Puerto Vallarta Villa Rental

Go North, Puerto Vallarta Visitor

2011-06-08T21:26:00.000-07:00

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.

Manners Matter in Puerto Vallarta

2011-06-04T01:03:00.000-07:00

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).

Puerto Vallarta Water-Worth Saving

2011-05-29T21:47:00.000-07:00

It can be a serious intellectual challenge for some folks to catch on to the fact that water is a scarce resource in Mexico. After all, you stand in the sand on Los Muertos beach, gazing out over Banderas Bay, and it seems to spill over the horizon, and closer to home, the pool in your Puerto Vallarta villa rental beckons invitingly. Still, try to remember that water is something you should use wisely.
“What gives?” you wonder; there’s water in the bay, water in the Rio Cuale and the Mascota River. There are swimming pools and water fountains in every patio and courtyard. And perhaps that’s the point – it seems to be everywhere, but water is Mexico’s scarce resource. An adequate supply of clean water for the future is not a sure thing. So, as you enjoy the good life in your Puerto Vallarta villa rental, do some small things to help out.

1. Take a shorter shower and turn off the tap when you brush your teeth.

2. Turn the water taps off firmly – those little drips can add up to lots of water down the drain.

3. Cover the pool and hot tub at your Puerto Vallarta villa rental when you leave to prevent water loss through evaporation.

Do a Day in Puerto Vallarta

2011-05-23T04:50:00.000-07:00

Granted, it’s a ridiculous exercise – who in their right mind plans to visit Puerto Vallarta for a single day? That’s it – one day, no more – then out. While this scenario may never happen, yet you might be tempted to “do” the city in a day, then spend the rest of your holiday knocking around in one of those posh villa rentals Mexico.
If you plan to spend the bulk of your time hanging out on your own pool patio, sipping mojitos under your own palapa (these are the things villa rentals Mexico are famous for), take one day and visit these attractions so you have pictures of something other than your own sunburn to share with those you left behind.
1. The Malecón is one of the most fashionable places in the city for taking a stroll. The open-air sculpture garden features work by international artists, well worth a visit.
2. Visit the island in the Rio Cuale. Here, you can cool your jets with the iguanas, the original kicked-back greenies, or you can shop till you drop in the stalls of the local flea market. Either way, lots of fun.
3. Walk on Los Muertos beach – the most trendy beach in town and a local gathering spot.

When in Puerto Vallarta, Start the Day the Mexican Way

2011-05-12T00:34:00.000-07:00

Remember the good old days, when you mom went to great lengths to get you to eat breakfast, that fabled “most important meal of the day.” Well, cowboy, the facts that you’re on vacation, that you’re living in a luxurious Puerto Vallarta villa, and that you danced last night until the roosters started to crow this morning doesn’t mean you get to skip el desayuno (how the locals refer to the MIMotD).

And really, when you learn what’s on the menu, you’re not going to want to miss one delicious bite. Say, for example, that your night involved both dancing and adult beverages, and you’re feeling just a bit shaky on your hind legs. Go for a continental breakfast, complete with locally roasted coffee, fresh squeezed orange juice and some Mexican sweet bread (if you’re feeling strong, try a dash of cinnamon in that coffee).

When you wake up with a huge appetite, no doubt the chef at your Puerto Vallarta villa will offer you a breakfast to rival the best. Again, expect the OJ and coffee – they’re staples of a good Mexican breakfast. Add to that a breakfast platter heaped with tortillas, chorizo (sausage), refritos and huevos (eggs). And best of all, it’s available with a side of sunrise.

Sunset on Banderas Bay

2011-05-09T02:41:00.000-07:00

Mother Nature seems to have done her level best to create as much natural beauty around Banderas Bay as a guy can handle in a lifetime. The resort city of Puerto Vallarta tucks into the curve of the bay, the green jungle climbs the mountains east of town, and the bay itself is the glittering centerpiece of the whole thing. And many of the loveliest villa rentals Mexico in Puerto Vallarta are designed to take full advantage of the views, which means they’re ideal spots for sunset watchers.

For many of us, sunset is a particularly romantic and magical time of day – the sun paints vivid colors on the; the water of the bay is transformed to an inky blue; and twinkling lights pop out all over the city to make up for evening’s growing darkness. Sunset fans can find a variety of ring-side seats around town, starting with those villa rentals Mexico on the hill. Here are a few others:

1. Le Kliff and El Faro Lighthouse Bar both offer an elevated vantage point, and good drinks, as well.
2. The bay itself offers a couple of options: it’s hard to get closer than a blanket on the beach, and a sunset cruise on the bay puts you front and center.

Sample Puerto Vallarta’s Adult Beverages

2011-05-01T23:48:00.000-07:00

While ultimate relaxation is the name of the game, you certainly don’t want to spend your entire Mexican holiday “three sheets to the wind,” as they say – there are simply too many things to see and do. Still, with its sunny days and ocean breezes, it’s a made-to-order location when you want to try out new and exotic adult beverages on the beach or on the pool deck of your villa rental Puerto.

For those who are mostly strangers to the vast offerings of tropical alcoholic beverages, a sampler prepared by the chef or one of the staff at your villa rental Puerto Vallarta might be the best way to learn what you like and what you really like. Some of the most popular local concoctions include tequila (it’s local and it packs a wallop) or rum, and favorite drinks include the margarita, the mojito and iced cerveza.

Once you’ve identified your favorite, step out and see how the local bartenders do things. Visitors say that Joe Jack’s Fish Shack is the place to go for double-shot mojitos (they do two-fers, which is only a bargain if you’re enjoying these with a friend). Café Roma, at Encino 287, serves the coldest beer. And Cheeky Monkey offers $1 margaritas (go easy on those, cowboy).

Puerto Vallarta’s Mata Ortiz Galleries

2011-04-14T05:17:00.000-07:00

Many people, when they picture Mexican pottery in their heads, imagine heavy pieces hand-painted in bright colors – in fact, many a villa Puerto Vallarta features delightful pieces that add warmth and charm to the place. Artists in the pueblo (town) of Mata Ortiz go a different way with their distinctive work. Mata Ortiz potters draw on traditions from ancient pottery styles and introduce a modern flair to create some of the loveliest pieces you can find (and lucky you if you find examples of their work in your villa Puerto Vallarta).

These artists have been working their magic in clay in a small town not far from the international boundary between Texas, USA and Chihuahua, Mexico for decades, although they showed up on the art world’s radar in the mid 1970s. Mata Ortiz potters start their pots with coils of locally-produced clay, and each piece is created by hand rather than with a potter’s wheel. You can find examples of their exquisite work for sale at two different galleries in Puerto Vallarta: the Mata Ortiz Pottery Gallery at Lazaro Cardenas 268A and the Galeria de Ollas, at Corona 176. Each unique piece has its own personality, so when you go pot hunting, discover the one that touches you most.

Golf Vista Vallarta

2011-04-04T10:52:00.000-07:00

Fans of professional golf are forced to seek out other diversions (NASCAR, futbol, roller derby) during that bleak period when one Tour season ends and the next has yet to begin. Folks who like to get out there and swing their own club, on the other hand, are rarely faced with that challenge, particularly when they’re staying in a villa rental Puerto Vallarta – it’s always golf season on Banderas Bay. You’ll find plenty of excellent golf courses in and around town, mostly around the north end of the bay. They’re close enough to your villa rental Puerto Vallarta that you can enjoy 18 holes and still be home in time for dinner. The two courses at Vista Vallarta, Vista Vallarta Nicklaus and Vista Vallarta Weiskopf, are among the most popular. The courses are sit in the foothills above the city and offer commanding views of Banderas Bay. Naturally, yours isn’t a sight-seeing excursion – you’re in it for the golf, and these two courses will give you all that you can manage. Each course was designed by its golf pro namesake, and each is ranked among the Top 10 Golf Courses in Mexico. Ask the staff at your villa rental Puerto Vallarta if you’re eligible for discounted greens fees.

Small Bites of Puerto Vallarta

2011-04-03T23:18:00.000-07:00

It’s a standard question, posed by nearly every server in every restaurant you visit (and perhaps by the chef at your villa Puerto Vallarta): “Would you like to start off with something special before you order your meal?” It is an invitation to take a hard look at the hors d’oeuvres list and select something that’s small and yummy and guaranteed to pique your appetite. In Mexico, whether you’re sitting in the kitchen at your villa Puerto Vallarta or your favorite beachfront café or one of the city’s most elegant restaurants, they’re called tapas, and you can make an entire meal of them. We’re not talking chips and salsa, here – serious tapas look a bit like lovely, tasty mini-meals. If you need further convincing, pay a visit to Barcelona Tapas, located downtown at the corner of Matamoros and de Octubre. These folks have a menu of tapas that will make your head spin. You can choose cold or hot dishes, dishes that feature cheeses and seafood and chicken – the list goes on and on. The selection is so big, in fact, that the kind folks at Barcelona Tapas have created the “Chef’s Surprise Tasting Menu,” a combination of hots, colds and sweets, to break the ice.

A Lesson in Puerto Vallarta Geography

2011-03-20T23:54:00.000-07:00

Now that you’ve told everyone you know that you’ll soon be kicking back in a villa Puerto Vallarta, the questions are starting to roll in: how big is the villa? How many bedrooms (any extra)? How close to the beach? Where is Puerto Vallarta? You have answers ready: the villa’s huge; it has five bedrooms (all claimed); you can see the beach from the balcony; and it’s in Mexico – duh!

Here’s the thing – Mexico is big and you’ll sound smarter if you can actually identify some of the particulars about your destination. Tell your friends that you’ll be staying in a villa Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco, Mexico, the sixth largest state in that nation. It’s pretty much central to Mexico in a north-south sense, and its western boundary is the Pacific Ocean - that beach you see from your balcony.

Jalisco is actually kind of a big deal. Guadalajara, the capital city, is second in size only to Mexico City. The state has the fourth largest population in the country. It is the home of Mexico’s largest natural lake, Lake Chalapa.

A bit closer to home, or at least closer to your villa Puerto Vallarta, Banderas Bay, the largest natural bay in Mexico, glitters all along the edge of the city. And the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range rises up behind the city.

For further information on villa rentals Mexico or Puerto Vallarta Villa please visit www.villaencantada.com

Clean Up in Puerto Vallarta

2011-02-15T10:32:00.000-08:00

It’s a sad reality that dirty laundry happens even (or perhaps especially) when you’re enjoying a few days in the sun on Mexico’s Banderas Bay. Of course, you can remain in your Puerto Vallarta villa, discretely hidden from prying eyes, and spend your days and nights au natural, as they say. While this strategy has some merit, it will prevent you from fully enjoying your stay – in other words, no beach volleyball, no zip line tours, no karaoke at Carlos O’Brien’s.

A more realistic approach to the laundry issue might involve scheduling a brief time-out for a trip to the lavandería, or laundromat. You can find a good facility at 289 Francisco Madero. (Note: if your Puerto Vallarta villa has laundry facilities, your friendly staff can probably teach you to use the machines in short order, and they may even volunteer to do the job themselves.)

You’ll have your best results if you acknowledge from the start that this isn’t your regular stomping ground and ask someone in the know for advice. For instance, laundry detergents in Mexico tend to be somewhat less forgiving that what you may be used to, so don’t overdo it or your favorite red dress may come out in shades of pink.

Tropical Fish in Banderas Bay

2010-12-29T01:42:00.000-08:00

Among the more enjoyable pursuits you can enjoy when you visit Mexico is the opportunity to become acquainted with the natural residents of the area – the kind that walk on four legs, hop about on tree branches, and swim in Banderas Bay. In fact, you’ve probably seen their pictures as you search for vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta. Once you get to town, keep your eyes open for these colorful guys.

You’ll find plenty of color and variety on the ground and in the air, and you certainly don’t want to overlook our finny friends (not to be confused with our friends from Finland) as you take stock of local wildlife. They may not be visible from the patios of vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta, but they’re out there just the same, and you can slip into a mask and fins for a personal encounter.

>> For color, you probably won’t find a fish more striking than the Cortez Angelfish. These attractive yellow and black lovelies are said to take only one mate.
>> Watch for the fancy, D-shaped trailing crest and alternating black and yellow bands of the Moorish Idol. It’s a one-of-a-kind and not always easy to spot, as they tend to be loners.
>> Rays are totally cool – gentle and shy and tons of fun to watch.

You’re Good to Go in Puerto Vallarta

2010-12-22T20:16:00.000-08:00

By now, you most likely have put together an exhaustive list of activities to while away the hours of your stay in Puerto Vallarta. And you have probably come to realize that your list, while lengthy, doesn’t begin to cover all the things that visitors enjoy during a vacation on the shores of Banderas Bay. While it may not top your list, you won’t want to miss an opportunity to celebrate your legs with a bit of Puerto Vallarta hiking.
For our purposes here, a hike is perhaps somewhat different from a walk. Naturally, you can walk along the Malecón; you can walk on los Muertos beach; you can walk to the next tee at the Paradise Village El Tigre golf course. Puerto Vallarta hiking is a bit different than those worthy, but more town focused, work-outs.
You’ll find a number of opportunities to hike, and each requires a different level of skill and exertion. For example, you can slip on your 5-fingers (they’re shoes) and hike from los Muertos Beach to Conchas Chinas Beach on the trail that climbs over the hill. Or you can set out on a longer and more daring trip from Boca de Tomatlán to Colomitos Beach – this one may test your legs and your lungs!

Cool Green in Puerto Vallarta

2010-12-21T12:44:00.000-08:00

When you make plans to spend your vacation in Puerto Vallarta, there are a few standard attractions you can look forward to: a day or two spent playing at the beach; time passed wandering through shops and galleries in town; and an endless parade of drinks and meals, followed by more drinks with perhaps some tapas. Visitors set out from villa rentals Mexico every day with a full schedule.

The action, the jewelry and big hats, the margaritas and fresh sea food probably ought to send a little tickle of anticipation up your spine. It’s not a problem if all that running, dancing and feasting sends you running for cover – lots of folks stay in villa rentals Mexico for the express purpose of enjoying some quiet moments. And there’s no better place than the Puerto Vallarta Botanical Garden.

