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Puerto Vallartaīs Old Town has a rich and colorful
history. Throughout the 1500 and 1600īs, pirates and Spanish
galleons visited this quaint fishing village to take on fresh
supplies and water. In 1851 Puerto Vallarta was born under the name
Las Peņas de Santa Maria de Guadalupe. It was an important port,
supplying salt and other needed supplies to the nearby silver
mines. |
Itīs unique charm lives on, from the
traditional melody of church bells echoing down rustic coblblestone
streets, to the rich aroma of fresh food sizziling oven open flames. Itīs
buildings painted in tones that reflect the brilliance of an
inspirational, tropical sunset, Puerto Vallarta sits nestled between the
foothills of the Sierra Madre mountains and Bahia de Banderas, one of the
most beautiful bays in the world. Old Town has become gathering place for
a cosmopolitan blend of local inhabitants, international travelers and
foreign residents. You never know who you may run into in this popular
seaside destination.
.The
malecon (seaside boardwalk)
Stretching northward a long the ocean,
from the open air theater known as Los Arcos (The Arches) across the steet
from Palacio Municipal (City Hall) all the way to McDonaldīs, this
expansive side walk provides the perfect spot for an early morning joy or
a late night romantic stroll. Let the fresh ocean air and artistic
sculptures invigorate your soul, while you snap souvenir photos, or just
sit back and soak up the ambiace. Cultural and musical events are often
hosted at Los Arcos, or across ths street in the Central Plaza. In the
evenings you can see the Marigalante, an authentic replica of Christopher
Columbus galleon, the Santa Maria, shooting fireworks from her bow.
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Hotel
Accommodations (Hotel Playa Conchas
Chinas)
Rich with old world charm, the hotels dotting Old
Town tend to be less expensive than their five-star cousins. Within easy
walking distance to all points of interes on the map, they offer quaint
and intimate alternatives for those wishing to stay in the heart of the
city. Some offer packages, including breakfast and complimentary drinks
with your room.
Walking tours
A delightful way to get some
exercise, while seeing some memorable architecture, not to mention
fantastic views of the city, is to hike through the narrow winding streets
of the area affectionately known as Gringo Gulch. From there you can catch
a rar perspective of the beautiful Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. Most of
the unique stucco home are better known bytheir name, thanby their street
numbers. It was here that Richard Burton bought the famous Casa Kimberly
for Elizabeth Taylor and himself, which is actually two villa djoined by a
foot bridge over the steet. Start with a tour of the Palacio Municipal
(City Hall), then head straight up Zaragoza street and youīre there. If
you prefer, join one of the daily guided tours.
restaurants
From early morning until the wee hours,
this is where it is all happening, on an international scale! From world
class French cuisine, to ethnic Asian de lights and authentic Mexican
dishes, not to mention the freshest seafood around. Old Town Vallarta has
something to please the most discriminating palate. The personalized
first-class service of these unique eateries will keep you busy planning
and anticipating your next dining experience. |
