Living in Puerto Vallarta
Climate/Weather:
Puerto Vallarta enjoys one of the worlds most consistent
temperature ranges. It's
actually situated on the same parallel as Hawaii.
During the months of November through May, the
temperatures range from 80'-85' in the day and 68'-75'
at night with little or no rain at all! This is the peak
tourist period and the most expensive.During June
through October, the temperatures range from 85'-95' in the day and in
the low 80's at night.This is the time of year when heavy rains occur.
This is the average day: sun all morning and untilapprox. 3pm. Then
look-out, the skies open up for a downpour you've never seen before.
After about 3hours of this, the rains usually stop allowing you to enjoy
the evenings! Then the whole scenario repeats the following day.
Transportation
There are many rental companies around to rent standard
cars or jeeps. Some companies
are more reputable than others. ALWAYS read your
fine print. If it seems too cheap, it probably is and
have add-on charges. We have several companies that we
deal with and know are to be honest and
upfront, so just inquire when you arrive and we'll get
you mobile.
Buses and taxis are also readily available. Buses
can be very economical. You can
travel the entire city for only 3 Pesos (about 30 cents
U.S) These bus rides are a definite adventure!! For
taxis, the prices vary. There don't have meters
so its up to you to be aware. There are set "price zones"
from different point A to B. For example from the
gay beach areas to Centro (downtown) you're looking
at 22 pesos. The price ranges go up from there.
ALWAYS discuss the price of where you want to go
with your diver before getting in. Sometimes if
its quiet you can negotiate the fare a little.
Local Water/Utilities
The water used in food preparation and ice by restaurants
and bars, is a secure supply
monitored by "Seapal", the Vallarta water commission.
They test regularly the water supplies, so no need to worry about this.
For your personal use, its recommended you drink only bottled water, which
is available at all convenience stores. The electrical standard is 110
volts and North American plugs.
Money
The local currency is the Mexican Peso. US
dollars are widely accepted and in some cases prefered. Exchanging money
is very easy here. The local banks will give you a decent rate but
do vary
from bank to bank. The exchange houses (casa de
cambio) rates are not as good, but they are open
longer than banks and there are many more around. With
ATM's (instant tellers) throughout Vallarta now,
there is little need for travelers checks. The exchange
rates through the teller machines are generally
better. Some of the networks available here
are INterac, Cirrus, Plus. The Canadians banks give almost
exactly the market exchange rate and the U.S. banks give
market rate minus a commission.
There is a American Express office as well as Citibank
and recently Bank of Nova Scotia acquired a Mexican bank and is represented
locally as well.
Medical
There are now several very good Amercian style hospitals
with American medical staff and facilities. Some US insurers recognize
these hospitals as well for their coverage.
Clothing
Generally Vallarta is a very casual place. T-shirts
and shorts are the main attire. At some of
the more up-scale restaurants and night clubs, men wear
long pants and a casual shirt. Comfortable shoes
are a must as many of the streets are still cobblestone.
A day's sight-seeing and shopping can take its toll
on your feet.
The only other important recommendation is caution with
exposure to the sun. So many people come
here and under estimate the intensity of the sun.
They burn (some badly) and need to hide from the sun
for the following days. Best thing is to work up
slowly the first days, getting lots of shade on the beach
and use a higher numbered sun-screen.
For enquiries and information, E-mail us 
condotorres@yahoo.com