You’ll find this gem a few miles south of town on Highway 200 between Puerto Vallarta and El Tuito. Whether you drive, share a taxi ride with friends or take a bus, you’re sure to enjoy the extensive collection, which includes jungle trails and colorful tropical birds. Spend time in the tree fern garden, enjoy the orchid house, and maybe cool off in the little creek that runs by.

Goin' Boating in Puerto Vallarta

2010-12-16T10:05:00.001-08:00

You’re going to wake up one of these mornings, step out on the balcony of your Puerto Vallarta villa, and hear Banderas Bay calling. From that moment, you’ll be driven to get out there on the water and explore it for yourself. This particular call of the wet won’t be satisfied by a spin on a tour boat – you want to feel the bay in a serious way. You can satisfy this need in a variety of ways that range from extremely simplistic (some might say child-like) to complicated.

Commandeer an inflatable mattress (you might find one in a closet at the Puerto Vallarta villa) and set sail from the beach. This is good fun so long as you stay in relatively shallow water: the waves will play with your raft, and you’ll be relatively safe.

Rent a sea kayak and explore a bit more of the rocky coastline. This is a great way to get an upper-body workout, especially if you don’t plan to get too far away from dry land.

Hire a boat and captain to take you out on the bay. This is likely to work out best for you if you talk directly with the boat’s captain to learn exactly what he can and cannot do for you.

World-wide Arts in Puerto Vallarta

2010-12-07T11:55:00.000-08:00

Many connoisseurs of the fine arts think of Puerto Vallarta’s impressive array of art galleries as collections that feature tomorrow’s great masterpieces. Puerto Vallarta enjoys a growing and glowing reputation as a center for the fine arts, and you don’t have to wander far from your Mexico vacation villa rental to find a gallery that features work by artists from around the globe.

If you have a fondness for unique items that don’t necessarily reside in a frame, take a few hours away from your Mexico vacation villa rental and see what’s afoot at these artistic hot spots:

Galeria Alpacora, at Ignatio Vallarta 232, offers a varied and ecclectic selection of items from a number of countries in South America, including Peruvian textiles and works in Mexican copper.

Galeria International, at Marina Las Palmas 1 L8 in Marina Vallarta, features a strong selection of work from Africa. You can select basketry created by Zulu artisans, jewelry and cutlery in copper from South Africa, and sculpture crafted in Zimbabwe.

Keep it local with stained glass creations done by craftsmen at the Galeria EM La Marina. Also located in Marina Vallarta, you’ll find them at Marina Las Palma 2 L17.

Work Your Puerto Vallarta Spanish

2010-12-05T15:43:00.000-08:00

Here’s an idea (in case you feel a need to justify your Puerto Vallarta holiday) – explain to your curious friends and relations that you’ll be staying in a Mexico vacation villa rental as part of your “total immersion” Spanish language learning program. It’s not really a stretch of the truth, since the staff at your villa can surely give you a lesson or two.

Still, if you feel you need to demonstrate to those you left behind that you are a person of your word, you can always do something a bit more formal than the “Breakfast table Spanish at the Mexico vacation villa rental” program. A number of schools in Puerto Vallarta offer organized instruction in the Spanish language (be advised that time spent in the classroom may cut into the glorious time you planned to spend on the beach).

There are other ways to brush up on your Spanish skills, especially if you have some familiarity with the language to begin with. For example, you can try to locate a karaoke bar that offers song lyrics in Spanish, or you can touch base with a dance instructor and take Salsa lessons – in Spanish. Finally, when you need a bit of redemption, you can choose a church service offered in Spanish.

Get Your Burger on in Puerto Vallarta

2010-11-17T04:46:00.000-08:00

While sitting down to a juicy burger might not be at the top of the “to do” list for some Puerto Vallarta guests, it’s still a worthy ambition. After all, it can be tough to explain to one the chefs who prepare masterpiece meals in most villa rentals Mexico that all you want is a thick slab of ground beef with some pickles and ketchup.
There are a number of eateries in town that can set you up with your dream meal, and maybe a ball game or football match, as well. And your fancy eating friends back in their villa rentals Mexico never need to know.
In el Centro, Dick’s Halfway Inn Bar and Grill offers a menu that is a hamburger lover’s delight. You can get a burger with bacon, a burger with mushrooms, a burger with bourbon barbecue sauce . . . aaaah. They’re waiting for you at Basilio Badillo 287.
If you’re looking for an all-American, “fans’ night out” experience, Steve’s Sports Bar and Grill is a good place to start. They have burgers, they have fries, they have cold beer, and they have NASCAR. It just doesn’t get any more down home than that. You probably can see the place from Dick’s.

Puerto Vallarta by Bus

2010-11-16T00:55:00.000-08:00

It may seem a little counter-intuitive to enjoy life’s luxuries in a villa rental Puerto Vallarta and to get around town by local bus. After all, you’re living a life of elegance and style, and you’re not entirely certain your elevated digs shouldn’t rule out walking on your own hind legs to the beach or to El Centro. And a bus ride can seem so . . . common.
There are several good reasons to see the area around Banderas Bay by bus. First of all, a bus ride is very affordable, and you on the bus says, “Yes, I have a villa rental Puerto Vallarta, and I’m smart about money, too!”
Second, one bus or another can take you just about any place in the area that you have a fancy to visit. They go to the north end of the bay and Sayulita where some of the best surfing is. They go southward to Mismaloya and the beaches there (las Gemelas, Mismaloya and Boca de Tomatlan).
In town, a few pesos will take you just about everywhere you want to go. You can bus to the Malecon, to the Rio Cuale, to Walmart and Sam’s Club (if you must). The sports stadium and the Plaza de Toros are accessible by bus.

A Beachy Day North of Puerto Vallarta

2010-11-12T06:57:00.000-08:00

You can always find a pleasant way to pass time when you’re on holiday in Puerto Vallarta – greet the morning with coffee and fresh-squeezed orange juice on the balcony, wander down to los Muertos beach for some sun, then cruise over to the Malecón and watch the human parade pass by. It’s not exactly tough duty, particularly for visitors who stay in villa rentals Puerto Vallarta.

After a couple of days spent in these lovely leisurely pursuits, you may discover that you’re ready to spread your water wings and try something new. It’s time for you to shake the sand of the city’s beaches out of your swimming trunks and head north to get into some entirely new sand at Destiladeras Beach. It’s an easy trip from most villa rentals Puerto Vallarta, just over half an hour on the bus to Punta Mita.

Spend a day at Destiladeras and get a totally new perspective on Banderas Bay. The beach seems like miles of perfect white sand, so much so, in fact, that you’ll feel like you have all the space in the world to stretch out. It’s a good beach to go wading because the sandy bottom comes up slowly. And if you’re an action figure, jump on your boogie board.

Puerto Vallarta’s Calle Zaragoza

2010-11-11T20:34:00.000-08:00

After several days of doing amazing things, eating unbelievable food and drinking in the round-the-clock action in Puerto Vallarta, the morning may dawn when you feel like you need something real. There is a neighborhood, probably a short walk from your Mexico vacation villa rental, that may be just the thing to bring a bit of sanity back to your holiday.
The Zaragoza neighborhood is genuine, home-town Puerto Vallarta. Families live there, real families with dogs and kids and roosters. People spend long evenings outdoors on their patios and balconies enjoying the cool night air and the congenial atmosphere (very much as you do at your Mexico vacation villa rental).
The area is a bit different today than it was, say, in the 1960s, when Elizabeth Taylor lived there. Yes, this is Gringo Gulch, so named for the fashionable crowds from north of the border who built stylish homes on the cobblestoned Calle Zaragoza. Many of them were designed by the same person who created sets for the film, Night of the Iguana.
The light comes on . . . Night of the Iguana featured the actor Richard Burton who fell in love with the actress Elizabeth Taylor and bought for her the Casa Kimberly on . . . Calle Zaragoza. It’s a small world, isn’t it?

More than One Beach in Puerto Vallarta

2010-11-09T08:46:00.000-08:00

Spend even a small amount of time in Puerto Vallarta and you’ll hear mention of Los Muertos beach – after all, it’s probably one of the most popular gathering places in town, south of El Centro. And if you’re staying in a Mexico vacation villa rental on the south side of town, it may well be the closest beach to your place. There are many other beaches in town, though, and most of them are open to the public.

One of the most visible beaches, although perhaps not as desirable for playing in the water, is Playa Dorada. This stretch separates the Malecón from Banderas Bay. It doesn’t offer the soft white sand of other beaches, and the water is a bit rougher here, so swimmers and beach volleyball addicts tend to frequent other spots. Still, sand sculpture artists of all ages think it’s just fine for their purposes.

You can enjoy soft sand between your toes if you wander a bit farther north of the Malecón, where a series of soft white beaches string along for a couple of miles. So grab your beach gear and take a cab from your Mexico vacation villa rental for a day at the beach away from Muertos.

Take a Breather in Puerto Vallarta

2010-11-01T12:45:00.000-07:00

Puerto Vallarta is one of North America’s most popular resort destinations, and you don’t have to look too hard to understand why. The hills and jungle east of the city offer a broad range of land adventures, from horseback journeys to zip line rides. Banderas Bay to the west offers fishing, boating, swimming, surfing – the list goes on. And then you have your luxurious villa Puerto Vallarta to return to every night. The constant activity can be exhausting.

There’s no question that the fun is all good, and there’s no question that you might occasionally feel a need to catch your breath. That’s just fine – it’s good to slow down and savor the experience. A solitary walk can be exactly what you need to get your feet back on the ground, and there are plenty of great places in town to walk.

For starters, why not walk from your villa Puerto Vallarta to el Centro or to Muertos beach? These are two worthy destinations, and you can use the quiet time to refresh you brain. Of course, Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of worthy walking experiences. A gentle stroll along the Malecon offers a cool blend of bay and city, with a touch of fine art. And the weekly art walk will help you develop culture as well as stamina.

Get Your Burger on in Puerto Vallarta

2010-11-01T03:37:00.000-07:00

While sitting down to a juicy burger might not be at the top of the “to do” list for some Puerto Vallarta guests, it’s still a worthy ambition. After all, it can be tough to explain to one the chefs who prepare masterpiece meals in most villa rentals Mexico that all you want is a thick slab of ground beef with some pickles and ketchup.
There are a number of eateries in town that can set you up with your dream meal, and maybe a ball game or football match, as well. And your fancy eating friends back in their villa rentals Mexico never need to know.
In el Centro, Dick’s Halfway Inn Bar and Grill offers a menu that is a hamburger lover’s delight. You can get a burger with bacon, a burger with mushrooms, a burger with bourbon barbecue sauce . . . aaaah. They’re waiting for you at Basilio Badillo 287.
If you’re looking for an all-American, “fans’ night out” experience, Steve’s Sports Bar and Grill is a good place to start. They have burgers, they have fries, they have cold beer, and they have NASCAR. It just doesn’t get any more down home than that. You probably can see the place from Dick’s.

Get Your Burger on in Puerto Vallarta

2010-10-28T03:06:00.000-07:00

While sitting down to a juicy burger might not be at the top of the “to do” list for some Puerto Vallarta guests, it’s still a worthy ambition. After all, it can be tough to explain to one the chefs who prepare masterpiece meals in most villa rentals Mexico that all you want is a thick slab of ground beef with some pickles and ketchup.
There are a number of eateries in town that can set you up with your dream meal, and maybe a ball game or football match, as well. And your fancy eating friends back in their villa rentals Mexico never need to know.
1.In el Centro, Dick’s Halfway Inn Bar and Grill offers a menu that is a hamburger lover’s delight. You can get a burger with bacon, a burger with mushrooms, a burger with bourbon barbecue sauce . . . aaaah. They’re waiting for you at Basilio Badillo 287.
2.If you’re looking for an all-American, “fans’ night out” experience, Steve’s Sports Bar and Grill is a good place to start. They have burgers, they have fries, they have cold beer, and they have NASCAR. It just doesn’t get any more down home than that. You probably can see the place from Dick’s.

Puerto Vallarta has Ribs

2010-10-25T19:33:00.000-07:00

Barbecue can be a verb or a noun; it can refer to the way you cook your ribs, the cooker itself (not to be confused with the cook), or a gathering of like minded people who arrive on the doorstep, hoping to consume any delicacy so prepared by said device. However you understand the word, when you stay in one of the vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta, you’re not far from good barbecued ribs.

As you probably know, most vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta have their own chefs, and you wouldn’t be out of line to request a barbecue dish at one of you meals. If you’re in town, though, and not yet ready to retreat to your comfortable villa, you can still enjoy good barbecue in the city.

Café de Olla, at Basilio Badillo 168, comes almost universally recommended by people who have enjoyed a meal there. It’s small, friendly and usually crowded, but the food is worth the wait. While many people recommend their seafood platter, rumor is that they serve excellent barbecued ribs with a twice-baked potato.

El Torito Sports Bar serves 2-for-1 barbecue ribs between 2 and 4 in the afternoon, Monday through Friday. You’ll find them, and that game you want to see, at Ignacio L. Vallarta 290.

A Wet Day in Puerto Vallarta

2010-10-25T04:12:00.000-07:00

When you’re vacationing in Puerto Vallarta, every day is a good day. You wake up to a hot cup of fresh coffee; you take a quick soak in the hot tub; and you enjoy a delicious breakfast, brought to you by the skilled hands of your own private chef. You thank your lucky stars that you insisted on one of the luxury villa rentals Puerto Vallarta. The only down side to this great start – it’s raining outside.

Look at this as an opportunity to enjoy a special day in Mexico. It starts with that soak in the hot tub (you gotta love those villa rentals Puerto Vallarta) – how cool to feel the rain falling on your head while the rest of you stays wet and warm. This alone might encourage you to stay in for the day, and that’s fine. If not, here are two ideas:

A block from the Malecon at the corner of Calle Morelos and Calle Corona, you’ll find some of the cities nicest art galleries (Galeria Uno, Galeria Pacifico and the Loft) clustered together in one area, just waiting to welcome you in out of the rain.

Kick the waves and make a splash in the rain at the beach. There are few verified reports of people actually melting when they get wet, so go for it! There are dry towels waiting at the villa.

