By Brenda Della Casa
There is no denying that I live in one of the most amazing cities on Earth, New York City. Although let’s face it, sometimes the weather and chaotic climate of my hometown can make even the proudest New Yorker want to hop on a plane and take a breather. If you’re ready to cash in your vacation days and relax your frazzled nerves, look no further than Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. With its rich cultural history, American-friendly atmosphere and beautiful scenery, it’s the perfect place for a stressed-out savionaire to go and unwind.
HOW TO GET THERE: Go to www.expedia.com, www.priceline.com and www.kayak.com.
BEST PLACES TO STAY: There are dozens of places to stay in Puerto Vallarta (and more being constructed), here are my picks:
ALL ADULT – The Golden Crown Paradise http://www.crownparadise.com/puerto-vallarta/golden/index.html
CHILD-FRIENDLY – Dreams Hotel http://www.dreamsresorts.com/puerto_vallarta/index.html
Crown Paradise Club – http://www.crownparadise.com/puerto-vallarta/crown/index.html
Note: The most glamorous and upgraded hotels are located in Nuevo Vallarta, which is a little farther away from town (about a 15 minute cab-ride). If you are okay with being a little secluded, you’ll love the following:
RIU (there are two next door to one another) – http://www.riu.com/en/hotel-riu-vallarta-mexico.html
LUX CHOICE – Grand Velas http://www.grandvelas.com/
BEST DATE SPOT: DeSantos www.desantos.com.mx
Do you want New York sophistication in the heart of Mexico? This is your place. I highly recommend that you share the popcorn shrimp (it’s not the breaded, fried stuff you are thinking of) followed by the DeSantos Filet, which is covered in a plum sauce and goat cheese, yum! After dinner, mosey up to the Sky Bar for drinks and maybe a cigar if you’re feeling adventurous.
BEST GOURMET DESSERTS: Xitomates http://www.losxitomates.com/
Dinner is so-so, but the desserts are divine (as are the wines!) We recommend popping in for the dessert tasting menu or just creating your own by ordering their amazing apple tart, cinnamon ice cream and a flourless chocolate cake that will take you straight to heaven.
HIDDEN TOURIST ATTRACTION: Casa Kimberly http://www.casakimberley.com/
Ninety pesos gets you a tour of the little love nest/battlefield shared by Liz Taylor and Richard Burton. The house is also now a bed and breakfast and holds quite a bit of Liz’s clothing and furniture as she sold the house with the contents claiming they held “too many painful memories.”
BEST TRES-LECHES: Cafe San Angels Olas Altas 449
I’ve had my favorite dessert all over the world and trust me, there is no better slice than the one I found here. In fact, this is what I most look forward to on my annual trip. I found out they order their cakes from Candy’s Pasteleria, which sells over fourteen types of cakes and is located one block south of LEYS. I just wanted a slice and nothing beats sitting outside on a warm night and sharing a piece accompanied by one of their delicious cappuccinos. After getting my sugar and caffeine fix, I always head over to…
THE BEST CHILL BAR: Andale’s Olas Altas 425
Don’t let the small space fool you, this little bar packs a punch. With wallet-friendly prices and an even friendlier staff, this is the perfect party spot for tourists and locals 21-70 (and I’m not kidding when I say that the 70-year old lady dancing next to me put me to shame!) If you want more of a party atmosphere, then look no further than…
THE BEST PARTY BAR: El Hilo 588 Paseo Diaz Ordaz
Think loud music, two floors, dancing tourists, fun locals and a party that will bring out the 21-year old in all of us.
BEST TOUR: Yelapa
There are enough tours offered to suit every desire, but my favorite has to be the boat ride to the little fishing village of Yelapa. Enjoy drinks, lunch, gorgeous scenery and snorkeling–and that’s just on the way there. Once on the island, passengers can choose to hike to the waterfall, enjoy parasailing or simply swim in the crystal-clear water. I suggest you enjoy lunch on the beach, and don’t think of leaving without trying the lemon meringue pie.
TIPS FOR FIRST-TIMERS:
*When you get to the airport, walk over the overpass and hop in a cab for 60-70 pesos into town. It beats the 190 pesos they are currently asking for in the airport.
*When bargaining with vendors, know that they will usually go down in price at least 30%.
*Be wary of buying silver in Puerto Vallarta. It’s an unfortunate reality that even the best stores try and pass off plated jewelry as authentic. This includes pieces with “certificates” and “stamps.”
*Bring a strong SPF for the sun.
*Be cautious of travel during the summer months and early fall, which is their rainy season.
*The bus is a fraction of the cost of a cab, safe, fun and takes the same amount of time as a cab, give or take 5 minutes.
*Hit the grocery store by the Marina in Jalisco for some of the best pastries in Puerto Vallarta.
*Don’t waste money on hotel Internet facilities. There are plenty in the central part of town for a quarter of the price.