Shopping Galore and Streets of Galleries!

Shopping Galore and Streets of Galleries!

Restaurants for Every  Taste and Budget. Tacos to Fine Dining!

Restaurants for Every Taste and Budget. Tacos to Fine Dining!

 

Puerto Vallarta Pride 2017

Vallarta Pride 2017 Pin Button

Monday May/1/2017 | 12:00 am – 11:00 pm @ .

We are happy to present the “Vallarta Gay Pride 2017” Pin Button, a distinctive button that in additon to wearing it with pride will give you access to discounts and special surprises in each of the participating establishments through the whole month of May 2016.

Find it at the participating businesses and SETAC (Constitucion 427 esquina Manuel M. Dieguez, Puerto Vallarta)

Donation: $100 pesos

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Welcome Pride Pool Party

Sunday May/21/2017 | 11:00 am – 9:00 pm @ Mantamar Beach Club Bar & Grill.

Day Pass:

$500 pesos: Camastro, Food and beverage credit of $250 pesos, towel and Locker
$3,000 pesos: Pool cabana, towel, food and beverage credit of $1,500 pesos

www.mantamarvallarta.com

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Block Party

Wednesday May/24/2017 | 9:00 pm – 4:00 am @ Lazaro Cardenas street (between Vallarta and Constitución).

Vallarta Pride is excited to announce a new event for 2017!  La Noche, CC Slaughters, Fiesta Bar, Mr Flamingos, La Margarita, Paco’s Ranch and Los Muertos Pizza has come together to close Lazaro Cardenas street  between Vallarta and Constitucion to create a block party. Come dance and be entertained as your favorite bars provide refreshments on the street. This will be the place to see and been seen during Vallarta Pride 2017. Start time: 9pm  directly after the parade.

Suggested donation to Vallarta Pride 2018: 100p

Sponsored by:

La Noche Bar, CC Slaughters, Fiesta Bar, Flamingos, La Margarita Bar, Los Muertos Brewing, Paco’s Ranch

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Drag Derby

Friday May/26/2017 | 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm @ Intersection of Pulpito and Olas Altas.

Place your bet on your favorite Drag Queen then watch them compete to your complete enjoyment. This fundraiser for Amapas Neighborhood and the Pride Committee is sure to evoke uncontrolled laughter. The Derby and Block Party give recognition to the traditional LGBT neighborhood of Zona Romantica as well as the world famous beach, Playa de los Muertos.

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Pride Black Party

Friday May/26/2017 | 11:00 pm – 3:00 am @ Club de Leones at Lazaro Cardenas #279.

The Sexiest Black Party you have seen in Puerto Vallarta yet…Hosted by Alejandro Castillo, one of Lucas Enteratinment’s newest performers. International superstar DJ Jose Spinnin Cortes starts at 11pm. A portion of event proceeds to benefit SETAC PREP program. Get Tickets: http://gaypv.mx/events/pride-2017-circuit-party

Advance bracelets can be picked up 10a-4pm 141 A Pulpito Calle office in front of Garbos.

 

MORE  EVENTS   AT  VALLARTA   PRIDE!

Insurance for Expats in Puerto Vallarta

Vallarta Insurance Day is a single-day free event being held by Novamar Insurance Mexico next Tuesday, March 21, 2017 at the Marina Vallarta Golf Club. It aims to support the expat community in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit with information and advice on insurance policies in Mexico.

During the Vallarta Insurance Day, Novamar professional adjusters, underwriters, expert consultants and insurance subscribers will conduct different seminars and talks, answering various questions and offering guidance. Consequently, the attendees are invited to prepare their questions in advance, as they will be able to expose doubts and personal open cases about their Mexican insurance policies and claims with policies of Novamar or some other insurance brokers.

Among the activities, there will be presentations on Auto, Boat, Homeowners and Condo insurance all day, as well as a special presentation on Health Coverage, including International exposures and options. Below is an agenda of the scheduled activities.

Vallarta Insurance Day will be held at the Club House in Marina Vallarta Club de Golf. There will be a permanent information desk throughout the day, as well as coffee, tea, water, soft drinks, biscuits and sandwiches for participants and assistants.

 

Agenda

09:00  Boat Insurance: Pleasure & Charters – US & Mexican Flags

10:00  Auto Insurance: Mexico/USA/Canadian license plates

11:00  Home Condo Insurance: Market & Replacement Value

12:00  Health Coverage: International exposures and Options by Aldis Barsketis

13:30  Private meeting & lunch for up to 45 professional Condo Managers, including a speech by Engineer Rubén A. González Molina about the ‘Procedure for damage claims in the event of a Hurricane, Earthquake, Fire, Mechanical Breakdown and Liability’.

For more information, call (322) 297-6440 or visit novamarinsurance.com.mx and/or facebook.com/NovamarInsuranceMexico.

