist, as he brings his brand of

photography and immersive cultural,

fun, off-the-beaten-path tours,

hikes and naked options to Puerto

Vallarta. These are experiences

that illuminate the vibrant spirit

of Puerto Vallarta, showcasing not

Ezequiel Lozano, a passionate

entrepreneur and lover of

photography, was a finalist for the

Best Photographer award in the

Puerto Vallarta Gays: Best of 2024

Awards. This recognition comes

as Ezeqkiel blends his passion

for photography with his unique

business, Vallarta Experiences, to

deliver immersive cultural, fun,

off-the-beaten-path tours, hikes,

photoshoots and adventures, with

beaches—shrouded in local

folklore—to engaging interactions

with the enchanting local

community.

“Vallarta can be anything you want

it to be,” he said. Emphasizing

the spiritual connection he aims

to foster, he offers experiences

such as Drag Queen For a Day and

the opportunity to be a "Katrina

for a Day," blending art and

love of the city,” Ezeqkiel explained,

underscoring his commitment to

celebrating the human experience.

With plans to expand his businesses

into other locations like Guadalajara,

Tequila and Mexico City, Ezeqkiel

aims to take even deeper dives into

Mexico's cultural fabric.

His newest venture, the Xiekari Healing

Center & Spa, promises a holistic

approach to health encompassing

mind, body, and spirit.

just stunning visuals, but also the

richness of connection—an essential

theme in his life's work.


outandaboutpv.com


FALL 2025 67


GOING

BANANAS:

Puerto Vallarta’s New Bar

Brings the Fun

BY

JERRY JONES

THE BANANA

FACTORY OPENED

IN THE SUMMER

2025, DELIVERING A

KALEIDOSCOPE OF

COLOR, MUSIC AND

CHEEKY CHARM TO

PUERTO VALLARTA’S

NIGHTLIFE SCENE.

A Vision Comes to Life

Owner Justin Campese, honed his

hospitality chops in the nightlife

capitals of Las Vegas and Chicago,

dreamed of a venue where everyone

is welcomed, embraced and

encouraged to play. The idea matured

over the years, leading to this

flamboyant, inclusive playground.

“We wanted a place where

everyone could come and enjoy

themselves, regardless of their age,

body type, or sexual preference,”

he said. “A safe and positive place

for everyone.”

That vision finds its daily life under

the stewardship of general manager

Aroldo Fragoso Mireles. Campese

credits Aroldo with turning an idea

into an experience: “None of this

would have been possible without

Aroldo Fragoso Mireles,” he says.

Two Bars in One Playground

Step through the doors and you’re

greeted by the bright, open “front

bar,” where walls and décor burst

with cheerful hues. On warmer

nights, the entire front façade

rolls open to the street — while

in summer, air-conditioning keeps

things cool. Every corner radiates

an unspoken invitation: “Come in.

You belong.”

Behind this bright yellow hub lies

“The Playground,” a sultrier space

bathed in dark red. Complete

with its own bar, patio and a coyly

named “Naughty Room,” this is

where guests let their fantasies

come alive.

“If the front bar is all cheer and

smiles, the back bar is where you

embrace your naughty side,” said

Aroldo. “It’s a space of freedom,

after-hours thrill and personal

discovery.”

No Cover, Full Fun

One of The Banana Factory’s

immediate draws is its accessible

pricing. There’s no cover charge,

and from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. every day,

happy hour means two-for-one


drinks — a deal that slashes both

the tab and the inhibitions.

“Every night we offer drink

specials,” said Aroldo. “It’s fun,

surprising and always crowdpleasing.”

For the first six weeks, The Banana

Factory focused on drinks and

theatrics — then the kitchen roared

to life on Aug. 1, 2025 with “The

Grill by BF” serving signature items

seven days a week from 2 p.m. to

9 p.m.

The menu includes The Big Daddy

Butter Burger, Buffalo Chicken

Sandwiches, and a tongue-in-cheek

centerpiece called The Size Queen

— a 12-inch Italian sausage stuffed

with grilled peppers and onions.

Saturday nights transform the

front bar with a rotating theme.

From karaokes and drag shows to

Underwear Night and beyond, what

happens every Saturday changes —

perhaps that’s part of the charm.

new excuse to come out and dance,

sing or flirt under the neon lights.

The People Who Make It Pop

Campese may have founded

the bar, but he’s quick to deflect

attention to his team. “Jesus, Joselo,

Mau, Aldo and Joel — they’re what

make The Banana Factory such a

special place,” he said.

“For me, the energy comes from

them — their spirit, their banter,

their ability to welcome anyone as

family,” Aroldo adds.

The Banana Factory arrives in a

time when many crave inclusive

spaces. Between global uncertainty

and social divides, this bar’s

underlying philosophy is crystal

clear: “Celebrate everyone and

everything.” No one is turned away,

and fun is equal-opportunity.

For Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+

community — and allies, tourists

and locals alike — this new venue

offers a stage where identity, joy

and acceptance intertwine.

In the quieter moments, Campese

watches patrons become friends.

“I love walking through, hearing

laughter, seeing people light up.

That’s the reward.”

He pauses, then smiles. “That’s

why we built it in the first place.”

Weekdays are no snooze, either:

every evening has its own event, a


outandaboutpv.com

FALL 2025 69

Beyond Business:

PONCHO

DAVALOS

Leads the Way

in Community

Advocacy


BY

RANDE LEE

FROM RESTAURANTS TO REAL

ESTATE TO COMMUNITY ACTIVIST,

PONCHO SHINES.

A successful real estate professional.

A dedicated advocate for dogs. A

passionate leader in the LGBTQIA+

community. Alfonso “Poncho” Davalos

is a man of many hats, but all are worn

with a singular purpose: to make Puerto

Vallarta a better place. As he marks a

year since opening his real estate firm,

his story stands out as a true tribute to

hard work and giving back.

Davalos is one of those rare people

who you remember long after meeting

them. I had that pleasure on a sunny

morning at Mairel’s Bookshop, located

within the gleaming Parota Center.

Poncho had recently celebrated the

one year anniversary of the opening

of his new firm, Poncho Davalos Real

Estate, with an intimate gathering at

Vallarta Tequila Tastings. Longtime

friends, which included the owner of

that amazing space, Corinna Levine

Dahlin, joined him to mark the special

occasion. As the group enjoyed a

mezcal and chocolate pairing, Poncho

was honored as the epitome of the

Mexican success story.

His life is a towering tribute to hard

work, determination, and overcoming

adversity. Now that his years of toil

have paid off, he isn’t just sitting back

and relaxing, taking life easy, far from it.

He is busy every day, rising at 4:00 am,

before the sun, to greet the coming day.

After an intensive morning regimen,

he begins his workday at 10:00 am,

and then works well into the evening

on behalf of his clients, and the

community at large.

I asked him, only half joking, how do

you fit everything into each day? He

answered laughing, “it’s all about

organization.”

Originally from Monterrey, Mexico,

Poncho spent many years in the

hospitality industry there, working


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FALL 2025 71

at a variety of high end hotels and

restaurants. His dream was to become

the General Manager of a Fiesta

Americana grand, but he began working

at a restaurant named La Leche in

Monterrey.

He liked the La Leche concept, and

enjoyed his work, but the location

closed shortly after he began his career

there. This seeming bit of bad luck,

turned into an opportunity in disguise,

as a transfer to La Leche Puerto Vallarta

became available. The pending move

wasn’t a slam dunk though, as they say.

Poncho didn’t see Puerto Vallarta as a

natural fit at first, viewing it similarly to

Cancun, a party town.

“I arrived in Puerto Vallarta on

November 26, 2009,” Poncho said, and

smiled broadly, recalling the exact date.

“I remember when I stepped off the

plane here in Vallarta for the first time,

I arrived with $500 pesos in my pocket,

and a credit card with a $300 dollar

credit limit on it. I felt the warm air hit

me, and I said to myself, "I will make it

here one way or the other, there is no

going back.”

After settling in, Poncho quickly fell

in love with the culture here. He

developed many friendships that would

last for years, but one in particular

changed his life.

A young woman named Susan Chong

encouraged him to get into the local

real estate scene, which was to be the

turning point on his journey.

Poncho shared, “Meeting her was one

of the best things to happen in my

life, her encouragement put me on my

current career path, and I will always be

grateful to her.”

With the confidence that he needed,

Poncho plunged into the Vallarta real

estate market late in 2010. Working for

many years in the industry gave him

the experience, knowledge, and

gravitas required to take his dream to

the next level.

In July of 2024 he opened Poncho

Davalos Real Estate.

“The universe pushed me, everything

merged, and the timing came together

perfectly,” he said.

I was taken by surprise when Poncho

added another dimension to his already

brimming resume, as he shared his stint

as a contestant on the wildly successful

La Academia, or Mexican Idol, based on

the US program, American Idol.

He tried out for La Academia ten

times, while living in Monterrey, before

deciding it wasn’t for him. This training

however gave him the building blocks

to pursue another opportunity, this time

years later after moving to Vallarta.

Poncho explained he had the pleasure

of appearing three times on the TV

real estate show Mexico Life, and

that he was the only Mexican from

Puerto Vallarta to ever appear on the

popular show.

Poncho would like to someday do an

inspirational talk about his life, sharing

some of the secrets of his success.

The discussion then turned to the icing

on the cake, the two passions that drive

Poncho’s activism, his love of Dogs, and

the LGBTQIA+ Community.

He has dedicated his time and fervor

to both causes and his commitment is

simply awe inspiring.

Looking for a way to give back to

the community, and share his love

of animals, he began volunteering in

2018 for the local chapter of the SPCA.

