Charming Puerto Vallarta

My return to Puerto Vallarta and Los Muertos beach was long overdue after an extended absence of more than a quarter of a century. Things have changed vastly with sprawling development and the emergence of a substantial Canadian and American ex-pat community. There is a brand new pier on Los Muertos Beach which is definitely a hub of activity. It is a very modern structure and the jury is still out as to whether it is an enhancement to old town or just too modern to fit in. The pier does allow for spectacular views of the shoreline – especially at night with all of the city lights. Still much of the authentic Mexican charm remains making Puerto Vallarta one of the most popular destinations in Mexico and with good reason. Situated on the Pacific coast, the Puerto Vallarta area has magnificent beaches and perfect weather. No wonder there are so many repeat visitors to the area. Puerto Vallarta combines the relaxation of beach time with lots of fun activities. There is a wide range of options for accommodations (including hotels, condo rentals and all inclusive resorts) to be had at reasonable prices. If you are looking for dining and nightlife in Puerto Vallarta you will not be disappointed. Stroll along the ocean front in the “Romantic Zone” for the seaside dining options with their magnificent views, beautiful lighting creating romantic ambiance and often live music to dine by. Or head to the Basilio Badillo (restaurant row) or Olas Altas Street area for Mexican food and international cuisine There are restaurants for all tastes including French, Italian, German, Argentinean, Chinese, Thai and of course, authentic Mexican food! For dancing and cocktails loads of bars and clubs that will keep you partying until the next day, if you choose. For the late night parties head over to the Malecón for live bands and dancing. On Saturdays, enjoy the street markets on Basilio Badillo and The Paradise Community Centre to purchase food products and artisan creations. Have lunch at the food court at Nacho Daddy’s for a sampling of the local restaurants. Take a stroll down the Malecón at any time of day. A paved walkway all along the shore of downtown Puerto Vallarta, it's a very popular place to go as you can enjoy shopping, restaurants and people watching. In the morning, you can enjoy a quiet stroll, enjoying the ocean air before the heat of the daytime sun. And then again in the evening, stroll the Malecón with crowds of tourists and locals, while watching street buskers perform as pantomime statues playing chess, dressed as mermaids and Neptune. Or take in a cultural show at the Plaza de Armas Amphitheater (Los Arcos). This is the city's main plaza and the site of many public concerts. Explore the numerous sculptures by famous artists, including In Search of Reason (ladder) by Bustamante, The Rotunda of the Sea (chairs) by Colunga. They range from traditional to modern are interesting to view. Walk up from the Malecón for a visit to the Parish Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe and then continue to explore the residential neighbourhoods up the hill (including the Gringo Gulch area where Elizabeth Taylor’s once impressive home stands in a condition of decay). Here you will see a mixture of magnificent houses as well as places in near ruin. Views from higher up are spectacular. The Mexican flare and disorganized nature of this area showcases a charm beyond expectation. Strolling on Isle Cuale (Island on the centrally located Cuale River) provides a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of Puerto Vallarta with its tree lined banks. Look up to spot tropical birds and iguanas in the trees. For the shoppers, there are two large public markets along the banks of the Cuale selling a variety of artisan and souvenir goods as well as souvenir shops. The commercial areas near Constitucion and Insurgentes Streets provide a glimpse into the small business charm of Puerto Vallarta. You will find the tiniest shops nestled in any available nook squeezed between two larger businesses, or someone that opens a door in their home to create a lunch or coffee take out counter during the day. If you have a watch needing repair, stop by and have it repaired by a man standing on the Cuale River Bridge. Line up with the locals and buy some tortillas as hot and fresh from the conveyor belt and then line up for fresh fish and sea food. Such is the charm and beauty of Mexico. If you are looking for more tranquility while still enjoying the charms of Mexico, hop a bus to the marina and enjoy strolling past the yachts while dreaming of winning the lottery! Then dine in one of the many quality restaurants of the area. There are many day trips to take from Puerto Vallarta including the beach village of Bucerias and the remote village of Yelapa which is available only by water taxi. Transportation is easy to access with inexpensive local buses and water taxis that can be caught at the new pier on Los Muertos Beach or at nearby Boca de Tomatlan. It looks like I will need to return to Puerto Vallarta to continue to explore more! Here are some of my favourite images! Click on the first image to enlarge it & scroll.