Why Puerto Vallarta ?

Is it because Puerto Vallarta has a special charm – a classic Mexican Town?

Is it because Puerto Vallarta is surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Sierra Madre Occidental?

Or is it because the beautiful Bay of Banderas is the most photographed bays in all the area?

Did you know that the movie, “Night of Iguana”, was shot in Puerto Vallarta?

The original set of "Night of the Iguana" is now a restaurant at Mismaloya beach.

Gringo Gulch was home to the original colony of Norteamericanos and this is where many celebrities nest.

When to go?

Puerto Vallarta is a “year-round” seaside “funky” destination. Most people prefer to travel to Puerto Vallarta in the winter to escape from the “snow and cold”!

Where to stay?

While Puerto Vallarta has accommodations for every taste and budget, we suggest you to stay in at least, a 3-plus star resort. Grand Marival is a superior beachfront hotel that offers a vast selection of facilities, dining options, activities and entertainment. Buenaventura is a good budget resort and is well located – beachfront, on the edge of downtown, within walking distance of dozens of Puerto Vallarta 's shops, restaurants and bars.

What to do? Where to go?

The best way to enjoy Puerto Vallarta is to wander through Viejo Vallarta (the old city), with its traditional cobbled streets, white-walled houses, wrought-iron balconies and red tiled roofs; visit the Templo de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, with its unusual dome, a replica of the crown worn by Empress Charlotte in 1860; admire the original murals by the artist Manuel Lepe in the Palacio Municipal; walk along the jetty with its esplanade of bronze statues or check out the myriad of shops – with something for everyone. Explore the galleries displaying contemporary Mexican art; sample the varied gastronomy in one of the open-air restaurants while gazing at a beautiful sunset, try a Mexican Helado (ice-cream) or enjoy a traditional Mexican evening complete with a folkloric ballet.

Golf? Yes, there are many good golf courses in Puerto Vallarta and some are designed by world-class golfers. Four seasons at Punta Mita on the Four Seasons’ Resort property was designed by Jack Nicklaus. This 18 hole, par 72 course has one hole sitting on an island about 175 yards offshore. It is surrounded by the largest water hazard in the world and is the only natural-island green. The cost during mid-season is approximately US$250 per person. El Tigre, Paradise Village , Av Paraiso was designed by Robert von Vagge and Rick Baril. This 18 hole, par 72 course has 7,239-yard run with 12 holes featuring water. The designers incorporated five or six tees per hole, extra-wide fairways, beach bunkers and lots of water. US$130 a game, approximately, during high reason.

Are you a water-sport lover? Puerto Vallarta has beaches with fine sands and gentle waves perfect for diving, sailboat regattas, fishing, skiing and Jet Skis. Prefer gentle sports? How about a boat ride round the bay to watch dolphins, turtles and humpbacked whales (in season)?

Or perhaps you’re a shopaholic? Fine works of air, exquisite folk art, jewelry, designer and casual clothing, no destination in Mexican can beat Puerto Vallarta . The area has become a mecca of sorts for Mexican and foreign artists, many of whom can be seen at work in studios and workshops along the city’s bustling streets. Along Juarez and Morelos streets you’ll find a wide range of shops with high quality goods and plenty of authentic Mexican atmosphere. Like to shop in a shopping malls? Try the Plaza Malecon on the north end of town, Plaza Neptuno at Marina Vallarta Villas Vallarta across from the Continental Plaza Vallarta and the Plaza Caracol with its huge “Gigante” supermarket (both north of town).

Where to eat?

Although some of the packages to Puerto Vallarta are all-inclusive, meals are included, but if you can, take a night or two and try the local Mexican dishes – great venues which are marvellous! Senor Frogs, Carlos & Charlies are Canadian favourites. One of the things that make Puerto Vallarta stands out is the large number of restaurants where you can enjoy some of the most succulent dishes you will ever taste. National, regional and international cuisine is available at many restaurants. Le Bistro has lovely tropical setting on the river, jazz music and extensive menu. El Dorado is a popular beachfront Mexican restaurant great for lunch. Don’t forget to try those mouthwatering grilled shrimps at Rio Grande before you head back to Canada!

How to get around?

Plenty of taxis are available at all hours but remember to negotiate the price upfront before you close the door! There is also reliable tourist bus service that goes from Mismaloya in the south to the Marina entrance – just look for blue and white signs along the main highway. Fare is about 4 pesos per ride. Traffic can be a problem through town (especially at peak periods) and parking can be difficult to find so it is recommended to take taxis or buses in Puerto Vallarta.

The Weather

Seasonal Highs and Lows (ºC)

Currency

Mexican Pesos (MXN) [click here to find out the latest exchange rate]  

Other information you should know!

It is now recommended that Canadians travelling to Mexico should carry a valid passport and a travel card (a small paper form) that is available free from airlines and Mexican Government Tourist Offices. It is valid for six months.

Click here to check the latest passport/visa requirements.

Want to know more?!

Our Puerto Vallarta Specialist, Jane, loves Puerto Vallarta. “It is a TRADITIONAL town. I love the hand-painted potteries there, oh, and great food! It is a safe destination – it has something for everyone!” said Jane. Jane will be happy to share her experience with you. Call her at (604) 273-8228 now.

To check the latest deals on Puerto Vallarta, click here.

Disclaimer: This article is being written based on the travel experiences of our consultants. There are many sources to review in preparation of making the most of your “Puerto Vallarta” experience. The tips are subjective and do not necessarily represent the views of travelSavingstoday.com.