Puerto Vallarta Best gallery and Wine bar

We have been fans  of  Galleria Dante  for years  now. And we absolutely love  the new addition, Di Vino Dante, which opened  in 2013.

Galleria Dante and Di Vino Dante, even though two separate businesses, are both located in an old hacienda style villa at Basilio Badillo #269.

After meeting in Puerto Vallarta in 1986, Claire and Joe Guarniere, inspired by Dante and Beatrice and their mutual love of Italy, began their family business in 1988 with an Italian restaurant called “Pizza Joe” and a small classical art gallery.

In 1995, their passion for art outweighed the long hours in the restaurant business so they opened “Galleria Dante”, which is now the largest and most eclectic fine art gallery in Puerto Vallarta, exhibiting the works of more than 50 artists –from emerging to well established museum artists (both painters and sculptors). Of these artists 90% are Mexican-born. The countless pieces are arranged in the European “salon” style throughout the massive gallery’s eight rooms, including a beautiful open-air courtyard, which is my favorite part!

In 2013, Gena, born and raised in the family businesses, opened Di Vino Dante, a wine and Tapas bar overlooking the gallery’s sculpture garden which also offers larger plates. The restaurant also rotates art from the gallery, offering the opportunity for diners to purchase art while enjoying a fine glass of wine or cocktail. .  During her second year at University “UBC” in Vancouver, British Columbia, she took “Wine Science”,  to complete her Science credit. It changed her life. Growing up in an Italian family, surrounded by art and after numerous summers in Italy, she had never developed a taste for wine. With her interest peaked, and a new found love of wine, she took more wine classes, in what free time she had in completing her Fine Art degree. After studying wine theory and tasting hundreds of bottles of wine, she dreamed of how to work in the business.

Both business continue to evolve and grow, the gallery always in search of new artists, the wine bar offering new menu items and an extensive wine cellar. Later this season, Di Vino Dante will be opening the rooftop garden, which will also be available for special events and private parties.

Galleria Dante and Di Vino Dante are located at Basilio Badillo #269 in the Old Town / Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta. New artwork comes in on a regular basis, and the restaurant offers weekly specials, so even if you have visited Galleria Dante in the past, it is always worth another visit.

Valentines in Romantica Zone Puerto Vallarta

February 14 – Friendship Day (Día de Amistad – Valentine’s Day); in Mexico, is not just for lovers, but friendship, as well, and is celebrated on February 14. Special menus in most the local restaurants and live music to dance in different latino ambience night clubs.  I HIGHLY RECOMMEND to reserve in advance if you don’t want to wait for hours for a table  and get into a fight with your fiancee :-).

One of our favorite restaurants is right on the beach!   SI  Senor on the Beach.

What a wonderful way to spend the evening, dining on the beach! Their wonderful chef’s whip up fantastic  and fresh creations every day, breakfast, lunch and dinner. WE LOVE IT HERE!
+52 322 222 0577

Everything about Puerto Vallarta lends itself to romance: The blue water and green mountains, the cobblestone streets and traditional architecture, the brilliant colors and music. So planning a romantic Valentine’s Day in Vallarta is amazingly simple.

Galleria Dante Artist Reception Jan 27th

Galleria Dante    Presents
                                                     Juan Carlos Navarro
                                                                                       Friday Jan. 27 2017, 6-10pm

 

Come meet this exciting artist!

Juan Carlos was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco in 1975. He graduated as an Engineer – Architect. A self-taught painter, he participated in exhibitions as early as 2006. For the artist, the search is given in the light, in the space and figure, in the balance that gives us his artistic vision, in the landscape that is formed through a discreet and bright language.

Juan Carlos plays with women’s faces, images of children, nostalgic trees, changing landscapes that are located in an area where the value is more tonal than thematic, where the color is amending the forms and composition. For the artist, the search is given in the light, in the space and figure, in the balance that gives us his artistic vision, in the landscape that is formed through a discreet and bright language.
In each of the works in this Pictorial Exhibition, Juan Carlos Navarro creates an expressive and aesthetic universe, a visual discourse, a powerful metaphor in which figurative, spiritual, ecological and mystical currents are intertwined. The paintings refer to a comprehensive and questioning worldview: contemporary, life, relationships between human, environment, rhythms of nature and attempts depth passing through the Earth, its existential journey.

Quick and Tasty Food at New Food Park

The Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone has a new culinary attraction on Ignacio L. Vallarta street, a few steps away from the Lázaro Cárdenas Park: Los Guapos Food Park.

This recently inaugurated, open-air venue offers the city a new experience as it features an interesting array of fast food stalls in repurposed shipping containers. Los Guapos Food Park also features a terrace and a dining area on the ground floor where guests can enjoy their favorite dishes and the ambiance of the place.