Go Bananas in Puerto Vallarta

2010-10-18T09:47:00.000-07:00

When you hear the term “banana boat,” what comes to your mind? Maybe you picture a tramp steamer loaded with sweet, tasty fruit, or you might start humming the “banana boat song” (you know this one – day-o). When you look out at the action on Banderas Bay from the porch of one of the hillside villas in Puerto Vallarta, you’re likely to see a totally different version of banana boating, one that is all fun.

Slip on down to Los Muertos Beach, in the vicinity of the Rosarita Hotel, or hop on a bus that’s going to the Hotel Zone (the city’s bus stops are a quick walk from many villas in Puerto Vallarta), and check out the banana boating fun up close. When you think you’ve learned the secrets to staying seated on an inflatable banana bouncing across the waves behind a fast boat, pay for a ride and hop on. It’s every bit as cool as it looks from shore, even if you have a hard time staying dry.

Late Nights in Puerto Vallarta

2010-10-08T10:52:00.000-07:00

You came to Puerto Vallarta and rented a Mexican vacation villa rental for a few simple pleasures: you like to drink beer on the beach; you like to watch volleyball on the beach; you like to nap on the beach; and you like to party all night long, although not necessarily on the beach.

It’s okay to admit that roaming the city’s many art galleries and communing with dolphins simply don’t float your boat. There’s no rule that says you must enjoy high culture when you stay in a Mexican vacation villa rental (which isn’t to suggest that beach volleyball and a bucket of beer aren’t high culture).

You’ll be glad to learn that some of the city’s most popular night spots come alive late and stay open until early morning. Carlos O’Briens, in El Centro at 789 Paseo Diaz Ordaz, doesn’t even start to warm up until after 10 pm. When they close at 2 am, you can catch a cab to Senor Frog’s, at Venustiano Caranza 218, and keep on dancing until 4.

You can shut down just before sunrise, take another cab back to your Mexican vacation villa rental, sleep through the rest of the morning, and hit the beach again in the afternoon. It’s a beautiful thing.

Say Your Prayers in Puerto Vallarta

2010-09-30T09:45:00.001-07:00

The sun is warm, the breeze off of Banderas Bay is fresh, and you’re living the good life in your Puerto Vallarta villa. Your activities have included a bit of beach, some salt water, a small amount of painting and sculpture, and a whole lot of nightlife.

You’ve spent several late nights sharing your vocal talents at La Regadera in el Centro, making noise for your team at El Torito Sports Bar on the South Side, and dancing your booty off at the Zoo on Paseo Diaz Ordaz. And now you’re feeling like you might need a bit of something to feed your spirit.

Sunday services are available in Puerto Vallarta in English and Spanish. If you prefer English, you can attend Catholic Mass at the Paradise Village Golf and Spa Resort in Nuevo Vallarta or a service at the First Baptist Christian Church in El Centro.

A variety of churches offer Spanish language services throughout the city.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish says Catholic mass downtown, or you can choose from Baptist, Evangelical, Seventh Day Adventist and Mormon services as well. And if you simply can’t decide, you can soothe your soul at one of the city’s non-denominational churches – you might find one near your Puerto Vallarta villa.

Say Your Prayers in Puerto Vallarta

2010-09-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

The sun is warm, the breeze off of Banderas Bay is fresh, and you’re living the good life in your Puerto Vallarta villa. Your activities have included a bit of beach, some salt water, a small amount of painting and sculpture, and a whole lot of nightlife.

You’ve spent several late nights sharing your vocal talents at La Regadera in el Centro, making noise for your team at El Torito Sports Bar on the South Side, and dancing your booty off at the Zoo on Paseo Diaz Ordaz. And now you’re feeling like you might need a bit of something to feed your spirit.

Sunday services are available in Puerto Vallarta in English and Spanish. If you prefer English, you can attend Catholic Mass at the Paradise Village Golf and Spa Resort in Nuevo Vallarta or a service at the First Baptist Christian Church in El Centro.

A variety of churches offer Spanish language services throughout the city.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish says Catholic mass downtown, or you can choose from Baptist, Evangelical, Seventh Day Adventist and Mormon services as well. And if you simply can’t decide, you can soothe your soul at one of the city’s non-denominational churches – you might find one near your Puerto Vallarta villa.

Getting Around Puerto Vallarta in Water Taxis

2010-09-24T16:23:00.000-07:00

It really doesn’t matter if you don’t have a car in Puerto Vallarta – in fact, it might be best if you leave the driving to those who know the ways of the road. Like most guests who stay in villa rentals Puerto Vallarta, you have some options for getting around town. The first, of course, is “shank’s mare,” that is to say, your two hind legs. When the weather is lovely and you’re not going too far, this might actually be the best way to become acquainted with town.

Taxis offer door-to-door service from villa rentals Puerto Vallarta to any place in and near town. And the local buses are a great value, and they also will get you reasonably close to just about every place you want to visit. There are a couple of popular destinations, however, that aren’t accessible from the highways. That doesn’t mean you can’t get there, it just means you can’t get there on wheels.

When you decide to check out Las Animas or Quimixto or any of the secluded beaches south of town, you’re going to want to catch a water taxi. They leave from the pier at Los Muertos and from Boca de Tomatlan. They’re not very expensive and they open up some really great destinations for exploration.

Fishing Wild in Banderas Bay

2010-09-15T17:03:00.000-07:00

Fishing. The word by itself brings a happy smile to many a face, and the activity has the potential to get your adrenaline flowing in a hurry. Plenty of people do villa rentals Mexico for the simple pleasure of getting out on the water and going after the big ones. If you are among those who label themselves fishing folk, you have plenty of options:

You can hire a guide and a boat and head out into the waters of Banderas Bay for some high-octane deep-sea fishing.

You can hire a guide and a boat and head to Cajon de Pena lake for some of the best bass fishing you’ve ever enjoyed.

You can leave the comfort of villa rentals Mexico and go shore fishing. You won’t hire a guide or a boat, and you don’t need a license when you’re fishing from shore. You will need a rod and reel, one that’s appropriate for bigger fish (think pike and walleye). You’ll want to use heavier line, since you’re likely to encounter larger fish in the bay. And you can use casting lures (rapalas work well) or live bait (squid or sardines). The shore at the mouth of the river near Mismaloya is a good place to try.

Puerto Vallarta Sweet Tooth

2010-09-03T15:41:00.000-07:00

You have probably heard this advice, even if you don’t follow it: Life is uncertain – order dessert first. Of course, it’s only important if you are a lover of sweets; however, if you appreciate a regular infusion of confection, you can find a number of places in the vicinity of Puerto Vallarta villa rentals that will be more than happy to serve up something yummy.

Folks who enjoy a tasty treat with their coffee will appreciate the delicious desserts at Pie in the Sky, on the South Side at 150 Ignacio Vallarta.

Another good choice for coffee and a sweet is Roberta’s Café Dulce. In addition to your favorite coffee beverage, you can dig in to some of the city’s best chocolate brownies.

When you crave something sweet and delicious and natural, try a fresh coconut at the coconut shop near the Rio Cuale bridge at Aquiles Serdan 255. Enjoy the milk and the meat.

Many guests who book Puerto Vallarta villa rentals admit to enjoying the occasional adult beverage (with the little paper umbrella and maraschino cherry). If this is you, check out the strawberry margaritas at Burros Bar on Muertos Beach. Their two happy hours (afternoon and evening) will make you doubly happy.

Explore Puerto Vallarta's Lovely Homes

2010-08-25T06:59:00.000-07:00

As you wander through the lovely neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta, do you sometimes say to yourself, “Geez, I’d like to see what that one looks like inside.” Most vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta are justifiably proud of their distinctive architecture and comfortably elegant interiors. Color schemes run the gamut from soothing neutrals to vibrant, vivid blues and reds, and many feature the original work of local artists.

Whether you’re a student of interior décor or simply curious to see what folks have done with their places, you can take a peek at some of the city’s gorgeous villas. The International Friendship Club hosts tours through the interiors of some of the area’s nicest homes, perhaps including vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta. You'll visit new homes, historic homes, homes on the beach and in the hills.

The house tour season begins in mid-November and runs through mid-April, the high season for visitors. Guides lead guests through homes twice each week. Wednesday tours visit homes only; those who join a group on Thursday will also enjoy a stop at the botanical garden. You can purchase a ticket starting at 9 in the morning at Andeles on the Beach (513 Olas Altas); the tour kicks off at 10:35. All proceeds support local charities.

Party Puerto Vallarta

2010-08-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

You have plenty to consider as you start planning your next holiday – you know you want sand and sun; you’re considering an exotic location; and you definitely are looking for a destination that has a rocking nightlife. As you go through the motions, you should know that vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta make an ideal base from which you can set out on any number of memorable adventures, day and night.

The resort city on Banderas Bay is known for a vast array of daytime diversions, from simply parking next to a bucket of cold beverages on los Muertos beach to adrenaline-pumping jungle adventures to eco-friendly dolphin encounters. And while it might not get as much time in the spotlight, the town’s nightlife is second to none. Best of all, many of the favorite places to party are just a quick taxi ride from popular vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta.

If you’re like some folks who party hard, you may be glad to learn that you can purchase space on a “party bus” and do wild things with wild abandon all night long, knowing full well that your driver will bring you safely home, or nearly so, in the wee small hours of the morning. The morning-after blues are all on you, though.

Learn to Cook Tapas, Puerto Vallarta-Style

2010-08-12T17:19:00.000-07:00

Among the many advantages of staying in vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta is the opportunity to enjoy meals made especially for you and your crowd, in the comfort of your own home. In most villas, you’ll find a professional chef who looks forward to creating dishes that make you want to stay forever. While that might be more than your family and employer can tolerate, it’s still possible to capture some of that deliciousness for the long term.

You have a couple of options if you want to learn to cook the things you’re enjoying on your vacation. First, the chefs in vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta are usually friendly and gracious individuals who might be willing to share a few of their secrets, if you ask nicely and don’t try to master their signature work.

Your second option – cooking class. Yes, you can pay a visit to Barcelona Restaurant most Wednesdays during the high season (November through April) and spruce up your culinary skills. The restaurant is four streets off the Malecón at 31 de Octubre and when they’re on, the classes start at noon. If you happen to miss class, you can still enjoy a glass of sangria and nibble on fresh and delicious tapas. It’s a complete win-win.

Puerto Vallarta's ATMs

2010-08-10T07:08:00.000-07:00

When you stay in one of the villa rentals in Puerto Vallarta, you might find it pretty easy to limit the amount of cash you need at any one time. After all, you have everything that’s essential for a comfy stay, right there at home. Still, you’re probably going to need some change for bus fare and tips, so it’s a good idea to have pesos in your pocket.

A holiday in the villa rentals in Puerto Vallarta is a totally modern affair, and it’s not necessary to find a currency exchange – just look for that old familiar friend, the ATM. You’ll find them scattered throughout town, although it helps to know where to look. In the Zona Romantica, there are two ATMs on Olas Altas near Basillo Badillo; Banamex has an ATM on the zocalo next to the Malecon; and of course, there are machines at the airport.

It’s a good idea to notify your bank that you’ll be travelling, since they might be inclined to freeze your account when they see withdrawals from out of town. If you have one, you might do best to withdraw pesos with a debit card, since they usually carry fewer fees. And know your limit – some machines limit the amount of money you can withdraw.

Good Water in Puerto Vallarta

2010-07-31T13:31:00.000-07:00

Water – look at the world outside your Puerto Vallarta villa and you’ll realize that, without buckets and pools and oceans of water, Puerto Vallarta would be just one more cute village in old Mexico. In fact, water might be the primary reason people plan a stay in this lovely resort city on Banderas Bay. You don’t believe it? Here are a few things to think about:

The private patio of your Puerto Vallarta villa, with its refreshing fresh water swimming pool (and perhaps a hot tub, as well), is a perfect little oasis, a quiet spot where you can share private moments with friends and enjoy the view . . .

Banderas Bay probably provides the view you’re enjoying from you patio. With cool drink in hand, you’re reliving the day you had in the jungle, on a zip line tour or a horseback ride or a jeep trek . . .

The water that falls on the jungle in the form of rain (as much as 60 inches annually) helps to create and maintain that lush green environment to support the area’s diverse flora and fauna and enhance human activities . . .

Those activities are much more enjoyable when you drink sufficient water to keep you healthy and happy. So thank goodness for all that Puerto Vallarta water.

Puerto Vallarta by Bus

2010-06-15T13:38:00.000-07:00

Okay, this stuff isn’t rocket science, but it can still be a bit confusing trying to navigate the various modes of transportation in a new locale. For example, there are lots of vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta; can you tell the taxi driver how to find the one you’re staying in? Maybe your house’s name will be sufficient, but it’s more likely that you’ll need an address, or at least cross streets. This suggests you might want to walk around the block once you have unpacked – and take notes.

What about the bus system? Spanish is the official language in Mexico, and you can expect everything to be identified in Spanish, so how will you know which bus will take you to the airport or the marina? Fortunately, the words are pretty self-explanatory – aeropuerto and marina. It could only be easier if they were in your native language.

Finding a bus that will take you south of the Rio Cuale, to the area where many vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta are located, is a bit less intuitive, but still fairly simple. Look for one marked Olas Altas; it should take you as far as Los Muertos beach. And of course, separate buses will deliver you farther north to the surfing at Sayulita and south toward the quiet beaches around Mismaloya.

Puerto Vallarta Beach Clubs

2010-06-08T19:31:00.000-07:00

Mention the phrase “beach club” to your buddies, and you can expect members of the “flip-flops and T-shirt” movement to hold up their hands and back away. Fear and doubt run through their minds: this probably means putting on a collared shirt; two words - “membership dues”; is this a club or is it a gang? You can rest easy when you’re talking about beach clubs near your Mexican vacation villa rental – it’s a no-pressure proposition.

For the price of a nice meal (the expensive end) or a few pesos (the less costly alternative), a number of so-called beach clubs will rent you a comfortable chair on Los Muertos beach, frequently in the shade of an umbrella. The deal might even include a beach towel, in case you left yours back at the Mexican vacation villa rental. And your gentle hosts will gladly sell you iced beverages all day long.
Relax at one of these popular spots:

Beach House Restaurant and Bar – as long as you buy a minimum amount of food and beverages, you can stay all day in the shade of their umbrellas. And they even take reservations.

