Puerto Vallarta: A place of growth

Puerto Vallarta is a place of revitalization and growth. But before I enlighten you with all the niceties about Puerto Vallarta, there is something that I have to mention before we begin. For this I need to quote the Beatles song “Back in the USSR,” this quote has nothing to do with the USSR (modern-day Russia) but how I felt flying to Puerto Vallarta. “On the way with paper bag on my knee, man, I had a dreadful flight.” Yes, you may have guessed this journey did not start well. 

To add to the misery, our flight was late when we arrived at the hotel, and there was no one available at the front desk to check us in. Finally, we checked into our room, which was sub-par, more on this later. The buffet at the resort was closing, so there was very little food available for us after a 7-hour flight. No, I am not whining, sometimes when you travel, you have to work with the unexpected. Puerto Vallarta has always been a territory that is in a state of ebb and flows like your narrator; sometimes, you must endure and grow with your situation.

Why and When

From its earliest history, the Bay of Banderas has been critical for the evolution of Puerto Vallarta. In 1524, the Spanish explorer/ executioner Hernan Cortez named the bay “Banderas”- meaning flags, after the colourful staffs carried by the natives. During the early 19th century, this included Pirates hiding out of range from prying eyes. Smugglers were importing their goods illegally and transporting them to the Sierra towns near Mascota. Suffice it to say that as Mascota grew, so did Puerto Vallarta becoming an ideal place to import goods illegally. Almost from the beginning, Puerto Vallarta served as a resort village for locals living in the Sierra Madre as a vacation destination. It seemed from its creation that Puerto Vallarta was destined to become one of the largest tourist destinations in Mexico. However, it would be many years later that the mere mentioning of Puerto Vallarta would be synonymous with international tourism.

Puerto Vallarta and The Gringo Gulch

As the early 1950s began to make its mark on the calendar, so did American tourism on the shores of the bay. Notable screen Director John Huston was partial to taking holidays down here himself as did many artists during this era. Some for relaxation, others to escape the dreaded McCarthy Inquests – witch hunt for communists. This area soon became known as “Gringo Gulch” as the expatriate population began to grow. During this time, many local artists started to live in the area as well, adding to the already diversified culture.

When Liz and Friends came to town

John Huston found the place so enchanting that he decided to film his renowned masterpiece “Night of the Iguana.” This film featured four of the major stars of the time, which included Richard Burton and Ava Gardiner. Elizabeth Taylor, who was having an extramarital affair with Burton. The arguments on the set of this film between Huston and cast are legendary.

The bickering does show through in the film where there are some significant conflicts created. Today, this sounds like a Tuesday in Hollywood, back then it was very newsworthy. Reports were sent daily from the set, giving Puerto Vallarta international attention. Puerto Vallarta a place of growth.

Then it began

During the late 1960s, the municipality of Puerto Vallarta was elevated to City status with its newly created infrastructure. To showcase the development, in 1970, Richard Nixon – President of the USA, met with Gustavo Diaz Ordaz– then president of Mexico, for a treaty negotiation and photo opportunity. Again followed by the international press, this gave Puerto Vallarta a platform indicating to the world that Puerto Vallarta was now open for business. The success of Puerto Vallarta spawned the creation of other international resort destinations such as Cancun, on the Yucatan peninsula. May I introduce to you the modern-day Puerto Vallarta. With its myriad of sun drenched beaches, surrounded by a magnificent bay and its backdrop of the Sierra Madres. The four and five-star hotels adorn the coast — world-class dining destinations all infused into an exhilarating past.

Puerto Vallarta Time to Share, anyone?

Puerto Vallarta is very popular with many people who live in the Western United States and Western Canada, with many flights arriving each day into Lic. Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport. There is nothing unusual here until you start looking around to find your transfer to your hotel. Here you will find a plethora of people trying to entice you into a free breakfast or lunch. Guiding you into their resort to listen to the “timeshare spiel,” anticipating that the “new arrivals” will drop a few dollars and participate in this shill game.  It is no different than many other international airports in this area, but here it seems to be far more than any I have seen before. If you have the time, get breakfast or lunch, and simply say you are not interested. Then again, perhaps you are. I have heard of some terrible outcomes with time-sharing, so all I can say is buyer beware.

3 to 5 stars. Thank you Generally.

Many of the hotels are located on the North-side of the City of Puerto Vallarta, although I would suspect that they are part of the city proper as we know of it today. These range with varying levels of accommodation. Ours was a three-star resort-style hotel. We did need to change our rooms once we arrived as it was in a very loud part of the hotel, after that, all was good. The room was adequate for three people,  it was clean with two double beds and a terrace. Just a brief backstory, we did a very very last minute excursion. We changed the destination and thought of Puerto Vallarta. That seemed like a beautiful place, and we were not wrong. After-all how much time will you spend in your hotel room anyway?

Always Practice Safe S**

Many people coming from the cold North, even if you are living on the coast, want to enjoy the sandy beaches and the warm tropical seas. Puerto Vallarta offers both in abundance. The warm sand and the kilometers of beach stretch beyond the range of your sight. Best of all, according to the law in this area, the beaches can not be owned. In essence, the hotels do not have private beach access, thus making all of the beaches available. You may be thinking that this may pose a potential threat to tourists safety or being accosted by aggressive beach vendors, I did not notice any more than what you would expect for a resort destination. 

