Would you like to escape the cold, the snow and the rhythm of your urban lifestyle? Escape to Mexico to experience our new itineraries: Relaxation, history and culture!

By doing so, you could discover sunny places offering multiple activities and where you will be able to recharge your batteries while discovering a completely new culture. This month, we have chosen special routes designed for ecotourism, well-being, culture and sport.

Two destinations are becoming more popular each day: Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán. These two cities offer a wide range of options such as fine sand beaches, protected historical reserves and unique cultural sites. With ecotourism, you will enjoy your holidays while respecting the environment.

¡Ven, vive y disfruta de Puerto Vallarta!
www.visitapuertovallarta.com.mx

Located on the Pacific coast in the State of Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta is a surprising city.  A survey completed by Travel Leaders in 2008 placed it as America’s 6tj touristic destination because of its wide range of activities. Puerto Vallarta is in direct competition with some of Europe´s most beautiful cities.

Why such a craze for this Mexican town?

Puerto Vallarta is well-known for its impressive number of attractions and natural resources. Its beaches, hotels, restaurants and museums offer an incredible insight on Mexico’s culture and history.

This month, we let you choose between three routes of relaxation, history and culture which you can custom to your preferences, financial situation and length of stay.

All routes are focused on ecotourism. Let yourself be pampered by three incomparable hotels offering you exclusive services while respecting the environment.

Let’s not forget that Puerto Vallarta is home to several beaches and is considered as ‘The place’ for fine sand, crystal clear waters and colourful fishes. Culture is also ever-present through this city’s sophisticated cuisine. The best Mexican and international wines are available in over 20 gastronomic restaurants and bars established in the downtown area. Finally, Puerto Vallarta is a recognized historical center with several pre-colonial, colonial and contemporary art centers that will take your breath away. 

Beach
The deserted island of Majahuitas

According to The Traveler Zone, this beach is the world’s 5^th most beautiful secluded beach. Situated in a little cove at the southern end of Puerto Vallarta, Majahuita beach is accessible only by boat (a 20-minute trip from Puerto Vallarta). Calm and relaxing, this unique destination will charm you with its crystal clear water, protected wildlife as well as its abundant possibilities for ecotourism.

For more information:
http://www.virtualvallarta.com/puertovallarta/puertovallarta/puertovallartabeaches/majahuitas.shtml

History
Cosmopolitan art galleries in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a colonial city that will certainly surprise you! Discovered by Spanish explorers looking for food and fresh water, it quickly became an important harbour due to the nearby fertile soil prairies.

Being a cosmopolitan city, its various art and exposition galleries thrive. Over 18 art galleries are to be found in Puerto Vallarta. 

More specifically, we encourage you to visit the Galería Omar Alonso, famous for its impressive collection of contemporary art works and photographs. You discover incomparable artists like Rodrigo Moya and Luis González Palma.

You can then head toward the Artist Gallery. You are sure to find something in this eclectic gallery whether you are an expert or an amateur.

For more information: 
http://mx.vallartaonline.com/information/SpotLight/GaleriasdeArteenVallarta/

Sport
Discovering the ocean floor surrounding Majahuitas Island.

Majahuitas is a legendary bay known for its turquoise water. It is a exceptional spot for diving. You might catch a glimpse of the famous green moray or some sea bream slipping away in the sand. You will also find the torpedo fish camouflaged among enormous submerged rocks.

Snorkelling only twenty feet under water, you will discover an incredible wildlife. Do not hesitate to contact our experts for more information on this very fragile ecosystem. Contact the Majahuitas Resort and Puerto Vallarta Tour for information on tours. 

For more information:
http://www.puertovallartatours.net/majahuitas-quimixto-snorkeling.htm
http://www.majahuitas-resort.com/activities.html

Culture and Well-Being
Harmony, Environment and Well-Being in Spa Mayahuel 

Why not combine culture and relaxation? 

On January 22 2009, the ecological Spa Mayahuel opened its doors on the border of the Mismaloya River. Be one of the first to enjoy their relaxing care in one of seven specially built huts. Several health and beauty services are offered: mesotherapy, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy and body treatments. Discover the prehispanic Temazcal ritual and restore your inner peace. 

For more information:
Monday to Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Transport included, from different places in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta.