El Dorado Restaurant – you get a chair, table and umbrella for one low price, and that includes a beverage, as well.

Enjoy the High Seas in Puerto Vallarta

2010-05-28T11:05:00.000-07:00

Whether we admit it or not, one of the reasons we visit exotic, far-away places on holiday is the fact that no one knows us there. We let our hair down and cut loose, secure in the knowledge that no one from the office will hear our fractured Spanish or see our spirited interpretation of salsa dance. It explains why vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta are so popular – we can be kids all day long. And what’s more fun for a kid than a pirate ship?

A voyage on the fearsome pirate ship Marigalante will provide hours of fun for all the kids who stay in vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta, including you. The ship sets sail six days per week (apparently, pirates take Sundays off). A day trip will introduce you to the hair-raising adventures of Captain Crispin the Terrible and his pirate crew. Make no mistake – these brigands are determined to see you have a good time.

The day trip leaves between 8 and 9 in the morning and includes breakfast and lunch (and an open bar for big pirates). Guests enjoy snorkeling, paddling kayaks and other water sports, while kids like the pirate games and treasure hunt. The evening sunset tour is fun for adults; it starts around 5 p.m. and includes with dinner and fireworks.

John Huston’s Slice of Puerto Vallarta

2010-05-17T18:24:00.000-07:00

Stay in a Puerto Vallarta villa rental and you might find yourself almost overcome with the sense of romance that surrounds the city on Banderas Bay. If you want to take that dreamy ambience a step further, plan a day trip to the old home of film director John Huston.

A short trip by boat will bring you to a lovely, quiet private beach that was once home to Huston; a bit north is Mismaloya, the dramatic setting for the film, Night of the Iguana. For those who don’t remember, this is the film that featured a behind-the-scenes affair between Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor.

Trips leave from Maritime Terminal at 9 in the morning every day except Sunday. Guests should plan to be away from their Puerto Vallarta villa rental for about 6 hours, and they can expect fun much of the time (some people don’t enjoy the boat ride so much).

The day starts with breakfast (it is the most important meal of the day), and includes a variety of water sports (snorkel, paddle a kayak, enjoy a guided tour of the area). And just when your tummy starts to remind you that it’s time for another meal, the staff serves up a wonderful buffet lunch.

Sightseein by Air from Puerto Vallarta

2010-05-07T16:11:00.000-07:00

Some folks who stay in a Puerto Vallarta villa rental refer to them “land excursions,” to distinguish them from expeditions that involve climbing aboard a boat of some sort and crossing the water in Banderas Bay to enjoy time in a secluded location. Others might be inclined to disagree, arguing that anytime one’s feet (and the rest of one’s self) leave the ground, one ceases to be traveling on land.

No matter what words they use to describe it, many guests who enjoy a week or two in a Puerto Vallarta villa rental don’t mind taking off (literally) to explore some of Mexico’s hidden treasures. A number of tour operators are prepared to fly visitors to some special attractions that are not that far from town by air.

For example, a short flight over the Sierra Madres will put you in the historic mining town of San Sebastian. Once upon a time (a few hundred years ago), this was a busy mining center; today, it’s a quiet village tucked into the hills. The trip will give you a chance to explore Mexico far from the tourist zone and get a first-hand glimpse of that country’s past.

Spend the Evening on Los Muertos Beach

2010-04-29T16:43:00.000-07:00

Say you’re chillin on Los Muertos beach for the day - you've been there most of the day, watching people, rating swim wear, enjoying the bay, and now you’re wondering whether you have the energy to head back to your villa rental Puerto Vallarta to get a bite of dinner before starting the night’s activities.

No worries – stay at Los Muertos as long as you want. There are a couple of good places right on the beach, probably not far from the location you’ve staked out, and they will see to it that you don’t go hungry – or thirsty, for that matter. In theory, you’ll know when it’s time to catch a cab back to the villa rental Puerto Vallarta.

• Cuates y Cuetes is open from 8:00 in the morning until 11:30 at night (this is good news for those who benefit from the “hair of the dog”). A bit later in the day, you can join your newest best friends in happy hour, watch the sun set and live music (jazz, salsa and light rock) until last call.
• Rumor has it that La Palapa is a romantic spot to spend a night with someone special. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, the latter to the delightful sounds of live Latin jazz.

Puerto Vallarta's Succulent Seafood

2010-04-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

It might actually be an unwritten rule that when you stay in a Puerto Vallarta villa rental, you have to try the local seafood. Honestly, you’re living practically on the water’s edge – the place where those finny, shell-ish fellows hang out. There is no better place to develop an appreciation for seafood than this city on Banderas Bay - to say that a meal prepared with the local “catch of the day” is fresh is an understatement.

There are a number of restaurants that make a living offering up meals that feature the denizens of the deep, and an afternoon or evening spent sipping a cold beverage and nibbling on ceviche will make a believer out of almost anyone. Visitors recommend a number of local favorites: Aztlan is known for its authentic regional seafood meals; Madison South serves a scrumptious coconut shrimp.

What to do if you’re in the mood to stay in? Ask the chef at your Puerto Vallarta villa rental if it’s possible to prepare a tempting seafood meal. You might enjoy something as simple as fresh shrimp in lime with avocado or a dish as elegant as filet of Pacific Red Snapper cooked Veracruz style, with butter sauce, garlic sauce or coconut-lime sauce.

Catch the Action at Puerto Vallarta’s Los Muertos Beach

2010-04-08T14:41:00.000-07:00

Settle into your Puerto Vallarta vacation rental, unpack your favorite beach togs and head out to Los Muertos Beach – it’s a favorite gathering spot for many visitors to this resort city. It sits on the edge of Banderas Bay at the south end of the Malecon.

Long and wide, Los Muertos is known for gentle surf that makes a great place for floating (icy beverage in hand), playing with the kids (of whatever age) and even swimming (fitness nuts). A variety of hotels and restaurants dot the beach like beads on a string, and their customers add to the lively atmosphere.

Believe it or not, Los Muertos is a great place to get your water sports on. Adventurous souls enjoy taking off on a jet ski and sailing above the land lubbers beneath a parasail. And there’s no need to return to your Puerto Vallarta vacation rental for food and drink – pick up something at La Palapa, El Dorado or Daiquiri Dick’s.

If you’re headed to one of the villages further south – Las Animas, Quimito, Yelapa – you can catch a water taxi at the pier. And the famous Blue Chairs area mark one of Puerto Vallarta’s most popular gay beaches.

Stay Well in Puerto Vallarta

2010-03-30T14:03:00.000-07:00

Some folks just cannot help worrying what might happen when they travel far away from their family doctor. What will you do if one of the kids steps on something or someone gets too much sun? Don’t let medical worries spoil your stay in a villa rental Puerto Vallarta. You’re visiting a modern city with modern medical facilities.

If you find you need assistance, locate a Red Cross station, the Cruz Roja Mexicana. They’ll help you get gathered up and provide transportation to an appropriate clinic or hospital. (Don’t be shy about making a donation to this worthy non-profit organization.)

Many local clinics go out of their way to help make certain an unexpected mishap isn’t the end of your fun. Like the staff at your villa rental Puerto Vallarta, the doctors and nurses are likely to speak your language, especially if it happens to be English.

Select medical care based on your location. For instance, if you’re playing near Los Muertos beach, the closest place is the private CMQ at Basilio Badillo 365. And if you’re further north or near the marina, look for the Amerimed American Hospitals facility in Marina Vallarta at the Plaza Neptuno. This one caters to patients from the US in particular.

Think Thin (Crust) in Puerto Vallarta

2010-03-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

It’s a bit counterintuitive to expect to find great pizza in Mexico, but it’s certainly not a difficult thing to do. If the chef at your villa Puerto Vallarta doesn’t specialize in thin crust pizza, don’t despair – plenty of other chefs around the city do.

No matter what you do in Puerto Vallarta, you’re going to get hungry. Zip lines in the jungle, snorkels in Banderas Bay, the art walk in Old Town - all consume calories. When you get to feeling a bit raw, recharge your tanks in one of the local cafes (or back at the villa Puerto Vallarta) with a healthy thin crust pizza. A couple of places come highly recommended:

• Café Roma makes a mean pizza, a soothing margarita and a fun evening. Guests say they appreciate the friendly staff and the lively environment. They’re at 287 Encino.
• If Puerto Vallarta has a “Little Italy,” La Piazetta, at Olas Altas and Rodolfo Gomez, is one of its anchors. No matter what you want, you’ll certainly find it among the 24 unique offerings.
• For a romantic evening, visit Café Candela, at Guerrero 311. In addition to good pizza, they offer vegetarian menu items.

Puerto Vallarta by the Books

2010-03-22T20:49:00.000-07:00

If you have already reserved a villa Puerto Vallarta for your upcoming holiday, congratulations - you’ve done perhaps the most important piece of advance work. There’s still plenty of planning to be done, especially for travelers who get almost as much pleasure in planning a trip as they do in experiencing it. This list is dedicated to the dedicated vacation planners out there who can’t get enough of Puerto Vallarta travel guides.

Lots of tourists make it a point to consult Fodor’s travel guides before embarking on a trip. You’ll learn about the most popular local attractions and activities, day or night. Fodor’s offers recommendations for travelers in all budget categories. The Puerto Vallarta edition includes interesting and helpful travel tips and articles about regional culture.

The Adventure Guide to Puerto Vallarta, published by Hunter Travel Guides, is more than a list of restaurants and art galleries. Learn about local plant and animal life, as well as local night life. Thumb through it before you fall asleep in your villa Puerto Vallarta and dream sweetly about tomorrow’s action.

Another popular guide to the city is published by Moon Handbooks. This one offers plenty of suggestions for things to see and do, not so much about the natural environment. Combine it with a guide that has the 411 about the birds and bees, and you’re good to go.

Sweet Love in Puerto Vallarta

2010-01-21T10:39:00.000-08:00

She finally popped the question (or maybe you did) and now it’s official - you’re getting hitched! Once the two came back to earth, it dawned on you that you have little idea how to go about putting together an event as important as your wedding. Select Puerto Vallarta as the site for your destination wedding and choose the perfect villa rental Puerto Vallarta to serve as a base, and you’re off and running.

In case you’re wondering, why Puerto Vallarta, read on:

• It’s a resort, with all the attractions and facilities that term conjures. Your guests can wear themselves out with golf and tennis; they can enjoy international cuisine; they can shop ‘til they drop; and they can stay in a private, luxurious villa rental Puerto Vallarta.

• It’s an adventure destination. Visitors can catch some air on a zip line through the jungle or a parasail on Banderas Bay; they can swim with dolphins and commune with iguanas; they can hike, bike, take to the trails on an ATV or horseback.

• It’s incredibly romantic. The two of you will enjoy beautiful sunsets, warm sultry evenings, soft music (or an off-key karaoke duet, if that’s your preference). And of course, you’ll be set up with the best of everything in your villa rental Puerto Vallarta.

In Any Language, Puerto Vallarta has Pizza

2010-01-08T17:29:00.000-08:00

No matter how you spend your days – rattling your teeth on an ATV; going face-to-face with dolphins; walking the art walk – you’re going to need to eat. You know you can always head back to your villa rental Puerto Vallarta for a home-cooked meal, but sometimes, you just can’t tear yourself away. When that happens, head for a local pizzeria.

It’s not exactly what most folks think of as traditional Mexican fare, so you may be surprised to learn that it’s not all that hard to find a great pizza in Puerto Vallarta, and one of them is likely to be near to your villa rental Puerto Vallarta Here are a few favorites, chosen by folks who swear they know good pizza.

• Fans who like their thin crust pizza to come out of a wood-fired oven should be happy at La Piazetta (Rodolfo Gomez 143). Your host, Mimmo, invites you to pull up a chair, enjoy a glass of wine, and enjoy.

• Café Candela, at Guerrero 311, has a reputation as a romantic place to enjoy a great pizza while you flutter your eyelashes at each other. And they serve vegetarian entrees.

• Plenty of folks recommend Café Roma (Encino 287). Expect to find a lively crowd of tourists and locals and “the best real Italian thin crust pizza.”

Livin’ the Life in Puerto Vallarta

2010-01-07T06:07:00.000-08:00

If you’re like loads of other visitors, you elected to stay in a villa Puerto Vallarta so you could avoid the crush of bodies that frequently seem to be lounging around the beach hotels. Life in a private villa is just more dignified and comfortable for residents. The staff work with you and yours alone, and they expect you’ll give them some direction.

That said, you should consider them a tremendous resource, the go-to folks who can help you figure out daily life in Puerto Vallarta. Not that it’s some kind of rocket science, but setting up in a new location always takes a bit of time and planning.
The individuals who work in your villa Puerto Vallarta will no doubt be happy to help you figure out a few things. All you need to do is ask. Ask about the water, ask about the bank, ask about grocery shopping.

They will probably tell you that you can buy bottled water, although much of the water and ice served in good restaurants is okay to drink. They’ll help you locate a bank with an ATM so you can withdraw some pesos. And they’ll direct you to the local supermarket for dinner supplies or a small corner shop for little emergencies – and bottled water.

Puerto Vallarta Is All About the Bay

2009-11-27T11:19:00.000-08:00

No doubt you can see it from your luxury villa rental Puerto Vallarta – that huge expanse of water that starts at the city’s doorstep and disappears beyond the western horizon. If you paddle your kayak far enough, in fact, you’ll bust out on the open Pacific Ocean. It’s a long paddle, but it can be done.

Most folks are satisfied to stay within the confines of Banderas Bay, however, and enjoy this special feature of Mexico’s Pacific coast. You’ll find all kinds of things to do in the water; some activities are educational, some recreational. You can experience a dolphin encounter in the company of a marine biologist or slip into a mask and fins and explore the wildlife on your own.

You decide how close you want to get. Don’t like water? Admire it from the patio at your luxury villa rental Puerto Vallarta. Or, dive right in and swim with the big fish. Either way, much of Puerto Vallarta’s allure is the bay.

