What is noteworthy about Puerto Vallarta? What are the resorts in Puerto Vallarta? What events happen in Puerto Vallarta? What marinas provide transient mooring?

Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist destination in Mexico known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural scene.

The city is located on the Pacific coast and is surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountains, which provide a stunning backdrop and house a lush rainforest with diverse plant and animal life. Puerto Vallarta is also known for being safe for tourists.

Founding of Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta, originally called Las Peñas, was founded on December 12, 1851, by Guadalupe Sánchez Torres, his wife Ambrosia Carrillo, and some friends15. 

The town was initially named Las Peñas de Santa María de Guadalupe15. It transformed into a small fishing village and served as a landing spot to receive goods to send inland3.

Cultural Significance

Puerto Vallarta is known for its cultural and artistic heritage, constantly promoting events and exhibitions that have placed the city on an international cultural level4. 

The town is home to some of Jalisco’s cultural icons, such as tequila, charrería, and mariachi, which represent Mexico throughout the world12. In 2018, the Historic Center of Puerto Vallarta was declared a Jalisco Cultural Heritage Site, recognizing the architectural and cultural value of the area12.

Key Historical Events

• In 1885, the formal port of Puerto Vallarta was established13.
• In 1918, the town’s name was changed from Las Peñas to Puerto Vallarta in honor of Lic. Ignacio L. Vallarta, a well-known lawyer and former governor of the state of Jalisco5.
• The population grew rapidly after the introduction of banana plantations in the surrounding area in the 1920s13.
• Puerto Vallarta experienced a boom in the 1960s after it was featured in the popular motion picture, The Night of the Iguana (1964)13.

In summary, Puerto Vallarta was founded in 1851 and has since become a culturally significant destination in Mexico. The town has experienced several key historical events, including the establishment of its formal port, a name change, and a boom in tourism due to its appearance in a popular film.

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There are several snorkeling tours available in the area that can take you to some of the best snorkeling spots in Banderas Bay, such as Los Arcos National Marine Park and the Marietas Islands. Some of these tours may offer snorkeling gear, but it is always a good idea to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm.

Some of the notable resorts in Puerto Vallarta include Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta, Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort, Villa Del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa, and the Park Royal.

The Park Royal is located on the beachfront and offers all-inclusive packages, a spa, and several dining options. While the beach at the resort is rocky and not ideal for swimming, there are several snorkeling tours available in the area that can take you to some of the best snorkeling spots in Banderas Bay, such as Los Arcos National Marine Park and the Marietas Islands146.

Los Tules Resort in Puerto Vallarta offers guests a comfortable stay with amenities like free Wi-Fi, outdoor pools, and a gym. The resort provides various premium services, including currency exchange, concierge services, and babysitting.

With 90 rooms, guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant and access to nearby cafes and restaurants. The location is convenient for exploring Puerto Vallarta, with easy access to attractions like Playa de los Muertos and Malecon. Overall, Los Tules Resort provides a relaxing and well-equipped environment for visitors to enjoy their stay in Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta hosts a variety of festivals, sports, cultural, and music events throughout the year. Some examples include the International Gourmet Festival, Festival Gourmet International, and the Puerto Vallarta Bachata Festival.

There are also annual sporting events such as the Banderas Bay Regatta, Annual Sports Classic, International Puerto Vallarta Marlin & Sailfish Tournament, and Puerto Vallarta International Half Marathon.

Regarding marinas that provide transient mooring, you can consider Marina Vallarta and Paradise Village Marina. Marina Vallarta offers state-of-the-art facilities and high-quality services, with more than 354 slips available. Paradise Village Marina provides various services, including dry boat storage and a clean marina program. Nuevo Vallarta is a nearby coastal town located on the northern end of Banderas Bay, known for its beautiful beaches, including a three-mile stretch of sand on Banderas Bay.