Reservation at (322) 135-6449 or visit www.mayahuelspa.com

Hotel
Eco-resort Majahuitas and its solar panels

Leave the urban agitation behind and enjoy one of the best eco-tourism resorts of the region! On this route, we highly recommend the Majahuitas Resort. Located in a protected cove in the beautiful Bay of Banderas, this resort is a sumptuous hotel, respectful of the environment. Its solar panels provide electricity to eight casitas in an intimate setting that will make you feel like you've found your very own private retreat from the world.

This resort has direct access to Majahuitas Beach and offers activities like sea kayaking, hiking through the jungle, snorkelling, diving in pristine water, and fishing. For relaxation adepts, massages are given by the river where the sound of the water flowing will take you to another world!

For more information:
http://www.majahuitas-resort.com/

Restaurants
Below, you will find a non-exhaustive list of restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, well known for their delicious and exclusive cuisine:

AZAFRÁN
For more information:
Leona Vicario 233, Centre-Ville
Tuesday to Sunday, from 12 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Tel. (322) 222-8264
http://www.puerto-vallarta.com/azafran-review/default.asp

SI SEÑOR
For more information:
Guadalupe Sánchez 274, corner Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez
Monday to Saturday, from 11 a.m. to midnight
Tel. (322) 113-0064
Reservation and credit cards allowed.
http://www.puerto-vallarta.com/si-senor-review/default.asp

BLACK FOREST
For more information:
Marlin 16, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle
Monday to Saturday, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Tel. (329) 295-5203
http://blackforestpv.com/

Beach
Sayulita : A paradise for surfing and relaxing

Dreaming of a refreshing drink by the ocean? Don’t hesitate to go on this beach to get a tan while watching surfers on the waves. A trendy destination, Sayulita will charm you with its relaxing atmosphere and breathtaking decor! 

For more information:
http://www.sayulita.com/

Sport
Golf with an ocean view

There are many golf courses in Puerto Vallarta. For experts and beginners, the eco tourism hotel El Tamarindo Golf Resort sports one of the best golf fields in Mexico. With its magnificent view of the crashing surf, it is no surprise that the spectacular 18-hole championship golf course designed by David Fleming was rated as Mexico’s second best Resort Golf Course in the 2007 Best Golf Guide to Mexico. The hotel’s 72 courses will let you explore 6,750 square meters of field, with the longest hole going for 547 meters and the shortest one being only 127 meters long. Furthermore, you can enjoy an ideal temperature all year long!

For more information:
http://www.eltamarindoresort.com/en/index.shtml

History
Puerto Vallarta Historic center and the archaeological Museo del Cuale The archaeological Museum Rio Cuale, despite its reduced size, is a reference in terms of Puerto Vallarta’s history and surroundings, from 5,000 B.C. until the 16^th century. Discover the pre-Hispanic origins of the region.

Following this visit, you can walk in the historical center and enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s charming streets and wide architectural diversity.  

For more information:
http://www.pvmirror.com/artculture/207/ourmuseum.html
http://dti.inah.gob.mx/index.php?Itemid=47&id=180&option=com_content&task=view 

Culture
Wine Culture in Puerto Vallarta

In Mexico, Puerto Vallarta is a well known city for its wine festival which takes place this year from February 22^nd to the 28^th. During this event, over 20 recognized wine stewards will be present in many restaurants to share their knowledge and passion while guests enjoy fine wines served with sophisticated delicacies.

For more information:
http://www.vallartawinefest.com/english/org-committee.html

Hotel
El Tamarindo: Combining Eco tourism and luxury

El Tamarindo Beach and Golf Resort is a special place that combines eco tourism, relaxation and well-being. Nestled along two kilometres of oceanfront, it offers three private beaches. It also features 29 casitas, 3 private and luxurious residences, a world-class restaurant and a spa. The resort encourages its guests to explore the surroundings by offering complimentary water and land equipment. Imagine guided tours across the jungle, golf and mountain bike rides!

For more information:
http://www.eltamarindoresort.com/

Restaurants
For this route, we have selected three exclusive restaurants. Taste the typical products of the Repollo Rojo, make the most of the Agro Gourmet market and have dessert in Bananacantina.  

