Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - There is always a learning curve with living in a new city, so our "How To" series is designed to give you insider tips on how to tackle all sorts of life and lifestyle situations in Puerto Vallarta. In this edition, we've got simple advice on renting a car for day trips or visitors.

One of the best things about buying a home in Puerto Vallarta is how walkable the city is. Many residents in neighborhoods like Marina Vallarta, 5 de diciembre, El Centro and the Romantic Zone find that between walking, public transit and the occasional taxi, owning a car is really unnecessary.

But what if you want to take a day-trip to explore some of the wonderful little towns and villages in our region, like San Sebastian, Sayulita or Mascota? Renting a car in Puerto Vallarta is the ideal option. Here's what you need to know:

• You will need a valid driver's license from your home country and a Visa or MasterCard. A few agencies will also accept American Express.

• You do not need an international driver's license or special permit to drive in Mexico.

• While there isn't a minimum age to rent a car if you have a valid license, many rental agencies have a higher rate for drivers under 25.

There are 3 types of rental insurance, some mandatory and some optional, which are on every rental agreement. Do not count on your credit card insurance to cover you as most are not valid in Mexico for covering accidents or damage:

1. Third Party Liability (mandatory): you cannot rent a vehicle in Mexico without this insurance, but check the paperwork carefully. Third Party Liability should be pre-calculated into your daily quoted rate so be certain you aren't being double-charged.

2. Supplemental Liability Insurance (not mandatory): your credit card insurance will not be valid in on any liability costs so while this is not mandatory, it is certainly something you should strongly consider.

3. Personal Accident Insurance (not mandatory): some credit card company will cover this and some will not, so be sure to contact your company in advance for their policies regarding personal accident coverage.

4. Loss Damage or Collision Damage Waiver: your credit card may cover this waiver so check with your provider in advance for details.

Do you have a "How To" question? Leave a comment on our Facebook Page and we will solve your dilemma in our next edition of the series.

Click HERE to learn more about real estate investing and living in Puerto Vallarta from Ron Morgan Properties.

Ron Morgan Properties specializes in luxury real estate in the Marina Vallarta area and beyond to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and Punta de Mita, as well as along the southern shores of Banderas Bay, from the Romantic Zone, Amapas and Conchas Chinas down to Mismaloya and even Costa Alegre. For more information, visit RonMorgan.net.

Click HERE to learn more about Ron Morgan Properties.