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Of all of Mexico's beach resorts, Puerto Vallarta is considered one of the best. This seaside village is not only beautiful, but it is also rich in Mexican traditions. Puerto Vallarta sits on the coast of the Pacific Ocean in the state of Jalisco. The latter is where Mexico's traditional charro costume (Mexican cowboy outfit) was created, the national beverage of tequila is distilled (the agave plant, used in tequila production, only grows in Jalisco), and the national music called mariachi originated. For these reasons, Puerto Vallarta has been called the most traditional Mexican destination of all the country's coastal resorts. It was not until 1964, when film director John Huston arrived to make The Night of the Iguana, that most of the world had even heard of Puerto Vallarta. The love affair between Huston's leading man, Richard Burton, and Elizabeth Taylor created an international stir as the news of their illicit alliance spread. Located in the hills of the Sierra Madre Mountains overlooking the Bay of Banderas, the once-sleepy fishing village is today a booming tourist site with multi-million dollar resorts, fine dining, great shopping, entertainment, and excellent water sports and fishing. The natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta is an attraction of its own. Recently, Puerto Vallarta was honored with the National Award for Tourism Quality from the Mexican government.
DIVING & SNORKELINGThe best spots to view marine life are close to the shore in shallow water. The Pacific is not as clear as the Caribbean and this side of Mexico offers fewer reefs. The waters along the Pacific coast are more likely to be home to sea turtles and dolphins than exotic fish. But one of the most exciting aspects of the bay is that it draws a huge number of dolphins and whales
Water Sports Tips:
Water temperatures average 70 degrees
BEST DIVE SITES
Playa los Arcos (Three rocky islets 6 miles south of Puerto Vallarta, dotted with caves) BEST SNORKELING SITES
Punta de Mita (islands shelter coast, shallow and calm water, 29 miles north of town) Playa los Arcos BEACHES
The 40 miles of beach in and near Puerto Vallarta provide plenty of choices, offering something for everyone. Beaches vary from seaside resorts with every amenity at hand, to the isolated strands under the cliffs along the Bay of Banderas. Getting to a beach off the beaten path will require transportation either by boat, car, or bus.
Playa los Camarones is within Puerto Vallarta just north of the Malecon. This beach is away from the noise and bustle of the resorts, ideal for unwinding and escaping the crowds. There are no public rest rooms or showers. Parking is available along Avenida Paraguay, but walkers can gain access along any side street.
Playa Norte is located on Highway 200, with resorts and hotels sitting on this large arc of land. The beach stretches just south of the marina and into downtown Puerto Vallarta. As the most active shore in Puerto Vallarta, Playa Norte offers water sports and amenities. Beach vendors sell everything from silver jewelry to T-shirts. Some hotels reserve their shaded tables and beachside restaurants for guests only. The public beach offers showers and rest rooms.
Playa de Oro begins next to the marina and ferry terminal, and then extends to the downtown area past many large hotels. The beach is wide, clean, and lined with palms. It tends to be less crowded than other Puerto Vallarta beaches. Several hotels here rent water sports equipment and offer lessons. The shore drops off quickly, making swimming a challenge. The waves are good for water sports activities.
Playa de los Muerto sits in the heart of Puerto Vallarta and earned its name, "Beach of the Dead," after a battle between pirates and Indians. The community tried to rename it Playa del Sol, but the original name resurfaced. The beach offers restaurants, snack stands, bars, and water sports. Music is everywhere. As the busiest beach in town, it offers water sports, restaurants, and shops. The water here is very deep-just a few steps offshore, and you'll be in over your head. Not a great spot for swimming. The waves can be over 6 feet high.
BEACHES NORTH OF PUERTO VALLARTA
Bucerias is 17 miles north of Puerto Vallarta on Highway 200. This long strand of beach has great secluded sections, perfect for sunbathing and strolling. Near the middle of the beach is a line of restaurants featuring fresh seafood. Roadside stands sell fresh oysters. City buses depart every hour beginning at 9 am from Del Pacifico station on Insurgentes. The fare is about US 60 cents per passenger.
Destiladeras is 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta along Punta de Mita Road. A few open-air restaurants offer outstanding views of Puerto Vallarta and the bay. This sandy beach among rugged cliffs is very popular with the locals.
Nuevo Vallarta is 5.6 miles north of Puerto Vallarta on Highway 200, an area of newly developed resorts that allows public access to the beach, busy marina, villas, condos, and several resorts. A luxurious government-run beach club offers water sports, gift shop, restaurant, and a museum.
Playa Piedra Blanca is 16.4 miles north of Puerto Vallarta on Punta de Mita Road, with great views of the city and the mountains. A beachside restaurant rents lounge chairs. This secluded beach is just past Club Arena Blanca-turn left down a steep dirt road.
