Just a few hours away by plane, Puerto Vallarta’s welcoming beaches, family-friendly activities, and vibrant nightlife make it the perfect spot both for adventure seekers and those who just wanna bask in the sun.
Where I’d stroll: Tourists and locals alike can be found walking the boardwalks and cobblestone streets of the bustling downtown, called El Centro. The area features boutiques and craft shops to browse, art work to admire, and plenty to eat. At night. many spots turn into nightclubs.
What I’d eat: Authentic Mexican cuisine goes well beyond burrito borders here. Foodies can visit local favorites such as Trio (www.triopv.com) and El Arrayan (www.elarrayan.com.mx) to sample some of the best dishes Puerto Vallarta has to offer, including lobster and shrimp-filled paella and fresh seafood ceviches.
How I’d get around, part 1: Via speedboat. The beach hideaway of Las Caletas is so remote that it’s only accessible by boat. Luckily, Vallarta Adventures (www.vallarta-adventures.com) provides Miami Vice-style transportation — breezing through the water at 40 miles per hour. Once ashore, you can hang out with parrots and monkeys, take a yoga class, swim with sea lions, or simply swing from a hammock.
How I’d get around, part 2: Via ATV. To take in the views in the Sierra Madres, there’s only one way to go. The staff at Green Zebra Adventures (www.gogreenzebra.com) will teach you to ride a Tomcar, an easy-to-drive vehicle that’s made for off-roading, effortlessly handling rugged jungle terrain.
