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Vallarta Living

Living in Puerto Vallarta Mexico

For many the thought of living in - or even near - a major tourist resort is about as appealing as a buying a condo in Disneyland. But here in Vallarta, the incredible natural beauty, combined with a small town atmosphere and the inherent warmth and friendliness of the local people, attracts foreign residents who enjoy the good life.

With a colorful blend of the old and the new, the Banderas Bay region offers an unrivaled combination of simple pleasures and sophisticated charms. Fine dining restaurants, art galleries, upscale shopping centers, internet cafes and nightclubs peacefully coexist alongside taco stands, street-side vendors and open air markets selling Mexican handcrafts, and strolling Mariachi bands.

But much of Puerto Vallarta’s magic is in the hearts of her people. Often described as “one big, happy family,” Vallartenses are known for their hospitality and for going out of their way to welcome foreign residents. And, since the Mexican people are extremely tolerant of different lifestyles, international residents and Mexican locals can live side-by-side in harmony – provided that the expatriate can learn to be creative and adaptable.

Puerto Vallarta is an unhurried refuge for people seeking more than just a beautiful beach. Those of us who choose to live here embrace the challenge of learning patience and understanding. Taking the time to “stop and smell the roses” along the road to becoming bicultural gives us the opportunity to grow – and to enjoy a more relaxed way of life.

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Galleria Dante Meet the Artist Night Features Live Painting

Join Galleria Dante on Friday, October 31st from 6–9 pm for a special Meet the Artist Night. Enjoy watching masters like Ricardo Sánchez Corona and mosaic artist Julia Swann create art live. See Ricardo unveil his new Día de Muertos collection, then head upstairs to Di Vino Dante or Pizza Joe 2.0 for dining.

Tropicasa’s The Mexico Advantage: Consular Offices

Puerto Vallarta residents and visitors can access U.S. and Canadian consular offices locally, offering passport renewals, notarial services, vital records assistance, emergency support, and guidance on federal benefits – helping make life in Banderas Bay smoother.

Puerto Vallarta Trash Fishing Tournament Collects 3.5 Tons of Waste

Puerto Vallarta marked another success in marine conservation with the second Limpia tu Mar International Trash Fishing Tournament, held October 19 at Los Muertos Pier. The event brought together volunteers and environmental organizations to clean the waters of Banderas Bay, collecting an impressive 3.5 tons of marine debris.

Jalisco’s Winter Flu Vaccination Drive Includes COVID-19 Vaccines

Puerto Vallarta's winter vaccination campaign is now underway, offering free influenza and updated COVID-19 vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer. The program aims to protect older adults, healthcare workers, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses from severe illness this cold season.

Dia de Muertos: A Sacred Time That Turns Loss Into Light

Each year, as October fades into November, families across Mexico prepare for Día de Muertos, the Day of the Dead. During this sacred time, it’s believed that the souls of departed loved ones return to the world of the living for a brief and beautiful reunion. It’s not a time for mourning, but rather for celebration.

Vallarta’s Olas Altas Farmers’ Market Returns November 1

Puerto Vallarta’s beloved Olas Altas Farmers’ Market returns for its 17th season on November 1 at Lázaro Cárdenas Park. Open every Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm, the market welcomes locals and visitors to enjoy fresh foods, handmade crafts, and live music in a lively community setting.

Vallarta Opens Collection Centers to Aid Flood-Affected Families

Puerto Vallarta's municipal government has established a network of collection centers throughout the city to provide aid to families severely impacted by recent heavy rains and flooding. These centers are now accepting a wide range of essential supplies, including food, hygiene items, and other basic necessities.

Vallarta to Celebrate Cuale River Island’s Centennial October 25–27

Puerto Vallarta invites everyone to celebrate the Centennial of La Isla Rio Cuale from October 25–27. The three-day event will feature music, workshops, art, and cultural activities honoring one of the city’s most iconic spaces and its century-long legacy of community and creativity.

Democrats Abroad Evening Social at Whiskey Kitchen Oct 23

Democrats Abroad Costa Banderas invites U.S. citizens in Puerto Vallarta to an Evening Social on Thursday, October 23, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. The event, hosted at Whiskey Kitchen, offers a welcoming atmosphere for people to connect, share local information, and receive timely updates on upcoming elections.

Amapas Neighborhood Association Steps Up for Post-Storm Clean-Up

The Amapas Neighborhood Association (ANA) is rallying its community for its monthly clean-up effort, scheduled this Saturday, October 11, at 9 am. This month’s event is particularly vital as residents focus on restoring the lower Amapas area following recent high waves generated by Hurricane Priscilla.