Punta de Mita is 22 miles north of Puerto Vallarta. This fishing village with a rocky coast offers a very dramatic view of the Pacific Ocean, and excellent snorkeling where sheltering islands lie just off the point. The water is shallow, which allows easy wading over to the islands. The village has a rustic feel with a few seaside restaurants. Some fishermen rent snorkeling equipment and offer boat tours. Stretches of isolated beach offer lots of privacy. Outstanding surfing with huge waves that roll into shore.
BEACHES SOUTH OF PUERTO VALLARTA
Boca de Tomatlan is located 12 miles south of Puerto Vallarta and 2.5 miles south of Mismaloya. Palm trees shade a steep hill at this sheltered bay. The uncrowded beach is near a tiny fishing village that is built on an archeological site. Buried arrowheads, figurines, and drawings have been found among the rocks. Boat launches depart from here to Playas Las Animas, Quimixto, and Yelapa.
Playa Mismaloya, where The Night of the Iguana was filmed, is considered the most famous beach near Puerto Vallarta. The movie set is located up the hill from the beach and now serves as a restaurant and bar. Located 8 miles south of Puerto Vallarta on Highway 200, Mismaloya is great for swimming and water sports. Snorkeling is good along the rocks on the southern edge of the cove. Thatched-roof, rustic restaurants line the southern half of the beach. La Joya de Mismaloya Resort has public showers and rest rooms.
Playa las Amapas was named for the towering pulpit-shaped rock formation at the beach's southern tip. The water is clear and the waves are calm. A few seaside restaurants serve limited menus. Just south of Boca de Tomatlan, the beach can be reached by a 10-minute boat ride from Puerto Vallarta.
Playa los Arcos, three rocky islets 6.5 miles south of Puerto Vallarta on Highway 200, is dotted with caves. A favorite for snorkeling and diving, the stony beach offers the closest possible view of the rock formations of Los Arcos, reached most easily by boat. The beach is less crowded than others. No public parking lot-so park on the gravel shoulder and walk down path to the beach.
Yelapa is a very popular day-trip spot with a beautiful beach on the southernmost cove on the bay 25 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. This site can best be reached by boat. A road does lead to Yelapa to the edge of town for deliveries, but it is a rough route to travel. The locals only number about 500-which is why the area is so isolated and tranquil. Yelapa has golden sand with a great shoreline for swimming, snorkeling, and parasailing. The beach is peaceful, relaxing, and you can rent a hammock. An open-air restaurant and a small hotel sit here.
FISHING
Puerto Vallarta is a popular departure point for deep-sea excursions. Catches include sailfish, marlin, bonito, tuna, red snapper, and shark. Charter companies can be found at the north end of the Malecon. During the peak season, from November to May, boats rent for about US $180 for half-day up to $340 for full day of fishing in the bay. The price goes up to US $500 to fish outside the bay.SAILING/WINDSURFING
The most popular routes to sail are south to Yelapa, Quimixto, or Las Animas-with a stop for snorkeling at Los Arcos. For the more experienced sailor, try a northern route with a stop at Punta de Mita. Sailboat rentals are US $20 to $35 per hour, US $160 per day with a captain. Island International Sailing at the Plaza Iguana Marina resort offers an introductory sailing lesson for US $40 per person, plus rental of a sailboat (322-10880, ext. 119). At Marina Vallarta, Sail Vallarta rents sailboats with or without crew for beginning cost of US $150 per day (322-10096 or 322-10097).GOLF
Club de Golf Marina Vallarta. At the Marina Vallarta, designed by Joe Finger. The greens fee for this 18-hole course is US $60. 322-10171.
Los Flamingos. In Flamingo Estates just north of Nueva Vallarta, this 18-hole course was designed by Percy Clifford. The greens fee is US $60. 322-80034.
Puerto Vallarta is on the Pacific coast of Mexico in the state of Jalisco. Of all Mexican spots you could vacation-this one has some of the most diverse geography, with mountains, jungles, beaches, rivers, and waterfalls together in a small region.
East of Puerto Vallarta stand the Sierra Madre Mountains, then to the west is the ocean. If you explore inland from the Pacific, the town extends no more than five or six blocks as the land begins to climb into the eastern hills, which are rugged and yet scenic with a jungle.
The Rio Cuale, a river that divides the town in two, runs into the ocean. In the middle of the Rio Cuale is a small rock island. This site is where the early residents beat their laundry on the rocky shore. The bay to the west is one of the largest in the world.
Its geographic isolation delayed development of Puerto Vallarta until recent years-this part of Mexico is tucked tightly between the ocean and the mountains. Prior to the 1960s, Puerto Vallarta was primarily a fishing village. Access to the rest of the world was limited. Highway 200 connects Puerto Vallarta to the rest of Mexico, running along the West Coast. This north-south route is the only way to get here on the ground. Most visitors arrive either by air or sea.
