5 Important Things NOT to-do In Puerto Vallarta
What Not to-do While in Puerto Vallarta Do not drink tap water Drinking tap water in Puerto Vallarta is not recommended due to the potential presence of bacteria, parasites, or other contaminants. The water treatment systems may vary, and it’s difficult to guarantee the safety of tap water throughout the city. Consuming tap water can increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues, such as stomach upset, diarrhea, or more severe illnesses. To ensure your well-being, it’s best to stick to bottled water for drinking and use it when brushing your teeth. Nearly every hotel will either have its own filtration system or big jugs of water on hand for drinking. The brands Cielo and E-Pura are the most common brand names of jugs you will see. Don’t flash valuables Walking around especially in large crowds is the best time to be pickpocketed. Avoid showing off things that attract attention or carrying large amounts of cash. As with any tourist destination, it’s important to exercise caution and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself. Flashing valuable items, such as expensive jewelry, cameras, or electronics, can make you a target for theft or pickpocketing. It’s advisable to keep your valuable belongings secure and out of sight. Instead of carrying large sums of cash, use credit or debit cards when possible and keep only the necessary amount of cash for your immediate needs. This really goes without saying, but just be careful when withdrawing a bundle of money from the ATM and walking around with that in your pocket all day. Or leaving your bags unattended while you put them down for a quick photo. Even when shopping at the grocery store – watch your backpack or fanny pack, make sure its secure and not easily opened by someone when you’re not paying attention. Avoid excessive sun exposure Puerto Vallarta’s tropical climate means that the sun can be intense, especially during peak hours. Overexposure to the sun without proper protection can lead to sunburn, heatstroke, and other health complications. To avoid these risks, apply sunscreen with a high SPF, wear protective clothing, such as hats and lightweight long-sleeved shirts, and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 11 am and 3 pm. Personally when im surfing or snorkeling and out on the water a long time, I use a rash guard or surfer shirt. The tight fit reduces friction between the skin and the surfboard, preventing irritation and chafing that can occur from prolonged contact with the board. Secondly, the fabric used in rash guards offers a certain level of UV protection, shielding the skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. This is particularly important as surfers spend extended periods exposed to the sun while out on the water. Additionally, the lightweight and quick-drying properties of rash guards help to keep the body comfortable by wicking away moisture and preventing overheating. Remember, when you first land in Vallarta and head to the beach – your skin is super vulnerable and not yet accustomed to the intensity of Mexico’s sun. Just be cautious before napping in the middle of the day with the sun’s rays constantly hitting your skin. If you don’t properly prepare for a day in the sun, over exposure over time can lead to these common things that no one wants: Sunburn: One of the immediate effects of excessive sun exposure is sunburn. It occurs when the skin becomes red, inflamed, and painful due to the ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Sunburn can range from mild to severe and is a sign of skin damage. Premature Aging: Chronic sun exposure can contribute to premature aging of the skin. UV radiation breaks down collagen and elastin, which are responsible for the skin’s elasticity and firmness. This can lead to the development of wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin, making a person appear older than their actual age. Skin Damage: Prolonged sun exposure without protection can cause long-term damage to the skin. It can lead to the development of dark spots, freckles, and uneven skin tone. It can also increase the risk of skin conditions such as actinic keratosis (rough, scaly patches on the skin), lentigines (age spots), and skin cancer. Don’t ignore safety precautions in the water While the beaches of Puerto Vallarta are inviting, it’s important to be mindful of potential risks and exercise caution when swimming or participating in water activities. Pay attention to lifeguard instructions and swim only in designated areas where the water is monitored for safety. Be aware of the presence of rip currents, which can be strong and dangerous, and avoid swimming alone. Additionally, keep an eye out for jellyfish or other marine life that may pose a threat. If stung, seek medical attention promptly. Agua Mala Depending on the time of year and currents around the area, Vallarta and Banderas Bay is known for having agua mala. Agua mala is a term commonly used in Spanish-speaking regions, particularly in Mexico, to refer to a marine organism known as a jellyfish or a jellyfish sting. The term “agua mala” translates to “bad water” in English, and it is used to describe the stinging sensation caused by coming into contact with certain species of jellyfish. Jellyfish are gelatinous marine creatures that float in the water and have tentacles equipped with stinging cells called nematocysts. When a jellyfish comes into contact with a person’s skin, the nematocysts can release toxins, causing a painful sting and, in some cases, an allergic reaction. The symptoms of an agua mala or jellyfish sting can vary depending on the individual and the species of jellyfish involved. Common symptoms include intense pain or burning sensation at the site of the sting, redness, swelling, itching, and in severe cases, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, and difficulty breathing. If stung by a jellyfish, it is important to take immediate action to alleviate the pain and prevent further injury. Treatment options for an agua mala sting may include rinsing the
Top 5 FREE Things to-do In Puerto Vallarta (part 1)