Science types find the bay irresistible. Geologists want to know how it was formed, the contour of its underwater mountains, and the types of rock down there. Marine biologists have an eye for the things that live in the bay – sharks, dolphins, whales.

A Celebration of the Past in Puerto Vallarta

2009-11-19T11:34:00.000-08:00

Many travelers find that one of the most rewarding parts of traveling to a distant land is the opportunity to experience something new. A trip to Mexico’s resort city of Puerto Vallarta, together with a stay in a Puerto Vallarta vacation rental, offers ample opportunity to enjoy a variety of colorful and fascinating celebrations.

Among the most intriguing holidays observed in Mexico is Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. This annual holiday, celebrated on November 2, is really a celebration of life more than anything; families come together to pay homage to those who have passed on.

They might set up an altar at home or they might visit their loved ones at the cemetery. Either way, they’ll likely prepare a special treat for them, probably including a favorite dish and special drink, offered in the soft glow of candles and colorful bouquets of marigolds.

The point of Dia de los Muertos is to rejoice in life, a process that should come naturally when you’re staying in a Puerto Vallarta vacation rental. Sugar skulls for the children and a family feast round out the day. It’s a chance for folks to remember those they love in a special and personal way.

Pottery from Mata Ortiz in Puerto Vallarta

2009-11-05T07:37:00.000-08:00

Many of the nicest Puerto Vallarta villas feature fine art as part of the décor, and much of that artwork is created by local and Mexican artists. Some of the nicest work is created from clay – that’s right, pottery.

You’ll see all sorts of pottery as you comb the galleries and shops in town – the unique pleasing shapes and distinctive colorful glazes help to identify where each piece was made. Some pottery can be relatively inexpensive. If you are purchasing pottery as an investment in art, however, consider spending a bit more and look at some of the work that comes from the town of Mata Ortiz.

In Puerto Vallarta, you’ll find only one or two shops that sell the genuine article, including the Mata Ortiz Art Gallery at Lázaro Cárdenas 268-A. The Galeria de Ollas at Corona 176 also deals in work from Mata Ortiz. Take your time in selecting a piece; keep looking until you find one that touches you in a special way.

Mata Ortiz pottery is enjoying a rebirth in popularity in the United States; collectors prize the hand-coiled pots for their modern designs derived from centuries old cultural traditions and processes. That combination of ancient and contemporary adds just the right touch to many lovely Puerto Vallarta villas, and it’s a touch that you can find for your own home.

Marina Vallarta or Maritime Terminal?

2009-10-29T18:04:00.000-07:00

If you chose well, you can see Banderas Bay from your Puerto Vallarta villa rental. You can watch the water change from black to gray to golden at sunrise and reverse the process at day’s end. You can see the sails of tall ships and pirate ships from your patio. When your curiosity gets the best of you, it’s time to get yourself down to the water’s edge and check it out.

Marina Vallarta is a bit of a different world than El Centro in the city. Okay, it’s not that different – you can shop for treasures, dine on everything from ceviche to Italian gourmet dishes, get a massage or a manicure. It’s a quiet, lovely residential area on the north end of town.

When you’re looking for a bit of quality outdoor time, space to walk and talk, Marina Vallarta is the place to come. You might find that the relative quiet of the beaches north of the golf course is more your speed than the party at Los Muertos Beach. Or you may just want to test the sand at the Marina Vallarta Golf Club.

FYI, the facility known as the Maritime Terminal is different than Marina Vallarta. The large watercraft (yachts, ships) are mostly to be found at the maritime terminal. So if you’ve booked an evening away from your Puerton Vallarta villa rental, spent in the company of pirates or on a guided bay cruise, head for the terminal.

The Bus Goes Everywhere in Puerto Vallarta

2009-10-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

Did you know you can get along just fine without a car while you’re staying in a villa rental Puerto Vallarta? It’s true – the busses can take you just about any place you want to go. It’s a great way to get around: you don’t have to wonder where you’ll park the car and you’ll get to see the city while someone else does the driving.

Ah, you say, but I want to spend a day in _____ (you fill in this blank). It’s pretty hard to name a place in the region that doesn’t have bus service. Whether you’re headed north to Sayulita for some surfing or south past Conchas Chinas, you can hop on a bus that’s going that direction.

They probably don’t stop directly in front of your villa rental Puerto Vallarta, but busses run along the city’s major routes; stops are clearly marked by square blue signs. If you want to get to the downtown area, catch a bus marked “El Centro.” To get to the beaches on the south end of town, take a bus marked “Tunel,” just know that your route will take around the restaurants and shops in town.

One of the nicest things about riding the bus – the price. You can get to almost any destination for just a few pesos.

Laptop Lovers Find a Place in Puerto Vallarta

2009-10-08T09:35:00.000-07:00

It seems a shame that you thought you needed your computer with you on holiday. It’s not a problem, though, because folks who stay in vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta have access to a variety of internet connections around town.

No one will ever understand how you can sit and stare into that screen when Banderas Bay is just a stone’s throw away. It’s your call though, and if that’s what it takes to make you a happy camper, go for it. There are a couple of wifi hot spots in town, not far from the vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta; you might find them comfortable as your home away from home.

You can surf the web and enjoy the occasional adult beverage when you might visit one of the local bars that offers an internet connection. Que Pasa (Aquiles Sedan 625) and PV Café.com (Olas Altos 250) can both get you set up; all you need to do is purchase a beer or margarita.
Early risers who want a cup of coffee with their internet can stop in at Dee’s Coffee Co. (Rodolfo Gomez 120 in the Zona Romantica); visitors recommend the cinnamon rolls, too. And if you must, you can visit Starbucks in the Peninsula Plaza.

Gringo Gulch's Interesting Past - and Present

2009-09-09T15:37:00.000-07:00

Stay in one of the vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta and eventually you’ll start to hear some buzz about Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor and their love nest in a part of town known as Gringo Gulch. In days gone by, in this neighborhood, wealthy folks from north of the border built their villas and started a little colony of gringos.

The Zaragosa neighborhood (the real name for Gringo Gulch) has transformed into a family community. It features traditional-style homes built of adobe, and most of them boast covered patios that lure people outside to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s wonderful evening breezes. Today, this is a place where real people – and their children and relatives and pets – live real lives.

Zaragosa is a lively place, and tourists continue to drop by to get a feel for how the upper crust once spent their days and nights. In fact, a number of vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta are located here, which is nice, because the area is close to a couple of popular restaurants, the Café Roma at Encino 287 and Club Roxy at Ignacio L. Vallarta 217. If you’re in the neighborhood, stop by for a beverage, a meal and some conversation.

Independence Day in Puerto Vallarta

2009-09-08T15:27:00.000-07:00

You have great timing if you’ve planned your Mexican vacation for the middle of September, because the 15th and 16th of that month is the festival known as El Grito de Dolores. You might think of it as Mexico’s Independence Day, so get checked into your villa rental Puerto Vallarta and get ready to join in the festivities.

The word “Grito” means cry or shout in Spanish, and Mexicans call their celebration “El Grito” in commemoration of the rallying cry of the parish priest in the village of Dolores who launched a movement to drive the Spanish out of Mexico in 1810. The violent revolution that followed lasted more than a decade, but when it was over, Mexico was in charge of its own fortunes.

The celebration of independence, or Las Fiestas Patrias, lasts for two days. It’s traditional for the president of Mexico to lead his countrymen in the patriot’s cry, “Mexicans, viva Mexico,” on the 15th at 11:00 p.m. You’ll have a chance to experience the “grito,” led by the city’s mayor, and you might be able to see the fireworks from the patio of your villa rental Puerto Vallarta.

The next day is marked by a variety of celebratory events, including rodeos, parades and street dances. The fiesta is so important that you’ll find many businesses closed on the 16th. Your best bet is to sit back and enjoy the party.

Puerto Vallarta’s Good Burgers

2009-09-08T15:26:00.000-07:00

You know what they say, you can lead a person to stay in a luxury villa rental Puerto Vallarta, but you can’t make him give up his taste for ground meat. Or something like that. Anyway, if you absolutely must take a break from local cuisine, you’ll be happy to learn that there are a number of places to get a good burger in Puerto Vallarta.

Three restaurants, in particular, come pretty highly recommended. Dick’s Halfway Inn Bar and Grill at Basilio Badillo 287 has a large selection of burgers that will clog your arteries and satisfy your cravings. Mama Dolores Diner in the Zona Romantica at Olas Altas 534B serves a mean traditional burger. And Steve’s Sports Bar and Grill (Basilio Badillo 286) will serve up the NFL and NASCAR with that burger. Just be careful, in case they take your picture.

You might also ask the chef at your luxury villa rental Puerto Vallarta if it’s possible to get a burger and fries, although that seems a terrible waste of a good chef. Still, if that’s what you want, they’re here to see to it that you get it. Remember, the love handles that go along with that meal are your own alone.

In Case of Rain – Enjoy Puerto Vallarta

2009-08-12T17:39:00.000-07:00

Puerto Vallarta Villas offer the perfect backdrop for your sunny Mexico vacation and an ideal launch pad for each day’s adventures. As you sit on your private patio, watching the morning sun play across Banderas Bay and planning your day, though, it starts to rain. Is this cause for whining? It is not. There’s plenty to do in this resort city, no matter what kind of weather the day brings.

Pay a visit to the Municipal Market. It’s covered and it’s filled with all sorts of goods, from trinkets to treasures. This is the place to shop for colorful local pottery and glass ware, clothing and accessories in leather, and beautiful silver jewelry crafted by Mexican artisans.

Map out your own private art gallery tour. Again, the works are under cover, and you can maximize your dryness if you ask a cab to drop you where Calle Morelos and Calle Corona meet, a block off the Malecón.

Get wet and like it! If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta Villas from mid-summer through early fall, you’re likely to see some truly impressive storms, so rejoice in the chance to play in the rain like you did when you were a kid. Run on the beach, sit under a palapa, do a little rain dance in the plaza. It’s all good!

See Old Puerto Vallarta with Artist’s Eyes

2009-08-11T08:08:00.000-07:00

As you experience the resort lifestyle of Banderas Bay from the comfort of your Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta, you may be unaware that once upon a time, life in this modern city, where you can always find something to do, was calm to the extent of being downright sleepy.

Until the 1960s, when Liz and Dick started to put their imprint on the town, daily life in Puerto Vallarta was not much different than life in any other Mexican town. If you’re having a hard time believing it, just wander into that other time through the art of Manuel Lepe.

Today, Lepe’s work is highly regarded by collectors and fans of naïf art; he has become so well known, in fact, that his work is part of the child welfare program launched by UNICEF. In the 1960s, though, the artist was mostly a happy man reflecting on the simple pleasures that surrounded him in Puerto Vallarta.

You can get a glimpse of Lepe’s world through his work when you visit his former home and studio, today the Manuel Lepe Museum at 485 Jacarandas. It’s hard to find reproductions of his work for sale, but if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to enjoy one of his pieces in your Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta – the Huichol Say It With Yarn

2009-07-29T12:18:00.000-07:00

Your Puerto Vallarta Luxury Villa Rental could not be much farther from the traditional world of the Huichol. The People, as they call themselves, are native to western Mexico and have been living in their current setting around Bolanos Canyon since before Europeans came to the New World.

The Huichol have managed to sustain many of their old ways – in fact, it seems that many aspects of Huichol culture are flourishing today. Their religious practice and agricultural economy continue to support them spiritually and physically. And their art, which is coveted by all kinds of people, helps them to support their traditions.

As you browse the local galleries, take a moment to look for works created by Huichol artists. Their detailed beadwork is widely recognized, and as you work your way through the best in local folk art, make sure to take a look at their yarn paintings. The staff at your Puerto Vallarta Luxury Villa Rental may recommend you begin with Galeria Piramide (Basilio Badillo 272).

While this lovely art form may not be unique to the Huichol, they have perfected it. They find inspiration for their intricate designs in their religious practices. Huichol artists traditionally made yarn paintings to support religious celebrations, and today you may see yarn pressed onto ceremonial masks or prayer bowls.

Puerto Vallarta – A Class Act After Dark

2009-07-28T10:29:00.000-07:00

Everybody who’s ever been here (or who’s planning a visit) knows that Puerto Vallarta is a great destination for a dream vacationer: you get to stay in a Mexico Vacation Villa Rental; you can fiddle around Banderas Bay all day long; and the nightlife is a blast. What may be surprising is the number of opportunities to enjoy the performance arts around town.

The hard truth is that karaoke isn’t usually considered fine art (although it sometimes turns into slapstick comedy). If you’re up for live music in a theatrical setting, though, you can catch a performance by the Santa Barbara Theater. This enthusiastic group, who do their thing at Olas Altas 351, perform musicals in English during their season (winter months).

Dance lovers really ought to set aside an evening and take in a performance of the Grupo Folklórico Municipal Xuitla. This world-class (and world traveling) group of young dancers can often be found performing somewhere in town. A night spent in their company may have you testing your own skill in the privacy of your Mexico Vacation Villa Rental.

And if you just want to enjoy a cultured stroll in the night air, you can spend the evening taking in the work of talented artists. During the winter season, local galleries host the popular Old Town Art Walk from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. (October through April).

Puerto Vallarta – Just Right for Romance

2009-07-18T15:31:00.000-07:00

You did exactly the right thing if you had romance on your mind when you booked your Puerto Vallarta Vacation Villa Rental. This is Mexico’s Pacific coast, the land of palm trees, sea breezes and mythic sunsets. You won’t have any problem setting the mood, whatever it may be, with this setup as your backdrop.

You can go any number of ways to put together a romantic evening, or morning, for that matter. For example, why not share a pitcher of fresh-squeezed orange juice on the balcony outside your bedroom as you put your heads together and plan your day’s adventures. Then return to the same spot in your Puerto Vallarta Vacation Villa Rental with your favorite beverage and watch as night falls over the city and the bay.

As for those plans you were making over breakfast, consider a visit to one of the area’s intimate, secluded beaches. Las Gemelas, near the town of Mismaloya, is actually two coves, each with its own beach (it means “the Twins”). The water is very gentle on the sand here, perfect for floating hand in hand. Take the Mismaloya bus and step off at the El Presidente Hotel.

