PVRPV News

Sunwing Tours and PVRPV Announce New Partnership

2007-02-11T20:11:00.000-08:00

Where the Canadians are! More and more direct flights have been arriving from Canada in recent years leading to a new venture between Puerto Vallarta Rentals Premier Vacations (PVRPV) & Sunwing Tours out of Canada. The two companies have launched new package tours featuring direct flights from Toronto with accommodations through PVRPV. The largest and most popular rental agency in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, PVRPV boasts a rentals listing of more than 250 properties: condominiums, haciendas, luxury villas and a variety of truly unique estates, all in the Puerto Vallarta area. Among the more popular are the exquisite condos available in the preferred Playa Bonita, La Palapa, Playa del Sol and the Loma del Mar buildings. What’s more, they offer professional concierge services and are happy to meet special requests. “We highly recommend this great company and their outstanding services. These folks know Vallarta and will represent the market well.” says a Sunwing agent. “There will be a plane with approximately 200 Sunwing/PVRPV guests landing in Puerto Vallarta each Thursday afternoon, and 200 heading home to Canada with smiles on their faces.” With low-priced flights and accommodations ranging from inexpensive resort condos to exquisite beachfront villas, Canadians are sure to enjoy the benefits of a well-designed holiday in the world’s fifth most popular destination.
For tour and package information, visit www.sunwing.ca and www.pvrpv.com.

Volunteer Opportunities at PVRPV

2007-01-22T22:30:00.000-08:00

PVR PV has a longstanding commitment to giving back into this wonderful community we call home. Several of our employees have participated in several non-profit opportunities for many years and as a company we have chosen to assist those on our midst who need support. We are doing several things that you may want to join us with.

We have identified a large community of mostly women and children who actually live in and support themselves off of the Puerto Vallarta land fill or dump. They actually feed and cloth themselves from the dump. There are organizations that support them with food and clothing. However, we believe that to actually break the cycle of poverty education is a real priority.

So we are doing your bit by working with other local expatriate business and restaurants in PV to bring school supplies to them as well as sponsor several promising students to stay in school. As these folks are desperately poor, they cannot afford the supplies and costs of their education. This is we where you and PVRPV come into action.

On your next visit to Puerto Vallarta please bring an extra suitcase of basic every day school supplies. Talk to your friends, community groups or your faith based organization about the possibility of gathering these for your next trip to Vallarta. This is actually changing lives and families for generations to come; your assistance is sincerely appreciated. Each Monday afternoon we head out to the area with some great food from area restaurants and our school supplies and spend just a few hours encouraging and working with many of the older children about school and its importance for the future. As the old saying goes; "It is better to teach a person to fish to care for themselves that to give them the fish." Author Unknown.

For the low cost of $250 sponsorship per year you can keep a child in school. This will pay for school supplies and uniforms as well as some modest family support. Most quit by the time they are 12-13 years old and go to work. You will personally get to know your sponsored child via pictures and letters. You may want to meet your sponsored child during your next visit to PV. This has been a rewarding and successful venture and we look forward to your kind assistance. Please call us at 206.388.3703 or send us an email to info@pvrpv.com for additional information.

Sponsor a Child

Rotary Club International is a serviced based organization that brings together business people from all over the globe to reach out and serve others in need. Our number one goal is to serve others. We have identified a large community of mostly women and children who actually live in and support themselves off of the Puerto Vallarta land fill or dump. They actually feed and cloth themselves from the dump. There are organizations that support them with food and clothing. However, we believe that to actually break the cycle of poverty education is a real priority.

So we are doing your bit by working with other local expatriate business and restaurants in Puerto Vallarta to bring school sponsorships and supplies to them as well as sponsor several promising students to stay in school. As these folks are desperately poor, they cannot afford the supplies and costs of their education. Rotary Club Puerto Vallarta Sur is one of the most active clubs in Mexico.

Our number one goal is to minimize the cost of basic education for promising students and their families so that they can stay in school. At the age of 12 years, kids can legally leave school to go to work. With the family in dire need for a basic roof or some food, there really is no choice in the matter. In most cases we have seen, that the only reason many drop out is because they cannot afford the simple cloths, shoes, school supplies, and transportation even registration fees. With a little motivation, encouragement and cash many of these kids would jump at the opportunity to stay in school and not be a burden to the family with extra school expenses. We currently are sponsoring nearly 40 students each year.

So here is the plan. We have developed a simple yet extremely successful Scholarship Program (Programme de Beccas) in which a child is sponsored for one year, though we encourage our Sponsors to stay with their child through the completion of their education.

Here are the guidelines and rules:

To be accepted the student must have a grade point average of at least 8 (out of 10) or better
Their family's economic situation must be that with out this support the child would need to drop out of school.
Their parents must be completely supportive of the student's education and be actively involved in the parenting process.
Cost To Sponsor a Student for one year:

The cost of keeping an elementary student in school for one year is $250 USD
The cost of keeping a middle school student in school for one year is $300 USD
The cost of keeping a college or vocational student in school is $350 USD
You will be assigned your student and this student will remain your sponsored child until you either need to cancel or until the young person completes their education. We encourage continuing communication between the student and sponsor. If the sponsor ever has an opportunity to visit Puerto Vallarta we would be glad to arrange a time and meeting for your to get to know your sponsored young person and their families. Theses are wonderful people, who with just a little bit of help will make great citizens and will give back, just as you have.

Please contact Jorge Zambrano President of the Rotary Club Puerto Vallarta Sur at Andale's Restaurant on Olas Altas for more information. You may also contact Jorge at Jorge@andales.com.

Thanks you for your kind consideration and we look forward to meeting you soon.

Important Phone Numbers for Puerto Vallarta

2007-01-22T22:29:00.000-08:00

AIRLINES
Gustavo Díaz Ordáz
International Airport
221-1325
Aeromar 221-0815
Aeroméxico 221-1204
224-2777
Aerotrón 221-1921
Air Canada 01-800-719-2827
Alaska Airlines 01-800-426-0333
221-1350
American Airlines 01-800-362-7000
221-1799
America West 01-800-235-9292
221-1333
Continental 01-800-900-5000
221-1025
Delta Airlines 01-800-902-2100
221-1032
221-1919
Mexicana 221-1040
224-8900
Sky Service 226-1093

CONSULATES
Canadian 293-0098
223-0099
after hours 01-800-706-2900
United States 222-0069
223-0074
after hours 01 (33) 3826-5553

CREDIT CARDS
American Express 223-3939
223-2955
01-800-504-0400

DENTIST
Dr. Fernando Peñalva 221-0165

GENERAL PHYSICIAN

Dr. Alfonso Rodriguez L. MD
044-322-135-5050

EMERGENCY/SERVICES NUMBERS
Consumer Affairs (PROFECO) 225-0000
225-0018
Electricity Company 071
Fire Department 225-0000
225-0018
Immigration 224-7701
Ministerio Público #4 222-1762
Motor Vehicle Department 224-8484
Municipal Services 223-2500
National Telegraph 224-7970
222-0242
Police 060
221-2586
221-2587
221-2588
Red Cross 222-1533
222-4973
SOS Animal 224-3978
293-2018
Tourist Protection 223-2500
Wake Up Service 031
Water/Sewer Co. (SEAPAL) 223-1516

