In 2014, we decided to take a break from tradition, after spending Christmas with our children, we decided to spend New Years in Mexico. We purchased an all-inclusive package, at a beach resort, packed our bags, and the day after Christmas we were off.
I’ve been to Mexico before, but by far Puerto Vallarta is my favorite destination there. We arrived the first night and were greeted with lush cocktails beautifully adorned with colorful umbrellas. Upon checking in, we got the festivities started. We had dinner in one of the resort’s many restaurants, then went straight to a featured show, and ended the evening with a walk on the beach.
After long winters in Colorado heat, and sunshine was just what I needed. The next day after breakfast, we decided to go downtown to experience Mexico’s culture. The first of two buses we took from the resort was no different than any bus you take in the U.S. The second bus, was quite different. It was run down, loud and extremely wobbly. It felt like we were on a tractor. Most of the people who got on and off were locals getting to and from work, with the occasional tourist trying to figure out in broken Spanish where he or she were going.
Downtown, or “el Centro” in Spanish, although touristy, had an old-world charm typical of the region. The catholic church in the middle of the square displayed a Gothic look, with an alluring spiritual feel. The shops were stocked with local merchandise ranging from bathing suits to typical artifacts handmade locally. My favorite were skull sculptures, which also adorn many of the venues, streets and architectural displays. Their gory nature, colorful decoration, and skilled craftsmanship make them an interesting conversation piece for travel buffs who collect unique treasures. The skull sculptures are representative of a Mexican tradition called- El Dia de Los Muertos. They are made of clay and are dressed up in lavish costumes that feature a popular character or theme. The are really quite fascinating.
Walking up and down the street as we soaked up the culture, we stumbled upon an outdoor bar in the middle of the square known by locals as the Circle Bar. I don’t think I’ve every had cocktail like those before. Made from fresh fruit and herbs, two were enough to cause me to become very happy. The conversation was great, and we learned a lot from the natives (who, I probably get a kick out of yuppy tourists like us). Getting a bite to eat after the bar was an adventure in itself. All along the boardwalk are vendors cooking authentic cuisine that is out of this world! The flavors, the energy, the warmth of the cooks make the experience not just about eating but also enjoying a great meal in a great environment.
We took a cab back to the resort as we weren’t even sure there were buses running at that time. Upon arrival, we sat on the beach not wanting to let go of the exhilarating experience, the energy and drive the locals had so humbly and graciously shared with us that day. The rest of the vacation was good, the usual hanging out by the pool, beach activities, and a lot of eating and drinking. However, my fondest memory will always be the one day we spent in downtown Puerto Vallarta, a town full of vitality, and liveliness, and where the locals embrace culture and diversity.