Banderas Bay

Size and Depth

Banderas Bay is one of the largest bays in North America, covering an area of approximately 1,000 square kilometers (386 square miles). It is also one of the deepest bays in the world, with a maximum depth of about 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) and an average depth of around 100 meters (330 feet). This depth allows for a wide range of marine life to thrive, from shallow reef waters to deep-sea species.

In comparison, other notable bays in the world include:

• San Francisco Bay, California, USA: approximately 1,600 square kilometers (620 square miles) in size, with a maximum depth of around 100 meters (330 feet).
• Bay of Fundy, Canada: approximately 3,500 square kilometers (1,350 square miles) in size, with a maximum depth of around 150 meters (490 feet).
• Bay of Bengal, India: approximately 2,600,000 square kilometers (1,000,000 square miles) in size, with a maximum depth of around 4,000 meters (13,100 feet).

Sea Life

Banderas Bay is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, with a wide variety of marine species found within its waters. The bay is home to numerous endemic species, many of which are still being discovered.

The bay’s unique combination of tropical and temperate ecosystems supports a rich array of marine life, including:

• Over 200 species of fish.
• Sea turtles, dolphins, and whales.
• Coral reefs, kelp forests, and mangrove forests.
• A variety of invertebrates, such as sea stars, sea urchins, and octopuses.

In comparison, other notable bays in Mexico include:

• Guaymas Bay, Sonora: known for its rich marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and whales.
• La Paz Bay, Baja California Sur: home to a diverse array of marine species, including sea lions, dolphins, and whales.
• Campeche Bay, Campeche: a significant habitat for marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and fish.

Comparison with Other Bays in Mexico

Banderas Bay stands out among other bays in Mexico due to its unique combination of size, depth, and marine life.

While other bays in Mexico, such as Guaymas and La Paz, are also known for their marine life, Banderas Bay’s size and depth allow for a wider range of species to thrive. Additionally, Banderas Bay’s location in western Mexico, near the Tropic of Cancer, gives it a subtropical climate that supports a diverse array of marine life not typically found in other Mexican bays.

In summary, Banderas Bay is a remarkable body of water that stands out globally and within Mexico due to its size, depth, and marine life. Its unique combination of tropical and temperate ecosystems supports an incredible array of marine species, making it an important location for marine research, conservation, and tourism.

Banderas Bay is a large and beautiful bay located on the Pacific coast of Mexico. Here are some noteworthy things about Banderas Bay and its surrounding areas:

Banderas Bay, where Puerto Vallarta is located, has influenced the cultural traditions of the city in various ways.

1. Cuisine: The bay’s abundant marine life has contributed to the development of a rich culinary tradition in Puerto Vallarta, with seafood playing a significant role in the local cuisine1.
2. Art: The natural beauty of Banderas Bay and its surroundings has inspired national and international artists to create and showcase their works in Puerto Vallarta, making the city an artistic center with numerous galleries and museums2.
3. Festivals and events: The city celebrates various events and festivals that showcase its cultural heritage, such as traditional bullfights, rodeos, fireworks, Mariachi concerts, and annual holiday events5.
4. Traditional practices: The indigenous people who lived in the Banderas Bay region carried vibrantly colorful flags during battle, which led to the naming of the bay as “Bahía de Banderas” or “Bay of Flags”6.
5. Maritime history: Banderas Bay has a rich maritime history, serving as a stopping point for cargo ships and other vessels during the 17th and 18th centuries6.