What Can You Do for FREE in Vallarta? Are you seeking the ultimate insider’s guide to experiencing the best of Puerto Vallarta on a budget? Your search ends here! As a former resident of both Centro and Nuevo Vallarta for two years, I’ve already done the groundwork for you. Say goodbye to countless hours of internet research! Whether you have a week or just a few days to spare, you can effortlessly check off all five items on this curated list. The cherry on top? Every single experience comes at absolutely no cost to you. While indulging in a resort stay in Vallarta is a splendid means to relax and detach from the hustle and bustle of daily routines, it’s important to remember that there exists an entire realm of wonders beyond the confines of the resort gates. Vallarta, nestled in the captivating embrace of the Bay of Banderas, holds a wealth of hidden treasures just waiting to be explored. Venture beyond the boundaries of your resort, and you’ll discover a cornucopia of awe-inspiring experiences and breathtaking sights that will leave an indelible mark on your journey. So, let’s dive right in and uncover a few of the best FREE experiences that Puerto Vallarta has to offer! 1. Mirador de la Cruz If you’re up for the climb, visiting Mirador de la Cruz (the View Point) is an absolute must. The effort is well rewarded by the breathtaking panoramic view it offers. From this elevated vantage point, you can take in the entire expanse of Vallarta. The sight encompasses everything from whales gracefully breaching in the distance to the vibrant downtown area, the Hotel Zone, Marina, Nuevo Vallarta, and extends all the way to the scenic point of Punta Mita. To truly appreciate the city, venture to the backside of the cross where you’ll discover the tunnel that links the negihborhood of Agua Azul to Zona Romantica, and views of the largest neighborhood in Vallarta – Pitillal. Here, you’ll gain a comprehensive perspective of Vallarta as a whole, realizing its vastness and scale. Many visitors tend to confine themselves to the popular areas near the beach, unaware that the majority of locals reside on the opposite side of the main highway (highway 200) to the east. From the elevated viewpoint, you’ll not only grasp the size of Vallarta, but also gain an appreciation for the sheer magnitude of the Bay of Banderas. Without observing it from above, it’s difficult to comprehend the immense stretch of this bay. Spanning approximately 42 kilometers (26 miles) from Punta Mita in the north to Cabo Corrientes in the south, the Bay of Banderas encompasses an area of about 1,500 square kilometers (579 square miles). If you’re interested in embarking on this adventure, the starting point of the walk is located at the end of Gringo Gulch, an area known for its movie star residents. Simply head up the hill, slightly north from Cathedral de Guadalupe (the famous church with the grey crown). For your convenience, here is the Google Maps location of Mirador de la Cruz so you can navigate your way there. Enjoy the spectacular views! 2. Romantic Zone and Los Muertos Pier Next on the list is something I recommend doing both during the daylight with sunshine, and at night. Sunset is the ideal time to immerse yourself in the charm of Old Town while taking a leisurely beach stroll. As the sun dips below the horizon, it casts a gentle pink and orange glow on the hillside buildings, creating a captivating atmosphere. No visit to Vallarta is complete without exploring the place where its oldest roots lie. As tourism flourished in the late 1960s and early 1970s, thanks to the global recognition brought by the movie “Night of the Iguana,” the Romantic Zone (Old Town) witnessed the emergence of numerous buildings. Tourists flocked to the area, staying at beachfront resorts while admiring the architectural beauty and cobblestone streets that give Old Town its illustrious charm. The architecture in the Romantic Zone is a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican elements and contemporary designs. Colorful buildings, charming boutique hotels, inviting cafes, and captivating art galleries line the streets, inviting exploration. Moreover, the neighborhood is a haven for food enthusiasts, boasting a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes, from mouthwatering traditional Mexican street food to refined international cuisine. After the sun sets, the Romantic Zone comes alive with its vibrant nightlife, offering a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Romantic Zone also embraces a relaxed and bohemian ambiance, attracting a diverse mix of locals, expatriates, and tourists. The neighborhood fosters a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, celebrating Mexican culture alongside international influences and a vibrant LGBT community. Muertos Beach, located within the Romantic Zone, beckons nearly all visitors to its sandy shores. As the most popular beach in Vallarta, it offers a picturesque setting for relaxation and recreation. At Muertos Beach, you’ll also find the iconic Los Muertos Pier. Situated in the heart of the Old Town district, the pier extends into the Bay of Banderas, providing breathtaking views of the water and the surrounding mountains. The Los Muertos Pier holds a special appeal for both tourists and locals, offering a delightful setting for leisurely strolls, scenic vistas, and people-watching. Along the pier, you’ll encounter an array of shops, restaurants, and bars, providing a diverse range of dining and entertainment options. Additionally, the pier showcases various art installations and public artwork, inviting exploration and appreciation of the city’s vibrant culture. A highlight of the Los Muertos Pier experience is witnessing its magnificent sunsets. The pier offers a prime location to observe the sun descending over the bay, attracting locals and visitors alike to gather and savor the evening spectacle. Fishing enthusiasts can also be spotted casting their lines off the pier in search of a catch. At night, the pier is adorned with colorful lights, creating a relaxed ambiance that beautifully illuminates the surroundings after the sun has dipped