The Area
Travel Tips
Olé
We want to help you start dreaming of sun-baked days and romantic nights in charming Puerto Vallarta! This information is designed to assist you in planning a smooth, safe, and pleasure-filled vacation.
Things to Know
A valid passport is required to enter Mexico. Requirements for travel to Mexico are subject to change at any time. If you have questions, contact Trading Places or the Mexican Consulate nearest you.
A tourist card (Visa) is also required. This will be given to you when you go through immigration at your destination. You will be required to turn it in when you check-in for your return flight. DO NOT LOSE THIS FORM...IT'S IMPORTANT, AND THERE IS A CHARGE TO REPLACE IT!
Pack Casual. Men can leave their jackets and ties at home and ladies won’t need formal wear. Casual resort wear is acceptable everywhere; however, it customary (but not always required) that ladies wear long pants or a head cover or both when visiting a church or cathedral. Take ‘em anyway; better safe than sorry. Lightweight cottons are normally best for the tropics, but winter visitors might want a light jacket or sweater for evening outdoor dining. Don't forget your sunscreen. Careless time in the sun can ruin a great trip in a hurry.
When You Arrive
Welcome to Paradise! Surrounded by palm-fringed beaches and lush tropical mountains, Puerto Vallarta is a storybook village accented by red-tiled roofs and cobblestone streets. It's a city of romance, beauty, and lingering dreams. Puerto Vallarta, filled with charm and grace, will welcome you with open arms. Prepare for an unforgettable experience!
Getting Around
When you arrive at the airport, you will go through immigration, get your luggage, then clear customs. The resort is only 8 miles from the airport. Cars can be rented at the airport or you can go out front and take the airport taxi-van. Auto rentals are available at the resort. Trading Places International will be happy to make auto rental reservations for you in advance, if you prefer. A rental car is normally not needed for the entire stay, but is very convenient for at least part of your stay. Taxies are everywhere and easy to catch along the main roads or at the resorts and restaurants. Taxies are not metered, but reasonable. Avoid confusion or conflict and ask the fare before you get in.
Eating Around
Puerto Vallarta is known for its variety of great restaurants. In addition to the restaurant at the resort, a few of our favorites are Pipi's, Barcelona, Tino's Mariscos, and Le Bistro. Lindo Mar Resort hosts a great happy hour at sunset and brunch most Saturdays and Sundays. Most disco action gets going around 10:00 pm and will usually continue as long as you hang in there.
Excursions & Sights to See
Puerto Vallarta offers something for everyone: a wide variety of restaurants, nightclubs, shopping, sightseeing tours, sport fishing, cruises, water sports, horseback riding, and more! On any day you can sail away on a variety of boats to Yelapa or Las Animas, two tiny fishing villages accessible only by water. Both spots are great for swimming, sunning, and parasailing away from the crowds. Lunch and drinks are provided. There are also several sunset cruises that include dinner, music, dancing, and beautiful views of the city at sunset. Deep sea fishing parties can be arranged as can hunting trips, and city and jungle tours. Enjoy water-skiing, parasailing, skin and scuba diving, and small fishing boats. See the activity desk at Lindo Mar Resort for details and reservations.
Currency/Credit Card
U.S. Dollars are widely accepted, though the Mexican peso is the national currency. The best exchange rate is usually gotten at ATM’s or at local banks. Most major credit cards are accepted.
Leaving Vallarta
International flights require that you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled flight. At times, the airport in Vallarta can be a wild place, so arrive early. Again, be sure to keep track of your tourist card...you need it to leave Mexico!
Your Next Vacation
Remember Trading Places International offers deluxe condominiums and private homes throughout Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas. Call toll free 800-365-9190 for complete property information and future reservations.