After a time making a difference there,

he discovered another organization

through a client, Karen Chesson.

The group is named “A Dog’s New

Life,” and they are dedicated to finding

homes for abused, neglected, sick,

and injured street dogs. They provide

adoption services locally, and through

the Flight Angels program, for those

living in Canada, and the United States.

Poncho adopted two dogs, Cleo and

Champ, both black, because as he

informed me, black dogs are the last

to be adopted. Poncho found his third

dog, Nikko, on the street, and couldn’t

leave him there, so he became his

third “child.”

Every morning he takes his brood, his

pride and joy, out for an extended walk.

Champ, the original adoptee, now six,

Nikko the oldest, is seven, and Cleo, the

baby, is five.

The closing of SETAC nearly two years

ago left a huge void that needed to

be filled. With the dedication of an

incredible group of community leaders,

The Vallarta Gay+ Community Center

opened very shortly thereafter in

January of 2024.

As the center brought those vital

services back to the community, and

expanded their facilities, Poncho

couldn’t wait to become involved.

He smiled at the memory of telling

Mike Owens, (Owner of Studs Bar PV,

and Board Secretary at the center), “I

don’t know what I can do, but I want

to help,” Poncho continued, “after

that, every time I saw Mike, and Don

Pickens,” (Owner of Casa Cupula

Puerto Vallarta, and Board Chair at

the center), “I let them know, I’m

ready to help, and in July of 2024,

I was invited to be the adjoining

member at the community center,

and in November of that year, I

was invited to be part of the board

of directors.”

Within the parameters of Poncho’s

work at The Vallarta Gay+ Community

Center is a deep belief in social

justice for the marginalized.

Poncho spoke passionately, his

voice rising, “I want to fight for

the rights of the Trans community,

because someone before me fought

for the rights that I have today,” he

continued, “fighting for the LGBTQIA+

family is a marathon, it’s not a sprint.”

The Vallarta Gay+ Community Center

offers vital medical care, including;

PrEP, PEP, DoxyPEP, STI testing and

treatment - and so much more.

We then discussed some of the

programs that have been developed,

fun activities which include; salsa

class, Spanish community class, yoga

class, and more.

“I love promoting all the activities

that we provide,” Poncho said. He

also wanted to be clear, everything

that The Vallarta Gay+ Community

Center does is for everyone, all are

invited, not just LGBTQIA+ folks.

Executive Director of the center

Pedro Lopez’s mantra is for anyone

who visits to feel integrated, valued,

and welcomed.

We then discussed a game changing

new program the center began in

May of this year called Zona Safe.

Poncho stated, “It is a great initiative,

developed by Don Pickens, it’s a

WhatsApp group that the police are a

part of, through monitoring, reporting

and information sharing.”



The cutting edge collaborative

between the center and local

authorities includes three

pillars; prevention, eyes on the

street, and follow up. All are

vital, and work in unison to

keep members of the LGBTQIA+

community safe.

As the conversation drew

to a close, Poncho became

contemplative, sharing, “I don’t

volunteer for me to have the

spotlight, my work is to assist

people in the community that

need help.”

He continued, “Vallarta has

been good to me, there were

so many fantastic people who

helped me when I needed

it, this is my way to show my

appreciation for all that has

been done for me,” Concluding

with emotion, Poncho voiced a

final thought, “at the end of my

life, I want to know that I left

the world a better place than

when I came into it, I want to

be sure that I danced.”

Contact Poncho Davalos at:

hello@ponchodavalos.com.mx

52 322 292 2312

To volunteer at The Vallarta

Gay+ Community Center

please contact the center at 52

322 128 6793 and talk with

Tina Kunkel (Administrator) she

can assist.

To volunteer at A Dog’s New

Life please contact the website

at www.adogsnewlife.org


outandaboutpv.com

FALL 2025 73

FLOAT

YOUR

BOAT:

TWO UNFORGETTABLE

WAYS TO CRUISE

QUEERLY THROUGH

PUERTO VALLARTA


BY

JAMIE ALEXANDER

WHAT DO YOU GET

WHEN YOU COMBINE

DRAG, YACHTS,

TEQUILA, KAFTANS,

AND A WHOLE LOTTA

QUEER JOY?...

You get two of the most

unforgettable ways to sail the

glittering waters of Puerto

Vallarta. Whether you’re

craving a pampered beach

bash with your chosen fam or a

customized sunset cruise that

oozes refined taste, Tamale’s

Tours and Vallarta Yacht Rentals

have something fabulous in

store. And trust us—these aren’t

your grandma’s boat tours

(unless grandma is a lesbian

with a paddleboard and a flair

for kaftans).

Let’s dive in, shall we?

