7 Reasons you should visit Puerto Vallarta - By: Dez A La Mocha
1. SAFE
Despite what people say about "Mexico not being safe" or travel warnings for certain areas in Mexico I felt, Jalisco the state where Puerto Vallarta is located, was one of the safest places I have visited.
I had the opportunity to explore this city as a solo traveler and in a group and I never felt I was in danger. As a matter of fact, I often saw several cops patrolling the city.
Locals were extremely friendly and helpful when I asked for directions an I was amazed how in-synch they all assured me how safe it was without me even asking about this specifically.
Like any place you visit I will advise you to follow your instincts and always exercise safety measures.
2. LOCALS ARE FRIENDLY
Upon my arrival I ordered an Uber. My driver told me he had arrived but I could not find him. People noticed, and without me asking they told me I was on the wrong side of the street and I had to cross the bridge and wait for my Uber at the designated area.
As I crossed the bridge (by foot), a young man offered to help with my bags. I told him no but he insisted saying it was the gentleman in him. I was sweating (still dressed in winter clothes) and struggling, going up a steep hill with one big luggage and a carry-on. I finally said yes and prayed he wouldn't run off with my luggage LOL.
Needless to say he just wanted to help (or felt sad for me LOL.)
During my entire trip locals were extremely polite and friendly towards me, always eager to start a conversation and delightfully surprised to find out I was Panamanian.
Oh! I was greeted at the airport with TEQUILA SHOTS!!! BEST WELCOME EVER!!!
3. EXQUISITE CUISINE
Best Mexican food I have ever had in my life!!!!!
I stayed at Hotel San Tropico and most of my meals were there. Their chef and kitchen staff cooked homemade-style meals and señora Serafina (Mrs. Serafina) went out of her way to make sure our meals were cooked and served on time.
All other places I had Mexican food was also exceptional and I loved how accommodating several places adjusted any dietary restrictions or vegan lifestyle.
4. AUTHENTIC CULTURE
One thing I quickly realized is that locals work HARD!! I witnessed many entrepreneurs (young, elder, women and men)taking advantage of any opportunity they could to provide you with any service, unique hand made crafts and, art pieces.
Their work ethic definitely does not go unnoticed.
Also, I visited right before "El dia de los muertos" (The day of the dead) and it was amazing to see the entire town work together in preparation for this special ceremony.
The decorations were mesmerizing and the Mexican culture and history that this day represents is so admirable.
5. BREATHTAKING VIEW
I am a beach person so during this trip I visited beaches more than anything. Every single beach that I visited was indeed breathtaking.
My favorite beach was 'Bahia de Banderas.' It's a hidden gem from the main beach near Sayulita and you have to take a small hike to get to the final destination.
When I made it to the other side I was SPEECHLESS!! The short hike was worth it. There is small cave you can swim through, surrounded by pristine warm water with a hypnotizing view.
Mis amores, I seriously felt like I had just hiked through the gates of heaven and had no desires in returning back to earth.
By far one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever visited.
6. SUPERB CUSTOMER SERVICE
Every single place I visited I was provided with amazing customer service. This includes tourist and non-tourist destinations.
7. TRAVELING WHILE BLACK - APPROVED!!
During my visit I did not experience any type of discrimination (whew!)
The only thing I experienced was a lot of curiosity by other non-black people. I got a lot of compliments and questions about my hair.
A couple people asked to touch my hair because they were curious and one lady tried to pull my curl (I politely explained my hair type to her and told her it will stretch-out the curl so I will rather her not doing that.)
I also got a lot of compliments on my skin tone and a lot of questions of where I was from. Everyone was welcoming when I told them I was from Panama and no one was in shock that I was black Latina.
Needless to say Puerto Vallarta is 'Traveling While Black' APPROVED!
Next time you consider visiting Mexico definitely put Puerto Vallarta on your radar!