These cultural traditions have shaped the identity of Puerto Vallarta and continue to be an integral part of the city’s charm and appeal to visitors. Some of the cultural traditions that have been influenced by Banderas Bay in Puerto Vallarta include:

• Banderas Bay is one of the largest and most beautiful bays in the world13. It is home to a variety of marine life, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and whale watching1.
• The Vallarta Yacht Club hosts several sailing events throughout the year on Banderas Bay including the Banderas Bay Regatta and the WesMex International Small Boat Regatta156.
• Puerto Vallarta is a charming city located on the eastern shore of Banderas Bay16. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor activities156. The city is home to a flourishing cruise industry, and the Puerto Vallarta Maritime Terminal serves as a popular stop for many cruise lines1.
• Nuevo Vallarta is a nearby coastal town located on the northern end of Banderas Bay4. It is known for its beautiful beaches, including a three-mile stretch of sand on Banderas Bay4.
• Los Muertos Beach is a popular beach located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta5. It is known for its lively atmosphere, restaurants, and bars. From Los Muertos Beach, visitors can take water taxis to nearby destinations such as Yelapa25.
• Yelapa is a small fishing village located south of Puerto Vallarta25. It is accessible only by boat and is known for its beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can take water taxis from Los Muertos Beach or Boca de Tomatlan to Yelapa25.

Where are the best beaches for snorkeling in Banderas Bay? Is the best snorkeling available only by boat and what tours will take you snorkeling?

Banderas Bay is home to many beautiful beaches that offer great snorkeling opportunities. Here are some of the best beaches for snorkeling in Banderas Bay, according to the search results:

• Marietas Islands: Located on the northern edge of Banderas Bay near Nuevo Vallarta, the Marietas Islands is a top pick for incredible snorkeling146. The islands are a protected marine reserve and are home to a diverse array of marine life, including turtles, dolphins, and whales46.
• Los Arcos National Marine Park: Located in the southern part of Banderas Bay, Los Arcos is a cluster of granite islands that perch out of the water. It is a great spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, with depths ranging from 30-1600 feet4. Because of its popularity, Los Arcos can get crowded especially between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. during the winter4.
• Las Caletas Beach Hideaway: This is a secluded beach located south of Puerto Vallarta. It is a great option for both experienced and first-time snorkelers, with a diverse array of sea life, colorful tropical fish, turtles, and manta rays13.
• Las Animas: This is a beautiful beach located south of Puerto Vallarta. It is known for its clear waters and is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling3.
• Colomitos Beach: This is a secluded beach located south of Puerto Vallarta. It is known for its clear waters and is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling3.
• Playa Las Gemelas: This is a beautiful beach located south of Puerto Vallarta. It is known for its clear waters and is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling1.
• Playa Mismaloya: This is a beautiful beach located south of Puerto Vallarta. It is known for its clear waters and is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling1.
• Playa Punta Negra: This is a beautiful beach located south of Puerto Vallarta. It is known for its clear waters and is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling1.
• Playa Conchas Chinas: This is a beautiful beach located south of Puerto Vallarta. It is known for its clear waters and is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling1.
• Playa Garza Blanca: This is a secluded beach located south of Puerto Vallarta. It is known for its clear waters and is a great spot for snorkeling and swimming2.

The Marietas are known as the “Galagapos of Mexico,” as they’re home to many endangered bird species such as the blue-footed booby. In addition, there are several hundred species of fish and coral reef. You can plan on seeing dolphins year-round, while whale watching season is from December to March.

These remote islands also have a picturesque Hidden Beach that can’t even be seen from the sea. You have to get there by boat and then swim underwater to access it. They’ve started to limit access to this beach to preserve it, which is definitely a good thing. Of course, this means you’ll want to book your tour in advance if you want to guarantee a spot.

There are many operators touting tours to the Marietas, so make sure you do your research and choose a company that you’re comfortable with. Also, you’ll want to decide if you’d like to sail to the islands, or take a motorized boat. Tours include lunch, open bar, snorkelling equipment and SUP boards.

10 Best Puerto Vallarta Tours

May is a good month for snorkeling in Banderas Bay, as the water is warm and the visibility is good1. The best time of day to go snorkeling in Banderas Bay is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun is not as strong16. This will help you avoid the crowds and the heat of the day.

