Puerto Vallarta Mexico Travel Guide
Puerto Vallarta Traveling— described merely as ‘Vallarta’ by its several fanatics– is among Mexico’s liveliest and most innovative hotel locations. Extending around the shimmering blue Bahia de Banderas (Bay of Flags) as well as backed by lush palm-covered hills, one could not request a better location to while away a cosmopolitan trip. Each year millions of vacationers come to laze on the amazing sandy beaches, browse in the quirky shops, snack in the fashionable dining establishments and also stray through the picturesque cobbled roads or along its beautiful breakwater. If the pretty town coastlines typically aren’t enough, you could venture out on cruises, horseback trips, diving journeys and also day tours– and be back in time for a late supper and an even later journey to one of the several searing discos available. Puerto Vallarta is also the gay beach capital of Mexico.
Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips
This is more than just a coastal resort getaway. Somehow Puerto Vallarta — also known as “Vallarta” or just “PV” — maintains a small-town ambience, while still boasting one of the most unique and sophisticated oceanfronts in Mexico. The dining options and the hotel choices reflect more of the same — you’ll find both elegance and efficiency mingled together within the hotel and restaurant areas.
Most people associate this west-coast town with its boundaries — the Banderas Bay that snakes along the coast, or the palm-tree tinted Sierra Madre Mountains that stand tall in the east — but Puerto Vallarta is more than its scenery. Take some time to discover its other perks for yourself — through sampling the delicious food, discovering a hidden boutique in the Zona Romantica, sipping a signature cocktail at a bar along the Malecón, or jiving to a salsa beat in a Havana-style nightclub.
How To Save Money in Puerto Vallarta
- Buy a map Taking the bus or a taxi around town is cheap in theory, but in practice, you could end up paying unnecessary fares if you don’t know where you’re going.
- Pack an umbrella The best time of year to visit, April to June, isn’t actually the cheapest time for a trip. If you don’t mind the frequent (but short) rain showers, then plan your visit for late summer.
- Just say no From the beach vendors that stroll along Banderas Bay to the timeshare representatives that stroll along just about everywhere, there are plenty of ways to let go of more money than you intended. Learn to say a firm but courteous, “No, gracias,” if you’re not interested in what they’re selling.
Puerto Vallarta Culture & Customs
Spanish is the primary language spoken, but many people, especially those who work in the tourist zone, speak English. It may be both helpful and respectful to know some basic Spanish vocabulary, such as hello (hola), goodbye (adíos), please (por favor), and thank you (gracias).
Puerto Vallarta Dining
Food options are abundant here, with restaurants ranging from chain restaurants to regional cuisine. European cafés and restaurants are also scattered in the downtown district, including the popular Café des Artistes, a dinner-only, art-filled eatery known for its sophisticated and innovative French cuisine. Popular traveler-recommended restaurants in Puerto Vallarta include Casa Isabel, Madison South, which offers plates for less than $20, and No Way! Jose, which features classic Mexican cuisine.
For additional Puerto Vallarta tips see U.S News.