Banderas Bay. As the seventh-largest bay in the world, Banderas Bay boasts depths of 3,000 feet. Most geologists believe the bay is a sunken crater from a giant extinct volcano. From the sky, it is easy to see this huge perimeter.
Locals believe the bay is protected from sharks. Many think it is because the dolphins protect the waters as a breeding spot. One resident observed a dead shark in the bay that had been killed by a group of three or four dolphins-the mammals team up and attack the shark by ramming it broadside. The dolphins mount patrols at the bay's entrance to protect their colony from predators.
From December to April, you can witness another natural phenomenon in Banderas Bay, the seasonal home of the humpback whales. These gentle giants can be seen breaching out of the water as parents instruct calves in the ways of the sea. A Puerto Vallarta company launched a photo study of whales, identifying more than 1oo individuals by distinct markings on their tails.
Puerto Vallarta also has a sea turtle preservation project. A protected nesting nursery doubles as a scientific research center that welcomes small, guided tours. Visitors may witness a nesting turtle lay her eggs, newborn turtles hatching, or baby turtles making their first voyage to sea.
Casa Kimberly. In the neighborhood called Gringo Gulch sits a famous home once owned by Elizabeth Taylor, a gift from Richard Burton. The home was built prior to the major boom of tourism that occurred after 1964 when an international scandal involving Taylor and Burton directed attention to Puerto Vallarta. When the couple moved into Casa Kimberly-they were both still married to other people. Taylor tried to rename the home "Casa Elizabeth," but the local community protested. Richard Burton also purchased the villa across the street and the couple built a pink bridge to join the two homes. All items in the home were once the possessions of Liz and Dick. In the 1990s, Taylor donated the property and all contents to a foundation that now operates a bed & breakfast and conducts tours.
Malecon. The seaside promenade in the center of downtown overlooking the Banderas Bay is where many activities occur. The Malecon is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. The area is especially busy at night with Sunday evenings drawing the largest crowds with a festive atmosphere. This place is great for people-watching, looking at street artists, or listening to live music. The town's main square, Plaza de Armes, is on the southern end of the Malecon.
Guadalupe Cathedral (Iglesia de Guadalupe). The local Catholic cathedral with the historic bell tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Puerto Vallarta. It is topped with a crown held by angels. As the most recognizable architecture in this city, the cathedral is often featured in photos on postcards and posters. The 30-year-old church is on the main plaza at 370 Hidalgo.
Predator film location. In 1987, Arnold Schwarzenegger used a jungle area near Mismaloya to film his action thriller, Predator. The Eden Restaurant now displays the movie sets. To locate, take the highway south of Puerto Vallarta and look for the entrance to Mismaloya. You will find a dirt road that leads into the mountains. The entrance road is rocky and may be more suitable for four-wheel drive vehicles.
Isla Rio Cuale. This small island at the mouth of the Rio Cuale is a nice place to hang out. An interesting attraction is a statue of film director John Huston, who spent most of his life here after making his famous 1964 film, The Night of the Iguana. Isla Rio Cuale has several restaurants, shops, and a small museum.
Marina Vallarta. At the northern edge of Puerto Vallarta is a 445-acre development that offers slips for more than 300 boats, an 18-hole golf course, tennis, and numerous resort hotels.
San Sebastian. Nestled in the Sierra Madre northeast of Puerto Vallarta, the former silver mine is now popular for hiking and horseback riding. Take Ixtapa las Palmas Road through about 6 miles of jungle and begin the climb up the Sierra Madre. The road cuts through many small towns. The town has a central plaza and a 300-year-old church. Plan to spend about three hours getting here. Limited air service is available for about US $60 roundtrip.
BEST-KEPT SECRETS FROM AMBASSADAIR STAFF
Ambassadair's marketing representative Roxanne Butler reveals a most romantic spot in this seaside Mexican village. "I enjoyed Puerto Vallarta from a rooftop bar with an amazing view of the sunset. It is located at a small inn known as Los Cuatro Vientos. It is a nice quiet spot to enjoy the view with someone special. You have to walk up the steps of a hill to find this place, which is really off the beaten path. We sat there for an hour looking at the Bay, watching the sunset in beautiful orange-red tones. In the foreground is the cathedral with the ocean as a backdrop."
Ambassadair President Sally Brown says runners will enjoy taking an early morning jog into town or along the quarter mile beach directly across from the Sheraton. Her favorite restaurants in town are El Panorama for dinner, and 100% Natural, also across from the Sheraton, for breakfast and lunch. Sally said, "Horseback riding is a definite must if you enjoy being outdoors and seeing the locals, regardless of your riding skills."