MEDICAL SERVICES
Ameri-Med Hospital 221-0023
221-0024
CMQ Hospital 223-1353
223-1919
IMSS Hospital 224-3838
Medassist Hospital 223-0444
Regional Hospital 224-4000
San Javier Hospital 226-1010
Life Support Ambulance 223-0090
223-0092
MG Ambulance 225-0386

PHARMACIES 24 hrs. w/delivery
CMQ 222-2941
Farmacia Guadalajara 222-0101

Tours in Puerto Vallarta

2007-01-22T22:27:00.000-08:00

If you are interested on any of the tours Puerto Vallarta has to offer, please call our concierge Roger at 222-0638 or email at roger@pvrpv.com for the current pricing for these activities and many more great ideas for your time in Puerto Vallarta.
http://www.pvrpv.com/tours.php

ATV Jungle Tour
Beach Combo
Bird Watching
Canopy
City And Tropical Tour
Combination: Los Arcos, Las Animas and Quimixto
Discover San Blas
Discover Yelapa by Pegaso
Dolphin Encounter
Dolphin Kids
Dolphins in the Bay
Dune Buggie (shift stick)
El Tigre Golf Course
Fishing in Banderas Bay
Flamingos Golf Course
Golf in Puerto Vallarta
Hiking and Snorkeling at Colomitos
Horse Back Riding
Horse Back Riding (half day)
Huichol World
Jungle Trio
Las Caletas
Las Palmas
Majahuitas by Pirate Ship

Marietas Islands by Pegaso
Marigalante Dinner
Marina Vallarta Golf Course
Mayan Palace Golf Course
Mountain Bike
Nogalito River Hiking
Rhythms of the Night
Sailing with Whales
San Sebastian by Air
Sea Kayaking and Snorkeling
Sierra Madre Expedition
Sunset by Princesa
Sunset Sailing by Pegaso
Swim with Dolphins
Talpa and Mascota
Tequila and Guadalajara
Tequila Tour
Trainer for a Day
Turtle Camp Adventure
Vagabundo Whale Tour
Vista Vallarta Golf Course
Whale Photo Safari
Whale Watching and Las Caletas
Whales, Dolphins and Snorkeling
Yelapa and Majahuitas

Puerto Vallarta Restaurant Guide for Puerto Vallarta Vacationers

2007-01-22T22:17:00.000-08:00

FUN and CASUAL

Banana Cantina
Amapas 147, at Pulpito.
Romantic Zone.
222-2114
An innovation in Puerto Vallarta restaurants, Banana Cantina serves creative Contemporary Mexican Cuisine and International dishes that range from Hamburgers and Grilled Chicken Salad Sandwiches to Crab Ravioli and Almond Crusted Shrimp Cake & Shrimp Fritter with garlic jam.

Café de Olla
Basilio Badillo 168 OT/SS.
223-1626/222-0087
9am-11pm, Closed Tuesday and September 15 to October 15 and some holidays.
Family run spot for years has seen their place expand, overhead fans added and prices rise. Features large inside trees and whimsical artwork many times for sale. A great stopover for simple authentic Mexican fare in addition to its name, clay pot cinnamon coffee, breakfast chilaquiles, bbq or Mexican combo platter, huge seafood platter for 2, octopus in garlic, carne asada, pork ribs, chiles rellenos, tacos or tostadas, best combo enchiladas, pork tamales in banana leaf, twice-baked potatoes from the outside grill, tasty tortilla soup and guacamole. Includes good crispy chips, salsa fresca and nopales [cactus] salad. Loud and busy in high season with long lines which move quickly and are sociable! Partial A/C. No reservations or CC.

Fajita Republic
Basilio Badillo 201 at Pino Suárez OT/SS.
222-3131
5pm-12am
Since 1997, owner Don Julio's open-air palm and mango tree garden with glowing 'beehive basket' lights is great to watch the people stroll by while dining. Very popular and reasonable for the generous portions. Specializes in, you guessed it, fajitas of all shapes, flavors, combinations and sizes, a most popular handmade Mexican entrée served with many condiments. Also serve steak bravo, cheeseburger, guacamole, mambo combo, Caesar salad and Mayan cheese sticks, fondue, bbq ribs or chicken, fish Oaxaca, chimichangas, enchiladas and malcajetes.

Lazy Lizard Restaurant & Beach Bar
114-C Amapas - Los Muertos Beach in Zona Romantica
222-8347
9-11 pm
Tastes like fine dining, but with a much lower price tag. Lazy Lizard has the best drink prices on the beach. Try their Lizardtini and their Lizard Margatini- bth included in their 2 for 1 happy hour ($35 pesos) and $55 pesos buckets of beer. All day margarita and beer bucket happy hour, free wireless on the beach, and known as the Canadian hangout in Puerto Vallarta. Call for reservations to enjoy their Sand, Surf and Skillet entrees including Margarita Shrimp, with every plate only $150 pesos. Live music nightly. Known for throwing great birthday parties (hat parties) and adding just the right touch for special occasions.
Lazy Lizard Restaurant & Beach Bar

La Bodeguita del Medio
Paseo Díaz Ordáz 858 DT.
223-1585
12pm-2am
Founded in Havana, Cuba in 1942, this one serves since 2000 on two floors at north end of the Malecón with great bay view offering unique Cuban and Creole cuisine. Pork loin or shrimp in tamarind sauce, paella for 2, appetizer sampler, fried plantains, black beans, banana chips, beef hash, fried plantains and rum mojitos. Caribbean spirit! Offers Cuban rum and cigars. Write your message on the walls if any room. Cuban music sextet performs 9pm-2am except Monday. Ask for the traditional "Mojito" drink: rum and lime served over ice with sugar and mint.

Mama Dolores
Olas Altas 534B near Púlpito OT/SS.
Colonia Emiliano Zapata
222-9497
4-11pm Closed Monday.
Comfort food. Homestyle American and Mexican comfort food at very affordable prices. Friendly and fun atmosphere and the best margaritas in town. Part inside, part elevated sidewalk street café since 1996 now owned by Grant Hunermund and Kieran Justason from Toronto, Canada features homestyle Mexican and American fare as 1/3 lb. burger with French fries, chicken or shrimp burger, chef's salad, taco salad with choice of chicken or beef, meat loaf, fried chicken, lasagna vegetarian or meat, spaghetti and meat balls with Caesar salad, baby back pork ribs, fajitas, mahi mahi, whole fish. Oct.-Mar.: Sunday turkey dinner with all the trimmings 4pm-11pm 125p. Mama D´s Margarita Club - Buy 9, 10th is free. Happy hours 4-7pm. Friday night in high season meet Mama D! No reservations or CC.

