Puerto Vallarta

Destination Spotlight: Muy Romantico, Mexico – Puerto Vallarta

by Craig Zabransky

@StayAdventurous

There is certain sense of romance one experiences when crossing the border.
To explore colorful culture, taste savory cuisine, and soak in the sun are all
reasons to visit Mexico. But the romance comes from the people’s way of
life and its ‘manana mantra.’ Whether you find it at the fiestas or on a
secluded vista, Mexico vacations can be spicier than salsa verde.

It was a famous and fiery romance that transformed the sleepy pacific fishing village of Puerto
Vallarta to a desired international destination. A passionate chapter of the Richard Burton and
Elizabeth Taylor love affair ignited the town during the filming the movie "The Night of the
Iguana,” in 1963. Afterwards, their decision to live in Mexico kept the coastal treasure on the
map.
When your flight to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) lands, you'll be in a newer, modern version of the city -
- a stark contrast from the 1960s village portrayed in the movie. But one thing that hasn’t changed
is the ability to get lost in the town’s romantic charm.
Situated along a 28-mile curve, the picturesque bay provides plenty beautiful beaches for all to
enjoy. The town center continues to keep its colonial-era charisma while the oceanfront Malecon

Promenade serves as an outdoor art gallery of sculptures. There the iconic Seahorse sculpture
battles the baroque crown of ‘Our Lady of Guadalupe’ as the top photographed landmark.
But the romance really begins when you cross the river and head to the south part of town. Walk
along the beach “playa los muertos” and enter the streets of the "zona romantica" — the name says
it all. The neighborhood blends enchanting inns, beachfront bars, cafes, and top-notch mariachi
bands to set the mood. After a splendid sunset, walk the cozy cobble stone streets and follow your
way to candle lit dinner tables to enjoy the fresh seafood and Mexican fare. Que Rico!
The zone also houses the Sala Elizabeth Taylor theater, but to revisit their legendary romance, you
must head back into town and visit their original home, Casa Kimberley. There you can visit the
Museum or even stay in the B&B that offers a glimpse into the golden age of their Hollywood
careers.
In the movie that created the sensation, Burton’s character speaks of the realistic and the fantastic.
And for those that make the journey, you will definitely find something fantastic in Puerto Vallarta.
Traveler's Tip: Try a Michelada to cool off from your time under the hot sun. The classic
michelada is a bottle of Mexican beer poured into a frosted glass filled with ice cubes, 1-2 ounces
of freshly squeezed limejuice and a salted rim. A beer-gahrita. Delicious. Also, some variations
include spices so be aware.
Puerto Vallarta Hotels: In the north side of town, known as Marina Vallarta, you can find the
major resorts chains, including the Westin Resort & Spa and the CasaMagna Marriot. On the south
side, below the river you can locate a number of quality and reasonably priced inns and hostels
such as Oasis for those on a backpacker’s budget.
Puerto Vallarta Flights: Many direct flights to Puerto Vallarta from the United States are
available. Flights from New York start as low as $284 and $297 from Los Angles.
© Cheapflights Ltd Craig Zabransky Reprinted with permission