Music, food, cocktails and a setting featuring an industrial exterior design and pop culture elements, make from this park a must-visit attraction in the area.

The following are the culinary options available at the food park:

Mozzarella Pizza

Featuring some classic pizzas such as the Margherita, Hawaiian, Pepperoni and Veggie specialties, as well as other signature recipes such as one called Bahía—featuring salmon, cream cheese, red onions and pesto—and another one named Muy Guapa—featuring artichoke, serrano ham, black olives, fresh basil and mushroom.

Burger Station

A wide variety of burger recipes to pamper everyone’s palate!

Tacos o Pacos

Enjoy Mexico’s most representative dish: Al Pastor, asada, adobada and chicken tacos available!

Bar

Featuring the essential beverages for a Saturday night. Whether you enjoy a soft drink or a tequila cocktail, a glass of draft beer or a vodka drink; Los Guapos Food Park has you covered.

For more information about Los Guapos Food Park, please visit its Facebook Page.

Fantastic Oaxaca Painted Mexican Animals

The Alebrijes are brightly colored Oaxacan Mexican Folk Art sculptures of fantastical creatures. They seem to strike a universal chord with our shared human experience. Colorful and whimsical.  The first alebrijes, along with use of the term, originated with Pedro Linares. In the 1930s. Over the past 20 years this style has evolved dramatically from colorful and whimsical folk art into fine contemporary art. It is sought out worldwide by very passionate collectors who can’t seem to get enough.

 

JULIA FUENTES, From San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca. Daughter of renowned artisans Epifanio Fuentes and Laurencia Santiago. Julia Fuentes began painting at her parent’s workshop in 1989 when she was only 13 years old. A few years later she began her art education at the School of Fine Arts where she graduated as Art Instructor in 1989. Julia and her husband Juan J. Melchor started their own workshop in 2001.
Julia’s paintings are characterized by colorful geometric shapes on copal wood figures that her husband carves which she decorates with traditional spikes combined with Zapotec details, in a fusion of the past and the present thus adding a new level of depth to Mexican folk art.

 

Brothers Armando and Moises Jimenez are the grandsons of the master woodcarver Manuel Jimenez, of Arrazola, Oaxaca. Manuel Jimenez is generally acknowledged as the father of Oaxacan woodcarving, who turned the small farming village on the slopes of Monte Alban into a boom town. Armando and Moises work with their wives, Antonia Carrillo and Oralia Cardenas, and their children. They carry on the tradition of sensitively observed naturalistic carving and colorful but restrained painting mastered by their grandfather.

The story of Manuel Jiménez is now part of Oaxacan folklore. He struggled out of poverty to become one of the world’s most reknown woodcarvers. His early work focused on animals and people and he continues making realistic animals. Occasionally, he will add a twist or contortion to their forms.

 

  Isaac and Rosario Fabian are two of the better known popular artists. Using  wood from the copal tree, figures are carved, sanded, and painted by hand. They usually use  marble eyes in their works.

The carving of a piece, which is done while the wood is still wet, can last anywhere from hours to a month, depending on the size and fineness of the piece. Often the copal wood that is used will influence what is made, both because of the shapes the branches can take and because male and female trees differ in hardness and shape. Carving is done with non-mechanical hand tools such as machetes, chisels and knives. The basic shape of the creature is usually hacked using a machete, then a series of smaller knives used as the final shape is achieved. Certain details such as ears, tails and wings are usually made from pieces separate from the one for the main body.

After the carving, the figure is then left to dry for up to ten months, depending on its overall size and thickness. Semi tropical wood such as copal is susceptible to insect infestations, and for this reason drying pieces are often soaked in gasoline and sometimes baked to ensure that all insect eggs have been destroyed. As the figure dries, it is also susceptible to cracking. The cracks are filled with small pieces of copal wood and a sawdust resin mixture before painting.  The painting is generally done in two layers, with a solid undercoat and a multicolored designed superimposed.

THE BEST place in Puerto Vallarta to see all of this and much more is Peyote People  and  Galeria Colectika . Traveling around Mexico buying for Peyote People and Colectika, owner Kevin Simpson  has  had the unique opportunity to visit recluse villages, participate in ancient rituals and have befriended a number of different artists and their families. You will find a great assortment of  art at all price ranges!

Peyote People      Juarez 222 Col. Centro
Galeria  Colectika     corner of    Calle Guadalupe Sanchez and Calle  Allende  

New Years Eve Restaurant on the Beach

Puerto Vallarta is an exciting place to be for New Year’s Eve with endless opportunities to fit anyone’s lifestyle and level of adventure.

Of course New Year’s Eve dinner is a huge event and just as important to the evening as to where you will be at the stroke of midnight when you give that New Year’s Eve kiss to someone special, or not.