The Aztecs passed through the region on their way to the Valley of Mexico, leaving Nahualt-speaking colonies on the coast and in the valleys of northwestern Jalisco-where Puerto Vallarta is today. Others who have called this place home include Spanish settlers, pirates, and migrating Mexicans. In 1918 the Congress of the state of Jalisco named this city Puerto Vallarta in honor of Don Ignacio Luis Vallarta, a famous statesman who served as governor. Prior to this, the village was named Bahia de Banderas, or Bay of Flags, by the Spanish conquerors who explored the coast and first saw warriors adorned with feathers and multi-colored banners.
DINING AND FOOD IN PUERTO VALLARTA
Travelers to Puerto Vallarta can choose from about 120 restaurants. The variety of food ranges from Mexican to international cuisine. As a former fishing village, Puerto Vallarta offers outstanding fresh seafood. All restaurants listed below are either in Puerto Vallarta or within a 15-minute drive.
Dining Tips:
Reservations are suggested, especially on weekends. Menu prices are in American dollars. Credit cards are accepted at most restaurants. TURKS & CAICOS RESTAURANTS
$$$=EXPENSIVE (US $25-$100)
$$= MODERATE (US $15-$25)
$ = INEXPENSIVE (under US $15)
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Restaurant Location Menu Phone Cost Adobe Cafe 252 Basilio Badillo Tex-Mex 322-26720 $$ Open Wed-Mon 6-11 pm. Santa Fe-style décor. Creative gourmet Mexican food. R & B music. Reservations recommended.
Alejandro's Cafe 380 Amapas Mexican 322-24888 $$ Open 6-10:30 pm. Nice atmosphere. Reservations recommended.
Archie's Burger Pipila y Morelos International 322-24383 $ Open lunch and dinner. Cheap food with US $3 meals. Considered the best burgers in town.
Archie's Wok 130 Francisca Rodriguez Asian 322-20411 $$ Open Mon-Sat 2-11 pm. Dishes prepared by the chef of the late John Huston. Flavors of China, Thailand, and the Philippines. Classical music.
Asadero los Jardines Central Av. Francisco Villa 845 International 322-52444 $ Open daily 2-11 pm. Grilled assorted meats and barbecue ribs. Very popular with the locals.
Bavaria 454 Lazaro Cardenas International 322-22915 $$ Open lunch and dinner. Authentic Bavarian homemade food, cakes, and beer. German atmosphere.
Beachcomber Los Muertos beach International 322-30155 $ Open daily 8:30 am-9 pm. Happy hour 1-2 pm and 5-7 pm. Casual dining with outdoor seating. Great for a light snack or appetizers.
Borlena Hotel Zone in Hotel Suites Del Sol International 322-42541 $$$ Open 6-11 pm. Serves steaks, chicken, and seafood.
Bogart's Krystal Vallarta, Av. De las Garzas French 322-21459 $$$ Open nightly with seatings at 6 pm and 9 pm. Inspired by movie Casablanca. Moroccan-dressed waiters. Reservations recommended.
Brasil Steak House Venustiano Carranza 210 International 322-22909 $$ Open daily 2 -11 pm. Serves 14 types of meat, which is cooked over charcoal on skewers that look like swords.
Café des Artistes Leona Vicario and Guadalupe Sanchez French/Mexican 322-23228 $$$ Open Mon-Sat 6-11:30 pm. Named one of best 80 restaurants in world by Nestle Food Services. Elegant and romantic. Reservations necessary
Cafe Maximilian Olas Altas #38, B Zona Romantica International 322-30760 $$ Open Mon-Sat 6-11 pm. Blend of new and old world cuisine. Charming restaurant, located in Los Muertos Beach area, a very Austrian atmosphere.
Café Trio 264 Guerrero International 322-22196 $$$ Open Mon-Sat 6-midnight. European garden setting with a colonial touch. Food has Mediterranean flair with Mexican spice. Reservation recommended.
Carlos O'Brian's On the Malecon International 322-21444 $ Open daily 11 am-10 pm. A lively, upbeat place. Creative menu with entrees such as Oink, Peep & Moo. No reservations required.
Casa Fregoso Av. Mexico 1119 Col. 5 de Diciembre Mexican 322-30667 $$ Open daily noon-11 pm. Giant margaritas. The perfect place to dine and feel at home.
Chef Roger Basilio Badillo International 322-25900 $$$ Open 6-10 pm. European-style bistro with blend of Mexican tastes. Reservations recommended.
Chez Elena Matamoros 520, Los Cuatro Vientos Inn International 322-20161 $$ Open daily 6-11 pm. Rooftop terrace bar is a great spot to watch sunset. Twinkling lights, flickering candles, and intimate setting.
Daiquiri Dick's 314 Olas Altas Tex-Mex 322-20566 $$ Open 11 am-10:30 pm. Most unique dish is Pescado Vallarta where a whole red snapper is grilled and served on a stick. Dine on terrace.
