Hello From Cuernavaca - Part 7 - A Conversation With Andie Grater Local B b Owner And President Of The Newcomers Club
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Vacations.
Hello From Cuernavaca: A Chat with Andie Grater, B&B Owner and Newcomers Club President
Summary
I'm staying at "La Nuestra," a charming bed and breakfast featuring four guest rooms, a private pool, and a cozy outdoor breakfast area equipped with a microwave and fridge. Co-owned by Andie Grater and Nancy Gray, both originally from the United States, this place has a captivating story.
Originally from Brooklyn, Andie spent 20 years in Atlanta, mastering advertising production and management. Nancy, meanwhile, ventured into the screen printing business, representing American companies across Latin America, which marked the start of their Mexican journey.
Relocating to Cuernavaca
Their move to Cuernavaca began as Nancy spent increasing time in Mexico. Andie and Nancy considered it a promising destination, close enough for easy travel. Andie even took a Spanish course at the Cetlalic Alternative Language School, immersing herself in Cuernavaca's local gay community, which only added to the city’s appeal.
Deciding to settle in Cuernavaca at the dawn of the New Millennium, Andie left her advertising job, a decision made easier by the industry's downturn post-9/11. She gained experience in hospitality by working at Villa San Marcos before they moved to Cuernavaca.
Establishing "La Nuestra"
Initially living in a furnished apartment and later an unfurnished condo, Andie and Nancy tackled the challenges of starting anew. Their B&B had been vacant for five years before they invested a year in renovations, building up their client base through internet marketing and word of mouth. Their outreach extended to independent and feminist bookstores, requesting bulletin board space for advertising.
Catering to a diverse clientele from the U.S., Canada, and local visitors from Mexico City, they emphasized inclusivity beyond the gay community. Many guests revel in the homely atmosphere, relaxing by the pool.
Cultural Adjustment
Andie shared insights into their cultural transition. While initially exciting, the charm of novelty waned, leading to culture shock. Adjusting to Mexican concepts of time and reliability posed challenges, alongside occasional frustrations with workmen during renovations. However, Andie praised the locals' easygoing nature and willingness to help when you speak Spanish. Despite early difficulties, she now considers Cuernavaca home.
The Newcomers Club
Andie’s role as president of the Newcomers Club highlights her integration into the local community. Revitalizing the club, she expanded membership to 170, with members ranging from their forties to the nineties. The club offers numerous resources, including a service directory, buddy system, and social events. It also hosts informational speaker sessions on varied topics and engages in philanthropy, notably collaborating with the Episcopal Church and "Caminamos Juntos" to support local communities.
Volunteer Work and Future Plans
Andie’s volunteering extends to the Guild House library, balancing her time between community service and running the B&B. She frequently visits the U.S., maintaining ties to Atlanta, where she and Nancy keep an apartment.
Reflecting on her experiences, Andie's journey offers valuable insights into adjusting to a new culture and the rewards of community involvement. Inspired by her story, I’m pondering spending part of the year in warmer climates.
For more, visit [Travel and Transitions](http://www.travelandtransitions.com/stories_photos/cuernavaca_7.htm).
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Hello From Cuernavaca - Part 7 - A Conversation With Andie Grater Local B b Owner And President Of The Newcomers Club.
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