Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Go North, Puerto Vallarta Visitor

Ask anyone who has visited Puerto Vallarta about recreational sand, and they’re certain to talk about Los Muertos. After all, it’s the city’s waterfront centerpiece. From beach clubs to al fresco cafes, it’s the main beach scene, and it’s where people go to be seen. When you’ve been in town more than a few days, however, you might find yourself longing for something a bit less “happening,” something that’s more in keeping with the quietly sophisticated ambience of your villa Puerto Vallarta.
Once you have satisfied your need to commune with huge numbers of nearly naked partiers, you can take a look at some of the other beaches that line Banderas Bay. There are plenty of good places to spread a towel along the bay north of your villa Puerto Vallarta – you simply need to take some time to determine what you want from your sandy encounters. Are you looking for surfing? It’s out there. Do you want something low-key and romantic? They’ve got it. Here are a few recommendations to get you started:
1. Playa Dorada is the rocky strip that separates the Malecón from the bay. Although most people look for a different beach when they want a spot where they can sun and splash, Playa Dorada is just fine when you’re looking for a place to take off your sandals and kick up some water.
2. Playa el Salada, at the very farthest north part of town (between the big new hotels and the water), is a large, clean chunk of sand.
3. Playa Bucerias, in the little town of Bucerias, is a delightful beach for swimming (the water is usually pretty calm here) and for sunning. A number of restaurants line up along the beach so you won’t want for something to eat or drink.
4. Destiladeras Beach, north of town, is a shallow shelf beach, really nice for swimming (it’s also a good place to take your boogie board). You won’t feel overwhelmed by the number of people, especially if you wander away from the city end of the beach. This is a nice one for taking a stroll, and you can find a bit of privacy when you want it. Catch the Punta Mita bus from the Walmart.
5. Sayulita Beach is the place to go if you want good surfing. You can get there on the Sayulita bus and stay all day – eat, drink, surf, and return to your villa Puerto Vallarta exhausted but happy.

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Manners Matter in Puerto Vallarta

How many times have you earned a smack on the back of the head for doing something that was less than suave and sophisticated? Good manners matter, no matter where you are, and that’s an important fact to keep in mind as you take off for your Mexico vacation. The folks you meet, starting with the staff in most vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta, will appreciate your efforts to handle every-day encounters with grace and courtesy.
As you make your way around town, you’ll be glad you managed to pick up bits and pieces of good manners from your parents, friends and acquaintances. You may be a bit challenged at first, however, when you discover that acceptable behaviors are not universal. It’s unusual for vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta to provide a list of “best behavior practices,” so you’ll need to watch and learn.
A few tips up front may help. For instance, it’s wise to mind your posture – don’t slump or park your hands on your hips, and don’t force eye contact. Address the local people you meet as Señor, Señora, or Señorita (Sir, Ma’am and Miss). Be generous when leaving a tip – wages in this part of the world aren’t the best. And remember to say “please” (por favor) and “thank you” (gracias).