The best snorkeling in Banderas Bay is available by boat, and there are many tours available that will take you snorkeling. Some popular tours include the Las Caletas Beach Hideaway Tour, the Majahuitas Beach Day Tour, and the Islas Marietas Tour13. While the best snorkeling in Banderas Bay is available by boat, there are several beaches where you can snorkel without a tour. However, it is important to note that some of these beaches may not have the same level of marine life as the more popular snorkeling spots16. Banderas Bay is home to many beautiful beaches that offer a variety of activities and scenery if not snorkeling. Such as:

• Los Muertos Beach: Located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, this is one of the most popular beaches in the area. It is known for its lively atmosphere, restaurants, and bars13.
• Lover’s Beach (Islas Marietas): This is a secluded beach located on the Marietas Islands, which can be reached by boat from Puerto Vallarta. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations2.
• Nuevo Vallarta Beach: This is a beautiful beach located north of Puerto Vallarta. It is known for its golden sand and is a great spot for biking and swimming56.

Whether you are looking for a lively atmosphere or a secluded spot, there is a beach for everyone in this beautiful area.

Where do the ferries out of puerto Vallarta go? How often do they run?

Ferries out of Puerto Vallarta mainly serve nearby coastal towns and beaches that are not accessible by road. One popular destination is Yelapa, which can be reached by water taxis departing from Los Muertos Beach and Boca de Tomatlan2461014.

The water taxis from Los Muertos Beach to Yelapa operate approximately every 2 hours from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, seven days a week during the high season14. From Boca de Tomatlan, water taxis to Yelapa leave about every hour14. The price for a water taxi to Yelapa is around 120 Mexican Pesos per person one way8.

Another destination accessible by water taxi is Las Animas, which can also be reached from Los Muertos Beach and Boca de Tomatlan9. For other nearby destinations, such as Mismaloya and Quimixto, water taxis are available as well9.

Please note that schedules and prices may change, so it is recommended to check with local operators for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.

Are there any yacht clubs in Puerto Vallarta? Are there any yacht clubs on Banderas Bay?

Yes, there is at least one yacht club in Puerto Vallarta, which is the Vallarta Yacht Club, which was founded in 1994. The club is a non-profit organization of boating enthusiasts that promotes sailing and boating in the Banderas Bay area. The club offers a variety of programs and services, including sailing lessons, boat rentals, and social events. The club hosts several sailing events throughout the year, including the Banderas Bay Regatta and the WesMex International Small Boat Regatta12456.

The Banderas Bay Regatta is an annual sailing event. Here is some information about the regatta:

• The Banderas Bay Regatta is a sailing race that takes place over several days13.
• The regatta is organized by the Vallarta Yacht Club, a non-profit organization that promotes sailing and boating in the Banderas Bay area4.
• The regatta typically takes place in March, with the exact dates varying from year to year1256.
• The event includes a mandatory skippers meeting, a welcome reception, and several races over the course of several days1.
• The regatta is open to all types of sailboats, from small dinghies to large yachts13.

In summary, the Banderas Bay Regatta is an annual sailing race that takes place in Banderas Bay, Mexico. It is organized by the Vallarta Yacht Club and typically takes place in March. The event includes several races over the course of several days and is open to all types of sailboats.

However, in August 2023, the Vallarta Yacht Club was forced to move from its current location due to a dispute with the landlord34. The club’s temporary accommodation is located in a commercial building where the Hospital and Immigration Offices are. It is working to ensure that the Banderas Bay Regatta and other events, such as the International Small Boat Regatta will continue as planned.

The WesMex International Small Boat Regatta is an annual sailing event held in Banderas Bay, Mexico. Here is some information about the regatta:

• The WesMex International Small Boat Regatta is a one-design regatta that takes place over several days135.
• The regatta is hosted by the Vallarta Yacht Club and sanctioned by the Mexico Sailing Federation, the Mexico Optimist Class Association (AMVCO), the ILCA Mexico Class Association, and the iQFoil Class3.
• The regatta is a qualifier for young sailors from all over Mexico to advance to the Optimist North Americans, the Optimist World Championship, and several ILCA Class events13.
• The regatta typically takes place in February, with the exact dates varying from year to year135.
• The event includes a mandatory skippers meeting, a practice day, and several races over the course of several days13.
• The WesMex International Small Boat Regatta is one of the most important youth sailing events of the year in all of Mexico and is one of two “Signature Regattas” of the Vallarta Yacht Club3.

