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I note here some handy gay vacation ideas, tips and friendly advice for the gay and lesbian traveler to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Some of these travel topics are covered in greater detail on some of the other Gay Guide Vallarta pages such as at Tourist Info and Services, so I often simply summarize or else refer you to them.  Advice for Gay Travel in General - Spirit Journeys, one of the more interesting gay travel sites out there which hopes to "create opportunities for you to grow mentally, emotionally and spiritually; to create environments where you can feel safe enough to 'step outside of your box' and live a freer, more joyous life...." has some great general tips & ideas for gay travelers that I might briefly summarize some of and add a bit to in parts for gay men and women on holidays in Mexico: Don't act like you are better than the people here, for example don't be a demanding or ungrateful tourist; show some respect for local customs and views; be patient when things don't 'go right', it is a bit slower here and a good thing too; learn a few words of Spanish, use them, and you can be sure people in Puerto Vallarta will appreciate that effort; pay attention to your surroundings when out and about; it might not be such a good idea to go home with someone you just met at a gay club or on the gay beach, or maybe so, listen to your intuition and perhaps get to know people a bit first; smile, a lot! hey, you're gay you're fabulous and you're on vacation and that's something to be happy about, eh?! Auto Rentals - Go to this page for the information Beaches - Banderas Bay (Flags Bay) is one of the larger natural bays in the world and has approximately 30 miles of beaches to enjoy, click here for the Puerto Vallarta gay beach on Los Muertos beach and here for other beaches on Banderas Bay. Business Hours - Most stores in town are open from 9am or 10am until 8pm to 10pm, but some of them do close for an hour or two between 2pm-4pm for lunch. Some public offices work continuously from 9am-5pm and close after that. The stores at the shopping malls such as at Galerias Vallarta, Plaza Caracol, Plaza Las Glorias, Plaza Marina and Plaza Genovesa generally stay open continuously from 9am-10pm. Climate - Close enough to be considered a tropical gay paradise, with moderate temperatures throughout much of the year. The average high temperatures in this part of Mexico and Puerto Vallarta are 80-85 degrees in the winter and 85-92 degrees in summer. November to May is the dry season, with very little rain. Rains begin in mid-June and continue sporadically through late October. Learn more here about Puerto Vallarta climate and weather that includes a chart of monthly high and low average temperatures and precipitation. Consulates - Trouble in paradise? American U.S. Consulate: Kelly Trainor, Consular Agent. Paradise Village Shopping Center Paseo de los Cocoteros, Locale L-7, Nuevo Vallarta. Tel: 222-0069, 223-0074, after hours: 01-333-268-2145. Consular office hours, Mon-Fri, 8:30am-12:30pm. Canadian Consulate: Lyne Benoit, Consular Agent. Obelisco Building, Locale 100, 1951 Ave. Francisco Medina Ascencio in the Las Glorias Hotel Zone. Tel: 293-0098, 293-0099, fax: 293-2894, after hours: 01-800-706-2900. Office hours, 9am-3pm.

Drinking Water and Food - Purified water is available in all Puerto Vallarta hotels, bars and restaurants, which also use purified ice as well. It's advisable to drink at least 4-5 glasses of purified water a day to help prevent dehydration. I would advise against drinking the water from the tap unless your place has a purified water system. You can be pretty confident that food in restaurants is washed in purified water and/or properly cooked. Go here for more detailed info
 

For the late autumn, winter, and early spring months (Nov-April, the basic 'high season' of tourism here): Bring lighter clothing for the sunny warm days - most people spend their days at the beach or out and around town, so shorts, bathing suits, speedos, tank tops, t-shirts are the norm; at night it's shorts or long pants, dress or casual shirt perhaps even a light sweater or jacket for the cooler nights. Most guys who go out later on to visit with friends, drink and dance wear shorts or jeans and a light shirt. For summer months and early autumn (May-October): It's sunny, hot and humid during the days and still warm in the evenings, so it's cool and casual light clothing at the beach and at night; an umbrella from June through September is a good idea as there's rain many evenings-nights. I'd also bring several pairs of shoes and sandals for any time of year. And remember the 8-50+ SPF sunscreen, year round, the sun is quite strong here south of the border.

