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Puerto Vallarta History

Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist destination located on the west coast of Mexico, in the state of Jalisco. The city has a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian times when it was inhabited by various indigenous tribes.

The first recorded contact between Europeans and the indigenous people of the region was in the early 16th century when Spanish conquistador Francisco Cortes de Buenaventura arrived in the area. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the region was formally incorporated into the Mexican state.

In the early 20th century, Puerto Vallarta was a small fishing village with a population of just a few thousand people. However, in the 1950s and 1960s, the city began to attract attention from Hollywood celebrities, such as Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, who came to the area to film "Night of the Iguana". This brought the city international attention and helped to spur tourism.

In the 1970s, the Mexican government invested heavily in infrastructure development in Puerto Vallarta, including the construction of the international airport and the expansion of the marina. This helped to make the city more accessible to visitors from around the world, and it quickly became one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico.

Today, Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant city with a thriving tourism industry, as well as a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated through various festivals and events throughout the year. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, lush jungle landscapes, and welcoming local community, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Mexico.

Puerto Vallarta Top Tourist Attractions

There are many top tourist attractions in Puerto Vallarta. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• The Malecon: This is a mile-long boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with sculptures, shops, restaurants, and bars. It's a great place to take a walk, people-watch, and enjoy the ocean views.
• Los Muertos Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta, known for its lively atmosphere, soft sand, and clear water. It's a great place to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports.
• The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe: This is a beautiful church located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta's Old Town. It's known for its intricate architecture, ornate altars, and stunning stained glass windows.
• The Vallarta Botanical Gardens: This is a beautiful botanical garden located just outside of Puerto Vallarta. It's home to a wide variety of plants, including orchids, bromeliads, and ferns, as well as a butterfly house and a hummingbird garden.
• The Marietas Islands: These are a group of small islands located off the coast of Puerto Vallarta. They're known for their beautiful beaches, clear water, and abundant marine life, making them a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.
• The Tequila Distilleries: Tequila is Mexico's national drink, and there are many tequila distilleries located near Puerto Vallarta that offer tours and tastings. It's a great way to learn about the history and production of tequila, and to sample some of the best tequila in the world.
• The El Eden Canopy Tour: This is a thrilling zip line tour that takes you through the jungle canopy, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.

These are just a few of the many top tourist attractions in Puerto Vallarta. The city has something to offer for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, culture, or nightlife.

Puerto Vallarta Climate

Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from around 26°C (78°F) to 31°C (88°F) during the day, and it doesn't vary much between seasons.

The city experiences a rainy season from June to October, with the most rainfall occurring in September and October. During this time, it's common to have daily afternoon thunderstorms, although the rest of the day can still be sunny and hot.

The dry season runs from November to May, and this is the most popular time for tourists to visit Puerto Vallarta. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and warm, with low humidity and little to no rainfall. The temperatures are cooler at night and early in the morning, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities.

Overall, Puerto Vallarta's climate is perfect for beach and outdoor activities, but visitors should be prepared for the high humidity and occasional rain during the rainy season.

Puerto Vallarta Geography

Puerto Vallarta is a coastal city located on the Pacific Ocean, in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. It's situated on the Bay of Banderas, which is a large natural bay that stretches along the coast for over 60 kilometers (37 miles).

The city is surrounded by the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range, which provides a stunning backdrop for the city and offers many opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking. The mountains also help to create a unique microclimate in the area, with cooler temperatures and higher humidity than other parts of Mexico.

The city itself is divided into several distinct areas, including the historic Old Town (also known as the Romantic Zone), the hotel zone, the marina, and the newer residential areas to the north and south of the city. The Old Town is characterized by narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, while the hotel zone is home to many of the city's large resorts and hotels.

The Bay of Banderas is also home to many smaller towns and villages, including the charming fishing village of Sayulita and the beach town of Bucerias. Visitors can explore the bay by boat, taking in the stunning coastal scenery and stopping at various beaches and attractions along the way. Overall, Puerto Vallarta's geography is a unique blend of coastal beauty and mountain landscapes, providing visitors with endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.