Excursions & Attractions
Puerto Vallarta's other attractions include a scenic mountain backdrop, a good selection
of restaurants, deep-sea fishing, adequate shopping and close-in jungles and islands for
exploration. The city by the bay has a population of 250,000 residents and covers
1,3000 square kilometers. It is a city with modern conveniences yet has maintained its Old
World Charm. Puerto Vallarta has 300 sunny days a year with temperatures averaging 28C or
82F. Puerto Vallarta is situated on the same parallel as the Hawaiian Islands, thus
the similarity in tropical and humid climates.
A city tour is an excellent way to see the town.
Air-conditioned buses leave every morning to tour Vallarta, Mismaloya and surrounding
areas. A "see-all" tropical/city tour by VW van or mini-bus starts at 10 a.m.
and lasts five hours (including time for lunch). Arrangements can be made at your hotel travel desk. Horseback riding along the shore is popular and can be
arranged at most beaches. Local companies offers a number of horseback tours. Their standard
three-hour tour begins and ends at their ranches. The tour takes you into the back
roads of farm country. You'll pass through mango orchards, cattle ranches and farmland, visit a small, rural
village. Daily tours leave at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Also some companies offer 5-day trips on horseback, for small groups, into the Sierra
Madre and up to the old mining town of San Sebastian del Oeste, located 48 kms. South East Puerto Vallarta inside the Sierra Madre Mountains. A jungle tour leaving twice daily takes visitors
exploring. Air tours provide a one-day jaunt to Guadalajara and the
nearby handicrafts center of Talaquepaque. Packages include air fare, sightseeing, guide service
and lunch. Fishing
The waters off Puerto Vallarta rank with the best in the world for both
deep
sea and small
game fishing. November through May is the best season for sailfish. Throughout the year
there are plenty of smaller fish: red snapper, rooster fish, bass, sea bass, dorado,
swordfish, tuna, bonito and others.
There are many fishing boats available. Most offer catch-and-release sport fishing trips. A deep-sea fishing tournament is held each year in
November. Nearby lakes offer the attraction of freshwater catches like black bass. In
February, a sailing regatta beginning in California ends here. If you're into
fishing, be sure to take part in the annual Sailfish Tournament usually held
in November. Nightlife
Puerto Vallarta offers plenty of nightlife for
everyone! From Jazz
Clubs to Rock Clubs, from Salsa to Rhythm and Blues, from Piano Bars to Beach Bars to
Sport Bars, you will find them all!Puerto Vallarta offers dining to suits everyone's
taste. There are restaurants, cafes and eateries of every kind. With over 500
restaurants in town, tourists can find Italian, Greek, French, Oriental, Vegetarian,
Bavarian, American, and
of course, Mexican fair.
Shopping
The shopping in Puerto Vallarta is as rich and
diverse as the history and culture. The city has literally hundreds of shops where visitors can purchase anything from designer fashions, trinkets, sombreros,
collector crafts and art from all over Mexico and beyond. There is something here for
everyone. Since Mexico is the worlds largest producer of silver, excellent values abound on jewelry of every description.
OTHER TRAVEL INFORMATION:from the
Mexico Tourist Department
HEALTH:Health problems sometimes affect visitors to Mexico. Information on health
precautions can be obtained from local health departments or private doctors. It is wise
to review your health insurance policy before you travel. There are short-term health
insurance policies designed specifically to cover travel.
Most hotels offer purified water, but it is always advised
to drink bottled water. Be aware of ice cubes (sorry, this includes Margaritas) that may
not have been made with purified water Vegetables and fruits should be peeled or washed in
a purifying solution. A good rule to follow is if you can't peel it or cook it, do not eat
it. Diarrhea may benefit from antimicrobial treatment which may be prescribed or purchased
over the counter. Travelers should consult a physician, rather than attempt
self-medication, if the diarrhea is severe or persists several days. A Guide to Entry and Exit Regulations
Traveling With Minors
A child under the age of 18 traveling with only one parent must have written, notarized
consent from the other parent to travel, or must carry, if applicable, a decree of sole
custody for the accompanying parent or a death certificate for the other parent. Children
traveling alone or in someone else's custody must have notarized consent from both parents
to travel, or if applicable, notarized consent from a single parent plus documentation
that the parent is the only custodial parent. |
