Puerto Vallarta is a Mexican resort city. Situated in the Bahía de Banderas, the city is a popular tourist destination and an American Spring Break hotspot. Vallarta is considered the jewel of the state of Jalisco. Tapatios, or residents of the state capital of Guadalajara, visit for weekend trips or holidays such as Semana Santa and Christmas; the city is used as as a local getaway. Like many resort areas, the city's attraction lies in its relaxed atmosphere and natural splendor, offering tropical plants and sinuous rock formations.

History and Culture
The residents of Puerto Vallarta are very friendly and generally willing to help with directions and other requests. Old Town Vallarta (or the Zona Romantica district), south of the River Cuale, is more like a Mexican town and less like a tourist trap. Puerto Vallarta's charm remains largely undiscovered. Along with its cobblestone streets, stunning beaches, plentiful marine life, lush Sierra Madre Mountains, exceptional restaurants, fine Gourmet Festival, new golf courses and vibrant culture, Puerto Vallarta is a visitor's paradise that has maintained its unique Old Mexico charm despite the addition of these modern conveniences. Beautiful beaches, lush jungles and sparkling waterfalls offer many opportunities for the adventurous, while five star resorts, world-class shopping and gourmet restaurants satisfy even the most sophisticated traveller.

Sightseeing
Puerto Vallarta has a new botanical garden, which includes native Mexican trees, orchids and cacti, and offers birdwatching opportunities. Beautiful Banderas Bay, one of the largest and deepest in the world, may be admired from many of the surrounding hills, exuberant in lush vegetation. The Bay of Banderas is home to a wide variety of aquatic life. Humpback whales come here to mate every year from December to March, and sea turtles nest on the beaches from May to October. Schools of dolphins and giant manta rays also inhabit these waters. The Bay and the Marietas Islands offer an amazing kaleidoscope of tropical fish, attracting snorkellers, scuba divers and sport fishermen alike. But your exploring does not have to be limited just to the Bay, there are nearby archaeological sites to visit as well. Close at hand, in the region of Ixtapa, studies have uncovered sites dating back to 400 B.C.

Getting there
The main bus station is far to the north of town, a little further than the airport. A local bus or taxi is required to reach the main city. To catch a local bus into town, exit the bus station and keep walking across the parking area. Then walk to your right toward the corner. The city buses will stop here. Any bus you pick up here will take you downtown. Also cruise ships arrive almost daily.