A
Quick Overview of Mexico
Acapulco
Has It All
As
'the largest city in the world' Mexico City has more than a bit of excitement
in store for you
Beaches
and Weather in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya Mexico
Become
a Castaway on Cozumel
Cancun:
Mexico at its Most Luxurious
Crystal
Blue Waters and Mayan Civilization of Cancun
Exploring
Old Town In Puerto Vallarta
Guadalajara,
Guanajuato and Merida Travel Guide
Lesser
Known Yet Fabulous: Puerto Aventuras
Lets
Go To Mexico - 5 Great Mexico Vacation Destinations
Mexico's
Island of Cozumel
Your
Vacation in the Riviera Maya
Playa
del Carmen - A True Gem in the Riviera Maya
Puerto
Vallarta Dreaming
The
macabre 'Island of the Dolls' is calling you to visit
Things
That You Should Know About Cabo San Lucas
Vacation
in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Vacation
in Calmer, Gentler Puerto Morelos
Vacation
Rentals in Akumal
Puerto
Vallarta Dreaming
How do you get relief from
the cold north winds of the Canadian climate? Just say "PVM". Puerto
Vallarta, Mexico. Set amidst the magnificent Sierra Madre mountains,
this traditional Mexican village comes complete with cobblestone streets,
and the ambiance of tropical flowers. Friendly citizens provide ample dining
opportunities and shopping adventures for both the locals and tourists
alike. Your first visit to the area may be a winter getaway but the appeal
of this region is so inviting many people are purchasing homes so they
can embrace the culture and climate of Puerto Vallarta any time... read
more
Exploring
Old Town In Puerto Vallarta by Justin Burch
Most visitors to Puerto
Vallarta are familiar with the beaches and resorts of the Hotel
Zone and Marina Vallarta. Yet, many tourists overlook historic Viejo Vallarta,
the most authentically Mexican section of this amazing city. Here you can
experience a true ‘South of the Border’ environment with a friendliness
not known in the more tourist-dominated areas.
Viejo Vallarta, also known
as Old Town, is a maze of cobblestone streets lined with charming inns,
independently-owned restaurants and galleries showcasing the area’s artists.
Perhaps the first thing you will notice when walking through Old Town is
the lack of modern development. Amongst the traditional brick buildings
and tree-lined paths, you will find bakeries turning out dozens of delicious
pastries, boutiques with handmade clothing, relaxing sidewalk cafes and
tiny markets with unique local products.
In addition to families that
have lived and worked in the area for generations, many expatriates also
reside here. These Americans and Europeans are drawn to the old-fashioned
ambiance of the neighborhood in addition to the more relaxed way of life.
Just like the residents, you will easily find everything you are looking
for on your Mexican vacation, from shops with truly unique souvenirs to
independently-owned markets with all the essentials.
One of Puerto Vallarta's
most popular activities is to stroll down the famous Restaurant Row, located
on Basilio Badillo Street in Old Town. This area features several blocks
of restaurants, bars and cafes that can cater to any palette with everything
from gourmet European cuisine to rustic local recipes.
After you are done eating,
there is plenty of entertainment to be found with live music and dancing
in the numerous cantinas and clubs. Many of the bars and restaurants also
allow you to sample many of the tequilas that this region is known for.
Another popular event in
Viejo Vallarta is the Old Town Art Walk. Every Wednesday between October
and April, 17 galleries hold free cocktail receptions that are always open
to the public. In the galleries, you will find everything from authentic
Mexican arts and crafts to contemporary paintings from the region’s most
challenging artists.
One of Puerto Vallarta’s
most recognizable landmarks, the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe, also
rests within the narrow streets of Old Town. The church towers above the
neighborhood and has been at the center of local religious life for nearly
80 years.
Built over a 12-year period
beginning in 1929, the cathedral’s open-air theater has been used for events
and festivals since its construction.
If you are planning a Mexican
vacation, the month of December may be the best time to visit Viejo Vallarta.
You will be able to enjoy the 12-day Festival for Our Lady of Guadalupe
centered at the grounds of the cathedral, wander through the galleries
and enjoy some of the finest cuisine Mexico has to offer.
It should be noted that many
Puerto Vallarta tours avoid Viejo Vallarta altogether, opting instead for
more-expensive tourist destinations. Try to find a tour that highlights
Old Town, or simply visit the neighborhood on your own. If for any reason
you fear leaving the safety of the Hotel Zone, keep in mind that Viejo
Vallarta is incredibly clean and safe for visitors of all ages.
Unlike other areas of Puerto
Vallarta, Viejo Vallarta simply allows you to meander, relax and shop without
commissioned salesmen. Furthermore, once you leave your resort, the values
you will find in Viejo Vallarta might surprise you. Even if you enjoy all
the glitz and glamour of the Hotel Zone, keep in mind that there is an
authentic Mexican town just around the corner. If you travel to Puerto
Vallarta hoping to get a taste of the real Mexico, Viejo Vallarta should
definitely be part of your itinerary.
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