Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Puerto Vallarta has a way of surprising visitors who take the time to wander beyond the obvious. For some travelers, a few hours in the city can turn into an unexpected introduction to its neighborhoods, restaurants, beaches and local character. One recent encounter offered a perfect reminder that sometimes, a little unsolicited advice can lead to a memorable discovery.
One time I was walking across the Rio Cuale bridge to the Malecón when a few people from a cruise (matching family T-shirts and all) were turning around talking about getting a taxi to go back to the ship because there was “nothing to see” by walking any further. They thought the Malecon was all there was to Puerto Vallarta.
I usually try to mind my own business, but I couldn’t let that one go! I said, I’m sorry, but I just want to let you all know that you will miss Zona Romantica if you don’t keep walking south. They looked startled that I spoke to them and said, “What’s that?” So I told them.
Skipping ahead a few hours, when I was walking back down Olas Altas, I saw the same group of visitors (slightly borracho) sitting at Andale’s, and one of them said, “Thank you so much for telling us about Zona Romantica! We will definitely come back to Puerto Vallarta and stay in this area! I just wish we didn’t have to go back to the cruise ship! I want to stay here forever!”
They had thought the Malecon was all there was to PV. I love the Malecón, but there is so much more to our city. Sometimes it’s okay not to keep your nose on your own face! And they said words that I have felt for a long time. “I want to stay here forever!”
Me encanta Vallarta! Me encanta Mexico!
MiMI Bomba
Writing with warmth, wit, and a deep affection for Puerto Vallarta, MiMi Bomba draws inspiration from classic humorists while creating a style all her own. Her stories celebrate the people, places, and experiences that make life in Puerto Vallarta both unpredictable and rewarding. Click HERE to read more essays by MiMi Bomba.
