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I note here some tips and advice for the gay and lesbian traveler to Puerto Vallarta. Some of these topics are covered in greater detail on other pages, such as Tourist Info and Services, so I simply summarize or else refer you to them.  Auto Rentals  -  Go to this page for the information Beaches  -  Banderas Bay (Flags Bay) has approximately 30 miles of beaches to enjoy, click here for the 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 Plaza Caracol, Plaza Marina and Plaza Genovesa generally stay open continuously from 9am-10pm.

Climate  -  Close enough to be considered a tropical paradise, with moderate temperatures throughout much of the year. The average high temperatures in 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. Click for info on the weather that includes a chart of monthly high and low temperatures and precipitation.

Consulates  -  Trouble in paradise?  American Consulate: Kelly Trainor, Consular Agent. Vallarta Plaza Building, 160 Zaragoza, 2am floor. Tel: 222-0069; fax: 223-0074. Office hours, 10am-2pm.  Canadian Consulate: Lyne Benoit, Consular Agent. Obelisco Building, Local 100, 1951 Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio in the Las Glorias Hotel Zone. Tel: 222-5398; fax: 222-3517; emergency: 01-800-706-2900. Office hours, 9am-3pm.

Drinking Water and Food  -  Purified water is available in all 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. Click here for more detailed info
 

Drugs  -  Drug offenses are risky business in Mexico. Mexico's drugs laws 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 Napoleanic 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.

Electricity  -  110 volts, 60 cycles, same as in the U.S. and Canada, 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  -  "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 Romántica, 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 Puerto Vallarta forums and message/bulletin boards that I am aware of though I admit I haven't done an extensive search: one at PuertoVallarta.net also has an Alternative Lifestyles forum; the two at All Vallarta and Vallarta Scene can be quite lively.

Further Interest  -  For ideas on where to go and what to do and see, check out the Special Events on the gay calendar page, Further Interest on the more Activities page, and this Yahoo travel page, Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.  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  -  Still gotta work out those pecs and abs in paradise?  Click here for the gym list

Holidays  -  It sometimes seems like there are more holidays in Mexico than you can shake a stick at. Here are the main national and religious holidays: New Years Day; 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 days of celebrations in Vallarta, Dec 1-12); Christmas Day.

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 most Mexican gay and bisexual men as homophobia is widespread. (See Law and Custom page for more info). In a word, the culture is almost uniformly heterosexually dominant, macho and sexist. Sexual stereotypes and gender roles are pretty rigid, as in most Latin cultures. Many Mexican gay men that I have met have gone to live in the US or Canada. In all of Latin America, only Ecuador and Mexico (since 2003) have nation-wide protection against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. Over the years I have heard reports of homophobia by the management at the Hotel Los Arcos on the South Side in Vallarta and I would advise gay people to avoid patronizing the hotel.

Internet Service  -  There must be at least a twenty or thirty cyber places in Vallarta now. Click here to find out about some of the places to connect.

Inviting Someone Home  -  Most of the regular hotels in 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 and bed and breakfasts here. I think that besides being a somewhat homophobic policy by 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. 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 poor country, so it's a good idea to keep track of your money and valuables such as wallet, watch and rings while he is there. 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 French.

The Malecon  -  The malecon is the seawall walkway or promenade that stretches the length of downtown Vallarta from the new pedestrian bridge over the Cuale River on the south end to the Hotel Rosita on the north end. Near the south end of the main stretch of the malecon is the large outdoor amphitheater and Los Arcos, the Arches, where many open air activities occur, such as folklore dancing, live music, cultural events, and the ever popular clown shows. There are a good number of interesting statues on the mile-long walkway. The malecon is popular from sunset up until around 11pm-midhnight. Half the town dresses up and turns out to stroll on weekends, especially Sunday evenings. The 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. There are also over 300 species of birds living in Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding areas.

Massage  -  Here briefly are names and contact numbers for some of the massuers and massage therapists in Vallarta who are gay: 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, cell: 044-322-278-0955 and 044-322-110-1143; Paco Ruiz, cell: 044-322-227-2189; Pepe Avalos, cell: 044-322-120-9093; Ralph Spa, Tel: 223-1899, cell: 044-322-131-1026.  For further info click here

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 10.3-10.8 pesos per US dollar at the banks and this rate changes daily. Here for more info on money.

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  - Questions about your visa or passport?

Phone  -  Ask at your hotel room or condo building before making any long distance calls, as the 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 a phone card, available at many stores, for 50-200 pesos, which will supply 7-30 minutes 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 200-300,000 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 and Bobadilla. The local english newspaper the PV Tribune calls 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 Bucerias, La Cruz and Punta de Mita on the North Shores, must now number around 400-500,000 residents or so.

Safety  -  Puerto Vallarta is a safe city, especially in the tourist areas such as downtown, the north-side hotel district and the South Side 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 a 15% tax (IVA) automatically included in all your store purchases, tour and cruise tickets, restaurant and hotel bills. There is an additional 2% tax on your hotel stay, which is used by the government in tourist promotion.

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 (2008) cost 5 pesos, 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 now 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 recepton desk staff of their gay hotels and accommodations, a good practice.

Wages  -  Mexico is a poorer country that suffers regularly 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 took effect Jan 1, 2004. The minimum wage varies regionally from 42.11 to 45.24 pesos (about $4.50 US dollars) a day. 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 150-300 pesos per day, about $15-30 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.
 

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