FINE DINING Dining out in Vallarta is another important part of your experience here. There is stunning array of world class cuisine available; listed below are a few of our favorites.

La Palapa
Púlpito 103 on Playa Los Muertos OT/SS.
222-5225
Breakfast 8am-Noon, Lunch Noon-5pm, Dinner 5-11:30pm Since 1959, owned by Alberto Perez, one of the top elegant tropical gourmet restaurants in Vallarta and best spots for sunset dining on Los Muertos Beach. 5* Diamond award winner is great for people-watching from this popular spot and features dining with some tables on the torch lit sandy beachfront. Chef Everardo Robles Soltero prepares breakfast treats, daytime beach food as nachos, wonderful chicken burrito [on request], chicken fajitas and creative dinners as pepper-crusted tuna, pan seared huachinango, pork tenderloin demy-glace and mushroom stuffed chicken breast. Live music nightly draws many patrons into the bar 8pm-11pm, call first. Is pricey but the quality is there and quite romantic. This is the original restaurant south of Río Cuale before any bridges were built. Check out their historic before and after photos in hallway.

Bruce's Back Alley Bistro
Francisco I. Madero 225 OT/SS.
223-3560
5-11pm Closed Sunday.
Chef/owner Bruce's [El Pelón] beautiful steak and chop house with interior and rear garden seating provides top quality house-aged Angus and Kobe steaks as grilled rib eye 325p or New York with compound butter 245p, tropical citrus chops or chicken stuffed with fruit, almonds and spinach with warm citrus curry sauce 180p, pork or chicken stuffed with spinach, rosemary, garlic and mushrooms with forestierre sauce 180p, Mariposa prawns with glass noodles and maple curry cream sauce 240p, Alaskan king crab, signature rack of New Zealand lamb for 2 575p, butter maple salmon with tropical spiced apple and peppery butter maple reduction 195p, seared ahi tuna with citrus sesame soy 280p and ruby red snapper with smoky tomato cream 190p. Starters include baked brie with warm strawberry purée 145p, bistro salad with house dressing 75p, baby Louie with bacon-pear reduction and Parmesan shavings 65p, salmon or ahi tuna sashimi 140p and skirted prawns wrapped with bacon drizzled with warm citrus pepper sauce 165p. Extensive wine list representing 17 countries. Inside A/C. A jewel in the town's crown. No CC.

De Santos
Morelos 771 DT.
223-3052/223-3053
6pm-1am
Great food at good prices, service and a wonderful martini menu make this a popular hot spot for locals and visitors. Since 1999, very hip spot with minimalist décor offers Mediterranean-inspired food as calamari aioli, mussels, paella marinara or Valenciana, thin-crust pizza as gamberi, lobster ravioli, chicken en croûte, rosemary garlic lamb chop, coconut custard cajeta, gelatos and fine tiramisú. Drummer Alex González of rock group Mana is a principal owner. Live DJ music with good sound system in roof top lounge next door, Club de Santos 10pm-5am. A/C.

Kaiser Maximilian Café
Olas Altas 380 OT/SS.
223-0760
6-11pm Closed Sunday.
Since 1995, owner Andreas Rupprechter and chefs Carlos Palomera's and Pablo Medina's German, Viennese and Swiss cuisine elegantly served 5* Diamond award food is near the town's top. Beef filet, rosemary chicken, rack of lamb, lamb strips rosemary poblano, garlic bread soup, duck foie gras, raviolis with fennel, escargot in puff pastry, salmon carpaccio, sea bass and the usual European fare, all very well prepared. Great luscious desserts, of course, as warm chocolate cake, crème brulée and apple tart with cinnamon ice cream. Fine wine list. Sidewalk seating and inside A/C. His son operates a European café right next door [8am-12am, 222-5058] with outdoor seating featuring sandwiches, fine desserts and 20 special coffee drinks.

Le Bistro
Isla Río Cuale 16A OT/SS.
222-0283/223-1084
9-12am Closed Sunday and July to August.
Beautiful setting with black tiled bar, plants, frescos and tiny lights everywhere is a perfect backdrop for a special evening out with its signature jazz music and extensive menu. Since 1979, Roberto Cuevas and Humberto Esparza offer a great spot for a chic drink or stay for a meal [reserve a river view table]. Food is sometimes heavily sauced but service professional and efficient. Chef Adrián Castillo prepares crab potato cakes with caviar, hunter pâté, escargot, exotic quesadillas, shrimp fig salad, smoked salmon and marlin pear salad, coconut shrimp, huachinango tequila lime, mahi mahi with pineapple and mango, filet mignon Bordelaise, chicken blackberry, double fudge chocolate crêpes, mango sour cream flan and house special café with ice cream. Lunches highlight eggs Benedict, fish chipotle torta, enchiladas, vegetarian plates including pastas, crêpes au gratin and a fine omelet with smoked salmon, cream cheese and capers. Live piano music daytime. A top choice on many lists.

Café des Artistes
Guadalupe Sánchez 740 DT.
222-3228/222-3229
6-11:30pm Closed Sunday and September.
Reputed by many as Vallarta's top spot with Star Diamond winner owner/chef Thierry Blouet presenting Mexican and French cuisine since 1990. World renowned, Condé Nast Traveler Magazine 2005 Hot Tables and named by the Nestle Food Group as one of the 80 best restaurants in the world, is formal, very expensive with attentive but unobtrusive service. Many exquisite choices as salmon wasabi 190p, sea bass fine herbs 245p, grilled tuna with tomatillo 195p, half roasted ginger duck 275p, filet mignon with red wine onion stew 265p, baked osso buco with mascarpone polenta and garlic 250p, pumpkin shrimp bisque 99p, tuna sashimi salad 115p, escargot with basil cream ravioli 115p, artichoke and potato aioli terrine 110p, pumpkin prawn soup 95p, fine desserts as apple and pear pecan strudel with caramel ice cream 81p, tropical baba au rhum 85p and chocolate crème brulée 85p. Three course bistro menu 375p or with wine 435p. Dine inside [A/C], in a 50+-year-old garden or outside on hillside [open Nov.-June]. Cocina de Autor dining room built in levels, backed by a flowing waterfall with a ficus tree centerpiece, [closed Sunday and September, manager Polo] with signature 3-5 course menus 590-750p. Number one for many worldwide travelers. City ‘landmark’ with world famous reputation. Splendid list of 400 wines by the glass 65-95p and bottle 200-4500p. Live music many times 8-11pm, as piano or blues in relaxed but elegant Costantini Bar Lounge at entrance. Reservations advised/required. Valet parking. Virtual Vallarta 2006 "Best Gourmet, Wine List, Overall, Service, Salad and Dessert." Ask about the chef's open kitchen view cooking classes.