If you’re exploring town, hold hands and take a romantic. Puerto Vallarta evenings are ideal for lovers. Walk along the Malecon and critique the sculpture; enjoy the quiet paths on the east end of the Isla Cuale; or simply walk along the beach in the moonlight. This is your romantic getaway – use your imagination.

Puerto Vallarta’s Airport is All Good

2009-07-17T06:04:00.000-07:00

Does this sound like you: you found a House for Rent in Puerto Vallarta online, and it is gorgeous. The balcony looks out on Banderas Bay, the private pool is as clear a blue as you have ever seen. So you made a reservation. Only then did you realize you’re really not certain where Puerto Vallarta is on the map or how to get there.

Not a problem – just book a flight direct to Puerto Vallarta Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport. It’s the easiest way to get here, and probably the fastest, as well. And the airport itself is a modern marvel that will set your mind at ease about the wisdom of your trip the moment you get here.

One of the nicest aspects of the airport is the layout. You’ll find virtually every amenity you’d find in a huge international airport, but this one serves a much smaller area, and as a result, it’s not going to swallow you up. Do you need a bite of something before you head toward that House for Rent in Puerto Vallarta? Sit down in one of the airport restaurants. Are you looking for a token of your arrival? Hit the airport shops.

Flights arrive here from the US, from Canada, and even from the UK. And this international airport lives up to its name – the professional staff who work there know just how to help you get your visit off to a good start.

Enjoy Your Favorites in Puerto Vallarta

2009-07-13T15:22:00.000-07:00

Go ahead and admit it – you’re having a blast in your luxury Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta, but you have these strange feelings, like you need to get in touch with your back-home self. The Mariachi music, the local arts scene, the savory cuisine are somehow leaving you longing for a piece of something from your comfort zone.

Before you book the next flight home, why not take a minute and track down those old familiar places, right here in Puerto Vallarta. Spend an afternoon or evening relaxing with a cold beverage and your favorite blast from your own past – or present. No matter what your passion, you’re likely to find some of it here.

You say you’re a football fan? Visit one of the city’s sports bars that cater to professional sports fans. Captain Ron’s Bar del Puerto, at Venustiano Carranza 276 in Old Town, offers games from the NFL and CFL. Steve’s Sports Bar, at Basilio Badillo 286, is a favorite for NASCAR fans. Whatever your game, you’re likely to find it on a screen at one of these spots.

If your eyes are starting to roll back in your head because you haven’t seen a current movie in the past couple of days, bust out of that luxury Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta and head to one of the local theatres. The theatres at Cinemark (Av. de los Tules 178), Cinéopolis (Av. Francisco Villa 1642) and MMCinemas (Francisco Medina Ascencio 2920); they feature current films in both English and Spanish.

Crocodile Smiles in Puerto Vallarta

2009-07-10T13:32:00.000-07:00

Surely you know that song, the one that suggests that it’s best not to be too cordial toward a crocodile. Yes? Well, you might want to review the lyrics before you leave your Puerto Vallarta Vacation Villa Rental and sign on for a tour that actually wants to come face to face with these big guys.

Crocodiles and turtles are some of the natural inhabitants of Puerto Vallarta that make a visit to this resort city a unique experience. There’s a slight chance you’ll see a river crocodile in its natural habitat – the golf course (or the river) – but odds are a sighting will require a trip to a special crocodile farm.

That’s right, people do farm crocodiles, although it probably doesn’t look a thing like what you’re thinking. They have a distinctive and ancient past, but their future is far from certain, so people around here support crocodile farms to help protect both the animals and their habitat.

As long as you’re spending the day away from the Puerto Vallarta Vacation Villa Rental, why not head to the beach and learn about the sea turtles that visit each summer to lay their eggs. Volunteers move the nests to safer ground for hatching; when the time is right, other volunteers join in a “back to the sea” movement to help the little hatchlings get their groove on by ushering them back to their watery habitat. Ask around – you’ll find them.

Gettin’ Around in Puerto Vallarta

2009-07-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

You’ve booked a week’s stay in a Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta and you can hardly wait to get to town. The thing is, your Spanish isn’t all that good, and you’re not entirely certain how you’ll find your way around town. Don’t worry – getting around will be pretty easy.

First things first – you need to get from the airport to your place. Take it easy on yourself your first day out and take a taxi. If you feel like you need an adventure to start the trip off right, you can walk to the bus stop and hop on a bus that will probably get you close.

If you want to see the city on its own terms, get a good map of Puerto Vallarta from one of the tourist information offices (your Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta may have one) and take off on your hind legs. El Centro and the Zona Romantica are easy to explore on foot. Better yet, they’re separated by the Rio Cuale and its Isla Cuale, home to the city’s fabled iguanas.

Taxis here use a system of flat rates based on distance between zones, so you should be able to estimate the cost of your trips. Better yet, a trip on the bus will set you back just a few pesos and they travel to points outside of town, Boca de Tomatlan to the south or the surfing beaches at Sayulita north of town.

Create a Visual Memory of Puerto Vallarta

2009-07-01T11:55:00.000-07:00

Aim . . . Focus . . . Click. You want to remember every special moment of your stay in a Mexico Vacation Villa Rental in Puerto Vallarta, and one of the best ways to do that is to take tons of pictures. Fortunately, digital cameras make that a very user-friendly task.

Banderas Bay makes a perfect backdrop for aspiring photographers – the warm glow at sunset, the glitter of sunlight playing on water. And when you turn around, you’re looking at the colorful action on the Malecón. Before you start clicking, though, think about the image you want to capture. Something special caught your eye – focus on that and let the background do its part.

To get the best results, you need ideal lighting for your shot. If you’re outdoors in broad daylight, you may need to adjust your settings to avoid washing out your subject; an indoor shot will probably need a flash. And for those shots with low light, at dawn or dusk, you may need to set up on a tripod and use a slower shutter speed.

Start your photo diary with some shots of you and the gang enjoying the good life in your Mexico Vacation Villa Rental. Then keep your eyes open for unique views as you dive into Puerto Vallarta’s activities. Every now and again, show a willing volunteer how to work the camera and get yourself into a shot or two.

Play on the Bay in Puerto Vallarta

2009-06-27T07:45:00.000-07:00

There is no way to deny it – the thing that makes Puerto Vallarta such a popular vacation destination is its location on Banderas Bay. It seems that every Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta faces the bay, and what a great view to wake up to.

Enough with the sight-seeing. The real thrill of sleeping a stone’s throw away from Banderas Bay is the opportunity to get down and soggy whenever you choose. The simplest thing you can do, of course, is to walk across the beach directly into the water. No special tools or toys, no extra cost, and people do it all the time.

To get the most out of some of your bay activities, you can use your Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta as a base and take a short trip out of the city. For example, the clear waters of Las Gemelas or Colomitas beaches are wonderful for snorkeling, and the waves that roll into the bay at Sayulito make surfers very happy.

In case you’re wondering, it’s perfectly alright to stay dry on the beach. Take a towel or find a chaise and spread out in the shade with your favorite book and beverage. You’ll be shocked at how quickly the time passes.

Kids are Welcome in Puerto Vallarta

2009-06-24T17:46:00.000-07:00

Before you can take your family on vacation, you need to find a place to take them. You want a destination that has something for everyone. If your gang is unanimous in their desire to go someplace warm, with a beach, take a look at the Vacation Rentals in Puerto Vallarta and start packing.

It may be a resort city, with all the high-end amenities that term includes, but don’t let that keep you from hauling the gang down to Banderas Bay - families are welcome in Puerto Vallarta. There are so many activities to choose from that kids of all ages can stay pleasantly occupied from morning to night.

Your list of kid-oriented activities might look something like this:

•Take a “canopy tour.” It sounds tame, but really, this one is a wild ride on a zipline through the treetops in the jungle.
•Spend a day enjoying a very physical encounter with dolphins at the Dolphin Adventure Center. You and yours can choose your comfort level and get in the water for a face-to-face or, if it feels right, keep a bit more distance between you and these guys.
•The beach beckons. Those Vacation Rentals in Puerto Vallarta are so close to the beach that you’re going to be tempted to spend every day hanging out in and on the waves. So force yourself to get out.

Star-Studded Puerto Vallarta

2009-06-21T14:29:00.000-07:00

If you haven’t yet heard about Casa Kimberly, at Calle Zaragoza 445, read on. This is a place that anyone who loves gossip, innuendo and Elizabeth Taylor absolutely must see. The casa is the home that Richard Burton bought for Liz in the 1960s, and it’s not far from your Villa Puerto Vallarta.

For those of you too young to remember Liz and Dick, here’s the scoop: the legendary couple met when they were filming “Cleopatra” in 1963. He moved on to Puerto Vallarta to work on “Night of the Iguana,” and she followed. The film wrapped, the crew moved on to other pastures, Taylor and Burton stayed on.

The couple settled in for a lovely life south of the border – a natural in Puerto Vallarta – and a string friends and acquaintances from Tinsel Town soon joined them. A good time was had by all. (You know how this works; you have a Villa Puerto Vallarta of your own, the envy of all your friends.)

Things didn’t always go swimmingly for the Taylor-Burtons (they had an inclination to argue), so Mr. Burton picked up the villa across the street from Liz’s as a retreat. A cute little footbridge connected the two homes, so no one had to play in traffic to get home.

Take a Puerto Vallarta Hike

2009-06-18T17:15:00.000-07:00

You know how tough it is to keep up with your fitness routine when you’re vacationing in Puerto Vallarta. There is good news, though – not far from your Mexico Vacation Villa Rental lies a hike near the bay that will keep your old heart pumping young.

Don’t misunderstand – there is absolutely nothing wrong with relaxation, and it can be just as good for your heart as a good walk. Some folks need to get out, though, and break a sweat. And what better way to walk your way to fitness than to step onto the trail that leads from Boca de Tomatlan to Animas?

This route occasionally asks your feet to get personal with the water, so select shoes that can handle it. Put on your hat and smooth on some sunblock, then grab a water bottle and a couple of sandwiches as you head out the door of your Mexico Vacation Villa Rental. You can take the bus to Boca, a fishing village south of Puerto Vallarta; they run every 30 minutes.

When you get into town, cross the river and stick to the concrete path along the river. When it becomes a dirt path, start looking for a trail high up on the hill. This is the trail to Colomitas Beach. The walk to the beach should take you less than an hour, and when you see it, you may just decide to scrap the rest of the hike and settle in for a lovely afternoon.

Puerto Vallarta’s Silver Tradition

2009-06-14T11:56:00.000-07:00

When they book their Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta, many visitors don’t realize that the town was once an important part of the region’s thriving silver industry. Believe it or not, today’s beach bunnies and zip-line zippers didn’t always have a lock on this town; once upon a time, the docks were alive with silver.

In centuries past, miners pulled silver out of the surrounding mountains, and much of that silver made its way to distant markets through the port at Puerto Vallarta. That brief history lesson might help explain the wide and gorgeous selection of silver treasures just waiting for you in Puerto Vallarta’s galleries and shops.

You should know a couple of things about Mexican silver before you begin shopping. First, genuine Mexican silver is stamped with a number that indicates its purity level – a piece that carries the mark “950” is 95 percent pure. And only silver pieces created in Mexico are permitted to carry the “Mexico” or “Mex” stamp.

If you’re looking for the real thing, or things, look for those marks or ask an expert. Either way, choose the right piece and you’ll have a genuinely Mexican memento. When you wear it, your memories will take you back those wonderful evenings spent relaxing at your Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta.

Walk on Puerto Vallarta's Wild Side – with Iguanas

2009-06-12T15:35:00.000-07:00

An iguana is a lizard – a large-ish green lizard with a wild set of spines running down its back. It lives in the trees, it dines on flowers and fruit, and it likes to sit in the sun and soak up rays. If you weren’t staying in a comfortable Puerto Vallarta Villa Rental, this could describe your stay on Banderas Bay, right?

Anyway, a lot of folks who visit Puerto Vallarta recommend a casual stroll on Isla Rio Cuale, the island at the mouth of the Rio Cuale. The walk doesn’t cost anything, and on a lovely day, it provides pleasant diversion for a morning or an afternoon. While you’re walking, don’t be surprised if you come face to face with an iguana or two.

It turns out that iguanas are hooked on solar energy – they like nothing so much as a hot rock to warm their cold blood. They’re easy to spot, and you’ll know one when you see it since they tend to be green and long. They don’t look for company and they don’t want to play with you, but they’re usually not aggressive, either.

On the other hand, if one of them grunts or hisses at you, it’s probably a good idea to take the long way around its perch on the way back to your Puerto Vallarta Villa Rental.

Puerto Vallarta’s Surfing Scene

2009-06-08T08:37:00.000-07:00

Visitors to Mexico stay in Vacation Rentals in Puerto Vallarta for a number of reasons – the weather, the shopping, and yes – the surfing. If you’re looking for an encounter of the rolling waves kind, take a short trip to the village of Sayulita for a surfing adventure on Banderas Bay.

In case you’re wondering why the trek to Sayulita, here’s the deal. As a sea-side destination, Puerto Vallarta has almost everything; it just lacks good surf. As fate would have it, the bay at Sayulita has exactly what you need for a great day on your surfboard. And hey, it’s only 45 minutes north of town by bus.

If you’ve never heard of Sayulita, you haven’t been listening. More and more folks are heading north to spend a day challenging the waves on a surfboard or a boogie board. One nice thing about this beach: it’s a good place for newbies to rent equipment and get a lesson. That’s right, you don’t need to be afraid to go to a surfing beach anymore.

Like all good things that get “discovered,” the surfing crowd is growing at Sayulita, so mind your surfing manners. Drop-ins are welcome and folks in those Vacation Rentals in Puerto Vallarta can reserve their equipment in advance. You probably won’t need a wet suit, although a rashguard is a good idea to keep you warmer and protect your skin from sun and scrapes.

Do the Zoo in Puerto Vallarta

2009-06-04T12:48:00.000-07:00

There are tons of things to do while you’re staying in a House For Rent in Puerto Vallarta, so don’t waste a single moment of the day. Although it may sound a bit uninspiring at first glance, consider spending a day wandering the trails and paths at the Vallarta Zoo.

