Thoughts on the Impact of the 2nd Largest Theme Park in the America’s

A short time ago, we remarked about the condominium development in Bucerias, this town many of us call home. Last week Dave Pletz, broker/owner of Casa Connections gave us his take on the many residential construction projects underway.

Another local we talked to was Hugh Gaffney. Hugh of Hugh and Simon fame, Luna Lounge, Chamorro Express, the man needs little introduction. Hugh has called Bucerias home since 2006.

His view was something we had not previously heard and he was happy to share it with Bucerias Life in the Slow Lane, saying, “I am excited to see what happens here during the next five years.”

Hugh Gaffney – The ongoing development of Bucerias, started many years ago. The marketing folks at Soriana (Mega), Chedraui, La Comer, Sam’s Club, Walmart, and Ley’s located in this area, before the condominium boom. These stores don’t get built overnight. They do their due diligence long before a shovel goes in the ground. Their decision to be in this area, followed by the investment is a pretty good indication that they believe in the part of Bahia de Banderas that is north of Puerto Vallarta.

Hugh’s reasoning is that the construction we are seeing is in a large part due to Vidanta World. “The new condos are being snapped up very quickly, and as you know, the prices have gone through the roof”.

A bit about Vidanta World. This “theme park” will be the second largest in the Americas. Think about that for a moment. Walt Disney World in Florida is the only park that will be bigger than Vidanta World. This park is kind of like in our back yard and will include “Immersive Theme Park,” “Water Theme Park,” and Nature Theme Park.” The airport in Puerto Vallarta is a short drive to the theme park. They are well into building a second terminal, and adding a second runway, primarily to service Vidanta World. Agreements are in place with the major capitals in Europe through the middle east to provide direct flights to Puerto Vallarta to visit Vidanta World.

Research indicates that ninety percent of visitors to theme parks stay off site. A vacation to the the area would likely mean a three-day pass to Vidanta World, with the remaining time spent enjoying the local beach, restaurants, entertainment, or simply what Bucerias has to offer. I must admit that I never really spent a lot of time thinking about Vidanta World, or considering what the impact might be. “You can’t stop growth, so you might as well get on board with it”. Thank you Hugh for sharing your views!

You may contact Hugh through Luna Lounge or Chamorro Express:

lunaloungebucerias.com

https://www.facebook.com/ChamorroExpressBucerias