El Arrayán
Allende 344 near Miramar DT.
222-7195
6pm-10pm Closed Tuesday and August.
Delightful owner Carmen Porras E.'s and Chef Juan Manuel Cruz J.'s traditional menu choices of appetizers are plentiful to share for dinner. Named for the Jaliscan flowering treefound in the restaurant's courtyard, since 2003 this spot offers old Mexican family recipe specialties including impressive pozole de camarón 75-80p, black bean soup 45p, celebrated 4 plantain empanadas with black bean and cheese 60p, ceviche Colima with baby scallops 90p, shrimp and mango aguachile 95p, 2 duck [pato] tostaditas 45p, nopal cactus pad salad with panela 60p, chapulines: tiny crickets sauteed in onion, avocado, cilantro with tomatillo sauce 110p, chicken breast pasilla and tomatillo 130p, chiles en nogada, very fine beef tenderloin mole 160p, pork Pibil with habañero and black bean escabeche 180p, crispy duck carnitas 195p, grilled fish fillet achiote 150p and cajeta flan 50p. Seafood enchiladas with hazelnut mole and chiles rellenos de jaiba [crab, seasonal] are among specials 170-210p. Open kitchen and a very lovely romantic partially covered courtyard, featuring an array of art, including local Huichol work, with traditional Mexican influence. Attentive service with abundant portions. Sat. 7:30pm features live music, Los Frijoleros [Danny and Camila], call first. In 2006, again voted by Virtual Vallarta readers "Best Mexican", "Moderately Priced" and "Best Tacos."

River Café
Isla Río Cuale local 4 OT/SS.
223-0788
9am-11:30pm
One of the most beautiful settings in Vallarta, owned by Margarito Larios and Eva Sanchez. Tiny white lights on trees overhanging the Río Cuale, open air seating with ample room and friendly, fast service by handsome meseros. Menu changes often featuring the finest chef Eusebio Cuevas Peréz has to offer. Starters include tasty calamari 95p, mussels chipotle cream 145p, farmer's soup in puff pastry 72p, Thai cream of crab and coconut soup, smoked salmon blini 110p, seafood fettuccine 179p and tuna carpaccio 92p. Favorite entrées are grilled tuna with papaya 185p, mahi mahi garlic herb 189p, pecan coconut shrimp 225p, chicken breast with wild mushrooms 182p, duck with pear and blueberry 225p, filet mignon with wild mushrooms and chile Colorado 192p and rib eye Bordelaise 240p. Very creative dishes and impressive food presentation. Desserts not to be missed as warm choco cake with ice cream, cinnamon apple pastry, superb rosemary crème brulée 62-75p or the famous dessert coffees. Some paintings are by local artist Marta Gilbert, a friend and regular here. Her posters are available. Jazz by Beverly and Willow, Latcho and Andrea and sometimes Willie and Lobo Thur.-Sun. 8-11pm. Tropical elegance, a top treat and high choice on many lists! Virtual Vallarta 2006 "Best Live Music Venue." Reservations recommended.

INTERNATIONAL

Archie's Wok
Francisca Rodríguez 130 OT/SS.
221-0411
2-11pm Closed Sunday and September.
Hungry for Asian cuisine? In 1986, the personal chef of John Huston founded this place featuring a combination of Thai, Filipino and Chinese cuisines reflecting his heritage. Now his widow Cyndi Alpenia, trained chef son Sergio and lovely daughter Kiyoki run it and the food is very good. Fork-tender beef tongue is a simple dish in coconut milk and mild spices, sizzling mahi mahi fillet in banana leaves, lemongrass, garlic, chiles and cilantro, Chinese sesame cucumbers, crisp spring rolls, lumpia, chicken sate, shrimp coconut soup, Thai hot and sour soup, red or green curry chicken, ginger-stir-fried vegetables with chicken or beef, pad Thai, pancit, lime cheese pie, triple chocolate fudge brownie and exotic drinks as Mint Cascade Drink. Sometimes live quiet soothing music of D'Rachael on vocals, harp and flute [Thurs.-Sat. 7:30-10:30pm]. Ceiling fans and lovely plants abound. Legendary among locals.

ITALIAN

La Dolce Vita
Paseo Díaz Ordáz 674 [Malecón] DT.
222-3852
Noon-2am, 6pm-12am Sunday.
Since 1969, two story favorite on the Malecón serving well-priced Northern Italian pastas, 18 wood-burning oven pizzas, beef carpaccio, garlic shrimp, chicken cacciatore or Parmigiana, 10 spaghettis [like pesto, vongole, Bolognese], penne, fusilli, cannelloni, lasagna, fettuccine Alfredo, osso buco, saltimbocca, fish fillets, tiramisú and gelato. Loved by many locals and visitors. Often features live jazz music.

La Piazzetta
Rodolfo Gómez 143 near Olas Altas OT/SS.
222-0650
4pm-12am Closed Sunday.
Corner of a small building, since 1995 Dommenico 'Mimmo' Lorusso's place serves up very fine small wood-fired oven pizzas [24 types including calzone], pastas [pesto, Arrabiata or four cheeses]. Good ravioli and lasagna, spaghetti 7 styles, cannelloni, Bolognesa, fusilli, penne, shrimp pesto or Diavolo, chicken funghi, beef medallions 4 styles, scaloppini Sorrintina, a mix of tomato, garlic oil, white wine and cheese and starters as fried calamari, antipasto, garlic mushrooms, insalatas and tasty bruschetta. Order several items and share. Close your eyes and you are dining in Italia. Very friendly and attentive service coupled with good prices. A cozy spot, mostly outdoors, indoor A/C, with wonderful food and great local scenery.

SPANISH

Barcelona Tapas
Corner of Matamoros and 31 de Octubre DT.
222-0510
5-11:30pm; F, S: 5:30pm-1:30am Closed August and September.
Take a party and share a dozen cold and hot tapas for about 200p per guest. Since 2000, owner/chef Bill Carballo, from Chicago and trained in Spain, and wife Yesenia offer sizzling spicy shrimp ajillo, goat cheese, grilled garlic lemon calamari, cured Spanish ham and La Mancha cheese, rosemary chicken, saffron cream seafood, marinated pork or pepper beef brochettes, creamy garlic potato salad, marinated Spanish olives, mushrooms with chorizo, cannelloni filled with tuna and asparagus, layered vegetable torta, duck paella on saffron rice, tortilla Española [omelet torta with potato, onion and garlic], sopa de fríjol negro, crema de langosta, housemade breads and ice cream as rich, soft coconut, créme brulée, caramel fried bananas and housemade red or white sangría. Lovely terrace up staircase on 4th floor with wide Bahía and cityscape or inside A/C 3rd floor dining room. Ask about cooking classes. No CC.

Excerpts from "Puerto Vallarta Restaurant Guide Beck's Best", reprinted by PVRPV with permission.

Available at:
www.cafepress.com/vallartaguide
www.lulu.com/content/132501
and PVRPV Office

Shopping in Puerto Vallarta for Travelers

2007-01-22T22:16:00.000-08:00

Shopping
Everything from Galleries to Cigar shops, even people who hate to shop find it hard to turn down in Vallarta.