De Santos 771 Morelos International 322-33052 $ Open nightly 6 pm-4 am. Most everything on menu is under US $10. Mediterranean cuisine. At 10 pm the crowd begins growing. This is a favorite restaurant of the well-heeled American expatriate crowd. Chic!
El Dorado Amapas and Pulpito Mexican 322-21511 $ Open daily 11 am-10 pm. Busiest during lunch hours. Great place to watch beach as you dine. Traditional Mexican menu.
El Palomar Off Pulpito, Near Senor Chicos Seafood 322-20795 $$ Open 6-11 pm. Specialty is lobster. Elegant mountain home with a great view of bay and town. Very romantic.
El Panorama Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez International 322-21818 $$$ Open daily 6-11 pm. Specialties are shish kabobs. Dine indoors or on the rooftop. Live jazz music. Reservations recommended.
El Torito I.L. Vallarta 290 International 322-23784 $$ Open lunch and dinner. Internet terminals. Great barbeque ribs and chicken.
Fajita Republic Pino Suarez 321, Esquina Basilo Badillo International 322-23131 $ Open daily noon-11 pm. Huge portions at low prices. Featuring award-winning fajitas, barbecue ribs, Mexican dishes, and seafood.
Fredy's Tucan Ignacio L. Vallarta 332 International 322-30778 $$ Open breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Extensive menu for Mexican and American dishes.
Janssen & Johnson Olas Altas 474 International 322-23497 $$ Open nightly 6-10 pm. Bistro food with Netherlands-style. Live mariachi music every Fri night. Fun, cute, popular place.
Kit-Kat Club 120 Pulpito International 322-30093 $$ Open 5 pm-1 am. Great martinis and prawn cocktails. Described as a classic cocktail lounge.
La Bodegita de Medio On the Malecon 858 Cuban 322-31585 $$ Open nightly 6-11 pm. Cuban dishes include rice and black beans, pork roll, and Havana-style beef hash.
La Cave Av. Juarez 122, Col Centro C.P. International 322-20051 $$ Open daily 5-11 pm. Specializes in Hereford steaks, Pacific lobsters and jumbo shrimp. Live piano music.
La Mejor Opcion 230 Ortiz de Dominquez St International 322-22355 $ This quaint restaurant is only open Monday thru Friday 2-10 p.m. The owner and chef changes the menu daily!
La Palapa Pulpito 103 Col. Emiliano Zapata International 322-25225 $$ Open daily 8 am- 11:30 pm. The only restaurant set on famous Playa los Muertos.
Las Palomas Doradas Marina Vallarta, Club de Tenis de Sol Mexican 322-10470 $$ Open daily 8 am-11 pm. Specializes in Mexican and seafood cuisine with a French touch. Great shrimp omelettes. Popular place to watch sunset.
Las Cascadas Av. Juarez 122, Col. Centro C.P. International 322-20051 $$ Open nightly 6-11 pm. Mexican ambiance with waterfalls flowing and wildlife stirring.
Le Bistro Off Insurgentes on Isla Rio Cuale International 322-20283 $$$ Open Mon-Sat 9 am-midnight. Recorded jazz. Menu is varied with surf and turf, crepes, and shish kebabs. Reservations advised.
Le Kliff 17.5 Carr a Manzanillo International 322-40975 $$ Open noon-11 pm. Available for private parties. Spectacular sunset view and whale watching. Take a taxi (US $8 one way).
Le Gourmet Aquiles Serden 242, Posada Rio Cuale Hotel International 322-20914 $$ Open breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Five-star restaurant. Meals served family-style. Good portions at good prices. Voted best place to dine in town.
Los Arbolitos 184 Camino a la Ribera, Along Rio Cuale Seafood 322-31050 $$ Open daily 9:30 am-11 pm. Roof garden overlooks Rio Cuale. House specialty is grilled lobster. More than 50 entrees to choose from.
Los Pibes Basilio de Badillo Argentine 322-31557 $$$ Open nightly 6-10 pm. Rated high for quality of beef and style of presentation.
No Name Cafe Downtown on Boardwalk/ Malecon International 322-32508 $$ Open 11-2 am. Voted best ribs in Mexico by LA Times. In front of seahorse statue. Great combination of Mexican and American dishes.
Oscar's Bar & Grill Isla Rio Cuale 1 Zona Romantica International 322-30789 $$ Open daily noon-10 pm. Specialty are steaks and seafood. Located on the island of the Cuale River. Great secluded seating.
Pip's Restaurant & Bar Guadalupe Sanchez Mexican 322-32767 $$ Open daily noon-11 pm. Great selection of fajitas: steak, chicken, shrimp, and seafood.
Rio Grande Ave. Mexico 1775 Mexican 322-20095 $$ Open daily 11 am-11 pm. Specializing in mesquite-grilled seafood, steaks, and traditional Mexican dishes.