Tamale’s Tours: Drag, No Drama,

and Damn Good Tamales

When Tamale Ringwald—yes,

that's a real drag name—launched

Tamale’s Tours in 2021, they didn’t

just add another option to the

long list of booze cruises in Puerto

Vallarta. They added heart. And

sequins. And a heaping spoonful of

spicy Mexican flair.

“Life is too short for boring

vacations,” Tamale says, and

baby, this cruise is anything but.

With husband Sugarbaker (yes,

that Sugarbaker, you know, the

one famous for his chili hot dogs

at Tunnel Bar), Tamale created a

floating playground for the LGBTQ+

community and their allies—one

where an open, premium bar flows,

beach bars pop up on secret shores,

and the kaftan closet is open for

business.

The Experience

Hop aboard a sleek 75-foot

yacht where your day kicks off

with mimosas and a continental

breakfast—served with a side of

sass. From there, you’ll cruise past

Las Animas to a secluded beach

FALL 2025 75

where Tamale and her crew create

a mini queer paradise: think music,

swimming, snorkeling, paddle

boarding, and lounging with a

cocktail in hand.

between. It's a floating microcosm of

queer joy where every “body” and

everybody belongs.

The Extras

Lunch? Oh honey, it's no picnic

served from a cooler—there’s a

private chef onboard. Think tamales

(of course), fresh seafood, and

mouthwatering Mexican eats. The

vibes are luxe and laid-back all

at once, like a pool party at your

rich gay uncle’s mansion—if that

mansion floated on Banderas Bay.

And yes, you get to meet Tamale,

welcoming guests in a glorious

kaftan like the glittery mermaid

of your dreams. “You’re not just a

guest,” Sugarbaker says. “You’re part

of the family.”

Who’s Aboard?

It’s an 18+ crowd with a max of 40

guests, so things stay intimate and

comfortable. You'll find a dazzling

mix of twinks, bears, femmes,

dykes on deck, trans joy, leather

daddies, allies, and every flavor in

• Open premium bar (yes, all day)

• Chef-prepared meals and snacks

• Beach and water toys galore

• Whale watching (seasonal)

• Towels, sunscreen, and kaftans

(seriously, it’s a kaftan-positive

zone)

If you're looking for one part

relaxing day at sea and one part

chosen-family reunion—with a shot

of “be yourself” realness—Tamale’s

Tours is your ticket to paradise.

Sailing every Friday from Los

Muertos Pier, November through

May. Be sure to book in advance,

the demand for this 40 person only

cruise is real.

Vallarta Yacht Rentals: Luxury

Meets Local Charm

Now if you're more in the mood

for curated luxury, customizable

itineraries, and a yacht that looks

like it came off the set of Below

Deck: Queer Edition, then Vallarta

Yacht Rentals is your go-to.

Founded by commercial airline

pilot and yacht lover Philip

Manly (a.k.a. “Felipe Man”),

this company started with one

yacht—Escándalo—and grew into

a fleet of 11 vessels, including

catamarans that can host up to

185 people. Yup, they’ve got

range.

Why Vallarta?

For Felipe, Puerto Vallarta is more

than a destination—it’s home.

After decades of visiting (his first

trip was in 1998, and the night

ended up with Tequila at Paco’s

Ranch), then in 2020 he made the

leap to full-time resident during

the pandemic. And while flying

planes is still part of his life, it’s clear

that being on the water is where his

heart is.

“I genuinely love boating,” he says.

“It’s not a tagline—it’s the truth.”

The Experience

You want to snorkel Los Arcos, then

sip champagne while watching the

sun melt behind jungle-covered

cliffs? Done. Feel like docking at a

secret beach, hopping on an ATV,

and chasing waterfalls in Quimixto?

Can do. Craving a more intimate

affair with a few friends and a lot of

rosé? Escándalo fits up to 12 guests

for daytime trips, or 16 comfortably,

for the weekly LGBT+ Luxury

Sunset Cruise—a Thursday night

tradition starting every November

(champagne and ocean breezes

included).

Each tour is run by licensed captains

and seasoned crew who know

Banderas Bay like the backs of

their hands. On Escándalo, you'll

be guided by Neto, a local legend

76

outandaboutpv.com

and snorkeling expert, who’s as

friendly as he is informative.

The Vibe

It’s polished but never pretentious.

The staff is warm, welcoming,

and—though not all queer

themselves—100% LGBTQ+

affirming. From the pre-cruise

check-in at their Bruma Café &

Cocktails to the floating islands

and paddleboards waiting

onboard, every detail is designed

for comfort, fun, and safety.

Oh, and tipping the crew? Still

sexy. Always appreciated.

Included Goodies

If you’re planning a birthday,

engagement, or just want to turn

your vacation into a cinematic

fantasy, Vallarta Yacht Rentals can

make it happen. From private yachts

to full-on floating dance floors,

they’ve got your fantasy covered.

So, Which

Cruise

Should

You Take?

Honestly? Why not both?

