PUERTO VALLARTA

The romance of Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor launched Puerto Vallarta into international fame when Tennessee Williams "Night of the Iguana" was filmed here. Today's romantics like the laid back pace, the glittering hotels and the exotic South Pacific look and feel. Cliffs lead down to beautiful beaches that surround Banderas, Mexico's largest Bay. The downtown area, divided by the Cuale River, is long on charm with winding cobblestone streets and art galleries, boutiques and shops.

Stay
Tips
See
Dine
Destination Weddings

WHERE TO STAY:

PRESIDENTE INTERCONTINENTAL:
A LUCKY HONEYMOON.COM WINNER WILL HONEYMOON HERE! YOU CAN TOO!
120 rooms.. High on a hill with a panoramic view of the Bay, this beautiful resort offers multi-level fun and romance. You will feel far away from the crowds but you are really only a few minutes from downtown excitement. Your room will be suite sized with an ocean view. A meandering pool shaded by towering palms and the golden beach are on the lower levels. On the upper level, the super-romantic air conditioned dining room overlooking Mexico's largest bay invites you to share dreams as you linger over dinner. Everything you need, plus a spa, is at your fingertips. The atmosphere is friendly and the staff will help plan every honeymoon day if you ask. Opt for a honeymoon suite and you might get a jacuzzi with an ocean view! If you want to get married here too, the experienced Wedding Coordinator can arrange all details while you relax at the pool or on the beach. Address: Km. 8.5 Carretera Barra de Navidad CP48300. Tel: (USA) 800 327 0200.
CAMINO REAL: 337 rooms. Sophisticated Mexican flavor and architecture. Nestled in a private cove on a long stretch of beach. Quiet, leisurely, tropical atmosphere that gives you the feeling of being alone together in an intimate, elegant setting. Address: PO Box 95, Playa Las Estacas | Tel: 1-5000 | Fax: 1-6000 | USA: (800) 722-6466
MARRIOTT CASA MAGNA: 433 rooms. Big and beautiful. This sprawling modern hotel with all amenities makes you feel delightfully alone in a crowd. Seaside pool. Lush gardens. Plenty of everything. Near golf courses and deep sea fishing marina. Pick and choose from a myriad of activities to plan each day. Address: Paseo de la Marina #5 | Tel: 3-1100 | Fax: 1-0760 | USA: (800) 223-6388

BEST BUDGET BET:

MOLINO DE AGUA: 65 rooms. Downtown oasis just off the town beach. Rustic private bungalows surround a shady garden. Address: Ignacio Vallarta 130 Tel: 2-1907 Fax: 2-6056

HONEYMOON TRAVEL TIPS:

Average year round temperature: 80 degrees F
Distance from the airport: 5 miles
City code: 322
Two Hotel Zones flank the town which is divided by the Cuale River. The Northern Zone nearest the airport (You can get to the beach in minutes if you stay on this end) is modern and higher density. The Southern Zone is more tropical, more tranquil, and more exotic. Both are a 10-15 minute ride to the city center.
Ride the public buses. All go to town and they are easy to flag down.
Shopping is especially good. Many artists and designers reside here. Many hotels have shops with fine selections.

DON’T MISS:

Have lunch in a JUNGLE RESTAURANT. These exotic places are unique among Mexican resorts. Chino's Paradise, Eden (Take the path through the boutique to explore the surrounding jungle); or Chico's Paradise. Cool off in a rushing river or sun on giant boulders between courses!
CUALE RIVER STROLL: A cool stroll along the river walkway under the bridges that separate the downtown area . See the statue of film director John Huston, a mini archaeological museum and a host of other shops and restaurants.
EL DORADO RESTAURANT: Lunch at El Dorado Restaurant on the town beach. A Vallarta tradition where locals hang out. The beach outside Playa de los Muertos, is action packed.
GALERIA UNO: A downtown art gallery where visiting elite meet and chat.
COLLAGE: The most outrageous disco on this planet. It sports virtual motorcycle rides; bowling alleys; electronic golf, dining and dancing.

RESTAURANTS:

LE BISTRO: Dine to soft jazz music beside the Cuale River in the center of Puerto Vallarta’s old town. International cuisine served in a romantic setting. You’ll want to linger in the bar after dinner. Tel: (322) 222-0283.
EL PALOMAR DE LOS GONZALEZ: High on a hill in a former private home overlooking the Bay. Tel: (322) 222-0795.
CAFE DES ARTISTES: On a hill in the center of town. Contemporary French cuisine in a modern setting. Works of art highlight the decor. A favorite local "in" spot. Tel: (322) 222-3228.

DESTINATION WEDDINGS:

Coming Soon!