In summary, the WesMex International Small Boat Regatta is an annual sailing event that takes place in Banderas Bay, Mexico. The regatta is a one-design regatta that is hosted by the Vallarta Yacht Club and is a qualifier for young sailors from all over Mexico to advance to the Optimist North Americans, the Optimist World Championship, and several ILCA Class events. The regatta typically takes place in February and is one of the most important youth sailing events of the year in all of Mexico. The Vallarta Yacht Clubs temporary accommodation is located in a commercial building where the Hospital and Immigration Offices are, which presents some challenges2.

The property that the club was leasing from Paradise Village Group, which includes a clubhouse, patio area, kitchen, bar, downstairs showers, jacuzzi, pool, boat ramp, and parking lot, has been turned over to the State of Nayarit as part of the state’s program to recover disputed properties. The state declined to extend the lease on the existing property to the club14. The Vallarta Yacht Club will operate in temporary accommodations until new permanent facilities can be identified15.

The yacht club is working closely with the management of Paradise Village Group and Paradise Village Marina to find a new club space2. The move may impact the Banderas Bay Regatta, as the club’s new location may not be able to accommodate the same number of boats and participants as the previous location13. However, the club is working to ensure that the regatta will continue as planned34.

There is also a yacht club located in Nuevo Vallarta, which is the Paradise Village Marina Yacht Club. The club is a private social center for boaters and offers swimming, dining, and other amenities.

The club is located at the Paradise Village Marina in Nuevo Vallarta, which is just a few miles from Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay.

Nuevo Vallarta is a planned residential-resort community located in the Municipality of Bahía de Banderas, in the Mexican state of Nayarit1. It is situated about fifteen minutes north of Puerto Vallarta’s Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport1.

The Mexican federal government began the project over twenty years ago, and the community is now home to luxury villas and estates1. Between 1980 and 1990, Nuevo Vallarta’s population increased from 57,028 to 111,457 inhabitants1.

The town is a popular tourist destination and is known for its luxury accommodations, golf courses, and marina5. The marina, Marina Riviera Nayarit, is a major attraction in the area and offers various services for boaters3. Nuevo Vallarta shares tours, attractions, and even the airport with Puerto Vallarta, giving visitors a wide range of options during their vacation2

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The Yacht Club at La Cruz de Huanacaxtle is a small sailing club located in the town. La Cruz de Huanacaxtle is located about 10 miles north of Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay.

Taxis are available for hire and can take you from Puerto Vallarta to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle in about 30 minutes12. The bus journey time between Cruz de Huanacaxtle and Puerto Vallarta is around 42 minutes and covers a distance of around 26 km14.

Here is some information about the club:

• The club is a small sailing club that offers a variety of sailing programs and events4.
• The club hosts several sailing events throughout the year, including the Sunday long-distance race from Bucerías to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and back4.
• The club is located near Marina Riviera Nayarit, which is a full-service marina that offers state-of-the-art boating facilities, a dry marina, and a fish market6.
• Clubhouse: The club has a clubhouse that offers a variety of amenities for members, including a bar, restaurant, and private upper floor facilities1.
• The International Sailing Academy is located in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and offers Laser training with one of the best Laser coaches in the world12.
• The town is a popular destination for boaters and offers a variety of amenities and attractions, including fishing, sailing, and cruising46.

In summary, the Yacht Club at La Cruz de Huanacaxtle is a small sailing club that offers a variety of sailing programs and events.

The club is located near Marina Riviera Nayarit, which is a full-service marina that offers state-of-the-art boating facilities, a dry marina, and a fish market.