Tamale’s Tours is for when you want

to let your hair down (or your wig off),

sip margaritas with a fabulous crowd,

and experience Puerto Vallarta (well

pampered with luxury amenities)

through the lens of queer joy and

community.

So whether you’re donning a

kaftan and joining the family

aboard Tamale’s yacht or popping

champagne on Escándalo as the

sun kisses the horizon, one thing’s

for sure:

The only thing better than

being out on the water... is

being out on the water with

your people.

For more info or to book your next

sea-sational queer adventure, check

out:

Tamale’s Tours:

www.tamalestours.com

Vallarta Yacht Rentals:

www.vallartayachtrentals.com

• Open bar (because duh)

• Snacks or full meals, depending

on tour

Vallarta Yacht Rentals is perfect

for custom celebrations, intimate

moments, and luxury on your terms—

with a captain who might just know

• Snorkeling gear, paddleboards,

your favorite sunset angle better than

floating islands

your Instagram filter does.

• Highly customizable routes and

stops

• Options for all ages on private

charters

Both are anchored (pun intended) in

love—for the sea, for the community,

and for the queer experience in

Puerto Vallarta.


outandaboutpv.com

FALL 2025 77

WE ARE PUERTO

VALLARTA: PEOPLE

WHO SHAPE OUR

COMMUNITY

Walk into Garbo on any given

night and you’ll likely be greeted

by the smooth sounds of a piano,

the occasional spontaneous

song, and a warm smile from

the man behind the keys. That

man is Salvatore Rodríguez, and

for the past three decades, he’s

been playing more than music—

he’s been playing a vital role in

shaping Puerto Vallarta’s cultural

heartbeat.


With a remarkable 45-year career,

Salvatore’s story is one of talent,

tenacity, and an unwavering love

for music and community.

The Journey Begins in Tepic

Striking the

Right Chord:

SALVATORE

RODRÍGUEZ’S

45 Years of Music

Born in Tepic, Nayarit, Salvatore

first felt the pull of music in 1978.

“I started playing piano at 14,” he

recalls. “From the very beginning, I

knew it would be a lifelong love.”

He quickly immersed himself in

learning, developing his ear for

the traditional sounds of Mexican

music, and dedicating himself to

sharing it with others. Eventually,

he followed his heart—and his

music—to Puerto Vallarta, where

he’s now called home for over 30

years.

Finding a Home at Garbo

BY

JAMIE ALEXANDER

Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant gay

nightlife scene has no shortage of

memorable venues, but few are as

iconic as Garbo Piano Bar. And for

24 years, Salvatore has been its

soul or magic fingers at the keys

of the now white piano.

Introduced to the venue by

his friends Javier Jimenez and

Germán García, he became

Garbo’s resident pianist—a title

that means more than just playing

background music. He’s the host,

the collaborator, and the heart of

the room.

“Each night is a divine,

unforgettable, and unrepeatable

musical experience,” Salvatore

says. “Every artist I’ve played with

brings something unique. It’s a gift

to accompany them.”

78

outandaboutpv.com

FALL 2025 79


Indeed, Garbo’s stage has seen

countless voices over the years,

from international singers to local

legends, but Salvatore’s steady

presence ties them all together like

the perfect chord progression.

From Cafés to Concert Halls

Before Garbo, Salvatore's first

performance in Vallarta was at Le

Bistro Jazz Café, one of the city’s

treasured restaurant venues. Since

then, his fingers have graced pianos

in upscale restaurants like Café des

Artistes, La Petite France, and wellknown

hotels like the Sheraton and

Fiesta Americana. His talent has

earned him a place among Mexico’s

cultural elite.

Salvatore also founded the

Universidad del Valle (UNIVA)

Orchestra in Vallarta and hosts the

long-running cultural radio show En

el Café con Salvatore—yet another

way he shares his passion with the

public.

A Maestro Beyond the City Limits

Salvatore isn’t just a local

treasure—he’s a national icon. Over

FALL 2025 81

his career, he has accompanied

some of Mexico’s most celebrated

artists, including:

• Juan Gabriel

• Armando Manzanero

• Lila Downs

• Francisco Céspedes

• María Conchita Alonso

• Silvia Pinal

Rocío Dúrcal, and many more.

He’s also collaborated with

internationally acclaimed

performers, most recently joining

Storm Large, lead vocalist of the

orchestra Pink Martini, in concert.

With such an impressive résumé,

it’s no surprise he has received

numerous honors, including the

prestigious Amado Nervo Award

and the title "Pianist of the

Bicentennial."

Teaching with Heart

especially on traditional Mexican

music. He works with schools,

colleges, and universities in the

region, providing one-on-one

instruction designed to instill

confidence and love for the craft.

“My goal is to keep our musical

traditions alive,” he says. “Music

is about feeling. Technique comes

with time, but the heart? That’s

what makes a pianist.”