EL REPOLLO ROJO
For more information:
Rivera del Río 204-A
Col. El Remance
Monday to Sunday, from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Tel. (322) 223-0411
http://www.puerto-vallarta.com/red-cabbage-review/default.asp

AGRO GOURMET
For more information:
Basilio Badillo 222
Monday to Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tel. (322) 222-5357
http://www.agro-gourmet.com/

BANANACANTINA
For more information:
Amapas 147 corner Púlpito
Wesdnesday to Monday, from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Tel. (322) 222-2114 (no credit card)
http://bananacantina.com/main/

Beach
The Marietas Islands and their whales

The Tres Marietas Islands archipelago is a national wildlife preserve. Upon arrival to this sanctuary, you will understand why! These small islands have an incredible charm and they are home to thousands of seabirds which benefit from protected luxuriant jungle and rocky environment for food and shelter. The Marietas Islands are only accessible by boat. During your day trip, you might see humpback whales jumping out of the water to seduce their partners. An unforgettable sight!

For more information:
http://www.concentricrings.org/workshops/yelapa/day-trips/tres-marietas

Sport
Swim with dolphins thanks to Vallarta Adventure

Did you ever dream of swimming with dolphins? Your wish will be fulfilled in Puerto Vallarta. This city is one of the rare places in Mexico where you have the chance to swim and play with dolphins. Everybody, children and adults alike, can take part in this activity. You will have the possibility to select your tour from a wide variety of offers, from a simple encounter to dolphin therapy sessions! 

For more information:
http://www.vallarta-adventures.com/dolphins/dolphin-assisted.html

Hotel
Hotelito Desconocido, where dream becomes reality

Hotelito Desconido is an exclusive ecotourism site located in Puerto Vallarta. Modeled on an indigenous fishing village, its designer wanted the architecture to transform an ordinary experience into something extraordinary. Revitalize your body, mind and spirit with healthy activities and spa treatments. You will leave this place completely transformed.  

For more information: 
http://www.hotelesboutique.com/hotelitodesconocido/index.shtml

* Do not hesitate to have a look at the different messages left by tourists.

Restaurants
We recommend these restaurants for this route.

ZSUBA PRIME RIB HOUSE & SUSHI ROOM
For more information:
Paseo de la Marina 245,
Monday to Sunday, from 6:30 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Sushi Room: Monday to Sunday, from 12 pm to midnight
Tel. (322) 221-0669
https://www.vallartaonline.com/news/ZsubaSushiRoom/

TABERNA SAN PASCUAL
For more information:
Corona 176, Centre
Tuesday to Sunday, from 6 p.m. to midnight
Tel. (322) 223-9371
http://www.puerto-vallarta.com/taberna-san-pascual-review/default.asp

LA VALENTINA
For more information:
Morelos 849, Center
Monday to Sunday, from 1 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Tel. (322) 223-9400
http://www.puerto-vallarta.com/la-valentina-review/default.asp

The Pacific Pearl

Situated in the state of Nayarit, Mazatlán is often referred to as “The Pacific Pearl”. This city’s exceptional history and rich culture combined with its magnificent landscape attract many Mexican and international visitors each year. Mazatlán’s immeasurable range of activities will fulfill the most demanding tourists.

With the routes Relaxation, History and Culture, we wanted to distinguish Mazatlán from Puerto Vallarta by proposing different, exceptional and exclusive activities.

You will be invited to take care of baby turtles, do some shopping or visit the Creston’s Mount lighthouse, while making the most of an impressive number of beaches, restaurants and bars. You will also be charmed by its calles, its aguachile (shrimps cooked with lemon) or the taxis called pulmonias. This is certainly the reason why so many Canadians and people from the United States buy their houses in Mazatlán.

Beach
Gaviotas Beach: meeting point of the Jet-set

This beach is the meeting point for wealthy people coming to Mazatlán. With its fine golden sand, turquoise water and quiet waves, Gaviotas Beach is sure to satisfy your needs.

Close to all commodities, you will have the opportunity to walk on the beach, go shopping in the best boutiques or let your skin get that sun kissed glow while drinking a refreshing cocktail. Whether you prefer relaxing or shopping, this place located in Zona Dorada will delight you with Mazatlán’s luxurious hotels, jewellery and fashion boutiques. 

For more information:
http://www.advantagemexico.com/mazatlan/beaches.html

History
History through its lighthouse

Creston’s Mount is situated on Mazatlán’s southern peninsula. In 1821, the Cadiz Court named Mazatlán a strategic harbour for the Mexican Pacific. Everyday, several vessels would arrive to load or disembark merchandise. In order to give direction to these boats, torches and then Fresnel lanterns were installed on Creston Mount. It’s only after 1892 that Bernardo Vásquez, the city mayor, decided to begin to build a lighthouse of importance.