Some people choose a small gathering of friends and family and a home cooked meal with a special bottle of wine as their last dinner of the year, while others plan elaborate dinners at local restaurants in the tourist zone at an average cost of $130 USD per person. Then there is the almighty traditional taco or tamal for only $1 dollar while kicking it into high-gear Mexican style with a street party on the Malecón.

ONE OF OUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS  is  SI SENOR  ON THE BEACH!

Enjoy a WONDERFUL dinner  right on the beach! (See above).  For  about  $65  US  dollars  +  Gratuity,  enjoy 4 gourmet courses while listening  to waves  and music,  plus  dancing  and  fun!  GET A  RESERVATION WHILE YOU CAN! Great food  at a  great  price  with  a  fantastic location!

Dinner in the Sky PUERTO VALLARTA 2017

Top Chefs Helm Dinner in the Sky Experience at Casa Velas in Puerto Vallarta, Feb 2017
Gourmet Dinner w/ Wine Pairing Held 150 Feet in the Air

One of the world’s exhilarating dining experiences, Dinner in the Sky comes to Casa Velas in Puerto Vallarta from January 28 – February 28, 2017. Groups of 22 adventurous guests will be lifted nearly 150 feet in the air by a crane, taking in breathtaking views of the property’s on-site golf course and beautifully polished grounds, Banderas Bay and Sierra Madre Mountains. Guests at Dinner in the Sky can mingle with fellow diners during a one-hour experience consisting of a three course gourmet dinner menu designed by top chefs, including Mikel Alonso and Bruno Oteiza, disciples of Spanish superstar Juan Arzak and owners of Biko in Mexico City, regularly among the top 50 restaurants in the world on the San Pellegrino list. A complimentary cocktail hour precedes the dinner. When staying three nights at Casa Velas or its sister properties in Vallarta-Nayarit, guests enjoy special discounted rates for the experience.

A celebration of gastronomic innovation and excitement, Puerto Vallarta’s Dinner in the Sky costs $50 USD a seat when staying at Casa Velas or the nearby AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and $80 USD when staying at Velas Vallarta. An exciting happening in the Puerto Vallarta area, outside guests can enjoy the dinner for $242 USD on site or $170 pre-order, pending availability. Guests can reserve their space for two dinners Wednesday through Friday (beginning at 6 p.m. and again at 8 p.m.); Saturday and Sunday features three dinners (beginning at 5, 7 and 9 p.m.). A vegetarian menu is also available on request.

For more information please call 1-888-407-4869 or visit www.hotelcasavelas.com.

Galleria Dante Artist Reception Nov 18th

Galleria Dante      Presents Marc Galipeau    Friday Nov. 18 2016, 6-10pm
Come meet this exciting artist!
Marc Galipeau is a Quebec painter born on September 17, 1967 in the Monteregie region.
Fascinated by the possibility to transpose life onto paper, he starts expressing himself artistically at a young age trying to emulate his older brother who was already mastering drawing as a child.  He studied to be a special education teacher, a profession he would practice until the age of 28, when he would finally make the jump to the uncertain world of professional art. He considers himself an artist by birth, self-taught, he gathered some experience along side professional artists and spent the next decade working and exhibiting throughout Quebec and France.
Thanks to his keen sense of self promotion and his undeniable talent, Marc soon found himself a place in art galleries in Montreal, Quebec city and the Eastern Townships.
Through his travels and connections, he built himself a network of contacts that allowed him to start showing his work throughout Canada, the United States and parts of Europe. Largely influenced by artists such as Claude Théberge, Paul Tex Lecor and Claude Bonneau, among others, his works reflects an idyllic vision of everyday life that is bathed in happiness, light and color.
Marc’s work is instantly recognizable by the soft, dreamlike atmospheres he is able to weave into his acrylic paintings.  His characters, often appearing as if out of a dream, are done in true colors rendered in shimmering tones.  His style could be said to have a folk art quality but the depth and the work that goes into its execution put him in a style all his own.
A serious and headstrong artist, Marc Galipeau’s career is on a rising curve and shows no sign of slowing down its rise. This is his third season at Galleria Dante! Come meet Marc at Galleria Dante on Basilio Badillo 269.  Or check out our website www.galleriadante.com

Puerto Vallarta Gay Mens Chorus Dec. 15

Celebrate the holidays as PVGMC presents HALLELUJAH!

 

The Puerto Vallarta Gay Men’s Chorus (PVGMC), directed by Alfonso López, presents its annual holiday musical celebration at 8 PM on December 15 and 16 and at 4 PM and 8 PM on December 17 at Act II Stages

The PVGMC develops and shares the vocal skills of gay men from Mexico, the United States, Canada and around the world. They perform choral music that entertains, enlightens and unifies the audience, as well as its members, while building bridges of greater understanding, acceptance and love between communities, cultures, families, and friends. They are warmly embraced by the local Mexican and Ex-Pat communities, as well as tourists of both cultures.