SHOPPING AREAS

There are several areas, which offer a variety of shopping within a few blocks. They are the following.

The Malecon – actually some of the best shopping is on the Streets just off the Malecon. Check out Corona , Morelos & Juarez Streets.

Isla Río Cuale – a charming area of pedestrian walkways with lots of shade trees & beautiful restaurants.

Basilio Badillo – starting at the corner of Constitution going towards the beach.

Olas Altas – charming street with sidewalk cafes, runs parallel to the beach starting at Basilio Badillo.

Brischa Professional Shopper
Contact information: Brischa Borchgrevink
Cell: 044 322 117 4519
E-Mail: bbrischa@hotmail.com

WORKSHOPS & FACTORIES

Relatively new in Vallarta is a growing number of stores where they make their products on site. Everything from blown glass to ceramic tiles.

Huichol Crafts - see Galería Pirámide on Basilio Badillo and Colección Huichol on the Malecon.

Blown Glass – Mundo de Cristal (World of Glass), corner of Insurgentes & Basilio Badillo

Ceramic Tiles – Mundo de Azulejos (World of Ceramic Tiles)

ART GALLERIES

Art is a very important part of the culture and lifestyle in Puerto Vallarta . During the winter/high season there are regularly scheduled exhibitions and cocktails called “Art Walks” every other Wednesday evening. Some of the more important galleries in town are:

Galería Arte Latino América – Josefa Ortiz about 2 blocks up from the Malecon, 222-4406.

Galería Pacífico – on Aldama about 1 ½ blocks up from the Malecon, 222-1982.

Galería Uno – on the corner of Morelos & Corona streets, near the light house on the Malecon, 222-0908.

Tourist Information for Puerto Vallarta

2007-01-22T22:15:00.000-08:00

Currency: Mexican Peso written as $1 MN (moneda nacional)
Electric: 110/120 (same as Canada & USA )
LOCAL CUSTOMS & LAWS:

Tourist Card – when you arrive in Mexico you will require an Immigration document called a “Tourist card”. You don’t need to carry this document with you, but you will need to present when departing the country.
Legal drinking age – is 18 years. It is illegal to drink in public. Drug laws are harsh.
Siesta time – 2-4pm, many businesses close during this time.
Tipping – is similar to Canada & the U.S. 15% - 20% in restaurants & bars.
Restaurants – you may wonder why it takes so long for someone to bring you the bill. In Mexico it is considered rude to bring the bill until you request it. To local culture it infers that the client is being asked to leave. So when you are ready to leave, you should ask for the bill.
MONEY
Exchange rates – usually best in the banks, slightly less in the Money Exchanges (Casas de Cambio) & businesses.
Travelers Cheques – you will need picture ID to exchange
Bank Machines / Automatic Teller Machines – are bilingual & easy to use, you can access money directly from your account or specified credit card. They usually give an exchange rate as good or better then the banks. Normal service charge is $1 - $2 depending on your bank and accessible 24 hrs/day.
Coins – there are 100c (centavos) in one ($1) peso. Since some coins have such a low value you may not get exact change in some stores. They do not accept foreign coins
Bank hours: average is 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday. Saturdays 10am – 2 pm .
WATER
Puerto Vallarta ’s water purification system has been certified safe by International standards since 1992. However we still recommend you use only purified bottled water (Agua Purificada) for drinking and making ice unless there is a purification system in the building you are staying in.

Ice Cubes – in restaurants & bars are made from purified water.

Fruits & Vegetables – any fruits or vegetables not being cooked or peeled should be treated with MICRODYN (a bacteria killing treatment).

Wash the fruit or vegetables
Soak for 20 minutes in a non-metal container in tap water with 1-4 drops of Microdyn for every litre of water
Rinse with purified water.
All staff in villas & restaurants will follow this procedure.

LONG DISTANCE
Please check with the staff of your accommodations for long distance options. Usually the best option is to charge long distance calls to your calling cards.

You can purchase international long distance calling cards in most convenience stores (SIX) and pharmacies (CMQ and Farmacia Guadalajara, both open 24 hours).

You can also make international calls from most Internet cafes such as PVcafe.com, located at Olas Altas and Basilio Badillo, where they charge about $6 pesos per minute to call the US .

TRANSPORTATION
Taxis -Local Taxis do not have meters; instead they have set rates per each zone. Within the downtown area the rate is usually about $2 USD or $20 pesos. All taxis carry official rate sheets, when in doubt ask to see it. Taxi drivers are notorious for not having change; when possible try to be prepared with exact change or small bills.

Several Taxi stands have telephones to order taxis for pick up:

La Jolla de Mismaloya- Sitio 11 222-8099, or call hotel and ask for taxi, 226-6688

Sitio 9- located on the South Side of Old Town, corner of Constitution and Francisco I. Madero, 223-2806

Dreams Resort-221-5368, hotel 221-5000

Transport Service - For a private driver, call Noe 044(322)294-2215 or 222-2278

Bus -The green and blue bus from town to Mismaloya and Boca de Tomatlan (last cove on the bay accessible by car) runs every 10 mins. The bus stop in town originates at the corner of Constitución and Basilio Badillo, cost $4.50 pesos. Boca de Tomatlan is the end of the line, the bus turns around and heads back to Puerto Vallarta . From Boca de Tomatlan you can pay for a water taxi to take you to any of the beaches on the south shore only accessible by boat: Las Animas, Quimixto and Yelapa.

Car Rental – you must be over 21 years of age and have a credit card to rent a car. Rate start at about $50 USD / day.

Airport Taxis – the Airport Taxi’s are a separate system from the local Yellow Taxis and are only allowed to pick up passengers from the airport or Marina which are Federal Zones.

MAIL
The mail service in Mexico tends to be rather slow. It will take aprox 2 weeks for mail to reach the U.S. or Canada . The post office is located downtown on Mina Street just off the Malecon. Hours are 9am – 7 pm Monday – Friday & 9am – 12 noon on Saturdays.

Stamps to the U.S. & Canada are about 45c USD. You can also buy stamps in many of the shops & there are mail boxes conveniently located around town.

EMAIL & INTERNET

There are numerous Internet Cafes in Puerto Vallarta . They are convenient and inexpensive. You can send and receive email messages for about $1 - $2 USD per hour. If you have a laptop and access to a telephone line you can have local service set up, cost is about $23 USD per month. Call PVNET at 223-1127 to confirm details. To program your laptop for this service, you will have to go to their offices on the north side of town in the hotel zone, across the street from the Sheraton Hotel, Taxi drivers know the location.

GROCERY STORES/SHOPPING
There are many large supermarkets in the Vallarta area:

South Vallarta

Gutierrez Rizo: (called "El Rizo" by the locals) Constitution and Aquiles Serdan at the River Cuale. Open 8am – 11pm daily. Wide selection of food and produce in addition to hardware, pharmacy & liquor items. There is also an import section if you are looking for a special product not made in Mexico.

