Single Parent Powers – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Along with Cancun and Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta stands as the most-visited resort destinations along the Mexican coastline. Because it’s such a popular destination for tourists, be they single parents or not, there are definitely some things you need to look out for to keep yourself safe and free from rip-offs and awkward, uncomfortable misunderstandings with the locals. Here are some of the best tips you can use to give yourself the power to see through nonsense and stay on the right path at all times.
The Puerto Vallarta Airport
If you’ve never been to a Mexican resort destination, then the first room you walk into after you leave Customs will be a complete surprise. It’s filled with the friendliest people all asking about your flight, your plans, your destination, etc. Ignore them all. I know, I know, it sounds rude, but you’ll thank me. They’re not interested in anything other than getting you to attend one of their timeshare presentations. They don’t work for the airport or any other official organization. They’re salesman looking to waste your time, so walk or even run through if you have to. It’s not called a “shark tank” for nothing. If you need a taxi, walk outside of the Arrivals terminal, turn to your left, and walk across the footbridge. The yellow taxis there are far cheaper and will get you there just as safely.
How to Pay in Puerto Vallarta
Depending on the exchange rate before your trip, or if you’re going to an all-inclusive resort while there, your cash needs may differ greatly. It’s a good rule of thumb to always try to understand the exchange rates and to avoid using a card that could be compromised by less-than-reputable salespeople. It’s not to say anyone would do that, but why take a chance when you and your child can get acquainted together with a whole new currency. It can actually be a lot of fun working out the cost of things with your child and, who knows, they may even save you some pesos.
Here are a few more tips to make sure you get the most out of your experience:
- Leave the converters/adapters at home. The plugs in Mexico are the same as those in the U.S.
- Locals start conversations with “buenos dias” (good morning), “buenos tardes” (good afternoon), or “buenos noches” (good evening). Respect their culture and return their greeting before you make a request!
- At big hotels and restaurants, the water should be purified, but it never hurts to ask if the ice and water being served is made from “agua purificada”.
- Taxis are more expensive if you take the ones that come to the hotels since the hotels will have set taxi rates. If you want to save money, grab a cab outside the hotel.
- Anytime you can go outside of the hotel for anything, you’ll find that you can get a better deal.
- If you stick to the tourist areas, the prices for food will be higher than if you head to less touristed area
- A 10-15% tip is adequate for restaurants.
- Don’t be afraid to bargain here… on just about anything. Try to make it fun! The vendors are friendly and just trying to make a living.
If you keep these pieces of wisdom handy, you’ll find that your time in Puerto Vallarta is even more enjoyable than the brochures made it seem. The people are great, the attractions are worth every penny, and the memories you make with your child will last a lifetime. There are few places so close to the US that offer so much for such low prices. So, don’t wait another moment. Plan your trip to Puerto Vallarta today and experience the magic for yourself.