This time of year brings back recollection of some of the most memorable times spent with family and friends. Buy your ticket today online at http://actiientertainment.com/PVGMC-Holiday-Concert.php or at the Act II Stages box office at Insurgentes 300 in the Romantic Zone (up the stairs on Basilio Badillo), telephone 322-222-1512. Celebrate the most magical season of the year with the PVGMC, and you might want to brush up on some of your favorites so that you can sing along!

Puerto Vallarta pride 2017

“Together with Pride” is the theme for Vallarta Pride 2017!

2017 is all about being together, because TOGETHER we can make this world a better place to live, TOGETHER we can make changes, because TOGETHER we will stop being a minority to become a force of change and love; TOGETHER, we can prove to the World that in LGBTTTIQ community we make things living and seeing a positive world, so that one day all people in the world without distinction, without prejudices , without pointing to each other, without fear, in love and TOGETHER.
Charlie Rubio, the new president of the steering committee of Vallarta Pride 2017. Learn more: http://bit.ly/2bQltsD
MORE HELP IS NEEDED!!
Más información / More information -> info@vallartapride.com

Puerto Vallarta is Still VERY SAFE!

The Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board deeply regrets the events that occurred this week in one of the city’s restaurants and confirms that no tourist was involved or affected in this incident. As an immediate safety measure, security has been reinforced in Puerto Vallarta to ensure that residents as well as tourists can continue with their normal activities.

Puerto Vallarta’s La Leche Restaurant was the scene of a particular kidnapping of the son of el Chapo this past Monday. The incident was very specific and the people who did it came into the city for this specific and only reason. They left with what seems to be 3 people, including the son of el Chapo.

Puerto Vallarta was not affected at all by this as it happened at 1 am and the restaurant was closed and everything is as it always is in PV. All hotels are open and with visitors and all tours are working as normal.

The Governor of the State of Jalisco, Aristoteles Sandoval, announced earlier that an investigation involving different security forces on the Federal, State and Municipal, levels was launched, as well as the authorities of the neighboring state of Nayarit, to find those responsible. Early findings from the investigation led by the State Attorney of Jalisco, Eduardo Almaguer, stated that in a first examination, the victims and perpetrators belong to criminal groups from another region of the country, confirming the likelihood of this being an isolated case.

“As representatives of the tourism community of Puerto Vallarta, a city recognized by the warmth of its people and the ease with which visitors enjoy the destination’s diverse offerings, we do not tolerate violence of any kind,” said Agustin Alvarez general director of the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board. “We are following the instructions by the different government authorities and encourage the community to do the same; as well as pay attention to information and facts solely communicated by the authorities in charge, in order to dispel false rumors and avoid confusion that do not represent the actual situation in Puerto Vallarta and ensure we do not compromise the security of our residents and tourists.”

It is important to note that the authorities are taking the necessary measures and Puerto Vallarta is fully operational with all tourism services and attractions open and following their regular schedules without any interruptions.

We hope that this isolated and unprecedented event has minimal impact in our city. We are committed to proactively providing accurate information from official sources in a timely manner in order to keep our industry, residents and travelers informed, safe and well taken care of at all times.

 

In the 15 years I PERSONALLY  have been  going to   PUERTO VALLARTA –  I have ALWAYS  FELT SAFE!  I can not stress this enough!

Gay Marriage LEGAL in Puerto Vallarta NOW

Jalisco has now became the fourth Mexican state to legalize same-sex marriage, following Chihuahua, Coahuila and Quintana Roo; the capital, Mexico City, also recognizes same-sex marriages.

For the fourth consecutive year, Puerto Vallarta will be hosting the annual LGBTTIQ pride festival this year, scheduled to take place May 16 to 30, under the motto, “We are one family.” The Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board will join local civil associations, private companies and Puerto Vallarta’s local and international lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, transgender, intersex, and queer community in this , which aims to honor and promote the culture and respect for sexual diversity.

The Costa Sur Resort & Spa in P.V., a member of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association, marked the news of the legalization by offering free wedding packages. Couples who make a booking of 10 rooms or more for a minimum of two nights will receive a complimentary wedding banquet, centerpieces and four hours of open bar. On the night of the wedding, the couple’s room will be decorated, and the couple will be treated to complimentary chocolate-dipped strawberries and sparkling white wine. Prices for the package start at $135 per person, per night, all-inclusive, based on double occupancy.

 

“Puerto Vallarta has over 22,000 hotel rooms with more than half of those in 5- and 4-star hotels, including the Pacific Coast’s first [AAA] 5 Diamond property, the Hotel Mousai,” a spokesperson said. “The destination’s downtown, where Puerto Vallarta’s ‘gayborhood,’ the Zona Romantica, is located, is home to over 70 businesses targeting the LGBT consumer. The past six months has seen the zone increase its infrastructure with the opening of three new hotels — Casa Kimberly, Garlands Del Rio and Almar Resort Luxury All Suites & Spa — which are all LGBT-friendly.”