Agro Gourmet – Open Monday– Saturday, 9:30 am – 6pm . Basillio Badillo #22

North Vallarta/Hotel Zone

MEGA Commercial Mexicana

Gigante

Sam’s Club: you can get a free day pass to shop if you are from out of town, known for their selection of USDA beef. You will need to show ID to prove your out of town address.

Walmart

The fine art of Bargaining is only for beach & street vendors or in the flea Markets. The recommended system is to start at about 60% of the asking price and go from there. Boutiques & stores frown on bargaining, but will often accept diplomatic requests for discounts (especially for cash purchases).

CHURCH
The Cathedral in the center of town is a Catholic Church “Our Lady of Guadalupe”. Services are:

Monday – Friday: 7:30 am , 12 noon , 7pm & 8pm

Saturday: 7:30 am , 12 noon , 7:30pm & 8:30pm

Sunday: 6:30am, 8am , 10am , 12 noon , 6:30pm , 7:30pm & 8:30pm

Dress appropriately. There is also a Baptist Church , Kingdom Hall & other denominations..

DEPARTURE INFORMATION

The airlines request that you be at the airport 2 hrs ahead of

Departure time for international flights & 1 hour for national flights.

Most airlines have the departure tax prepaid
You will need to present your tourist card when you depart
Customs declarations; U.S. citizens $350 USD each time you leave the country for over 7 days, Canadian citizens $500 Canadian each time you leave the country for over 7 days.
Liquor: 1.5 liters of Alcohol & 200 cigarettes per adult
It is illegal to take back any plants, produce or products made from an endangered species (Iguana, Sea turtle, Boa, Python, Anaconda snakes & Armadillos)
Top

What is the temperature in Puerto Vallarta?

2007-01-22T22:10:00.000-08:00

http://www.pvrpv.com/pvGeneralInformation.php

Temperatures and Wet Days
High Low
Celsius Fahrenheit Celsius Fahrenheit Wet Days
January 25 - 26 77 - 79 16 - 19 62 - 67 2
February 25 - 27 77 - 80 16 - 18 60 - 65 1
March 24 - 28 75 - 82 16 - 18 60 - 65 0
April 26 - 29 79 - 84 17 - 19 63 - 67 0
May 28 - 31 82 - 88 19 - 21 66 - 70 1
June 29 - 32 84 - 90 19 - 22 67 - 72 10
July 31 - 33 87 - 92 23 - 26 73 - 79 15
August 32 - 35 90 - 95 24 - 27 74 - 80 15
September 32 - 35 90 - 95 25 - 27 76 - 80 14
October 29 - 33 85 - 91 24 - 26 74 - 79 5
November 28 - 31 83 - 87 18 - 21 65 - 70 1
December 26 - 29 79 - 84 18 - 21 65 - 70 2

Extraordinary Donation

2007-01-22T22:09:00.001-08:00

We have some very special news to share about the children of the dump. Gary Green has donated 1,000 backpacks to help these bright-eyed children go to school. This makes a tremendous impact on their lives as they do not have enough money to buy the supplies needed to attend schools. Nor do they have enough money to buy food or clothing. Donations are greatly appreciated by the staff here at PVRPV and even more by these children who are in desperate need of a helping hand. Thank-you so much Gary for your enormous generosity!

Sea Turtle Months (May-December

2007-01-22T22:08:00.001-08:00

Puerto Vallarta has implemented a community-wide preservation program that combines protected nurseries for turtle eggs, plus educational projects. Turtle Liberation ceremonies are held daily during the season at participating hotel beaches. In addition, Vallarta eco-tour operators host nighttime tours to research camps designed to protect the eggs where visitors witness sea turtles laying eggs in their natural habitat and the release of the baby turtles. Puerto Vallarta's coastline is among the most important breeding grounds in the world for numerous endangered species of sea turtles. The Puerto Vallarta Sea Turtle Protection Project is a joint effort of the Puerto Vallarta Hotel.

Visa and Mastercard is a Hit!

2007-01-22T22:07:00.000-08:00

PVRPV enjoys being the leading vacation rental company in Vallarta and prides itself at having the finest reservation and booking systems in the hospitality industry. We are told that we have the most comprehensive lists of properties with accurate descriptions and lots of pictures showing what the units look like. We also have virtual tours on of our feature properties. Our site also contains an effective calendar so that guests can check availability and plan their vacations accordingly. Most importantly we have a very effective, easy to use reservation system. At the requests of our guests we have added the capability of booking your reservation via Visa or MasterCard. This added facility is considered a big convenience by our guests and is much appreciated. Many clients are even paying for their rentals in full immediately when booking.

It's secure, it's easy, it's fast, it is "online"

Tell your friends

New Staff Additions Announced!

2007-01-22T22:06:00.000-08:00

In addition to all of these great things happening over here at PVRPV we have three new employees joining us to help serve you better and look after all your needs.

Roger Dubois has joined us from Montreal, Quebec, Canada. He is the challenge-driven concierge who will try to answer all of your questions regarding the properties we offer. In addition, Roger arranges tours and can give advice about the best excursions in P.V. and area.

Also joining the PVRPV team is Cherisse Klassen. Cherisse hails from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada and has now made her home in Vallarta. She is our new customer service agent and will answer all your calls and questions with a smile.

We now also have our own website manager, Roberto Garcia. He joined our team full time on June 1st. so you can look forward to a lot of great updates on our website.

Welcome, good luck, and congratulations to our three new team members.

New Listings, Great Deals in Puerto Vallarta

2007-01-22T22:05:00.000-08:00

Here at PVRPV we have much to celebrate. We have many new listings and lots of great deals to offer our ever growing list of guests. Whether a summer vacation is in your cards or you have started searching for that special place for next fall or even Christmas and New Years, we are here and ready to help you find your perfect vacation spot. You can find great deals on our properties from July 1st. to October 31st.
La Cima is now $150 per night from $200
Playa Del Sol 602 A $100 per night from $125
Loma Del Mar C-9 $600 per month from $800 (until October 31st. 2006, no utilities included)
Casa Mas O Menos $900 per month from $1300 (until August 31st. 2006)
Come take a look at the feature properties on our easy to use website at www.pvrpv.com

New Guest Testimonials for PVRPV

2007-01-22T22:04:00.002-08:00

PVRPV Rentals was great to work with. Tim was great! Very helpful! We stayed in the Casbah and loved it. We visit Puerto Vallarta about 5 times a year. We are already talking about renting a condo through your company next time. We are also planning a wedding and are interested in renting a house. We will definitely contact you for that. Thanks again for everything! Sincerely,
Natalie CoughranColoradoThe Casbah
The accommodations provided by PVRPV were great and worth every penny. The location and facilities were exactly as described on PVRPV's web site and the photos provided appeared to be taken recently. We were met and taken care of by very courteous and knowledgeable staff all of whom all spoke good English. The location was as expected and there were no surprises, except for the welcome flowers. Tim and Agustin took great care to ensure we had what we needed and are great guys to deal with.
(Bill) Janes Toronto, CanadaCasa De Las Vistas
We loved the condo, and had a wonderful time in PV. This was our first time to stay in a condo instead of a hotel, and I think we will never go back to hotels! Estrellita was absolutely gorgeous, and your staff is top-notch, and very pleasant. I can't say enough about our experience, not to mention the BEST view of the bay in town! We will be back!
Brad, Nina & MichelleMinneapolisEstrellita Del Mar 101