The town is a popular destination for boaters and offers a variety of amenities and attractions, including fishing, sailing, and cruising. The International Sailing Academy is also located in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and offers Laser training with one of the best Laser coaches in the world.

In summary, while the Vallarta Yacht Club faces challenges in hosting several International sailing events throughout the year, including the Banderas Bay Regatta and the WesMex International Small Boat Regatta, it can get help from other clubs that are also on the Bay. The club is being forced to move from its current location, by the government, but the club has options to ensure that the events will continue as planned.

The Paradise Village Marina Yacht Club is just a few miles away and is also on Banderas Bay. 10 miles north by water is La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and the La Cruz yacht club has an international sailing school.

What is of interest to a bird watcher in Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is a great destination for bird watchers, with over 300 species of birds2. Here are some of the best bird watching spots and species to look out for in Puerto Vallarta:

• Boca de Tomatlán – Playa Quimixto: This is the longest bird watching trail in Puerto Vallarta, estimated to be 8.9 miles long1.
• Nature Vallarta: This company offers private guided tours for small groups, with an emphasis on endemic species by habitat. Some of the species you can see on their tours include the Black Vulture, Red-tailed Hawk, Grey Hawk, Squirrel Cuckoo, Groove-billed Ani, Band-tailed Pigeon, Black-Chined Hummingbird, and Rufous Hummingbird35.
• Botanic Gardens: The gardens are home to a variety of bird species, including the Rose Throated Warbler, Graces Warbler, Bullocks Oriole, Berylline Hummingbird, Warbling Vireo, Owl, Greater Pewee, and Blue Mockingbird4.
• Golden-cheeked Woodpecker: This species is found in a limited area of the Sierra Madre Mountains and is a must-see for bird watchers in Puerto Vallarta6.

Whether you’re a seasoned bird watcher or a beginner, Puerto Vallarta has something to offer for everyone.

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Films

Banderas Bay and Puerto Vallarta have been the setting for several notable films. One of the most famous films shot in the area is John Huston’s “The Night of the Iguana” (1964), starring Richard Burton, Ava Gardner, and Deborah Kerr.

This film was a significant milestone in the history of Puerto Vallarta, as it brought international attention to the city and transformed it into a popular tourist destination.Other notable films produced in the area include:

• “The Old Gringo” (1989), starring Jane Fonda, Gregory Peck, and Jimmy Smits, which was filmed in Puerto Vallarta and surrounding areas.
• “The Border” (1982), starring Jack Nicholson, Harvey Keitel, and Valerie Perrine, which was partially filmed in Puerto Vallarta.
• The film “Predator” (1987) was partially filmed near Banderas Bay, specifically in the Mismaloya area, which is located near Puerto Vallarta.

Tours of film sites are available in Puerto Vallarta, allowing visitors to explore the locations where these iconic movies were shot. These tours often include visits to the beach in Mismaloya where “The Night of the Iguana” was filmed, as well as other notable locations from the movie.

A hurricane, Hurricane Kenna, made landfall in Puerto Vallarta in 2002. One report from that time mentioned that Kenna “brought back the beach to Mismaloya,” suggesting that the hurricane may have had a positive impact on the town’s coastline.

Additionally, there are various activities and events that celebrate the film’s impact on Puerto Vallarta, such as the annual “Night of the Iguana” tribute events, which include film screenings, lectures, and exhibitions related to the movie’s history and cultural significance.In summary, Banderas Bay and Puerto Vallarta have been the backdrop for several notable films, including “The Night of the Iguana,” which played a significant role in the city’s transformation into a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the film sites through guided tours and participate in events that celebrate the movie’s impact on the city’s culture and history.

The plot of the 1987 film “Predator” revolves around a group of elite mercenaries, led by Dutch (Arnold Schwarzenegger), who are on a mission to rescue hostages in a Central American jungle. Unbeknownst to them, they are being stalked and hunted by a technologically advanced extraterrestrial, known as the Predator, who is skilled in camouflage and has a unique ability to track and kill its prey.

