As one of the most famous stops on the gorgeous Mexican Riviera, Puerto Vallarta has long drawn tourists to explore the area’s rich culture and natural beauty.
Scenic shorelines define the coast of Puerto Vallarta, where posh resort beaches like those in the hotel-heavy “Golden Zone” compete with sportier beaches like Playa de los Muertos. There are also plenty of shore excursions for adventurous cruisers, with activities like jungle zip-lining, snorkeling, birding, kayaking, and countless other outdoor pursuits. At the same time, the picturesque downtown, El Centro, offers a pleasant profusion of cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and colonial architecture, with a constant serenade of music. No visitor should miss the Malecon, a restored seaside walkway lined with an array of thought-provoking sculptures.
Perhaps the biggest attraction in Puerto Vallarta is the food. The town is home to several of Mexico’s top restaurants as well as countless local cafes and street stalls serving up delicious traditional favorites.
This month, Puerto Vallarta continues its long-established role as a foodie mecca as it hosts the city’s 20th Annual International Gourmet Festival. The celebration features the works of over 30 renowned chefs from all over the world. Over the course of the 10-day festival, visitors and locals alike can enjoy cooking classes, “gourmet safaris,” cheese and beer tastings, and countless other interactive events with some of the most accomplished culinary talents around.
The foodie fun in Puerto Vallarta isn’t limited to November, though. In fact, the area is widely known for the many culinary festivals that grace the calendar from October through May. This past October, the Vallarta Nayarit Gastronomica brought some of North America’s top chefs to the area for four days of tastings, lectures, and exhibits. In May, many of the city’s 360-plus restaurants, participate in the town’s 10th annual Restaurant Week, during which guests can enjoy a huge range of prix fixe menus.
Given the region’s fascination with good food and fine dining, there is sure to be something in Puerto Vallarta to please even the pickiest cruiser!