For a full list of hotels, resorts and activities in Mexico that are LGBT-friendly, visit the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association at www.iglta.org.

CALL  AND BOOK  WITH  DAVE  @   DONAVAN  TRAVEL!   1-800-942-1280

Puerto Vallarta Romantic Valentines Get Away

Everything about Puerto Vallarta lends itself to romance: The blue water and green mountains, the cobblestone streets and traditional architecture, the brilliant colors and music. So planning a romantic Valentine’s Day in Vallarta is amazingly simple.

February 14 – Friendship Day (Día de Amistad – Valentine’s Day); in Mexico, not just love, but friendship, as well, is celebrated on February 14.

For great gifts for your special someone visit Xocodiva Artisan Chocolates in the Romantic Zone for sinfully delicious handmade treats, Jabonarte on Lazaro Cardenas for seductive massage and bath oils or Diamonds International for jewelry on the Puerto Vallarta Malecon.

Couple’s massages and spa treatments are another great way to enjoy Valentine’s Day in Puerto Vallarta with your sweetheart.  Ohtli Spa at CasaMagna Marriott is  certain to spark the romance.

Most of the restaurants in Puerto Vallarta will be offering special dinners for two for Valentine’s Day and some of the more famously romantic spots include:  The River Café, Trio, Le Kliff, Porto Bello, Café des Artistes, No Way Jose, Barcelona Tapas, Michel, and The Swedes. You need to reserve in advance if you don’t want to wait for ages!

And of course, no romantic evening in Puerto Vallarta is complete without a stroll along the Malecon watching the sunset and the fireworks lighting up the sky over Banderas Bay.

The beautiful heart artwork in the photo is just one of the amazing  Retablo’s Crafted by the world-famous Peruvian artists the Jiménez Quispe family. For them, the making of retablo art is a family tradition.  The third and fourth generations of this family, with are world-renowned artists with pieces in dozens of museums including the Smithsonian, Folk Art Museums in Sante Fe and San Francisco and many others.  This family is originally from Ayacucho, high in the mountains. Both Colecktika  and  Peyote People carry these  and  other  amazing pieces of affordable art!

Puerto Vallarta Free Trip Contest

The start of ­­­­winter in Puerto Vallarta is cause for celebration as December marks the beginning of the whale watching season, traditional pilgrimages in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe, free daily guided Artwalks in historic downtown, culinary treats all around town, the International Pro Am golf tournament, the release of baby sea turtles, perfect weather with temperatures in the low 80’s and a calendar full of holiday festivities and free activities.

The Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board is inviting everyone to join in the celebration with the launch of a mega “12 DAYS OF WINTER” (#12DaysOfWinter) promotion and participate for a chance to win daily prizes during the first 12 days of December, including artworks, bottles of tequila and raicilla and trip getaways, with the top prize being a 12-day all-expense paid vacation for two in Puerto Vallarta.

To participate register at visitpuertovallarta.com/12daysofwinter and tell the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board what you would do on a 12-day all-expense paid holiday for two in the destination. All registrants will have a chance to win one of 12 prizes. Drawings will take place every day from December 1st to 12th. Following are the details of the prizes that will be awarded:

 

 

Winners of the getaway prizes to be awarded between December 5th through 12th will also receive a choice of 2 activities in Puerto Vallarta courtesy of Vallarta Adventures and Dolphin Discovery.

 

ENTER!

Puerto Vallarta Things to Do!

16 REASONS WHY NOW IS THE BEST TIME
TO VISIT PUERTO VALLARTA

As the Peso lowers, bargain hunters
will find great deals in Paradise

With the Mexican Peso at an all-time low, with average exchange rate between $15-$17 pesos to the US dollar, Americans and Canadians looking for last minute deals to Puerto Vallarta will find that this is a travelers market.Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s top tourism destination. Known for its 100-year-old historic center, the heart of the destination, it is alive with authentic culture, art, nightlife and a range of award-winning traditional and international restaurants.

Beyond the downtown area, Puerto Vallarta makes for a vacation full of activities that all can enjoy. From strolling along Puerto Vallarta’s lively Malecón (beach boardwalk) while relishing in free outdoor live entertainment like the nightly Papantla flying dancers, to riding zip lines across tree tops or swimming with dolphins and sea lions, taking a cooking class at one of the traditional restaurants or enjoying a guided tour of the local art galleries, visitors of all ages can share memorable moments during their fun-filled visit.

