Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - There was a time we went to Guadalajara for furniture shopping; there were few choices in Puerto Vallarta. That has changed in the past few years and we are delighted to find many great options.

Start out by measuring the space in your bedroom where you imagine you'll be sleeping. King size beds are lovely for nights when coolness is of primary concern but, before buying, you must make sure it will fit not only in the room but through the doorway, down the halls and past whatever other obstacles you may face. Delivery is usually same day. Shop around; prices are competitive. Colchorama is a great starting place and they have several locations. Cotton sheets are now available at CostCo and Sam's; do diligent research and you will also find them in the big-box stores in Puerto Vallarta.

Don't rule out Facebook's Puerto Vallarta Buy Sell and Trade page when shopping for home furnishings; you can find unique offerings and some items that have come from outside of Mexico. Mano a Mano, the local circular or their online version has a wealth of classifieds in several categories. Brush up on your Spanish and/or peruse their English language section. Both of these sources allow for bargaining and bartering.

Department stores such as Lans and Liverpool have inventory that usually changes with the seasons. Their supply might not be huge but if you're not in a hurry, ask to see their catalogs. You can always order the items you need.

Competitive stores abound in Puerto Vallarta... Harmonious Living; Julia's; Ian's; and Elements of Design all do custom-made furniture. Blinds, curtains and accessories are also available from these vendors. Bring pictures of what you have in mind (cruise magazines or take photos of something you like) and be sure to have the exact measurements of what you plan to order, including cushion depth, firmness. These merchants have books with hundreds of fabrics; all colors, textures and prices. In Puerto Vallarta you can have just about anything custom-made for less than ready-made.

Your realtor can help you find decorator/designers who will be able to put you in touch with high-end design and manufacturing companies, such as Costantini Design, for example. They will be able to help with lighting, floor coverings and accessories. Yet, we do find it fun to poke around town on our own, and there is still Guadalajara. We like to do a Tonala trip, at least once a year.

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Beston Properties offers the best of quality vacation rental properties, including luxury villas and condominiums in the Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita and Riviera Nayarit areas. For more information, call (213) 291-1594 from the US, send an email to info(at)bestonproperties.com or visit BestonProperties.com