Drugs - Drug offenses are risky business in Mexico. Mexico's drugs laws for those that sell are generally more reactionary and ridiculous than those of the United States, though I think Texas and some of the southern states take the cake. Under Napoleonic law in Mexico you're guilty until proven innocent. If you must, be extremely discreet; if you are caught you may be deported, have a prison term or have to pay a fine. Police occasionally stop and frisk locals and tourists checking for drugs. From what I have heard and read, penalties can be rather lax in Vallarta, though I wouldn't bet my liberty on it. The police have also been known to extort money if they find something on you. Travel news: Decriminalization laws regarding the personal possession of fairly small amounts of marijuana (5 grams), cocaine and other drugs were passed by Congress and signed by President Calderon in May 2009.

Electricity - Same as in the U.S. and Canada,110 volts, 60 cycles, although many places will not have three prong electrical outlets. So bring along an adapter if you need one for your appliances.

Family Life - Mexican life centers around the family. You'll find Mexicans more devoted to their families than people are in America. Parents and elders are treated with respect and children are generally well loved and cared for. Many Mexican men will not be out to their families as this is a catholic and rather conservative country. Children will often live with their parents until they marry or leave the hometown to live in a larger city.

Fodor's Guide Tips - From an old Fodor's on-line guide page: "Puerto Vallarta is Mexico's prime gay destination. In the Zona Romántica (South Side) especially, mild displays of same-sex affection are common, and some gay-owned hotels, bars, restaurants, and beach clubs are no-holds-barred. These gay-oriented businesses are the place to ask about any blatantly anti-gay establishments in PV and beyond. In general, Mexican same-sex couples keep a low profile, and foreign same-sex couples should do the same. Outside the Zona Romantica, two men might have a hard time getting a cama matrimonial (double bed), especially in less sophisticated hotels, although for women this shouldn't be a problem."

Forums and Message Boards - There are a number of Pto Vallarta forums and message boards that might be helpful to the gay traveler: the Puerto Vallarta Mexico Forums-Bulletin Boards as well as the PV Net Puerto Vallarta Alternative Lifestyles forum; also the two at All Vallarta Message Board for Puerto Vallarta and Puerto Vallarta Scene Forum can be quite lively.

Further Interest - For some gay vacation ideas on where to go and what to do and see in Puerto Vallarta, check out the Special Events on the gay calendar page, Things to Do in Vallarta on the more Activities page, and this Yahoo travel page, Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Probably the best overall Puerto Vallarta entertainment calendar of daily events and happenings is to be found at the Puerto Vallarta PV Scene.  I would recommend considering such things as: the gay cruise; the Marietas Islands or whale watching with Oscar Frey; a getaway to Yelapa or Sayulita village; a Mexican Folklore and Tequila Tour; going sightseeing downtown taking in the Cathedral and the malecon with its many statues, lovely ambience and nearby restaurants, galleries and stores.

Geography - Located along Mexico's Pacific coast, about halfway between the US border and Guatemala, Puerto Vallarta is a few short hours by plane from West Coast cities and the Southwestern states. Here for a map of Mexico

Going Out - Do be generous if you go out with a Mexican national or have a date. It's commonly expected that the person of higher social wealth will pick up the tab and show generosity in other ways. Generally speaking that would be you, dude. So don't expect to go out Dutch unless it's already established or the other guy is of a equal or higher economic status, meaning Mexican upper middle class or above.