The Zoologico de Vallarta offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy an animal encounter in a jungle environment. You’ll see quite an assortment of species at the zoo, and many of them are housed in a habitat that is as close to being the real thing as you can get. And of course, any place you have “birds and bees,” you’re going to have little ones, so ask if there are any new zoo babies.

The Vallarta Zoo is dedicated to preserving species that are in danger of disappearing from the Earth. Their approach to the problem is education. The zoo’s staff try to help every visitor understand important concepts of environmental conservation, including the place of humans in the natural world.

You’ll find the zoo near Mismaloya, south of the city. You can visit any day between 8:30 and 6:00. Pack a lunch, catch a bus and spend some time at Zoo Vallarta. Your House For Rent in Puerto Vallarta will be waiting at the end of the day.

A Horse is a Horse in Puerto Vallarta

2009-05-29T07:59:00.000-07:00

If you’re a horse and history type, you probably already know that horses aren’t native to the America; they came to the New World with Spanish adventurers. They were the long distance conveyance of the 16th century in Mexico (known as New Spain in the day). If you didn’t know, settle back on a lounge chair in your Villa Puerto Vallarta and get familiar with local tradition.

The horse holds a significant place in Mexican culture. It did serve to move the conquistadores from Point A to Point B, something that modern horses probably aren’t especially proud of. On the other hand, when Spaniards introduce cattle to the Americas, the horse was able to bring something positive to its past as it became indispensible to Mexican cattle raisers.

You may encounter a couple of Spanish terms while you’re staying at a Mexico vacation villa rental: caballero and vaquero. Both terms reflect Mexico’s horse and cattle heritage. A vaquero is an individual who works on horseback, tending cattle (vacas) on the range. A caballero may be a gentleman, but he is certainly experienced in handling horses (caballos).

There is much you can learn about horses and horsemanship in Mexico. For example, in the 1970s, Mexican breeders established a new, distinctly Mexican horse breed known as the Azteca. Use your stay in a Villa Puerto Vallarta as an opportunity to learn more about the country’s horse culture and its special breed of horse.

Welcome to Sunny Puerto Vallarta

2009-05-27T17:47:00.000-07:00

One of the first things a visitor planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta wants to know is, “How’s the weather this time of year?” The great thing about this destination is that it really doesn’t matter what time of year you’re talking about. Book that Puerto Vallarta Vacation Villa Rental and count on lovely weather.

Prepare yourself for an atmospheric feast: depending on who you listen to (or what you read), you’re in for a lot of sunshine. That’s right, Puerto Vallarta gets anywhere from 322 to 345 days of sunshine every year. Of course, that’s an average, but given those numbers, the smart money says expect sun, bring sunblock.

The “high season” in Puerto Vallarta falls during the winter months. With average highs in the 70s and 80s and lows in the 60s at night, this is the place to be as the snow flies further north. In fact, locals will probably shrug their shoulders and shake their heads “no” if you ask about snow shovels.

Make no mistake: it does rain in Puerto Vallarta, especially between June and September. In fact, it rains quite a little bit. Unlike the rain storms you may be recognize from home, however, this is a warm rain. Sure, it may pelt down, but it most likely won’t leave you soaked and shivering – just soaked. So go ahead, get wet; then return to the comfort of your Puerto Vallarta Vacation Villa Rental to towel off and maybe take a soak – in the hot tub, that is.

High Class Glass in Puerto Vallarta

2009-05-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

You’re the lucky duck, the one who will be staying in a Puerto Vallarta Vacation Rental. So be a hero for someone who missed out on the fun – return home with a gift that reflects the warmth and color of Puerto Vallarta. Take home a work of art in the form of Mexican glassware.

Local artists produce some lovely pieces; you’ll recognize them by their gorgeous colors and round, fluid shape. It’s not hard to find – many local galleries carry Mexican glass. Start your search for the perfect piece in Viejo Vallarta at Pee Wee or La Rosa de Cristal.

A gift of glass is both beautiful and practical. A colorful picture frame may be perfect surround for photos from your honeymoon. Or select pieces for beverage service, maybe some tall water glasses or a set of bowl-shaped margarita glasses; it’s pretty easy to find a pitcher to match.

This isn’t assembly line work – genuine Mexican glass is hand-blown, so expect each piece to be just a bit different from its mates. Many connoisseurs prefer pieces with lots of bubbles, which create an even more unique look, and Confetti colors in the glass add a festive touch, as well.

Be a pal and bring back some lovely gifts from your stay in a Puerto Vallarta Vacation Rental. Your friends and loved ones will thank you. Besides, a colorful piece in your own home will inspire you to head back to Banderas Bay at your earliest opportunity.

Rodeo, Puerto Vallarta Style – the Charreada

2009-05-15T09:49:00.000-07:00

Looking for a bit of excitement? There is nothing like a Mexican rodeo, or charreada, to get your pulses pounding. Not far from town and your Vacation Rentals in Puerto Vallarta, you can step into an arena to watch teams of men and women match wits with livestock and each other. Throw on some comfortable clothes and take off for an afternoon of fun.

Much like rodeo in the US, the charreada harks back to the days when cowboys, or charros in Spanish, worked their ranches from horseback. Their lifestyle became a tremendously popular subject for movies and novels in the 20th century, and the sport of charreada found its legs.

If you think you know rodeo, be prepared – the charreada has something new for you. Instead of denim-clad individuals competing individually, two teams of men and women dressed in traditional costume compete against each other. You’ll be treated to a colorful opening ceremony, followed by a series of nine events that test the contestants’ skills in a number of areas.

You can ride the bus to Lienzo Charro Miguel Prieto Ibarria; if you prefer, take a taxi or your own car. No matter how you get there, get ready for a wild ride. The competition is fierce and enthusiastic, and the participants always raise a bit of dust as they go about their work.

It’s fast-paced and thrilling, and if you don’t mind eating a bit of dust, you’ll enjoy a day spent in the company of horses and bulls. Don’t worry about the dirt – clean up back at your Vacation Rentals in Puerto Vallarta, and you’re ready for a night on the town.

Celebrate the Winter Holidays in Puerto Vallarta

2009-05-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

Winter holidays seem to bring special cheer to life just when we need it most. When it’s cold outside and the days are short and dark, we rise to the challenge with hot chocolate and twinkle lights strung by the hundreds. You will love spending the “Season of Light” in a Luxury Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay, where local tradition adds a special flair to the seasonal celebrations.

The Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe
December 12, the Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe, is one of the most special feast days in Mexico. This festival marks the day that the beautiful Virgin of Guadalupe revealed herself to a young Mexican peasant and instructed him to build a church on that spot. If you planned your stay in a luxury villa rental Puerto Vallarta to coincide with that date, you really must take part in the festivities.

The celebration begins on December 1; each night, a different local organization puts together a procession that makes its way through the streets of town to the catedral to pay homage to the Virgin. On the final night of the celebration, revelers take to the streets, vendors crowd the plaza and fireworks fill the skies.

And There’s More . . .
You may not know that December 12 is also recognized in Puerto Vallarta as the city’s anniversary. You might want to catch the special ceremonies at City Hall, and you certainly don’t want to miss the fiesta along the Malecon. After this date, official holidays take a breather until December 16, when the Christmas season begins.

The week of December 16 through 24 is “Christmas Week” in Mexico. Throughout the week, you may find yourself invited to special “posadas,” or parties, that reprise Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging in Bethlehem. Processions of people make their way to a given house, singing and carrying candles. When they arrive and ask for a place to stay, the host tells them “no” several times before he finally throws open his door and invites everyone in to the party.

No matter what your belief system, you cannot help but enjoy December in Puerto Vallarta. Use your Luxury Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta as a base and get out there with the crowds, light a candle, and take part in the lovely traditions of Mexico.

Chocolate at Home in Puerto Vallarta

2009-05-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

Maybe you didn’t know that chocolate, or rather, the cacao seed that produces chocolate, is native to Mexico. Or maybe you did know. In either case, you’ll want to learn more about this divine product of Mexico during your stay at your Villa Puerto Vallarta.

“Divine” is an appropriate term for chocolate, because its botanical name is said to mean, “food of the gods.” The treat was known for centuries before native Aztec peoples introduced it to Spanish invaders. European explorers offered it to their royal sponsors in Spain, and after a bit of experimentation, hot chocolate as we know it was born.

In Puerto Vallarta, however, you really ought to try chocolate Mexico style. As a beverage, Mexican bitter chocolate may be mixed with milk, and it always includes spices like molasses, cinnamon, anise, and even chile. And the centerpiece of the local dish called Chicken Mole is the mole sauce, a heavenly blend of chococlate, chile, cloves, anise and other spices cooked in chicken stock.

You can enjoy the taste of chocolate cuisine in local restaurants. And if you’re staying in a Villa Puerto Vallarta, you can purchase Mexican chocolate at a local market and whip up a special meal on your own. Better yet, ask the cook at your villa to prepare his or her favorite chocolate dish. However you choose to do it, make it a point to enjoy a dish that features this native treat.

Mariachi – the Music of Puerto Vallarta

2009-04-27T07:58:00.000-07:00

The city of Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific coast is considered one of the country’s most entertaining resort destinations. You’ll find the usual resort amenities offered up here, cloaked in shades of Mexican culture. Whether you are staying in a Mexico Vacation Villa Rental or a resort hotel, you really should make it a point to seek out attractions that identify your surroundings as distinctly of Mexico. And what could be more authentically Mexican than mariachi music?

The beautiful sounds of mariachi originated in the Mexican state of Jalisco, so this particular musical art form is right at home in Puerto Vallarta, which is located in – you guessed it – Jalisco! A mariachi group typically consists of a number of guitars and related stringed instruments, accompanied by two or three trumpets. The musicians may or may not be vocalists as well. And their music is unmistakably of Mexican origin.

A number of different mariachi groups perform in and around Puerto Vallarta. While there are plenty of street musicians in town, they’re not all mariachi. In addition to their beautiful music, which addresses themes of love and betrayal, you can recognize a mariachi group by their distinctive, silver-studded suits. Locals and visitors alike strongly recommend a session with Mariachi Cocula, who appear in a variety of venues around town throughout the week.

Your visit to Mexico can turn into something truly special when you take time to enjoy the local culture in a personal way. And if you stay in a Mexico Vacation Villa Rental, nestled in the hills around the city, you will have an opportunity to experience the city from a unique vantage point.

Escape the Crowd at San Blas

2009-04-24T10:39:00.000-07:00

Everyone goes to the beach when they visit Puerto Vallarta. Some days, you just want to throw down your gear and enjoy the sun, but some days, you want something a bit off the beaten path. When you have one of those days, why not abandon the beach for a few hours and venture out of your Villa Puerto Vallarta to enjoy the area without the call of the crowd. One option – go north on a journey to San Blas.

This trip can be a day-long adventure, especially if you stop at the northern end of your expedition to swim and snorkel. The town San Blas is further north along the coast, about 60 miles from Puerto Vallarta.

You’ll find the pace of life much slower in this small fishing village. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, a day spent exploring town and floating in the bay will help you break your habit. Make no mistake – there are plenty of things to do in San Blas: visit La Tovara springs, see Our Lady of the Rosary Church and the ruins of the old fort, swim in Matachen Bay. And enjoy the relative quiet of the experience.

Keep in mind that holidays are likely to draw a good number of visitors to Mexico’s beach towns. For example, Semana Santa (Easter week) is the equivalent of Spring Break, and many Mexican families head for the beach in towns like San Blas. These jovial crowds add to the festive mood during any holiday season.

It’s a special treat to spend the holidays in a Villa Puerto Vallarta, so embrace the celebrations as well as the celebrants, and have a great time. If the holidays are your favorite times during the year, now is a good time to book a villa Puerto Vallarta and start your preparations for a great time on Banderas Bay.

Bring Home a Piece of Puerto Vallarta

2009-04-24T10:33:00.000-07:00

Two kinds of people go shopping in Puerto Vallarta – people who consider shopping to be a competitive sport (team or individual) and approach it with gusto, and people who can’t say which is more fun, a root canal or going shopping. No matter which category you fall into, at the very least you’re going to want a memento of your stay in a Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta, so quit whining and start shopping.

The nicest take-aways are local treasures, items that are unique to Mexico and perhaps even to Puerto Vallarta, that will remind you of your days spent splashing in the surf and nights spent dancing till dawn. You can pick up local goods along the Malecon or at the flea market on the Rio Cuale, or you can barter with vendors on the beach. A few ideas, no matter where you shop:

You can purchase woven goods – belts, serapes, blankets and ponchos – of varying quality in a wide range of prices. You can expect to pay more for finely woven pieces crafted by local artisans, so if you’re looking for quality on a budget, treat yourself to a smaller piece like a woven belt.

Mexico is known for its beautiful silver, and again, you’ll get what you pay for. Pieces made of sterling silver will have a “.925" stamp on the back. Some of what you see on the beach isn’t solid silver, so if you want the real thing, you might be better off buying from the shops in town.

If you want to take home some handcrafted pottery or ceramics, visit Talavera at Ignacio Vallarta 266 and find something in their collection. You can choose from tile mosaics, colorful folk art pieces or an entire set of dinnerware.

Of course, you can pick up things for the young set, as well. Favorites include marionettes and traditional dolls with soft bodies dressed in ethnic costumes. Your best choice, hands down, is the piece that will bring that faraway look to your face as you revisit your stay in a Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta. That’s what souvenirs are all about!

Walk in Puerto Vallarta's Woods

2009-04-04T14:30:00.000-07:00

Puerto Vallarta Villas are wonderful, but you have to go outside sometime! There are tons of good reasons to take a hike through the trees, and here are a few of them: it’s good for your legs; it’s good for your heart; it’s good for your mental attitude. Besides, there is no better way to see the local flora and fauna than on foot. So lace up your hiking boots (or your Tevas) and take off for a day on the trails around town. Here are a couple of options.

