Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta was founded in 1851, the same year as the city of Seattle in the US was founded. Its proximity to the Bay of Banderas, the agricultural valley of the Ameca River, and the important mining centers in the Sierra have given the town a more interesting past than most Mexican vacation destinations.
Located on the Pacific Ocean in Mexico at the foot of the Sierra Madre Occidental, Puerto Vallarta has the same latitude as Hawaii, 20N. This paradise receives considerable rain during the summer months (June- September). The winter season from November to April temperatures range between 28-29C / 83-85F.
This very special destination has a variety of activities and diverse visitors. It offers relaxation, recreation and activities related with eco-tourism at both environments -- a small town, full of tradition and history and a cosmopolitan city with vibrant nightlife, world class cuisine and a flourishing venue for art and culture.
Nature Exposed
Puerto Vallarta offers many activities for those who love nature. For example, The Marieta Islands, an area nearby and a popular tour is available where people can admire abundant marine life population and the home to a few thousand birds due to the protection of the islands by the Mexican Government.
Another popular destination is the Vallarta Botanical Gardens where orchids, agaves, palms and other native plants are showcased in a well-maintained facility that also offer good food and relaxing views.
Entertainment
Puerto Vallarta is perfect city for romance, friends and family getaways.
It is considered one of the most popular gay friendly destinations in the world even known as "The San Francisco of Mexico.” The LGTB community mainly congregates in Zona Romantica, an area in town full of shops, restaurants and bars.
Puerto Vallarta has also been recognized by travel reviewers.
"Best Holiday destination" By USNews.com in 2010
"Top Ten destinations in Mexico" By Trip Advisor in 2013
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Retirement and second homes
Puerto Vallarta has become a popular retirement destination for US and Canadian retirees and the rapid growth in tourist volume has given rise to rapid hotel, rental apartments and condominium construction.
AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) recognized Puerto Vallarta as a "Best place to retire in the world"
The number of direct flights has increased not only from cities like San Francisco, Phoenix, Los Angeles and Seattle but from London and other European cities, making the port a highly popular vacation.
Traditionally, the city has been a vacation destination for Mexicans living in Guadalajara and the state of Guanajuato