Listening to the gentle lapping of the
waves against the shore is just one of the many pleasures of Puerto Vallarta. Surrounded by a variety of
beautiful
beaches, The Bay of Banderas can either lull you into a state of relaxation
or provide an aquatic stage for watersport fun.
For a different but still intense beauty, try visiting the Marietas Islands just offshore (these
island were made famous by oceanographer Jacques Cousteau). Explore the varied wildlife beneath the ocean
or just take in the stunning views onshore.
In addition to gorgeous seascapes, the
Sierra Madres, enclosed in dense, tropical rainforest, drop dramatically to the
Bay of Banderas and provide a rich, topographical backdrop to this remarkable
place.
Within the rainforest near Puerto Vallarata is Jardin Botanico Vallarta,
or the Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens.
These extraordinary gardens feature an impressive array of naturally
growing orchids attaching themselves to tree bark or in other soilless
environments. There are dramatic hiking
trails amongst the thick of the rainforest; sturdy walking shoes and insect
repellent are recommended. Carved out
from this lush abundance are sculpted gardens and a lovely place to get a
drink; there is also an eclectic gift shop which offers such unique items as
hand-painted eggs with botanical scenes.
If you want to pick up the pace, the
Puerto Vallarta area offers zip line adventures through the rainforest or
“canopy tours.” For more exploration,
consider an ATV excursion.
Adventure of a different sort can be
found in Puerto Vallarta’s robust nightlife.
For a more contemplative side of the city, visit Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, the decorative
church in the heart of Puerto Vallarta.
Another delight are the restaurants in
the hills overlooking the city and the Bay of Banderas offering stunning views—day or night. Open-air restaurants are particularly
charming, and nearly all feature tropically infused desserts difficult to
resist.
Also difficult to resist are the many
colorful shops throughout Puerto Vallarta.
Happy Latin colors vibrantly pulsate throughout the shops, boutiques,
and galleries offering everything from dishware to fine art. Some of Mexico’s most famous artists are
featured here.
In addition to fine art, Puerto Vallarta has refined, world-class accommodations. Some of the finest are luxury
exchange homes with International Vacation
Home Exchange. Each exclusive home
exchange, uniquely decorated and furnished with a decidedly Latin flair, has
modern amenities. Learn more about these
remarkable homes and see how it
works.
Thank you to
travel writer Sona Schmidt-Harris @Sonag2000
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