El Nogalito is a small village in the jungle just a few miles south of Puerto Vallarta. Drive out of town toward Mismaloya; when you reach the turn for Punta Negra beach, turn left and follow the signs on the Calzada del Cedro to the pueblo. As you get near town, look for the restaurant El Nogalito. This eatery comes highly recommended, so you might want to stop for a bite before venturing into the unknown. Besides, several trails take off from here, and you can usually hire a guide. As an alternative, you can join a tour that leaves from Puerto Vallarta. Either way, hike in the jungle, along and across the river, to the falls. Take a cool dip in the water then head back to where you started.

Many travelers recommend the hike from Boca de Tomatlan to Las Animas, along the edge of the ocean. Once again, to get to the start point, you must head south out of Puerto Vallarta; for this trip, you go past Mismaloya to Boca de Tomatlan. You can take a bus or taxi, or you can drive yourself. Cross the footbridge over the river and stay on the paved walk that follows the river until you come to the dirt trail to Colomitas Beach. Stay here to swim and snorkel, or keep going. The hike to Las Animas should take 2 to 3 hours; you can get back to Boca de Tomatlan the way you arrived (on foot), or you can take a water taxi. Then it's back to the Puerto Vallarta villas.

It should go without saying, but let’s say it anyway – you need to be in good physical condition if you plan to hike. Dress appropriately for the season and terrain you’ll be covering, and take along a swimming suit, just in case you get a chance to take a dip. Wear lots of sunscreen and take it along so you can reapply. Wear shoes that can handle trails as well as stream beds (if you’re planning a splash in the water), and always wear a hat. You’ll probably be glad you have water and snacks with you, as well.

San Sebastian for the Day

2009-03-27T09:10:00.000-07:00

Not very far from your Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta lies a very different world, a small and charming Mexican town that will take you back to the days before cell phones and satellite television ruled the day. In fact, a trip to San Sebastian will take you back to a time when the community’s the central square, or plaza, was the focal point for social life. That isn’t to say that life in San Sebastian has always been calm. Quite the opposite, in fact: in its heyday, miners pulled gold and silver from surrounding mines, and San Sebastian served as the provincial capital and home to tens of thousands of people.

One look at the architecture and the town’s layout will tell you that this lovely place is not very different today than it was 100 or 200 years ago. A visit to San Sebastian will appeal to everyone who wants to spend a pleasant day exploring the streets of this now-quiet village high in the Sierra Madre. No extreme sports or wild clubs here, just fresh air and nice people.

Make no mistake – you will find things to do in town. Shop for silver and other local items. If you’re visiting in spring, don’t miss the San Sebastian Silver Festival, which takes place over three days in May. Visit the La Quinta coffee farm, a fifth-generation family enterprise which produces organic coffee, takes guests on short tours and serves coffee and fruit rolls from a stand on the road. Enjoy a good meal. The restaurant Real y Minas comes highly recommended. And if you love to sit on the patio with a cup of coffee and watch the world go slowly by, stop at Los Arcos for breakfast.

You can reach San Sebastian by car; simply follow the airport road toward the university; when you reach the Y in the road, take the route to Mascota until you reach Estancia where you’ll see the sign to San Sebastian. If this sounds too complicated, pay a few pesos and catch a bus to the fork in the road and catch a ride to the small mountain town. Or take a tour with one of Puerto Vallarta’s vendors. Either way, you’ll return to your Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta satisfied with a day well spent.

Dance the Night Away in Puerto Vallarta

2009-03-21T08:25:00.000-07:00

You simply cannot grow bored in Puerto Vallarta – there are activities to take you from sun-up to sun-down and more. Much of the region’s attraction is a direct result of its location on Banderas Bay at the foot of the mountains, great for outdoor recreationists. But what about indoor recreationists? If you have been itching to step out from your Puerto Vallarta Luxury Villa Rental and have some fun until the wee small hours, this is the city that can make it happen.

There are a number of bars in Puerto Vallarta’s Central District; from the totally loud and touristy to the more low-key and, well, touristy. Still, if it’s a party you want, you will find it at one of these places:

Andale’s, at Olas Altas 425, caters to an older crowd, which isn’t to say they’re a less spirited crowd. You might find one or another guest riding a donkey through the bar.

Carlos O’Briens is pretty widely known and easy to find at 786 Paseo Diaz Ordaz. The late-night crowd dances the night away with the excellent DJ.

The party doesn’t even get started until 10 pm or later, but once the gang at De Santos (771 Morelos) kicks it in gear, they’re likely to party on until 4 in the morning.

The salsa dancer in you will love La Bodeguita de Media, at Paseo Diaz Ordaz 858. And if you don’t salsa, you can sip on a mojito and watch those who do.

Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife (and early morning life, as well) will leave you exhausted but exhilarated. Catch a cab back to your Puerto Vallarta Luxury Villa Rental and tuck yourself into bed for what’s left of the night.

A Treasure Hunt in the Rio Cuale Market

2009-03-10T13:57:00.000-07:00

You planned your trip to Puerto Vallarta because you wanted to do something different, to get away from your every-day life and see a bit of the world. That doesn’t mean you have to avoid all your regular activities. Take shopping, for instance. When you’re home, you go to the grocery store, you go to the mall, but honestly - how often do you get the chance to shop at the Rio Cuale Market?

It’s a short trip from your Vacation Rentals in Puerto Vallarta to the Rio Cuale Flea Market, and you’ll be glad you made it once you get there. The market sits on Isla Rio Cuale, a small island in the river very close to Puerto Vallarta’s downtown. The island itself is a focal point for folks who enjoy its walking trails, shops, restaurants, and the Rio Cuale Market.

The market is said to be one of the largest in Mexico; shops and stalls stack two stories high, and their proprietors sell all kinds of local goods, including pottery, leather goods, and jewelry. There is no better place to get a great deal on some wonderful mementos of your Mexican holiday.

Bridges span the river from the island to the surrounding neighborhoods, so you won’t have any trouble getting back to your Vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta after your shopping expedition. Gather around the pool with a cool beverage and brag about the great deals you made on your newly purchased treasures.

Puerto Vallarta on Two Wheels - Easy as Falling Off a Bike

2009-03-06T07:44:00.000-08:00

You remember what it was like learning to ride a bicycle – pedal a couple of times then fall, pedal then fall. You kept after it until you got it right. And you know what they say about bicycles – once you learn how to ride, you never forget. If they’re right, you should still have the cycling skills of an 8-year old. The weather is great, so why not abandon your Puerto Vallarta Villa Rental for a few hours and hop on a two-wheeler?

Tour operators offer mountain-bike tours for riders of every skill level. If you haven’t been on a bike since you were 8, or if you just don’t enjoy the experience of catapulting down a mountainside at top speed, consider biking around Puerto Vallarta itself.

If you want to take the family on a ride that will leave everyone mostly intact, join BikeMex on their Rio Cuale tour. You’ll start riding through town and finish up along the banks of the Rio Cuale. This one takes off twice a day (except Sundays) and lasts about 4½ hours. They provide the bicycle, the guide and the water; you bring the sunblock.

At the other end of the difficulty scale, the Killer Donkey ride will take you along old mining trails, up and down some pretty severe terrain. This one is for experienced, strong riders only. Really. No matter what tour you take, you can soothe your aching muscles in the hot tub when you get back to your Puerto Vallarta Villa rental.

Catch Your Bass in Puerto Vallarta

2009-03-02T07:33:00.000-08:00

Bass fishermen, this one’s for you: get your gear to Puerto Vallarta for some great bass fishing. That’s right, Cajon de Pena Lake is home to some great bass, and other sport fishing species, as well. Read on, then reserve your Puerto Vallarta Vacation Rental and head to Mexico to enjoy your favorite pastime.

There’s no denying that La Presa Cajon de Pena is a bit of a trek from town, about two hours’ drive, but you’ll be glad you made it when you get on the lake. The record black bass weighted in at 13 pounds. People who know say you need to be on the lake at dawn for the best fishing. And you don’t really need to bring your own gear if you go with the right guide.

Two guides, Myles Lineberger and Pro Bass Fishing with Steve, will take you to the lake, set you up with all the gear you’ll need for the day, take you out on a fast bass boat and feed you. It’s a long day, 12 hours away from your villa Puerto Vallarta, and lunch is on the fly (so to speak), and you’re going to love it from beginning to end.

If you’re a hardcore bass fisherman, or woman, spend a day on the lake while you’re in Puerto Vallarta. You’ll have to leave your Puerto Vallarta Vacation Rental before the birds start singing in the morning, but then, you’re used to that. And at the end of your expedition to Cajon de Pena Lake, you decide if this isn’t some of the best bass you’ve ever had.

Deep Sea Fishing in Puerto Vallarta - It’s Not for Sissies

2009-02-26T19:27:00.000-08:00

You are mistaken if you imagine that a vacation in Puerto Vallarta includes little more than stretching out on a blanket on the beach. Here’s a news flash for you: Puerto Vallarta is terrific sport fishing territory. This place rocks when it comes to deep sea fishing and charter expeditions, so book your Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta now to make certain you have a place to sleep when the fishing season is at its peak.

Fishing fans love their sport in Puerto Vallarta, although many of them choose to catch and release whenever possible. Experts consider these waters some of the best; the catch of the day might include yellowfin tuna, dorado, sailfish and blue and black marlin–mostly respectable in size, occasionally gigantic. If you’re fixing for a fight, the big ones around Puerto Vallarta are happy to oblige.

Competitive fishermen need look no farther than Puerto Vallarta to find top-notch tournament fishing opportunities. The Fishing Club of Puerto Vallarta sponsors an event in the fall that draws hundreds of participants; the annual International Puerto Vallarta Sailfish and Marlin Tournament has become a widely respected event among those who know and love sport fishing. If you like to combine good deeds and fishing, check out the Hook the Cure Fishing Tournament in Puerto Vallarta; proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

It doesn’t matter why you want to go deep sea fishing in Puerto Vallarta–a number of good charter fishing companies can accommodate. Wander along the dock at the end of the day to see which boats are sporting the most flags, a sign that the crew caught a big bunch of fish. When you book your trip, confirm that your license and fees are included in the cost. Then eat a hearty breakfast, grab a cap and set out from your Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta for a day of sport fishing adventure on the Pacific.

A Day with Dolphins in Puerto Vallarta

2009-02-18T07:50:00.000-08:00

You have been in Puerto Vallarta a couple of days now; you’ve gone shopping, you’ve enjoyed a few beverages, you’ve taken in the local scene. Today, it’s time to get away from your Mexico Vacation Villa Rental, get away from town attractions, and do something entirely different. One adventure that gets rave reviews is a day swimming with dolphins.

That’s right – you can actually get in the water with these intelligent creatures and experience them up close and in person. You can choose a dolphin experience that suits your comfort level, from interaction with dolphin and trainer in a very small group to a larger group encounter. And if you have your suspicions about dolphins, you can enjoy their antics from afar.

You can experience a dolphin adventure with a variety of operators, so shop around and read the reviews before you book a tour. Vallarta Adventures offers dolphin encounters at its Dolphin Center in Nuevo Vallarta; they ask that you leave your jewelry at home and don’t wear sun block (it’s not good for the dolphins). Sea Life Park Vallarta, also in Nuevo Vallarta, is a dolphins-plus adventure. You can spend all day playing in the water: get acquainted with dolphins in their pool, take a ripping ride on the water toboggans and float a lazy river.

However you choose to enjoy your visit with the dolphins, you’ll return home to your luxurious Mexico Vacation Villa Rental at the end of a satisfying day, slip into the hot tub with a cold beverage, and enjoy a quieter kind of encounter with another gorgeous Puerto Vallarta evening.

Go Whale Watching on Banderas Bay

2009-02-16T08:12:00.000-08:00

If you’re like most people, you planned your vacation and took that Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta so you could spend some time in and on the water. Nature lovers will tell you that whale watching is one of the most exciting and satisfying adventures you can have on Banderas Bay. A day spent interacting with these splendid animals will leave you with a new sense of wonder for the natural world.

Humpback whales are the stars of this show; each one has unique markings on dorsal fins and flukes, so individual whales are fairly easy to identify. Take a camera and offer to be part of one of the photo-ID research programs for these wonderful creatures. Treat the whales with respect; keep your distance and don’t chase them, and you and the whales will be happier for it.

Whale watching tour operators are regulated by the government of Mexico; there is a legal season for this pastime (usually mid-December through April) and responsible operators are licensed by the government. Be a thoughtful visitor; when you enjoy watching the whales within these limits, you help to ensure the whales’ future well-being.

Choose your tour operator based on what you want to get out of the experience. A couple of operators, including Ecotours de Mexico and The Whale Watching Center, have trained biologists and oceanologists on staff. When you go whale watching with them, you’ll have a great time on the tour and you may learn a lot about whales from these knowledgeable guides. Because they work with small groups on small boats, you need to make a reservation in advance.

A whale watching excursion can be a day-long adventure, so be prepared when you set out from your Villa Puerto Vallarta. Take a hat, sunglasses and sun block. Many tour operators provide drinks and snacks, but it doesn’t hurt to take a bottle of water, just in case.

Get Out There and . . . Relax

2009-02-14T07:30:00.000-08:00

As soon as you get settled into your Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta, you’re going to want to get going. You want to see the sights; swim, snorkel and splash; and try all the amazing adventure outings you can find. Believe it or not, all that fun might just wear you down until you feel like you need a day off to relax and regroup.

That’s great, because Puerto Vallarta is home to a huge collection of day spas that can help you loosen up. Naturally, you can spend a day in the spa at one of the big resorts, but that’s not so very different from what you will get at home. Since you’re in Mexico, you might like a spa experience that includes a taste of local culture.

One favorite day spa is Terra Noble. Its rustic outdoor setting doesn’t suit everyone’s taste, but if you have an interest in more traditional healing arts, consider their Temazcalli Ceremony. The steam bath, medicinal herbs, and chants draw from Aztec traditions, and the experience is designed to restore your spirit using elements from Mother Earth.

If you’re reluctant to take too much time away from the fun and sun, bring a massage therapist to you. Yin-Yang will pack up a massage table and arrive at the door of your Villa Rental Puerto Vallarta, prepared to massage away the knots and knocks you’ve collected on your vacation. All you need to do is decide if you want your massage in the cool comfort of the villa, or if you prefer an outdoor experience on your private patio beside the pool.