Whether it's a first piano lesson

or a standing ovation after a

performance, Salvatore believes

in the power of music to connect

and heal.

The Liberace of Mexico

Known affectionately by some as

“The Liberace of Mexico,” Salvatore

brings flair, emotion, and joy to

every performance. Whether

dressed in classic elegance or

dazzling stage attire, he’s always

true to his style: warm, theatrical,

and deeply expressive.

Mis Joyas Prestadas and the

2025 Tour

In 2025, Salvatore celebrated 45

years of music with the launch

of his tour Salvatore and His

Friends, which has taken him

across several municipalities in

Mexico. His recital, Mis Joyas

Prestadas (My Borrowed Jewels),

pays tribute to the iconic

melodies of Mexican popular

music. A recent highlight?

Performing at the Palacio

de Bellas Artes in Medellín,

Colombia—a dream stage for

any artist.

The tour will conclude on

December 4, 2025, back at the

Palacio de Bellas Artes, with a

concert fittingly titled Gracias a

la Vida (Thanks to Life).

More Than Just a Musician

Salvatore’s musical offerings

extend beyond concerts and

clubs. He’s available for live

performances at private events,

His wide repertoire and ability

to read a room make him one of

the most sought-after pianists

in the region. And of course, if

you're looking to learn piano from

someone with heart and history,

Salvatore is your maestro.

The Heartbeat Behind the Keys

So what makes Salvatore Rodríguez

more than just a pianist? It’s his

ability to make you feel something.

Whether you’re sipping a martini at

Garbo or catching him in concert,

his music tells stories—of love,

longing, joy, and everything in

between.

And as he celebrates 45 years

of music, he continues to shape

Puerto Vallarta’s rich artistic

identity with grace, passion, and

a smile that says, “Let’s play one

more.”

Gracias a la vida, indeed.

In addition to performing, Salvatore

is also a passionate educator. For

decades, he has taught piano to

students of all levels, focusing

His celebrated cabaret performance

at Incanto marked his 38th year in

music— with laughter, tears, and

plenty of applause.

hotels, restaurants, churches, and

more. His music always fits the

moment—whether it's a romantic

dinner, a joyful wedding, or a

solemn tribute.

Want to see Salvatore live?

Catch him nightly at Garbo

Piano Bar, or follow his

upcoming tour dates and

events on social media.

For piano lessons or event

bookings, inquire directly via

his facebook or stop by Garbos.


outandaboutpv.com


CLUB

JETS:

FROM BOAT TOURS TO

BEATS: JET DE LA ISLA

OPENS NEW CLUB

Club Jets is a new nightlife venue

in Zona Romántica aiming to offer a

music-driven, inclusive space that

Puerto Vallarta hasn’t seen before.

Owned by entrepreneur Jet de La

Isla, the club centers on queer culture

while welcoming everyone, with

multiple rooms dedicated to techno,

reggaetón, and pop, plus lounges and

dark rooms for late-night exploration.

“I wanted something that felt local,

not just another tourist bar,” Jet

said. “Trans, lesbians, gays, straights,

closeted guys, chacales from Pitillal

and beyond. All of them.”

Vallarta’s New

Playground for

Music and Nightlife

The club is located at Insurgentes

330, Zona Romantica, next to The

Corner Bar. There you will find a “dark

alley style" entrance (just across from

Pia Pia Pizzeria). The doors officially

opened Easter Sunday, March 31,

2025, during Semana Santa. Jet

acknowledged that the timing was

unconventional.

BY

JERRY JONES

“Two months before low season.

Politics a mess. An unpredictable

economy. Every reason not to do

FALL 2025 83


it,” he said. “But after ten years

of building businesses and a

community — boat tours, Naked

Beach, a community center, even a

massive online group — I trusted

myself to take the risk.”

“No rebel does it alone,” Jet said.

“Álvaro balances my fire with his

steady hand. Andrés kept logistics

tight and helped us open with

minimal stress.”

A Vision for Something Different

Together, the team brings

experience from tourism, nightlife,

and event production, ensuring

Club Jets was conceived as a

response to the predictable nightlife

scene in the Zona Romántica.

Jet said he wanted a space that

emphasized underground music,

visuals, and queer nightlife with a

touch of sex positivity. .

“Techno DJ’s that shake your soul.

Dark, industrial, Berlin-style beats.

The hypnotic house of Vancouver.

The sweaty basements of Buenos

Aires. Late nights in Barcelona. And

reggaetón — not polished radio

edits but the dirty perreo that takes

you past sunrise,” he said.

both creativity and operational

stability.

Programming and Season Plans

Club Jets currently operates

Thursday through Sunday from 10

p.m. to 4 a.m., with plans to expand

to nightly hours during high

season, staying open until 6 a.m.

Thursdays and Saturdays feature

underground techno. Fridays are

dedicated to reggaetón. Sundays

host a cloak-and-mask, all-male

event with tech-house music,

described by Jet as “Eyes Wide

The club is intentionally layered.