We invite you to discover this place with an incredible view of the peninsula and the ocean.   

Those interested in pirate stories should know that the aquatic caves situated behind Creston Mount are legendary places where the famous pirates Thomas Clarens and Spilbergen could have hidden their treasures.  

Sport
Fishing on a high-tech boat

You love fishing or would like to discover this sport? Mazatlán is the place to go!

Take part in a fishing expedition. The marina is located on the coast and there are several location and tour centers nearby. The Vikings Fleet Sport Fishing can make you discover the best small game and big game fishing spots near Mazatlán. You will have the opportunity to fish blue marlin, black marlin, sea bream and yellowfin tuna, for example.

For more information:
http://www.vikingsfleet.com/ 

Culture
A never-ending nightlife

Mazatlán is widely considered as the best place for partying and nightclubbing! Many restaurants, bars and nightclubs are situated in the Zona Dorada. 

Bora Bora is the most popular outside beach club and Mazatlán’s nightlife is built around it! You can dance on hip hop or techno vibes, 70’s and 80’s tubes while drinking fresh juices or cocktails. Open from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m., this nightclub offers foam parties every Tuesday and Sunday. It is most probably one of the newest and most exclusive places in Mazatlán!

For more information:
http://www.advantagemexico.com/mazatlan/nightlife.html 

Hotel
Emporio Hotel

Located in the Zona Dorada, this trendy hotel with a contemporary design gives you access to many diverse activities in Mazatlán and its surrounding area. 

Among other things, this complex offers suites with a balcony to let you enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring a stunning view of the turquoise water of the Pacific Ocean! If you wish to reach new realms of relaxation, try the Jacuzzi situated in next to the ocean or enjoy the Oriental Spa. Finally, for sophisticated Mexican or international cuisine lovers, the restaurant Condimento offers a variety of exquisite dishes and a remarkable service.   

For parents: special activities and attractions are available exclusively for children.

For more information:
http://www.emporiohotels.com/eng/idt/45/emporio-mazatlan//

Restaurants
Here is a choice of three restaurants we selected in Mazatlán where Mexican and international food can be savoured in a typical atmosphere.

PAPAGAYO RESTAURANT
For more information:
Av. Camarón Sábalo 6291, Zona Dorada
Monday to Sunday, from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Tel. (669) 913-41-51
http://www.discoverymexico.com/guide/t-mazatlan-papagayo.asp

NO NAME CAFE
For more information:
Rodolfo T. Loaiza  4178, Zona Dorada
Monday to Sunday, from 12 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Tel. (669) 913-2031
http://www.discoverymexico.com/guide/t-mazatlan-no-name-cafe-s.asp

PEDRO & LOLA
For more information:
Monday to Sunday, from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Constitución y Carnaval
Tel. (669) 982-25-89
http://www.restaurantpedroylola.com/

Beach
Isla de Piedra

This island is located 25 kilometres away from Mazatlán or one kilometre from the coast (depending on the transport you take). This is a unique island in Mazatlán. In fact, this place boasts an incomparable bird diversity where tropical birds come looking for a quiet and secure place for food and shelter. They find their way through the coconut groves and mango trees cultivated on the island.

Enjoy a fresh coconut or mango juice while walking on the fine sand beach. 

For more information:
http://www.advantagemexico.com/mazatlan/stone_island.html

History
Angela Peralta Theatre

This is Mazatlán’s most famous theatre. Its incredible history will most probably convince you to attend one of its performances. 

In 1869, the industrial Blond de Martel asked the municipality for permission to build a theatre in Mazatlán in order to transform the town into an important arts centre. The theatre opened its doors on February 15 1881.

A cornerstone event in the theatre’s history, an event that gave it its current name, was the diva Angela Petra’s death in a nearby hotel.

Abandoned for several years, the municipality finally decided to restore the theatre. Angela Peralta Theatre was inaugurated in 1992… for the third time!

For more information:
http://www.culturamazatlan.com/tap1-en.php

After visiting this magical place, take a walk around the city and take part in one of the different tours offered to help you discover Mazatlán’s historic centre and charming streets. 

