Unique Experiences in Puerto Vallarta
Tue. 8th/Aug/2017.
Most internationally celebrated tourist destinations are distinctly artificial, establishments created to attract as many foreign dollars as possible without necessarily providing a meaningful cultural experience unique to the country. Unlike these places, Puerto Vallarta maintains an enchanting balance of authentic Mexican character and the world class amenities that modern travelers demand.
The local commitment to preserving the signature ambience and aesthetic of Puerto Vallarta comes from its relatively recent roots as a small fishing town perched inconspicuously on the Pacific coast of the historic Mexican state of Jalisco. The town was only elevated to the world stage in the 1960s, after nearby Mismaloya had its fateful starring turn as the backdrop for John Huston's silver screen classic Night of the Iguana.
As a result of the city's long and undisturbed previous history, the town only developed into a beachside destination for travelers from around the world on a very slow and gradual basis, leaving locals with ample opportunity to celebrate the roots of the area through keeping many of the elements that inspired a worldwide love affair. Intermingled with multimillion dollar homes and resorts are small family owned businesses specializing in traditional food, clothing and crafts, symbolizing the unique diversity of the area.
Old Town / Romantic Zone
Today, the heart of Puerto Vallarta is in the city's Zona Romantica, known to area residents as Old Town for its origins as the original modern development in the area. This section is treasured for its wealth of attractions, from the Church of Guadalupe where the area's faithful practice their time honored traditions to the main town square right outside the city's main municipal building, where street fair and cultural events are held on a nearly year-round basis.
Puerto Vallarta is also notable among popular destinations for the abundance of free activities enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Whether it's a stroll down the scenic Malecon that lines the city's Centro section along a mile of coastal boardwalk, a cultural exhibition on Rio Cuale Island, or a simple afternoon of sunny relaxation on one of the Banderas's Bay's bounty of beautiful beaches, the fun is practically unlimited even if your funds are not.
Beautiful Nature
The Puerto Vallarta area is also an excellent destination for those who enjoy the wonders of nature. The waters outside the city are home to an incredible assortment of regionally exclusive underwater life, and also serve as the scene for the yearly migrations for marine mammals such as dolphins and whales. In fact, together with the area's mountainous and jungle ecosystems and its standing as the site of Vallarta Botanical Gardens, Mexico's foremost collection of natural flora, the city presents one of the most attractive arrivals for visitors who follow the call of the wild.
Local Meals
The culinary options are another strong point of the Puerto Vallarta experience when compared with locales around the world. The eclectic nature of the city places gourmet eateries alongside simple streetside stands where visitors can sample local favorites, giving dining enthusiasts a wide range of options for learning to appreciate the depth of local flavor the city proudly boasts. The hilly terrain of the area also lends itself to spectacular vistas that can be stunning side dishes for an unforgettable meal.
Puerto Vallarta is often ranked highly by tourists looking for an inviting escape from the everyday, but unlike most other international destinations, the city has much more to offer than all-inclusive resorts. Visitors to the city frequently become residents after just a few short stays, and it's all thanks to the singularly compelling experience this dynamic city offers its curious guests.
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