Although Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most popular and famous seaside vacation towns, it need not be expensive for tourists who seek out hotel value packages and scout airline discounts. Visitors who come during the summer season and in September, which can be rainy, are likely to find bargains on both airfare and hotels.
Before making reservations, it’s a good idea to check the official Puerto Vallarta North American website, visitpuertovallarta.com. A special page lists hotels and resorts large and small with big price reductions on packages that may include a three-night stay minimum, an extra night free, free accommodations for children, discounts at local restaurants and bars, and specialties such as a margarita-making class.
Frugal travelers can find Puerto Vallarta resorts that include suites with kitchen facilities for in-suite dining, as well as luxury resorts with special pricing for airfare and accommodations booked at the same time.
Puerto Vallarta All-Inclusive Vacation Packages
Throughout the year, Puerto Vallarta hotels beckon guests with all-inclusive wedding, honeymoon and other specials. They may include the room, welcome cocktails, champagne, breakfast in bed, and daily breakfast buffets, at least one complimentary dinner, afternoon hors d’oeuvres and free use of tennis courts and fitness centers.
In the old part of Puerto Vallarta, cobblestoned streets still lead past charming red-tile roof homes, picturesque churches and colorful markets. Many art galleries, apparel boutiques and specialty stores are within walking distance of the malecón (boardwalk).
When vacationers are not on Puerto Vallarta’s miles of sandy beaches or lounging poolside at their hotels, they enjoy tours by boat that can involve tranquil viewing the ocean through a glass bottom, or exciting diving, snorkeling and surfing expeditions. In various coves and around the Bay of Banderas are numerous thatched-roof “palapa” open air restaurants where visitors can also rent beach chairs and order beverages.
Night of the Ignuana Movie Set and Restaurant
Puerto Vallarta first gained popularity when the movie Night of the Iguana was filmed in 1963 with Ava Gardner and Richard Burton. The town where the filming took place Mismaloya, is about six miles south, with a beach that is perfect for snorkeling.
The La Noche de la Iguana Set Restaurant is located on the restored film set, and below it visitors can see the movie itself, shown continuously John Huston's Bar & Grill is also there with serving drinks and light snacks. Both restaurant and bar are open daily. Day cruises from Puerto Vallarta also take visitors to Las Caletas, a cove about 12 miles south in the Bay of Banderas which was once Iguana director John Huston’s private hideaway.
Summary: A Puerto Vallarta vacation can be fun on a budget. If Mexico is not in your plans look for all-inclusive vacation packages in your favorite spot.
Grace Lichtenstein - I prefer "seasoned" to "senior" but whatever term you use, I have been an outdoor adventurer for most of my adult years. I am a cycling ...
