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September 29, 2009

Try Some Uniquely Mexican Entertainment in Puerto Vallarta

Think about this – you’re staying in a regular neighborhood in a villa Puerto Vallarta, surrounded by the many of the sights and sounds of daily life. You have this chance to see a bit of how things work outside of the tourist areas, so why not take your visit a step further. Take in some entertainment that is unique to Mexico: a charreada, or traditional Mexican rodeo, and a mariachi concert.

Charreada is quite a bit different from rodeo events in the United States. The competitors represent two different teams, and they pit their skills against the stock in nine different events to rack up points in a team effort. Prepare for an afternoon of dust and excitement in the Lienzo Charro Miguel Prieto Ibarria.

When it’s over, head back to the villa Puerto Vallarta for a quick shower and change of clothes. Then treat your ears to a performance of mariachi, a style of musical performance that originated right here in the state of Jalisco. Like the men and women who compete in the charreada, mariachi musicians wear traditional costumes, usually embellished with silver. If they’re playing, try to see a performance by Mariachi Cocula, a group that comes highly recommended.

 

September 24, 2009

Select Your Favorites at the Rio Cuale Market1

There is absolutely no way you can return home after a memorable stay in a villa rental Puerto Vallarta without a souvenir of some sort. You’re going to want something to help bring you back, at least in your mind, to the warm, romantic evenings, the pleasant days in the sun and the sound of Banderas Bay washing up against the shore.

Selecting meaningful mementos can be a genuinely enjoyable part of your Puerto Vallarta experience, especially when you shop at the flea market on the Rio Cuale. An expedition will pay you back in a couple of ways: first, you’ll enjoy a fun afternoon picking through the shops and stalls, looking for exactly the right treasure; and second, you’ll return home with a hand-picked gem.

Consider your personal tastes as well as your budget when shopping for souvenirs. It doesn’t make sense to spend a fortune on a fine woven piece crafted by a local artisan if you’re just going to put it in the attic when you get home. You might be better served by something small and wearable, perhaps some beautiful silver earrings or a belt buckle. On the other hand, something practical like a hand-blown Mexican glass water pitcher might put you right back on the patio of your villa rental Puerto Vallarta.

September 10, 2009

Fitness is Fun in Puerto Vallarta

One of the dangers with those vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta is the chef – that’s right – the chef spends every day of your stay just thinking of tempting recipes that will expand your girth. On the other hand, one of the advantages to vacationing in this particular setting is the opportunity you have every day of your stay to get outside and do something active to stay fit. Two options that will make you breathe hard both because of the exercise and the beautiful scenery: bike tours and hiking trips.

Hiking is a natural for those whose knees and ankles don’t cry out with each step. You don’t need special equipment, just good hiking shoes. One option: take a cab from the vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta to the little town of El Nogalito. Ask directions or hire a guide to take you to the water fall.

If you prefer to save your knees and torment your thighs, rent a two-wheeler and do some exploring. No matter what your experience, you can sign on with any of a number of companies that rent equipment and lead tours. Whether you go for extreme cycling on narrow mountain paths or more sedate pedaling along the Rio Cuale, you’ll work up an appetite.

September 01, 2009

On the Water in Puerto Vallarta

Every day, as you enjoy quiet moments on the patio of your Puerto Vallarta Vacation Rental, you are drawn to Banderas Bay in the distance. Why not make today the day that you get down to it and have some fun on the water without really getting in the water.

- Sail with an America’s Cup racing yacht crew. The skilled sailors at Vallarta Adventures will show you how to handle things then set their two racing yachts up for a head-to-head competition. And they welcome watchers, as well. Make a reservation to save a seat for yourself and your group.

- It doesn’t take much imagination to picture a day of deep sea fishing – the boats and the bay are right there! Spend a day in the company of a good charter fishing boat company and return to your Puerto Vallarta Vacation Rental tired and wind-burned but proud of the yellowfin tuna, sailfish or blue marlin on your line.

- If your love of the natural world is demanding satisfaction, sign on with Ecotours de Mexico or The Whale Watching Center and spend a day in the splendid company of humpback whales. The Mexican government keeps a very close watch on this activity, which runs from mid-December through April, so always work with a licensed, reputable tour operator.