FOLLOWING ARE 16 BARGAINS TO ENJOY NOW

  1. Dinner at Top Restaurants – Puerto Vallarta is home to over 300 restaurants ranging from internationally renowned establishments to mom-and-pap eateries offering dishes that go back generations. Dinner for two, including a three-course meal and a bottle of fine wine, at top iconic restaurants like La Palapa, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton favorite beach-front eatery, where they brought all their celebrity friends to party, El Arrayan, famous for its exquisite traditional Mexican cuisine, or Barcelona Tapas, with its grand view of the Bay of Banderas and the city’s Downtown area, will cost less than $120 USD.
  2. Artisan Tequilas – Many ranches and haciendas around Puerto Vallarta offer half day and full day activities including horseback riding, hiking, quad bike excursions and a tour of the tequila plantation and distillery; including tasting of top artisan tequilas and the local raicilla, a spirit of pre-Hispanic origin made from the agave root. Top quality tequila and raicilla will set one back around $20 USD www.haciendadonaengracia.com / www.haciendaeldivisadero.com
  3. VIP Beach Clubs – Enjoy the beach with plenty of pampering and luxury offered by one of Puerto Vallarta’s beach clubs. Mantamar Beach club has day passes for as low as $350 pesos ($20 USD), with $250 pesos (nearly $15 USD) counted as credit towards food and drinks.
  4. Learn Spanish – Puerto Vallarta is a college town, home to international universities and private schools. A two-week Spanish immersion class at one of the many language centers located in Puerto Vallarta, which also offers the opportunity to learn about Mexican culture and traditions, costs as little as $150 USD a week. www.spanishexperiencecenter.com
  5. Artworks for Collectors – From the many sculptures that line its Malecon (beach boardwalk) to the fine art galleries that house national and international works Puerto Vallarta is known for embracing the arts. Visitors can explore the town’s numerous arts offerings on the guided ArtWalk tour which operates daily from October to May, making stops at 15 local galleries in the historic downtown area. The ArtWalk is free and most galleries; like Galeria Colectika have not adjusted the prices on art pieces; providing visitors a great opportunity to acquire amazing works of art for a steal.
  6. San Sebastian del Oeste – A 90-minute drive east of Puerto Vallarta sends visitors back in time to a 17th century silver mining village nestled in the Sierra Madre Mountains. This sleeping town of 600 inhabitants is a colonial gem, filled with historic sites and great places to eat. Stoll around town at leisure or take guided tour. A round-trip taxi ride from Puerto Vallarta and back costs around USD $90.
  7. Your Own Private Beach – For travelers wishing to explore the natural oasis and warm Pacific Ocean waters in a secluded setting, Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of ways to enjoy their pristine secluded beaches. Take a round-trip water taxi ride out of Los Muertos Beach to secluded coves or isolated beaches like Colomitos, Las Animas, Boca de Tomatlan, Majahuitas, Quimixto, Playa El Caballo and many others. $20 USD per person.
  8. Charter a Private Boat. Spend the day at sea, snorkeling, fishing, swimming, island hopping or just sun bathing on your own private boat. Prices start at $866 for 8 hours www.pvmikesfishing.com/fishing-boat-rental-rates
  9. Viva Tequila Tour – Enjoy a Tequila tour and a live performance of traditional colorful Mexican folklore for about $60 USD a person. www.viviatequila.mx
  10. Boutique Hotels – Puerto Vallarta’s Downtown and Zona Romantica area is one of the most charming and authentic locations along Mexico’s Pacific Coast, teaming with enchanting boutique hotels, each with its own charm, unique personality and history; offering the warm and friendly personalized service Puerto Vallarta is reputed for. Rates are as low as $40 USD per night. www.visitpuertovallarta.com
  11. Mex-Ology: Tequila, Tacos and Mexican Cocktails Tour – Enjoy authentic Puerto Vallarta culture and dining on a unique taco tour with Vallarta Food Tours. Also a fun way to see the Downtown area and a great start to a night of festivities. www.puertovallartafoodtours.com
  12. Become a Taco Expert – There are a couple of signs visitors must look out for before buying a taco. 1. Is the location popular? If you see a line of locals waiting to eat at the establishment that’s generally a good sign. 2. When buying tacos from a local street vendor make sure the food is served in plates covered with a plastic for hygiene. 3. There should always be at least two people working the stand, one to serve food and the other to handle payments. Try Ceviches el Güero or Tacos el Cunado where a taco costs less than $1 USD.
  13. Brunch at Canopy River – Take a ride to the middle of the Sierra Madre and enjoy a hearty Sunday Brunch amidst the varied and lush tropical flora and fauna of the rainforest surrounding Puerto Vallarta for less than $20 USD per person. www.canopytourspuertovallarta.com
  14. Walk the Malecon – The Malecon is Puerto Vallarta’s heart and where everyone, both locals and tourists, gather for morning jogs, open air yoga classes and daytime or sunset strolls. It also has features some of the most delicious traditional street food, from tacos to corn on the cob with mayonnaise and chili, each for less than $1 USD.
  15. Colorful Local Celebrations – Visiting Puerto Vallarta during any of its local festivals or celebrations that take place monthly, presents a culturally rewarding experience and a chance to see the city through the cultural traditions of its people. From the Day of the Dead to the Gourmet Festival, most celebrations have activities that are free of charge. www.visitpuertovallarta.com
  16. Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board has been working with all its trade partners to offer exclusive discounts when booking is made on their site: www.visitpuertovallarta.com. Visitors can find discounts on activities and stays for as high as 50% off.
Additional information on Puerto Vallarta is available at www.visitpuertovallarta.com