Five Star Concierge Service for PVRPV Guests

2007-01-22T22:04:00.001-08:00

At PVRPV we consider the availability of a concierge as critical and essential as our mission of serving our guests. Our guests have experienced the importance of a friendly and efficient concierge. Roger is someone you can talk to and someone who is available when you are in need. PVRPV prides itself at having the best. Meet Mr. Roger Dubois. He welcomes and meets each guest at the rental unit and shows them all the features of the home. He then hands over the keys so you can start your vacation in paradise. He makes sure that the units are clean and that everything works, and prides himself in making sure that the guests are comfortable. Roger will go the extra mile for our guests such as emergency shopping, arranging for a baby crib or even a trip to the pharmacy at 10.00 p.m. on a Friday night. In addition to this, Roger is very knowledgeable about what is going on in P.V. and he can arrange for bookings or reservations for high quality tours and excursions, the finest restaurants and he can direct you to the best entertainment or shopping in the area. At times, guests have special needs or requests prior to their arrival such as hiring a cook for a special dinner or maybe a band to play at a party, just send an E-mail to roger@pvrpv.com and he will plan everything for you so it is ready when you get here. It is extremely important to the team at PVRPV that we are known as an excellent, full service vacation rental agency. We know that it is at this level of service that our guests are returning year after year and recommend us to their families, friends and associates. Let's give a hand for Roger Dubois. It is well deserved.

Summer Welcome from PVRPV

2007-01-22T22:03:00.001-08:00

Summer is here and you can feel it in the air in Vallarta! Come enjoy the high day temperatures and relax into the evening with the harmonious rains and spectacular storms of the season. This peaceful season is perfect for the budget-conscientious traveler, as air fairs and accommodations are at their lowest prices of the year.

Mango Shrimp Recipe from Mexico

2007-01-22T22:02:00.000-08:00

Mmmmmmm Getting hungry yet??
"Hey Abuelita, What's cooking?" Recipe of the Month
Mango Shrimp
For each serving, you will need:
2 tsp Couscous 2 tsp Paprika2 tsp Black Pepper 2 tsp Salt 2 tsp Cumin 3 1/2 oz Mango Chutney*2 tsp Wasabe 5 Large Shrimp Bamboo Skewers
Thread raw shrimp on the skewers. In a bowl, mix together: paprika, wasabe, cumin, salt and pepper. Brush mixture over shrimp and grill. Serve with Mango Chutney and Mango Sauce
* Mango Chutney
1/2 tsp Butter 1 tsp Chile Guajillo 1 tsp Raisins 3 Cloves 2/3 cup Cubed Mango 1/2 oz Tamarind Concentrate
1. In a double boiler, over low heat melt together the butter and Chile guajillo 2. Add the mango, raisins and cloves to the butter mixture and let simmer for 5 minutes 3. Add Tamarind Concentrate, bring to a boil stirring frequently until reduced to half 4. Refrigerate
* Mango Sauce
1 lb Fresh Mango 2 oz White Wine 1/2 cup Melon Liqueur 1/2 tsp Curry1 1/2 tbsp Sugar
1. Cube fresh Mango 2. Combine butter, white wine and melon liqueur in a medium saucepan and simmer over low heat until butter is melted 3. Saute mango in butter mixture 4. Mix in the Curry, sugar and mint. Boil for 15 minutes until liquified 5. Refrigerate
Buen provecho!

New Guest Testimonials for PVRPV

2007-01-22T22:01:00.000-08:00

I would just like to say that I have met 2 of the most friendliest people in Puerto Vallarta. Tim and Mike. The both of them couldn't have been more helpful in finding me a place to stay. I would not hesitate to reccomend PVRPV Rentals to anyone in search of a rental. Thank you both so much for your help and friendship. Siempre mi, Judy Peters
Judy Peters Vancouver, Canada Selva Romantica #5
I am so glad to have found PVRPV. Jeff was very professional, honest and knew his properties. We had no surprises when we arrived at our condo. I was impressed with the personal touches PVRPV offered. Elizabeth met us on arrival with a Welcome Basket. She showed us around the condo and left us with the telephone number and address of PVRPV. Tim and Mike we very friendly and helpful when we dropped in to the office to say "HI". When it was time to leave for the airport Mike came and checked us out. Thanks for the relaxing, comfortable, stress free vacation.
Andrea ScottCochrane, Alberta Loma Del Mar B-10
Our condo was great!!! It was spacious and so conveniently located. We couldn't believe our luck. The staff at PVRPV was excellent and got back to us right away with any concerns and questions. Thank you for making our trip easy and fun. We look forward to coming back soon.
Michelle Hart Tucson Arizona Condo del Puente D1
We had a great time in PV and were very pleased with the service from Mike and Tim, We would not hesitate to refer your company to friends and Family for future vacations. We noticed you had updated the listing for that particular Condo regarding the noise from the Restaurant, Thanks. We are looking forward to seeing you again in April.
Brian & Margaret ChristieAjax Ontario El Dorado B1

Semana Santa

2007-01-22T22:00:00.000-08:00

The Holy Week of Easter is the most important Catholic religious festival in South America. Semana Santa, Holy Week, celebrates the last days of Christ's life, the Crucifixion and Resurrection, as well as the end of Lent. Semana Santa is observed with a range of celebrations, from the most solemnly religious, to a mix of pagan/Catholic, to commercial. This is a happening place those two weeks. The city is full with people from every part of the world. The beaches are full of folks just thawing out ready for spring to roll in. It is also a great opportunity to explore this amazing culture up close and personal.
Easter Week (Semana Santa) Palm Sunday April 9 Passover April 12 Good Friday April 14 Easter Week April 12-19 Availablity
February & March PVRPV Availability (Please click on the BLUE hyperlink below)
February 26 - March 5 March 5 - March 12 March 12 - 19 March 19 - 26

