The Agave Villas Story

Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Toronto, Canada.

Where else have you lived in between?
I've lived for several years in some great places before settling down to call Puerto Vallarta home. I moved to Peterborough, Ontario for university and then spent several years in Vancouver, Whistler and Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica.

When did you move to Puerto Vallarta?
I moved first to Punta Mita in August 2011 and ran a boutique surf hotel there for 3 years before moving to Puerto Vallarta, which is where I now call home.

Why did you move here?
It had always been a dream of mine to live in Mexico. In the spring of 2011, I was living in Costa Rica when a friend of mine from Puerto Vallarta sent me a message telling me about a small beach hotel that was looking for a manager in Punta Mita. I knew Vallarta well, having spent many vacations as a kid here, but I'd never even heard of Punta Mita. I toured the town using Google maps before making the decision to take the job and moved there sight-unseen.

What's your favorite recommendation for visitors?
I love doing the coastal hike from Boca de Tomatlan along the south shore. There are so many great spots to stop along the way. The first beach you hit is called Playa Colomit​o​s where the fantastic Ocean Grill restaurant is located. Further along is Playa Maraika which has a funky little beach club. The furthest point is Playa Las Animas which is lined with great seafood restaurants...my favorite is El Coral, right beside the pier which has the most incredible tuna tartare.

Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Hampstead, Maryland, a suburb of Baltimore. My entire family still lives in that area, so I visit a couple of times a year to see them and hit at least one Ravens game a year.

Where else have you lived in between?
I lived in Elizabethtown, PA for 4 years while attending college. After college, I moved to Park City, Utah where I learned that it was possible to support myself and constantly feel like I was on vacation.

When did you move to Puerto Vallarta?
We sold pretty much everything we owned and moved to Puerto Vallarta in September 2010.

Why did you move here?
My husband & I vacationed in Puerto Vallarta several times when we were dating. We decided to get married here and had a destination wedding at Villa Estrella Mar in the fall of 2009 with 50 close friends and family members. It was such an amazing time that we moved here less than a year later. We now own Puerto Vallarta's first microbrewery, Los Muertos Brewing Company, and are parents to 2 "kids," Mancha and Pepperoni, a dog and a cat, both local rescues.

What's your favorite recommendation for visitors?
If you are a foodie or a first-timer to Puerto Vallarta, take a food tour on one of your first days in town. It is a walking tour of downtown, which is a great way to learn your way around. Plus, you can try all types of Mexican cuisine and learn about the history of the area. Otherwise, my suggestion is to rent a private yacht to enjoy the beauty of the Banderas Bay. Whether that is whale-watching in the morning or a sunset cruise with champagne and cocktails, you won't be disappointed.

Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Montreal, Canada. We spoke 3 languages at home because my father is of European descent and my mother was born and raised in Mexico City. Growing up in such a multicultural city was a blessing and has given me a deep appreciation for the different languages, cultures and cuisines of the world.

What do you love most about Mexico?
It’s a tie between the food and the people. Mexico is known for its outstanding customer service and for its incredibly diverse and delicious cuisine, and the two combined are a winning combination that is unmatched anywhere else I’ve travelled.

What’s your favorite thing to do while on vacation in Mexico?
I love to get out on the water. I will take any chance I get to see whales, dolphins or just enjoy the beautiful coastline views from the ocean. A sunset cruise is always a good idea!

What’s your favorite recommendation for visitors?
To try the local cuisine. Our destinations have no shortage of high end restaurants and incredible gastronomic experiences, but I strongly believe that everyone who visits should experience authentic Mexican food. Typically I would recommend a fresh seafood ceviche or aguachile, or street tacos - either way you cannot go wrong!

What do you love most about what you do?
Helping people fall in love with Mexico. Mexico is a country that is unparalleled and is simply incomparable; from the food, the culture, the history, the natural beauty and the diverse landscape. I love helping repeat visitors, however what’s most exciting to me is helping someone plan their first trip to Mexico because I just know they are going to fall in love with the endless beauty that the country has to offer!

Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Pennsylvania.

When did you move to Puerto Vallarta?
I moved to Vallarta in 2011.

Why did you move here?
Mexico is just so very endearing through its people, culture, landscape and food! Vallarta is a very international city that still holds a lovely old town charm.

What's your favorite recommendation for visitors?
A day trip to the southern beaches is my favorite. I enjoy the slightly more rustic and laid back small communities all along the way. Whether you go by car, panga, or hike, it's always a good time in my book. Though, for first timers I more so recommend getting to know Puerto Vallarta! There is so much to see and do in our city. Walking around downtown and cruising the Malecon (boardwalk) is an absolute must and can easily occupy a week in our paradise.