If you have time to spare, don’t hesitate to take a walk near the Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepcion. This cathedral is considered as an architectural jewel of the 18^th century. Many rank this cathedral as one of the most beautiful Christian symbols of North-Eastern Mexico.

For more information:
http://www.go2mazatlan.com/general_information.php

Sport
Hiking in the eco touristic Ranch El Venado

You want to leave the noise of the city behind and listen to nature instead? The Ranch El Venado is the perfect place for you!

Located only 10 km from the historic center of Mazatlán, you will have the chance to see several of the 30 animal species present in this natural preserve. Two-hours and four-hours guided walking tours are offered.

Culture
Help the turtles return to the sea

Turtles are part of Mazatlán’s culture. Unfortunately, the number of females laying eggs and of baby turtles reaching the sea is lower everyday. We now count only 800,000 females, in comparison with the 10 million females living before 1950! In order to protect this endangered species and to increase public awareness of their extremely precarious situation, Eréndira Gonzalez Diego has created a turtle sanctuary in the Hotel Estrella del Mar. This specialized center relocates turtle eggs to a protected nursery where they are free from predators and man. The eggs are placed at the exact depth that the mother laid them and allowed to incubate for 45 days to save as many as possible.

Previously, this center recruited volunteers to help during the laying and transferring period. Now, they ask for the help of tourists who want to save these turtles and protect this defenceless animal. Come to visit this center and learn more about this fabulous animal. You could have the opportunity to help release baby turtles on the beach and watch them get to the sea… Don’t miss this experience!

For more information:
http://www.estrelladelmar.com/TurtlePreserve/Turtle_Preserve.htm
http://www.csmonitor.com/2008/0902/p18s01-hfks.html#

Hotel
Hotel Estrella del Mar, Turtle’s Site 

Even though it’s located only 10 minutes away from the international airport and 30 minutes away from Mazatlán, be prepared for a complete change of scenery. Make the most out of this place and discover the incredible world of turtles. 

The hotel is also an excellent place to relax with its 4 km private beach on the Pacific Ocean and one of Mexico’s highest rated golf courses, an 18-hole championship golf course designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Jr.

You will enjoy accommodation with immediate access to the beach and the sophisticated food offered in the restaurant. We promise this will be love at first sight!

For more information:
http://www.estrelladelmar.com/Resort/About_Estrella_Del_Mar.htm

Restaurants
Here are three restaurants highly recommended for their drinks and seafood.

TEQUILA’S
For more information: 
Camaron Sabalo No. 2146, Golden Zone
Tel. (669) 913-5344
http://www.advantagemexico.com/mazatlan/restaurants.html

MR. ACE
For more information:
Gabriel Ruiz 3
Monday to Sunday. from 8 a.m. to midnight
Tel. (669) 880-579
http://www.advantagemexico.com/mazatlan/restaurants.html

LA COSTA MARINA
For more information:
Between Oceano Palace Hotel and Luna Palace
Monday to Sunday. from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Tel. (669) 141-928
http://www.lacostamarinera.com/english.html

2009 Restaurant Week

Puerto Vallarta and Vallarta Lifestyles are coming together to present the fifth edition of Restaurant Week from May 15 to 31, 2009. Puerto Vallarta's best restaurants will offer spectacular three-course menus discounted by up to 50%.

For more information:
www.virtualvallarta.com/restaurantweek

Mazatlán International Center

This center will open in July 2009, covering an area of 1,590 m2 with 2 exposition lounges and 5,773 m2 for conventions. Mazatlán International Center will certainly be one of the most important meeting places in the region, transforming Mazatlán in an extraordinary city for tourism market.

For more information:
http://media.smgbooking.com/12494_mazatlanenglish.pdf

FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2009 Qualifier

Tourists and residents of Puerto Vallarta are waiting for the Beach Soccer World Cup 2009 qualifier. From April 29 to May 3, 2009, FIFA teams from Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Salvador, the United-States and Jamaica will compete in Puerto Vallarta. A must-see event!

For more information:
www.beachsoccer.com

BOAT SHOW LATIN AMERICA 2009

The Boat Show Latin America 2009 takes place in Puerto Vallarta. It is the most important boat show in Latin America. It will take place from March 12 to 14 in the 8,000 square meters of the port administration facilities. Water sports professionals as well as visitors will admire hundreds of boats as well as collect ocean and sea related information.

For more information:
www.boatshow.com.mx