Huge Success for our friends, the children at the PV Landfill

2007-01-22T21:59:00.002-08:00

We have been overwhelmed at the great success our work at the PV Landfill. Many guests, homeowners and friends have poured out their hearts and wallets to help us support these great kids and their mothers.
As you know we go out each Monday afternoon. We gather food from over five area restaurants and head out to the site. We spend a few hours sharing a meal and "hanging out" with the kids.
We may start a futbol game (soccer), often ending up acting like monkey bars with kids hanging to all limbs. In December Santa came out just before Christmas and the kids had a heyday. Several business owners in the Olas Altas community came together to raise $500 USD for our kids this Chirstmas. We went out and bought about 600 pieces of toys, kids and baby cloths, teen boy and girl type stuff, hygiene and hair care products. We then had enough cash left over to sponsor a child next year and the Olas Altas Business Community is committed to the next four years of continuing this child's education. Santa walked away with two lolly pop stuck to his suite and a very happy smile. That makes two total sponsorships in two months. The awards will be given in February.
We have one homeowner who has even donated 1000 back packs to our project. That is enough for two full years. It is so many we need to have the US Navy bring in the material. Amazing! How awesome it is to know the kind of folks we work with. More importantly the good that is actually changing lives here. It is satisfying to be so involved in this important charitable work.
Here is a list of just some of our awesome contributors:
Chris Hanson - Cochran Realty - Puerto Vallarta Andele's Restaurant & Bar – Olas Altas Mama Delores Diner " …Homestyle American & Mexican Fare" Olas Altas Pat Tacy and George Grey Nate - Puerto VallartaPVRPV – "Premier Vacation Rentals" Puerto Vallarta Mexico Doug Mayhew - Belmont Pets – Launder Pet, Long Beach CA Sama…More than a Martini Bar – Olas Altas Puerto Vallarta Apaches Martini & Cocktail Bar & Bistro - Olas Altas Puerto Vallarta Coffee Cup – Olas Altas Diva's Bar – "..Just a touch of Attitude" - Old Town PV Shannon Beston Properties – Puerto Vallarta Mickey Adams - Puerto Vallarta Safari Café " …Comida Soul Food" – Olas Altas Gregory Onstot – Springfield MO, USATerry Fenton & Charles Harte – Seattle WA, USA Gary Green Anahiem CA, USA Mrs. Josephine Baremore, Kerrville, TXThe Acevedo Family, San Antontio Glenda Green and Friends, Alberta Canada
And many other donors as well we wish to Thank!

Hot New Properties for Vacation Rental Homes!

2007-01-22T21:59:00.001-08:00

Estrellita Del Mar 101
This luxurious two bedroom two bath home is stunning, spacious and is located in the preferred area of Amapas. This Puerto Vallarta vacation home is complete with full kitchen including dishwasher and disposal including a washer and dryer. Each .. more information
Sea River #1240
Soaring high above one of the world's finest beaches is the 1 bedroom ocean front Sea River Vacation Rental. Completely furnished, this air conditioned vacation rental condo omes with 2 double beds and a sunken living room. Complete with kitchenette .. more information
Selva Romantica, Villa Safari # 12
Top, 4th floor, studio apartment located in the Romantic Zone of "Old Town" Puerto Vallarta, two blocks up from the pier on "Los Muertos" Beach. Apartment terrace has great southern vistas of old town Puerto Vallarta, mountains, and .. more information
Amazonas Casa De Dante
Amazonas Casa de Dante is a wonderful vacation rental located in the heart of Olas Altas and three minutes or two blocks to the beach. This gorgeous brand new 2 bedroom condo located in Selva Romantica is warm and inviting. This Puerto Vallarta .. more information
Loma Del Mar A11
Spacious two bedroom one bath; fully equipped kitchen with granite countertops, daybeds in livingroom, washer/dryer, Carlos Alberto designed renovation.Ground floor unit (no stairs to climb) with deeded parking .. more information
La Casa De El Perrito Blanco
Located on hillside in upper Conchas Chinas with view of the ocean below. Ground floor level with private walled terrace including garden, grassy area and tiled patio surrounding your own private pool. Almost like having your own home. Cable TV. .. more information

A Special Note on Gratutity

2007-01-22T21:57:00.000-08:00

Please remember that each of your service employees depend on your kind gratuity for support. PVRPV suggests that the maids, concierge and the various building staff that may assist you receive a $1 or $2 USD per day gratuity for the period of your time in Vallarta. The average median income in Mexico is only about $550 per month, and every penny counts. These are great folks who are working hard for you and we would like to encourage your support for their efforts. Thank You!!

"Thar be Whales, Capitan!" Scotty, Starship Enterprise

2007-01-21T22:49:00.000-08:00

"Thar be whales, Capitan!" Scotty, Starship Enterprise
While on the beach on Sunday, members of our staff and many guests were pleasantly surprised by a pod of Humpback Whales frolicking in the Bay. An awesome site as these huge magnificent animals performed for nearly an hour, entertaining the entire Los Muertos Beach all the way to the marina. The entire beach was mesmerized at the sight of the whales and their babies.
Singled out by its short, wide body and long, curved flippers which are often one third of the total body length, this slow easy-moving animal is usually easily approached. However, the laws of Mexico forbid approaching or disturbing the animals in the Bay of Banderas. The normal length of the Pacific adult males is about 12.5 m and of females 14.6 m. The average weight can be nearly 30 tons.
The humpback is often seen throwing itself out of the water in stunning somersaults and crashing back into the sea again. It rolls on the surface, or sometimes jumps clear out of the water, flippers beating the air as if it were attempting to take off and fly. In the mating season, they sometimes use their flippers to pat each other. 'Nuff said about that! Humpbacks are hunted by humans and killer whales. These whales have been hunted to near extinction, and estimates from 2,500-10,000 exist today. During breeding season the Humpback males are known for singing the longest and most complex songs in the animal kingdom.
Humpbacks are highly inquisitive and will approach quite closely, showing little fear of boats.
Whale watching is fast becoming one of the primary reasons so many guests are pouring into Vallarta each winter. Come enjoy the many eco-wonders of our enchanted bay and see for yourself why Puerto Vallarta is indeed the crown jewel for the Mexican Riviera.

How It Began, Way Back? Paradise Kingdom

2007-01-21T22:48:00.001-08:00

Recorded history about Puerto Vallarta starts around 621 BC, when it was part of a large kingdom called Xalisco, ruled by a King called Nayarita. Obviously it was known as one of the most beautiful spots in the entire kingdom. As time moved on, tribes including the Toltecas and the Aztecas migrated to the area and opened up a trail to the Nahuatl Empire located in the valley of Mexico that today is known as Mexico City. During the early 1500?s an explorer from Spain, Francisco Cortes officially stumbled the bay surrounding Puerto Vallarta, but the settlement remained relatively unknown to the outside world for hundreds of years.
The luster of the Bay of Banderas finally reached international global attention in 1963 when John Huston directed the infamous film called "The Night of the Iguana" which began the creation of the mystique as well as mass attention to this area. Soon afterwards Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton purchased adjoining homes in the Gringo Gulch area of Vallarta, forever changing the reality of this small village. Now Puerto Vallarta boasts more than 250,000 citizens yet has retained the charms of a small village..

European Union Visitors

2007-01-21T22:47:00.000-08:00

We are also seeing many visitors from Europe and Australia. We are looking forward to introducing more of Vallarta to the European Union. The town is jumping and folks are having the time of their lives. We are meeting so many new friends, and we are certainly looking forward to meeting you. So far the English, Dutch and German folks are discovering our little gem. We will be developing relationships with travel agencies within the European Union countries this next year. This is truly one of the most diverse international welcoming communities in the world.