Gyms and spas - Still gotta work out those pecs and abs in paradise?  Acqua, Power Fitness Gym and the San Franciscan are close to most South Side/Zona Romantica locations. Gold's gym in the hotel zone in Plaza Las Glorias is pretty much the largest and most popular and well equipped work-out place in Puerto Vallarta and popular with the gay guys too, though it is a taxi ride from the South Side. Check out Puerto Vallarta gyms and spas

Holidays - Here are the main national and religious holidays: New Years Day - Jan 1; Day of the Three Kings - Jan 6; Constitution Day - Feb 5; Ash Wednesday; Benito Juarez's birthday - Mar 21; Semana Santa (Holy Week) up to Easter Sunday, and then Semana Pasqua (Easter Week) the following week; Labor Day - May 1; Battle of Puebla - May 5; Mother's Day - May 10; Independence Day - Sept. 16; Day of the Race - Oct 12; President's State of the Union Address - Nov 1; The Day of the Dead - Nov 1-2; Revolution Day - Nov 20; Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe - December 12 (there are twelve consecutive days of celebrations in Puerto Vallarta, Dec 1-12); Christmas Day - Dec 25.

Homophobia - In spite of the many advances and changes in consciousness in the last ten years or so, social, economic and psychological conditions are difficult for many Mexican gay and bisexual men as homophobia is still widespread. (See Law and Custom page for more info). In a word, the culture is almost uniformly heterosexually dominant, macho and sexist (a very broad generalization indeed). Sexual stereotypes and gender roles are still pretty rigid, as in most Latin cultures, but this too is changing. Many Mexican gay men that I have met here have gone to live in the US or Canada. In general for tourists and visitors to Puerto Vallarta it's unusual indeed to hear or read of reports of any type of harassment or violence based on perceived sexual orientation. Puerto Vallarta is known for its tolerance and local people appreciate our business, generous tipping and support for the local economy, even if some may not personally approve of our 'lifestyle', and that's why so many businesses advertise trying to attract the gay dollar or 'pink peso'. In all of Latin America only Ecuador and Mexico, since 2003, have nation-wide protection against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. In December 2009, Mexico City became the first Latin American city to legalize same-sex marriage . Read some of the most recent developments in The Queering (or Not) of Latin America - by Bécquer Medak-Seguín.

Hustlers - Mexico is a relatively poorer third world country and hustling is one way you can make a fairly decent living in Puerto Vallarta if you are good looking and speak some English or have that kind of ambition. My advice would be that you try to avoid putting yourself into a risky situation. Be cautious about taking anyone home with you who you have just met and don't know. Perhaps it might be a good idea to get an opinion of one of the waiters at the gay beach or gay nightclub as to whether your friend or date is reliable.

Internet Service - There must be at least a twenty or thirty cyber internet places in Vallarta now, running anywhere from 10-30 pesos an hour. Click here to find out about some of the Puerto Vallarta internet cafes and places to connect.

Inviting Someone Home - Most of the regular hotels in Puerto Vallarta that I know about won't allow you to bring guests or friends back to your room. That's one good reason we have our own gay hotels, bed and breakfasts and gay-friendly condos and villas here. I think that besides being a somewhat homophobic policy by perhaps targeting gay men more than straight tourists, their concern is for the security of the guests. If you are going to stay at one of these hotels, why not call or email them and ask what the policy is beforehand. The age of consent is 18 years old. Check the federal voter registration ID if in doubt about his age. Use your discretion if you have someone over to avoid problems. And remember, it's a poorer country so it's always a good idea to keep your money and valuables such as wallet, watch and rings out of sight. Assuming that you had fun, do be generous though in helping out your date and vacation friends. I am sure they would appreciate any assistance you can offer.

Language - Mexico's official language is Spanish, same as in all of Latin America. You'll likely find that a high percentage of people locally and especially those in the tourist industry speak English. Hotels, restaurants and condominium buildings have staff that are usually fluent in English and sometimes in a bit of French. People in Puerto Vallarta appreciate you learning and using even just a few words of Spanish as a sign of respect for their language and culture.

