Puerto Vallarta is one of the friendliest and easiest places to travel in Mexico. In fact, entering the city from Nayarit the welcoming sign proclaims it to be La Ciudad Mas Amigable en el Mundo (The Friendliest City in the World). Since the 1950s American’s have been swarming to the exotic beaches and scenery. This is a city that was built to attract Americans with safe drinkable water, familiar food and brands and English widely spoken. To find unspoiled and unpopulated beaches, you have only to drive north up the coast.

Puerto Vallarta was popularized by the film, the Night of the Iguana, which starred Richard Burton. He and Elizabeth Taylor are rumored to have carried on a very torrid affair in Puerto Vallarta and both owned homes there. An art gallery on the river bears her name. One of their love-nests was purported to be a trailer on a remote beach a short drive from the movie set.

Whether you seek a beachside resort and spa or a hotel in the center of town, you can find it here. This is one of the few Mexican towns that you can get along without speaking Spanish, although knowing a few words is always appreciated.

Seaside dining abounds with fresh fish and shellfish easy to obtain. And one of the best kept secrets is the gourmet dining at all price ranges, but you have to know where to go. To get in on the secret, you must get a copy of Gary Beck’s Guide to Puerto Vallarta Dining. He reviews over 300 restaurants including the colorful “street food” vendors and he has a gourmet’s palate. His dining advice will ensure that you get the experience that you are seeking in restaurants. Gary has been a Puerto Vallarta regular for 30 years, and takes dining very seriously.

Old Town is charming and perfect for strolling and shopping. Handmade ceramics and glassware are some of the local treasures to be found. The Isla Rio Cuale Walk is a wonderful place to stroll and admire the beautiful scenery with lively restaurants and cantinas and vendors selling every type of craft you would possibly want.