River Cafe Isla Rio Cuale International 322-30788 $$ Open daily 9 am-midnight. Great location, ambiance, food, and service. Trees provide natural canopy to open-air eatery.
Roberto's Puerto Nuevo Basilio Badillo 284 Seafood 322-26210 $$ Open daily 11 am- 10 pm. Offers seafood and steaks. Very popular. Located on Restaurant Row. Inside or outside dining.
Senior Chicos Pulpito 377 Col. Emiliano Zapata International 322-23570 $$ Open nightly 6-11 pm. Favorites include seafood and Caesar salad. On steep hillside overlooking bay. Unforgettable, breathtaking view.
Puerto Vallarta is an exciting place to seek entertainment with many resorts offering live music and dancing. Every night can be as long and as intense as you want, with plenty of bars and discos to enjoy. The majority of activity is in two locations: downtown Puerto Vallarta along the boardwalk, and in the hotel zone along the main avenue. In downtown Puerto Vallarta, the Malecon is the center of night activity, lined with places that specialize in creating a high-energy party-time atmosphere. South of the river also has its share of clubs, more down-to-earth and maybe more varied. Nightclubs open at 10 pm and don't close until 3 am. Some clubs charge up to US $20 for entry, though some provide free nights early in the week. Most hotels will provide guests with discount coupons. Sunday tends to be quiet and some clubs are closed-except on the zócalo, where from around 6 pm, huge crowds gather to listen to the brass band. Some hotels organize outings for their guests to go to local discos with free cover charge.
Andale. 425 Paseo de Velasco. Lively and fun with oldies music. Try the burro ride. 322-30684. Carlos O'Brian's. Located near the Malecon. Famous dance and party place. No cover charge. 322-21444 Christine's. Next to Hotel Krystal in the hotel zone. Nightclub is lively, expensive, and more formal than most. Offers the latest in sound and light show. Cover charge of US $15 per person. 322-46990. Club Roxy. Vallarta 217 at Madero. Live blues and rock music nightly 9 pm-1 am. Popular club with great atmosphere that attracts locals and tourists. Happy hour 7-9 pm. No cover charge. 322-32404. Collage. At Calle Proa S/N Marinia. Popular dance club and entertainment center. 322-10505. El Torito. Vallarta 290 at Carranza Bar. Sports-theme bar with satellite TV coverage of every sport from soccer to football. Hard Rock Cafe. Located near the Malecon at Calle Gustavio Diaz Ordaz. The young and trendy enjoy this spot. Live rock music Thu-Tue at 10:30 pm. No cover charge. 322-25532. J & B Disco. Salsa and merengue dancing music. Very popular with local residents. 322-44616. Kahlua. 120 Pulpito on the Malecon. Bar and disco. LA Piano Bar. 220 Constitution, about two blocks south of the market Rizos. Traditional Mexican music with local singers. "LA" stands for the names of the owners. Mexican Fiesta. Krystal Hotel every Tue, Thu, and Sat 7-10 pm. Cover US $40. Considered one of the best in town. Mogambo. On the Malecon. Jazz music Tue-Sun 10:30 pm. 322-22486. Movimento. 666 Morelos. Bar and disco. 322-32994. Navigante. Hotel Rio. 10 pm nightly jazz music. No Name Cafe. Located near the Malecon. No cover charge. 322-32508. Senior Frogs. V. Carranza 218 Olas Altas. Live music Tue-Sun 9:30-11:30 pm. 322-25171. The Jazz House. Rodríguez at Olas Altas. Jazz music. Serves good food. Zoo. Located near the Malecon. Techno-beat, rock, and reggae into the early morning. No cover charge. 322-24945.
U.S. citizens are entitled to a US $400 duty-free exemption after being away for 48 hours. Your allowance may include one quart of liquor per adult. In addition to your exemption, you have the privilege of mailing gift parcels to friends and relatives limited to US $50 per day. The shopping in Puerto Vallarta is outstanding, with traditional market stalls, designer boutiques, fine art galleries, and handicrafts from every corner of Mexico. The best local-made finds include yarn-and-bead creations of the Huichol, fine art, silver, pottery, wrought iron, and tequila. A municipal market (located between Calles Matamoros and Miramar, near the bridge) is bulging with Mexican crafts. You will also find a couple of air-conditioned malls on the road to the airport. Business hours are Mon-Sat 8 am-11 pm and 2-6 pm. Most stores close during the middle of the day.