Speaking to a reputable source, I was informed that there are a many under cover officers in the area. Years ago, after a rash of tourist thefts, the cruise ship companies threatened to stop using Puerto Vallarta as a “port of call.” The business association took notice.

Clean up our Oceans

Although the beaches were beautiful, the ocean water of the bay I can not give the same endorsement, yes it was warm and salty. But unfortunately, the colour of the sea was not the emerald green that we all envision. It was closer to a subdued aqua. I am not a marine biologist, but it would seem that the cause is too many boats and jet skies tearing up the water regularly, there is a great deal of traffic in the bay. Or it could have been a biological occurrence that is present in this area and at this time of year. Don’t get me wrong; it was swimmable and nice.

According to the literature, I read:” As of today, Puerto Vallarta has a total of 8 Blue Flag certified beaches: Palmares, Camarones, Playa de oro, Amapas, Conchas Chinas I, Conchas Chinas II, Garza Blanca and Sherarton. All of them have accomplished the necessary requirements to earn this award, which means they’re clean, safe and comfortable, among other attributes.”

 But it was not the waters of the Caribbean sea that many people long for – myself included. Either way, parasail, jet ski and have a great time. I don’t think the sea life mind?

Up for a walk? Me, either.

After a fantastic day at the beach or pool, it may be time to towel off, change your clothes for the remaining day ahead of you. To get from our hotel, we decide to take a local bus. They will take you right into The Malecon or many other downtown areas. The ride itself took no more than 20 minutes and is an ideal way to acquaint yourself with the locals. If the bus is not your preferred way to travel, you can take a taxi or an Uber. In Puerto Vallarta, taxi fares are regulated to zone as opposed to a meter. I would suggest that if you are taking a taxi or Uber that you ask your concierge what the fee should be to get you into the city centre. This way, you can try and avoid any overages.

Breathe Lively

Puerto Vallarta Boardwalk The Malecon is a seaside walk. Here you find the traditions of colonial Puerto Vallarta converging with modernity, creating a eclectic atmosphere for culture, art, entertainment and history.

Starting from the historic Hotel Rosita, Puerto Vallarta’s oldest hotel. Initially opened in 1948, its location, combined with its architectural style, make it a showcase of The Malecon. Over the years, it has been home to many visitors. These included Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor during the making of the “Night of the Iguana.” 

The Boardwalk “The Malecon” is an enjoyable place at any time of day or night. The shade of its palm trees and the examples of various artists and artisans make this an ideal spot to meander through and view Puerto Vallarta culture. Within a short stroll, you will find the Naval Museum; here, it is possible to explore its vast galleries that create a link between modern-day and colonial Puerto Vallarta.

There are also many fine restaurants and bars on “The Malecon.” If you are looking for a light seafood snack or a full-blown gastronomic experience, you will find it here. With its many festivals, clubs and bars, don’t overeat. The night is just beginning, as you dance the to the various rhythms that  surround you while seductively moving through the evening.

No matter when or how you arrive at this very enticing location, the experience will not to be forgotten. Puerto Vallarta, a place of revitalization and growth.

Mexico has Something for everyone and you are all welcome.

With its laid back style, artistic flair and an exquisite gastronomy scene, Puerto Vallarta is a favourite place for holidaying members of the LGBTQ community. Making it the most sought after resort city in Latin America.
The cities downtown area will enchant anyone that saunters through its charming cobblestone streets. Enjoy the urban art that is so prevalent on its walls. The sculptures, its architecture and picturesque parks that preserve many of the cultural activities that are integral to the essence of Puerto Vallarta. Art galleries, restaurants and bars, cafes and Museums are just a glimpse of what you can expect as you visit into the downtown area and the main square. Here you will also find the iconic. Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

No visit to downtown Puerto Vallarta is complete without visiting the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Here you will find one of the most famous symbols of the city. The design of the building includes many architectural styles, such as neoclassical, baroque, and renaissance. With construction beginning in 1930 and completed in 1965 with the crown at the top created by the artist Carlos Terres. Because of its unique characteristics, with numerical and religious symbols, you will find a building that is rooted in community and faith.

Puerto Vallarta  a place of revitalization and growth

These are just a few of the locations that are sure to inspire you to travel to Puerto Vallarta. Like the city itself, the journey has been one of turbulence and progress. With its friendly people, unique architecture, a lively arts and gastronomy community Puerto Vallarta has something for everyone. Even if you never leave your resort, you will find a warmth that is missing from many world resort cities. Warmth stems from compassion. With compassion comes love. Welcome to Puerto Vallarta and enjoy the essence of this historic community. That has merged with the 21st century.

 Thinking of coming to Puerto Vallarta? Or perhaps you have been here recently. We would genuinely enjoy hearing of your experience on the Bay of Banderas. Not Antonio Banderas

Until next time and as always, this has been our privilege.

It’s Your Vacation, Your Escape.

VTE