subject: Puerto Vallarta and the Tail of the Whale [print this page] Puerto Vallarta and the Tail of the Whale
Holiday travelers who rent Villas in Puerto Vallarta usually seek out special ways to spend their days, over and above their villa stay. Here are some options from the tail end of the alphabet:
Turtles: sea turtles hit the sand of Puerto Vallarta beaches in the early days of summer to build nests, breed and lay eggs. Many beach hotels do their part to bring the process to a successful conclusion by moving nests and eggs to safer ground until the little guys are ready for their first big swim. Guests are invited to join in the turtle conservation campaign, including the release of the young back to the sea, a popular undertaking in November.
Umbrellas: some visitors rent villas in Puerto Vallarta for the sole purpose of spending all day in the sun to get a gorgeous tan. Don't underestimate the value of a beach umbrella, which can create a shady little oasis during the heat of the day and welcome shelter from the bright rays for the "burn and peel" crowd. Voladores, or Flyers of Papantla, perform on the Malecn each week, most usually on Saturday and Sunday nights. These flying musicians perform their traditional routine way up there (and upside down, to boot) for the pleasure of the gods; their performance pleases the crowd, as well. Whales are some of Nature's most amazing creatures, and the humpback whales that visit Banderas Bay in the spring of the year bring out whale watchers every day. If you plan to get out among the whales, make certain you do it under the guidance of a legally licensed tour operator. Vallarta Adventures and Open Air Expeditions get good reviews.
Yelapa is a short water taxi ride from Puerto Vallarta, yet when you arrive in this little village, you'll know you're worlds away from the city. You can spend an entire day shopping and snacking in this quiet and peaceful place and still catch the last boat back to the city with plenty of time to get your party on.
Zoo: speaking of party, Zoo (the club at 630 Paseo Diaz Ordaz) is a popular late-night watering hole for nocturnal party animals. They don't even open until 10 p.m., and the pace picks up after midnight. If you're usually in bed by 10, the Zoologica de Vallarta in Mismaloya is a good daytime alternative. It's a great opportunity to see gorgeous coats on their original owners.