Puerto Vallarta Escapes Hurricane

Puerto Vallarta is fully operational with 100% of its hotel and restaurant facilities open, as well as its International Airport (PVR), marina, cruise port and Convention Center. All domestic and international airlines as well as buses, taxis and other ground transport companies have resumed their normal service schedule.

All tourists who were transferred to shelters and hotels outside of Puerto Vallarta as a precaution measure yesterday have now been safely returned to Puerto Vallarta and enjoying a day of clear skies and sunshine.

Southwest Airlines scheduled two recovery flights from PVR to Houston (HOU) and Phoenix (PHX) to help with getting people home.

No changes to the cruise schedule have been made. Disney’s Wonder cruise ship, carrying 2,400 passengers, will arrive in Puerto Vallarta as scheduled on Monday October 26, 2015; and Norwegian’s Jewel and the Ruby Princess will make their scheduled call on Wednesday October 28, 2015 as planned.

No human loss or infrastructure damages have been reported as a result of Hurricane Patricia.

Day of the Dead Week Puerto Vallarta

¡Come and join us celebrate the Day of the dead Festival at Puerto Vallarta!

From October 28 to November 2 in Puerto Vallarta celebrates the most representative tradition of Mexico and has prepared a series of activities for you to learn more about this unique celebration which will be held in different venues around the city.

Enjoy a delicious Pan de Muerto while walking through art galleries and get to see the traditional altars and flower carpets.

Find below the program:

Wednesday October 28th 

5:30pm – Venue : OPC – Art Galleries Tour and welcome cocktail

Venue: Art Walk –  Tour no guiado de galerías de arte

Venue: Café Des Artistes y OPC -Live music, flower carpets, murals and visitors guide distribution.

 

Thursday October 29th

5:00pm – Venue: Del Refugio Church – Introducing the Camerata Orchestra School of Puerto Vallarta

6:00pm – Conference “The History of Death in Ancient Mexico”, Los Muertos film festival presents  “Macario”

7:00pm – Special menus at restaurants

9:30pm – Visitors guide distribution

 

Friday October 30th

9:30am – Venue: Different spots across the city

Flower, sawdust and sand carpet exhibit.

10:00am .-Venue: Lázaro Cárdenas Square – Interactive Altar Openning

Altar tour Downtown Vallarta

Altar tour Downtown Malecón

Restaurant altar tour

Decorated boats in honor of deceased captains

7:00pm – Venue: 5 de Diciembre Cementery- Music and Beer Festival

 

Saturday October 31st

10:00am – Venue: Cuale Island – Paint your Calaverita

12:00pm  -Screening “La Leyenda de la Nahuala”

4:00pm – Face painting for récord Guinness

5:30pm – Venue: 5 de Diciembre Cementery -Catrinas and giant puppets parade

6:30pm – Venue: Hidalgo Park – Mixcoatl folkloric ballet from Aguascalientes

7:00pm – Venue: Muelle Street – Silence walk  ” Catrinas y Catrines”

Music and Beer Festival

11:00pm –  “Catrinas” Post party – Prizes for the best costumes

 

Sunday November 1st

10:00am – Venue: 5 de Diciembr Cementery – Religious ceremony

4:00pm – Venue: Lázaro Cárdenas Square- Little angels party, Pan de muerto exhibit and gathering

7:00pm –  Xiutla folkloric ballet exhibit

Music and Beer Festival on Muelle Street

8:00pm – Screening “El libro de la vida”

 

Monday November 2nd

11:00am – Venue: Armas Square – Exhibit “Las Catrinas de Lupe” by Karla Moreno Producciones

11:30am – Venue:  5 de Diciembre Cementery – Parade “La Caravana de la Muerte”

7:00pm – Venue: Local Market – Gathering “Una noche de muertos en Puerto Vallarta”

7:30pm – Xiutla folkloric ballet exhibit ” Día de Muertos Special”

9:30pm – Catrinas contest award ceremony

10:00pm – Festival Closure

11:00pm – Fireworks

 

https://www.facebook.com/diademuertospv/

White Party Puerto Vallarta LATIN FEVER

BACK AND BIGGER  THAN  EVER!

Latin Fever 2015 / White Party Puerto Vallarta

 

WillGorges.com