The Malecon - The Puerto Vallarta malecon is the seawall walkway or boardwalk promenade that stretches the length of downtown Vallarta from the New Malecon which begins at the pedestrian bridge over the Cuale River on the South Side all the way to the Hotel Rosita on the north end. Near the south end of the main stretch of the downtown Puerto Vallarta malecon is the large outdoor amphitheater and Los Arcos, the Arches, where many open air activities and entertainments occur, such as folklore dancing, live music, cultural events and the popular nightly clown shows. Here's a page with many Puerto Vallarta malecon pictures. There are a good number of interesting statues on the mile and a half long boardwalk. The malecon boardwalk is popular from sunset up until around 11pm. Half the town dresses up and turns out to stroll on weekends, especially Saturday and early Sunday evenings. The Puerto Vallarta malecon can also be a good location to make friends, so check it out.

Marine Sanctuaries and Wildlife - There are two National Marine Parks/Reserves in Banderas Bay, one at Los Arcos (The Arches) and the other at the Marietas Islands. Both are popular places for snorkeling and diving adventures. In order to protect the bird and aquatic wildlife, no walking, camping or fishing is allowed in these reserve areas. During the summer months, seven of the eight species of marine turtles in the world lay their eggs on Mexico's beaches. These endangered turtles, their nesting sites and their eggs are all protected by law. Humpback whales winter in Banderas Bay every November to March, along with dolphins and giant mantas. As Bird Watching Mexico notes there are over 300 species of birds living in Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding areas.

Massage - Briefly here are names and contact numbers for some of the masseurs and massage therapists in Vallarta who are gay: Edgar, Cellular: 044-322-138-7794; Gerardo Dico, cell: 044-322-134-2816 and gedico8@yahoo.com.mx; Martin Mendoza (Blue Massage), Tel: 222-6034, 223-2292, cell: 044-322-888-7511; Leonardo Tejeda, Tel: 223-4784, cell: 044-322-294-2565; Osiel Echeverria Bercian, since 1990, cell: 044-322-278-0955 and 044-322-110-1143; Pepe Avalos, cell: 044-322-120-9093 and acapepe@hotmail.com. For further information on Puerto Vallarta massage and spas

Money, Banks, ATMs - The national currency is the peso. Dollars are readily exchanged at the banks, hotels and any casa de cambio/money exchange house. Most businesses will accept dollars. Please be sure to count your change whenever exchanging money or paying the tab. The current exchange rate fluctuates around 13.0-13.5 pesos per US dollar at the banks and exchange places and this rate changes daily. Here for more info on money. You may want to buy a money belt to carry your cash underneath your clothing.

Natural Resources - Water, arable land, food and electricity are valuable and sometimes scarce resources in a third world country such as Mexico. Please help to conserve Mexico's natural resources by turning off lights, overhead fans and the air conditioners before leaving your hotel, condo or villa for any period of time. The government and people of Mexico put considerable effort and materials into the tourist areas to keep them clean, safe and up to international standards. And please think twice about using those noisy, polluting jet skis.

Passport and Tourist Visa - For U.S. citizens, proof of citizenship and photo identification are required for entry into Mexico. A U.S. passport is the simplest way. Keep your passport or other citizenship documents in a secure and safe place in your Puerto Vallarta condo or hotel. It may be a good idea to scan or photocopy your passport and drivers license and then send them to yourself in an email or bring copies with you in case the originals are lost or stolen. For the most recent State Department Consular Information Sheet for Mexico. More info about your visa or passport?

Phone - Ask at your hotel room or condo building before making any long distance calls, as phone calls can be rather expensive, up to several dollars per minute. Even if you use your own calling card, you may still be charged a connection fee. I would advise purchasing one of phone cards available at many stores, for 50-200 pesos, which will supply 7-30 minutes or more depending on what time of day you call. Rates usually go down after 7pm and all day and evening Saturday.

Population - Estimates vary but most sources I have read say that Vallarta has somewhere around 250,000 residents. Wikipedia puts the city population in 2005 as 178,000 inhabitants, while 220,000 people live in the greater Vallarta municipality, which I assume includes such population centers as Pitillal, Aramara, Las Juntas, Coapinoli and Bobadilla. The local english newspaper the PV Tribune called it at 300,000 people. From what I have seen the entire Banderas Bay area, including everything from Yelapa and Quimixto on the South Shores to Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerias, La Cruz and Punta de Mita on the North Shores, and inland from Mezcales up the valley to San Juan etc. must now number somewhere around 400-500,000 residents. There are now upwards of 105 million people in all of the Republic of Mexico.

