Puerto Vallarta A La Carte
By Sarah Muņoz

Upon stepping on Puerto Vallarta’s soil, you may find that you have reached a land free of worries. Jump right in—there’s nothing this land can’t handle. Puerto Vallarta is known for its ample spread of options for visitors, from art enthusiasts to extreme-sports lovers and certainly those who appreciate the rich traditions and cultural variety that only this part of Mexico can provide.

Don’t worry about having to choose one over the other. You’ll find that they often intersect, as that’s the beauty of Vallarta—you’re never far off from an indescribable experience.

Beachy Pursuits
If you can resist the call of the restless waves of Puerto Vallarta’s shore, I praise you. But for the many who cannot help themselves, feel free to dive into a world of marine life so enchanting it brings back childhood dreams of mermaids and more. Even nighttime dives are available for enthusiasts—just ask your concierge. Another alternative is to go snorkeling—an easy sport to be practiced near Los Arcos, which is visible along the coastline.

You can also surf the waves along Banderas Bay on a long or short board, kayak along its shores or even go parasailing for a different view of the coastline. These sports are offered at a variety of beaches throughout the area. And don’t forget to do a little fishing—it's kind of a big thing here.

All About Tradition
Mexico’s charros, or cowboys, are one of the state of Jalisco’s well-kept traditions. Travelers can saddle up on tours departing from working ranches and explore the countryside or jungle, or even sign up for roping lessons. Also available are charro workshops, where you can learn the traditional art of horsemanship and how to parade on a horse rodeo-style. If your heart can take it, you can also stop by a local bullfight, or corrida de toros, during season—November through May.

You’re lucky enough to be visiting a region where customs and history are alive and well, for which you’ll also want to enjoy not just a sip of tequila but also a visit to a distillery, as well as indulge in some local dining at one of Puerto Vallarta’s restaurants. Family outings can include everything from an evening at a Mexican fiesta, with mariachi bands and dancing from beginning to end, to a rousing game of fútbol.

Ecotourism
Puerto Vallarta is not without its share of eco-friendly activities. You may don hiking boots and climb the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains—and while on foot or horseback, go birding and spot a handful of the 360 varieties found, or even take a canopy tour along the treetops and enjoy a different vantage point.

Animal lovers can go swimming with Pacific bottlenose dolphins at the Nuevo Vallarta Dolphin Center. Wildlife enthusiasts can easily discover the Mexico that not many know about by renting a jeep on your own or joining a caravan of explorers led by an ecologically trained guide.

Arts Fantastic
It’s not just Hollywood that has come calling—other art forms besides film have long made Puerto Vallarta an art lover’s favored spot. In fact, it was during the heyday of The Night of the Iguana that galleries began to pop up. Today there are more than 30, holding everything from the most contemporary of paintings to Mata Ortiz pottery. The city’s galleries are a main event here during Art Walk, a traipse along galleries in the historic center that stay open after hours. Before or afterwards, a breezy walk along the Malecón will reveal quite a number of public sculptures, including The Seahorse, a work by Rafael Zamarripa that is emblematic of the city.

AVIS
Puerto Vallarta International Airport
Mexico 23400
Tel: 322-221-0783
E-mail: supervisor.adminpvr
@avis.com.mx
Website: avis.com.mx
Days/Hours of operation: Seven days per week 6 a.m.–10 p.m.
AVIS Rent A Car has the best and a new fleet including convertible Mustangs, minivans, compact cars, Expeditions and Jeeps.

Pirates of the Bay
Av. Politécnico Nacional No. 78 Int. 304 Col. Educación
Mexico 48338
Tel: 322-223-0875
Fax: 322-223-0309
E-mail: creveles@piratesofthebaypv.com
Website: piratesofthebaypv.com
Days/Hours of operation: Treasure Land: Monday–Saturday 9 a.m.–3 p.m.; Buccaneer’s Night: Monday–Sunday
6 p.m.–10 p.m.
The Marigalante Pirate of the Bay, as tourists refer to it, offers two sailing excursions per day. These sailings offer a variety of options ranging from sunset dinner show to all-day beach and boating activities perfect for taking everyone outside their normal environment—it’s a fun and exciting experience.

Yates Yelapa SA de CV
Paseo de las Garzas 100 – B
Mexico 48300
Tel: 322-224-4777
Fax: 322-225-1525
E-mail: info@crucerosprincesa.com.mx
Website: crucerosprincesa.com.mx
Cruceros Princesa takes you to remote, secluded beaches, including our own private beach club on Banderas Bay—aboard Princesa Vallarta, Yelapa and Sarape. These all-day fun cruises offer you sightseeing, water and land activities, and the incomparable Sunset Cruise and whale watching (in season). All cruises include open bar featuring domestic drinks, Continental breakfast, lunch, live music and entertainment. Great fun, great food, great times.

Book your activities.
Golf courses.
Fishing and fishing charters.
Beaches.