JEWELRY
Joyas Finas Suneson. Beautifully designed and crafted sterling silver jewelry and decorative items. 593 Morelos. 322-25715. Ric. Carefully crafted and unusual silver jewelry from Taxco. Two locations: Pueblo Viejo Shopping Center. 322-30143. Villa Vallarta Shopping Center. 322-44598. Tane. A branch of Mexico's most prestigious silversmith. Sterling silver jewelry, tableware, and art objects. Camino Real Hotel. 322-30124. HANDICRAFTS/ANTIQUES
Alfareria Tlaquepaque. Sells native art and pottery from Guadalajara's famous crafts center. 1100 Av. Mexico. 322-20488. Arte Magico Huichol. Items made by the Huichol tribe, natives of the states of Jalisco and Nayarit. Features masks, yarn-and-bead-paintings, clothing, and accessories. 164 Corona. 322-24210. El Baul. Unique selection of furniture, antique replicas, handwoven fabrics, rugs, handcarved woods, paintings, and pottery. 558 Morelos. 322-30169. Bazar Galeria. Pre-Hispanic-style ceramics of Mano Mono. The works of several fine Mexican and Latin American artists. 685 Morelos. No phone. Brooks de Gooyer. Works by Latin American and Mexican artists in a colonial-style home featuring a sculpture garden 589 Morelos. 322-21982. La Coleccion. Unusual jewelry and handpainted wearable art, accessories, ceramics, stained glass lamps, and masks. 263 Juarez. 322-20290. La Coleccion de Sergio Bustamante. Whimsical animal sculptures and jewelry. 275 Juarez. No phone. La Fiesta. A large supermarket of crafts with something for everyone. Villa Vallarta Shopping Center. 322-46116. Galeria Indigena. Masks, sculptures, yarn-and-bead art of Huichol, pre-Hispanic reproductions, lacquerware, and engraved gourds. 168 Av. Juarez. 322-23007. Galeria Pacifico. Works of fine artists of Latin America and Mexico. 109 Insurgentes. 322-22748. Galeria Uno. A selection of paintings and sculpture by Mexican and foreign artists. In a classic home, the gallery is a showplace. 561 Morelos. 322-20908. Galeria Vallarta. Handicrafts store located in La Coleccion. The gallery features fine art. 263 Av. Juarez. 322-20290. Majolica. Distinctive Talavera pottery with intricate patterns and brilliant colors. 191 Corona. 322-24518. El Patio. Mexican antiques. Items include wrought iron, ceramics, and wood items. Attractive woven bedspreads. 169 Corona at Morelos. 322-22626. Querubines. A variety of folk art, native hand-embroidered clothing, and rustic furniture. Juarez and Galeana. 322-23475. CLOTHING/LEATHER GOODS
Aca Joe. Casual sports wear featuring tank tops and T-shirts. 588 Paseo Diaz Ordaz, facing the bay. 322-22454. Huaracheria Lety. Huaraches (sandals) are a Puerto Vallarta specialty. Here you may order custom-made sandals. A craftsman cuts the leather to fit your feet and sandals are ready for pick-up in 24 hours. Cost is US $15. 472 Juarez. 322-21417. Maria de Guadalajara. Easy-to-wear cotton dresses in soft earth tones and pastels. 550 Morelos. (No phone). Nelly's. Resort wear. A variety of hand-embroidered dresses inspired by traditional Mexican costumes. Fiesta American Hotel. 322-42010. Rolling Stones. Leather boots and accessories. 525 Morelos. 322-22658. Suceso. Handpainted fabrics and trendy designs. Two locations: 233 Libertad and Hidalgo. 322-21001. Los Arcos Hotel. 322-21583.
The unit of currency is the Mexican peso. The exchange rate against the American dollar fluctuates often. But you will find that the continued strength of the American dollar results in great values in Mexico. Major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. You can exchange money easily at the airport, hotel, banks, or exchange bureaus. Your best rates will usually be at banks, which are open Mon-Fri 9 am-1 pm.
When calling the United States, the rates from your hotel will be very high due to the luxury taxes charged on calls. Even if you plan on using a calling card, the hotel will charge a service fee. If you need an AT&T operator, call 95-800-462-4240. Another option is to purchase a Telmex calling card, which you may use for designated phones in most hotels and at the airport.
Climate
Puerto Vallarta has an average daily high temperature in the 80s year round and nightly lows in the 50s. This Mexican Village receives about 21 inches of rain annually and most of the rain comes during the summer in the middle of the afternoon, which often cools the air for evening activities. Puerto Vallarta is at the same parallel as the Hawaiian Islands-so the weather is similar.
Time ZonePuerto Vallarta is on Pacific Standard Time all year and does observe Daylight Savings Time.
RENTAL CARS
Driving in and around Puerto Vallarta is easier than other metro areas of Mexico. But many of the streets in town are narrow, cobblestone, and congested as the main north-south highway is the only one along the coast. About two-thirds of the city is on the northern side, near the hotels. Unless you plan on exploring areas away from this strip, consider whether you really need to bother with a rental car.