One room focuses on underground

techno, another on reggaetón, and

a pop room offers familiar hits.

Lounges provide quieter spaces

for conversation, while private

cabins allow guests to explore more

intimate experiences.

Shut energy.”

Future plans include Jets Lounge,

an upscale cocktail entrance with

five themed spaces, international

DJs, and immersive lighting and

screens.

First-Time Bar Owner

“It’s not a bar you visit,” Jet said. “It’s

a place you experience.”

Although Jet has managed several

businesses in Puerto Vallarta, Club

Walking Through Club Jets

Jets is his first bar.

Visitors entering the club first notice

the sound.

“The bass hits before your eyes

adjust,” Jet said.

“The surprise hasn’t been that

it works,” he said. “The surprise

is how much I love it. Watching

strangers connect. Watching locals

take ownership. Seeing Vallarta

claim something it can call its

Fog machines, red lighting, and

dark labyrinthine spaces set the

tone. Silhouettes of dancers move

through multiple rooms, each with

its own rhythm. The effect, Jet said,

is meant to evoke underground

venues in cities around the world

while keeping a local flavor.

The Team Behind the Project

Jet credits key partners with helping

launch the club. Álvaro “Chaka

Paradise,” a longtime business

administrator, new business partner,

and architect of Vallarta’s ballroom

scene, helped shape operations.

Andrés, one of his top tier tour

guides turned club administrator,

oversaw logistics and helped

manage the launch.

own.”

Jet said the experience has been

as much about community as

business.

“A year ago, I wouldn’t have

imagined running a bar. Now, I

can’t imagine not doing it,” he said.

Setting It Apart

Zona Romántica’s nightlife, Jet

said, often caters to predictable

tourist expectations.

“Same shows. Same playlists.

Same tourist crowd,” he said. “Club

Jets doesn’t. We’re music-driven.

Lineups matter. DJs matter. People

come for the sound, the vibe, the

freedom to be whoever they want

that night.”

The diversity of the crowd is part

of the club’s appeal. “Straight guys

dancing beside queer couples, girls

kissing girls under strobes, locals

and expats blurring the lines. Messy,

alive, unpolished. Exactly how it

should be,” Jet said.

Looking Ahead

December 2025 will mark ten

years since Jet launched his first

business, Jet’s Private Boat Tours,

which later expanded to include

the adults-only Naked Beach. Club

Jets will host a 10-year anniversary

weekend Dec. 5 to 7, 2025, as part

of the celebration, including a full

JustForFans takeover and the launch

of Jet’s Global franchise.

“It will be one weekend where

everything I’ve built collides in Zona

Romántica,” Jet said.

For Jet, Club Jets has become more

than a business venture. “It’s not just

my vision anymore — it’s Vallarta’s

playground,” he said.

Find Jet & more on linktr.ee/

JETSADVENTURES


outandaboutpv.com

FALL 2025 85

BEARS

TAKE OVER

VALLARTA:

Leather, Fur and

Festival Heat in

November

BY

JERRY JONES

LEATHER, FUR AND POOLSIDE PARTIES WILL

COLLIDE THIS NOVEMBER WHEN PUERTO

VALLARTA HOSTS A SERIES OF OVERLAPPING

BEAR AND FETISH FESTIVALS, BRINGING

THOUSANDS OF LGBTQ+ VISITORS FOR ONE

OF THE BUSIEST FALL LINEUPS IN THE CITY’S

HISTORY.

"From leather contests and cigar

parties to clothing-optional beach

days, organizers say the month

serves as both a celebration of

bear and fetish communities and a

warm-up for the city’s bigger winter

events, such as BeefDip Bear Week

in January.

Puerto Vallarta has long been a fixture

on the LGBTQ+ circuit, but the city’s

November calendar has become

especially attractive for travelers

looking for events outside of the peak

holiday season. This year, three main

festivals are set to anchor the month:

Brawny Bear Weekend, STUDS’ Leather

Fever, and Bearadise’s Bearsgiving.


Brawny Bear Weekend

Brawny Bear Weekend, produced by

Brian Kent Productions, will run Nov.

20–23. Partnering with Mantamar

Beach Club and Industry Nightclub,

the event features daily poolside

gatherings, nighttime dance parties

and a closing tea dance on the sand.

Organizers say the weekend is

designed to highlight Vallarta’s mix

of daytime resort energy and latenight

club culture.

“Brawny Bear is about bringing the

community together to celebrate in

one of the most beautiful places in

the world,” producer Brian Kent said.

Tickets are sold online through

Eventbrite and the official event

website, with single-day and

weekend passes available.

STUDS Leather Fever

Running the same weekend, STUDS

Bear and Leather Bar is launching

“Leather Fever,” a four-day fetish

festival produced in partnership

with Casa Cúpula and Sir & Son.

