Vallarta-Nayarit: Travels On Tropical Side Of Life Bonnie Fox - Coronado News
go to original September 10, 2017

My husband and I have have traveled all over the world and have seen many beach destinations, but none have impressed us more than those we saw in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco and Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit which are among the most popular and desirable retirement destinations in Mexico. They are also some of the safest areas to visit or live regardless of age. This opinion was recently expressed in the New York Times and Forbes Magazine.

When you visit Puerto Vallarta there are many things to see and do. Of course you will want to go shopping on the famous Malecon and bargain in the outdoor stalls in some of the other neighborhoods.

However, do not be fooled by street vendors who try to sell you silver jewelry; remember buyer beware. If you do want to bring back something special from Mexico, the Mexican fire opal is a beautiful stone which is set in silver or gold and a good selection can be found at the Opal Mine on the Malecon.

While you are sightseeing take the opportunity to visit La Iglesia de Guadalupe, the oldest Catholic Church in Puerto Vallarta which is a beautiful edifice. If you want to stop for lunch on the Malecon, La Dolce Vida serves excellent Italian food. They also have another restaurant in Nuevo Vallarta.

Casa Iguana was the home of Elizabeth Taylor and is now both a boutique hotel and first class restaurant. Try to go when the large Mariachi group performs. The talented musicians not only play well known Mexican favorites, but popular songs and classical renditions, You will enjoy wonderful food and beautiful music in magical surroundings. The total experience makes for an unforgettable evening. Reservations are required.

If it’s steak that you desire, the best steakhouse restaurant is the famous Señora Grill in the Marina.
 
No vacation is complete without taking tours, so I recommend “Rhythms of the Night” where you board a Catamaran which takes you to an isolated beach, followed by a sumptuous buffet dinner and a show. It is an evening you’ll never forget. The dances and acrobatics exhibit the mythical stories of the indigenous people of Mexico. The costumes and scenic designs add to the spectacular visual effects. There are a plethora of other activities you can try including horseback riding, visiting a tequila distillery, zip lining, sailing, and fishing. My husband, who is an amateur, managed to catch a 40 pound yellowtail tuna.

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