In Puerto Vallarta, the roads generally are in good condition. However, in more rural areas, the routes have heavy truck and bus traffic. Other areas have poor or nonexistent shoulders or have animals on the loose. Rural areas may also have few options for fuel or auto repair shops.
The insurance standards in Mexico are different from those in the United States. Car rental contracts in Mexico only provide nominal liability coverage, often as little as US $200. Mexican law permits the jailing of drivers after an accident until they have met their obligations to third parties and to the rental company. Read the contract carefully and purchase additional liability and comprehensive insurance if necessary.
In Mexico, drivers may come across military and law enforcement checkpoints. Authorities may be checking for narcotics and firearms traffic. The checkpoint may be manned by either a uniformed officer or plainclothes officer. Sometimes the checkpoints have spiked devices that deflate tires of vehicles that attempt to evade the checkpoints.
Pemex is the only brand of fuel sold in Mexico. Gasoline is sold in liters (about 3.7 liters to one gallon). Most rental car agencies are located at the airport and will deliver a car to your hotel.
National; 322-20515
(Ambassadair members receive a special discount up to 20 percent off rental cars).
BUSESPuerto Vallarta provides reliable and affordable public bus service. Buses regularly run the entire length of town from the airport on the north to Playa del Sol on the south. The one-way fare is US 60 cents. The bus drivers will not accept American money. The bus stops are located along the main road that runs north and south through the downtown area. Use the buses marked "Centro" to make your way to and from downtown.
TAXIS
Taxis are widely available in Puerto Vallarta. The taxis are not metered and the rates are fixed. The fees are posted at most hotels. The average fare to go into town from the hotel strip is about US $3 one way. Travel Directors recommend that you agree on the price before getting in. Ask a bellman prior to seeking a taxi what the usual rate is to your destination.
WATER TAXIS
Boat transportation is available to take you to a beach that is off the beaten path or a sunset cruise. Prices vary from US $20 to $55 per person. The Sarape departs every morning for Yelapa. This three-hour excursion returns about 4 pm. (322-10262 or 322-10415.) The Cielito Lindo offers a daily tour around the bay, stopping at Los Arcos for 30 minutes. (322-24646.) The Bora Bora offers day cruises to Playa Las Animas. (322-43680.) Simpatico takes passengers to Los Arcos and Las Animas with stops for swimming and snorkeling. (322-40102 or 322-40920.) Schedules vary with season. Some tours include food and drinks.
During the day, dress in lightweight sport and casual clothing. Puerto Vallarta is informal. Swimwear is seen in and around the resort areas, but people usually do not wear swimsuits away from the beach. Dress is almost always informal.
WOMEN. Women wear casual shirts, shorts, skirts, Capri pants, sundresses, gym shoes, sandals, and swimwear. You will want to add a sweater or jacket if you are heading for a sunset cruise.
MEN. Men favor casual shirts, shorts, slacks, gym shoes, sandals, and swim trunks.
Mexico uses 110 volt, 60 cycles, AC for its electricity, which is the same as in the United States. Your American appliances will work in Puerto Vallarta hotels. However, three-prong outlets are not as widely available as they are in the United States, so an adapter is a good idea.
Entering the Country. Proof of citizenship and a photo ID are required for U.S. visitors. You will need either a valid passport or driver's license and government-issued birth certificate. Plus you will need to present a return ticket. If you do not have the proper proof of citizenship, you will be denied boarding. If the name on your birth certificate is different than the legal name you have on your photo ID, then you will need a copy of the legal document that shows the reason for the name change. For example, bring a copy of marriage license
The official language is Spanish. English is widely spoken. Ambassadair Travel Club publishes a handy Spanish phrase booklet with some commonly used words. These books are available from your Travel Director during your vacation at no extra charge.
In travel to Mexico, the U.S. Public Health Services advises diphtheria and tetanus shots. Children should be inoculated against measles, mumps, rubella, and polio.
In jungle areas, the bites of some insects can transmit chagas disease, malaria, and yellow fever. Use a strong insect repellent. Antimalarial tablets and a yellow fever inoculation are advisable if you intend on spending time in a jungle area.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, it is possible to suffer lead poisoning if you consume food or beverages that have been stored or served in improperly glazed ceramic ware. Analysis of many ceramic pieces from Mexico have shown them to contain dangerous levels of lead. Unless you have proof of their safety, use glazed ceramics purchased in Mexico for decorative purposes only.
The water in Puerto Vallarta is considered very safe. The public water supply here has been certified for four consecutive years for superior cleanliness. It is reported to be safe to drink water in the local restaurants, hotels, and shops. However, if you have ever suffered a reaction to water in Mexico, it is always best to drink bottled water.
Use plenty of sunscreen. Skin cancer is a risk after overexposure to the sun. You should also guard against sunstroke by wearing a hat and limiting your time in the sun.
Copyright © 2005
Ambassadair Travel Club