Events are scheduled Nov. 20–23,

with venues split between STUDS’

Zona Romántica bar and Casa

Cúpula’s pool club.

Highlights include a Mr. Leather

Vallarta competition, a Mr. Kink

contest, pool parties, a cigar social, a

beach day and a closing-night party.

The event represents the first largescale

fetish weekend produced

by STUDS. Casa Cúpula, known

for hosting LGBTQ+ pool events

and private parties, will provide

daytime venues, while STUDS will

host evening contests and themed

gatherings.

Tickets are available on the STUDS

website, with some events free for

bar patrons and others requiring

entry passes.

FALL 2025 87

Bearadise Bearsgiving

Travel and Planning Tips

The festival calendar continues

into Thanksgiving weekend when

Bearadise returns Nov. 28–30

with “Bearsgiving.” Known for its

combination of Zona Romántica

club events and boat-accessible

beach parties, Bearadise is set

to close the month with some

of Vallarta’s largest outdoor

gatherings.

Its signature event, Wicked Island,

will take place Nov. 30 at Playa

Caletitas. Guests board boats at

Los Muertos Pier for the short ride

to the secluded beach, where DJs,

performers and a clothing-optional

atmosphere create one of the city’s

most unique party experiences.

Other Bearadise offerings include

the “Follow the Yellow Paw Road”

party, a Thanksgiving-themed

dinner event, and nighttime club

parties. Tickets are available as

single entries or all-access passes

in U.S. dollars or Mexican pesos

through the Bearadise website.

With three major festivals

scheduled in the span of two

weekends, event organizers

recommend visitors purchase

tickets in advance. Several past

events, including Bearadise’s

Wicked Island, have sold out

weeks before the date.

Mantamar Beach Club, located on

Los Muertos Beach, will serve as

the main venue for Brawny Bear

daytime events, while Industry

Nightclub in Zona Romántica will

host late-night parties.

For STUDS Leather Fever,

attendees should expect a mix

of bar culture at STUDS’ Basilio

Badillo location and resort-style

entertainment at Casa Cúpula.

Those heading to Bearadise beach

parties will need to plan around

boat departures. Each ticket

includes specific boarding times

at Los Muertos Pier, and organizers

recommend arriving early.

SERVICES

PrEP PEP Doxy Pep Testing HIV & STI Testing And more...

ACTIVITIES

Salsa class Game nights Drawing for beginners Substance abuse

support group Ball room community HIV support group Yoga class

Spanish class Support group for trans people 18+

88

outandaboutpv.com

NOVEMBER BEAR

AND LEATHER

EVENTS

at a Glance

Nov. 20–23: Brawny Bear Weekend

DAYTIME: POOL PARTIES AT MANTAMAR BEACH CLUB

NIGHTTIME: INDUSTRY NIGHTCLUB PARTIES

CLOSING: SUNSET TEA DANCE ON LOS MUERTOS BEACH

TICKETS: BRAWNYBEARWEEKEND.COM

Nov. 20–23: STUDS Leather Fever

VENUES: STUDS BEAR & LEATHER BAR / CASA CÚPULA POOL CLUB

EVENTS: WELCOME PARTY, POOL PARTIES, CIGAR PARTY, MR. LEATHER VALLARTA, MR. KINK,

BEACH DAY, CLOSING PARTY

TICKETS: STUDSBARPV.COM.MX

Nov. 28–30: Bearadise “Bearsgiving”

VENUES: MULTIPLE ZONA ROMÁNTICA CLUBS / PLAYA CALETITAS (WICKED ISLAND)

EVENTS: CLUB PARTIES, THEMED GATHERINGS, THANKSGIVING DINNER, WICKED ISLAND

BEACH PARTY (NOV. 30)

TICKETS: BEARADISEMX.COM

FOR THOSE PLANNING TRIPS LATER IN THE WINTER, BEEFDIP BEAR WEEK IS

SET TO RETURN IN JANUARY, CONTINUING THE CYCLE OF BEAR FESTIVALS

THAT NOW STRETCH NEARLY YEAR-ROUND.


outandaboutpv.com

FALL 2025 89

Pride Parade 2025


Colectivo Diverso

PRIDE PARADE 2025

Photo by: Jerry Jones


FALL 2025 91

CELEBRATING

CELEBRANDO

La Vida

ZONA ROMANTICA

Lazaro Cardenas 205

USA & CAN: +1 (877) 462 7720

Mexico: +52 (322) 222 0638

E-MAIL: info@pvrpv.com

is is is

BUYING YOUR OWN

HOME IN PARADISE

FINDING THE PERFECT

VACATION RENTAL

LET US HELP YOU IN CELEBRATING LIFE

HAVING A COMPANY

TO MANAGE

YOUR PROPERTY


Fall 2025 - Edgardo Guel, The Palm Cabaret and Bar, Coco Cabaret - Discover Gay Puerto Vallarta

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