Safety - Puerto Vallarta is a safe city, especially in the tourist areas such as downtown, the north-side hotel district and the South Side-Zona Romantica where most gay establishments are located. I advise using the same precautions you would use in traveling to any other foreign country or new city: don't wear expensive jewelry; keep valuables and your passport in the hotel safe or stashed away in your room; avoid making withdrawals from an ATM at night; and carry around only a reasonable amount of cash. Be particularly aware of your possessions at the beach and when you invite someone home. I've walked in almost all parts of the city at different times of the day and night and felt safe.

Sales Tax - There is in 2009 a 15% tax (IVA) automatically included in all your store purchases, tour and cruise tickets, restaurant and hotel bills. This IVA tax will increase to 16% starting Jan 1, 2010. There is an additional 2% local tax on your hotel stay, which is used by the government in 'tourist promotion'. So total sales tax starting in January 2010 will come to 18%.

Taxis and Buses - Jump in a cab, step on the gas and go! Cabs are cheap and readily available here, and will cost around 30-80 pesos ($3-$8 US) to go to most places in town. Buses run all over town every few minutes until near midnight and currently (2010) cost 6.5 pesos one way, about 50 cents. Here for further info

Timeshare - The sale of timeshares has unfortunately become a big business in Puerto Vallarta. On nearly all the streets of the city frequented by tourists there are timeshare stations. Salespeople will try to get you to attend a "presentation" where they will sometimes use high pressure or misleading tactics to induce you to buy their product. Unless you are really interested in buying timeshare in Vallarta, you should pass these people by and continue on your merry way.

Time Zone - Puerto Vallarta is in the Central Time Zone, same local time as Houston and Chicago. We are one hour behind New York and Miami (Eastern Time), one hour ahead of Denver (Mountain Time) and two hours ahead of California and British Columbia (Pacific Time). Puerto Vallarta, like the rest of Mexico since 1997, observes daylight savings time which begins in early April until the end of October.

Tipping - Tipping is the same as in the US and Canada, 12-20% for good to excellent service at restaurants. I encourage tipping for the maid at your hotel or condo or for the staff if you are staying in a villa. Wages here are quite often shamefully low (see below). The standard tip is considered $1-4 US per day per staff person for each guest. It's best to tip directly to the individual staff member so you can be sure they get it. Bellboys at hotels and porters at the airport etc. should be tipped, as should any masseur. Taxi drivers aren't generally tipped unless they help with your baggage, though people do tip them anyway. Many gay guys tip the reception desk staff of their condo, gay hotels and accommodations, a good practice.

Wages - Mexico is a poorer country that sometimes suffers from the scarcity of both goods and services. You may not consider yourself wealthy by North American standards but your income is substantial compared to average Mexican wages. According to recent reports by the Center of Analysis and Projections for Mexico (CAPEM) median salaries, adjusted for inflation, have lost 36% of their buying power since 1980 and the minimum wage has lost nearly 70% of its value over the same period. New minimum wage rates take effect nearly every Janaury 1st. The minimum wage varies regionally from 49.50 to 52.30 pesos a day in 2008, about $3.80-$4.05 US dollars. This wage, or less, is paid to about 8 million workers in Mexico's 42 million strong workforce. Another 10 million workers live on an income somewhere between the equivalent of one and two minimum monthly wages. Wages and income in tourist areas like Puerto Vallarta are generally higher than the national average, so perhaps income would be around 250-350 pesos per day, about $19-27 US. Imagine trying to live or support a family on this kind of salary. Please keep this in mind if you ask any local guys out for food or a drink, and when you are tipping for service in the restaurants and to your housekeeper or maid in the hotel, villa or condo. People are appreciative of any help that is offered.