The Predator, played by Kevin Peter Hall, is a skilled hunter from another planet that has come to Earth to hunt the most dangerous species, humans. The Predator uses advanced technology, including thermal imaging and a wrist-mounted plasma caster, to track and kill its prey.

The mercenaries, initially unaware of the Predator’s presence, are gradually picked off one by one as they try to survive in the jungle and complete their mission.

The film’s climax features a final confrontation between Dutch and the Predator, where Dutch manages to outsmart the alien and destroy its ship, ultimately killing the Predator.

The success of the film spawned a franchise with multiple sequels, prequels, and crossover films, exploring different aspects of the Predator universe and its characters.

Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe

The main Catholic Church in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, known locally as the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe.

This church has a rich history, with construction beginning in 1903 and the official opening in 1921. The main tower was completed in 1955, but the famous crown on the tower was not placed until 1963.

The crown had to be replaced twice due to historical events. The original crown was destroyed by an earthquake in the neighboring state of Colima in 1995, leading to the installation of a replica crafted by Carlos Terres.

The crown on the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Puerto Vallarta was replaced twice due to damage caused by erosion, weather, and a significant earthquake. The original concrete crown, built by José Esteban Ramírez Guareño, was placed on the church tower in 1965. However, in October 1995, a powerful earthquake with an epicenter in Colima caused the crown to fall off and be destroyed.

A temporary fiberglass crown was then placed on the tower, but over time, it deteriorated due to exposure to the elements. In 2009, a new crown, based on the original design by José Esteban Ramírez Guareño, was sculpted by artist Carlos Terrés and placed on top of the church tower, restoring the iconic symbol of Puerto Vallarta.

Crime and Pop Culture

The presence of numerous pharmacies in Puerto Vallarta has raised concerns about potential money laundering activities for the CJNG cartel. The pharmacies serve as fronts for criminal organizations to launder money through the sale of medications and other products. Additionally, there have been reports of counterfeit pills, including those laced with fentanyl, being sold in Mexican pharmacies, posing serious health risks to consumers. The pharmacies in tourist areas, including Puerto Vallarta, have been identified as locations where counterfeit medications are sold, potentially endangering the health and lives of individuals, especially tourists.

Mexican authorities have conducted raids on pharmacies in various locations, including Puerto Vallarta, to crack down on drugstores suspected of selling counterfeit and tainted medications. These operations aim to protect the public from establishments that fail to comply with regulations and prevent the irregular marketing of controlled medications that can endanger people’s health and lives. It is essential for visitors and residents in Puerto Vallarta to exercise caution when purchasing medications and to be aware of the risks associated with counterfeit drugs sold in some pharmacies in the area.

The OXXO pharmacies are owned by FEMSA, a Mexican multinational company that operates in the beverage, retail, and healthcare sectors. FEMSA is the parent company of OXXO, which is a prominent store chain in Mexico. FEMSA operates in various countries, including Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, and Peru in Latin America. In Europe, FEMSA operates in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands under the Valora brand[5].

Regarding the sale of drugs on Puerto Vallarta beaches, it is known that drug trafficking occurs in the area, with criminal organizations using the tourism sector for illicit activities.

The transaction typically starts with an offer to sell the tourist a cigar. If there is interest, the vendor will display various cigars including Cuban cigars which are illegal for USA citizens. Small pipes may be next to the displayed cigars and, if asked about them, the vendor will offer to sell weed and coke. CJNG has holographic labels that brand their products and the purchaser is expected to keep the label until the product is consumed.

If a USA visitor is caught with illegal drugs in Mexico, the penalties can be severe, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation. Mexico has strict laws against drug possession and trafficking, and individuals caught with illegal substances can face serious legal consequences. It is crucial for visitors to Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta, to be aware of and comply with local drug laws to avoid legal trouble and ensure their safety.

Sources
[1] CJNG Reaps Revenues From Tourist Real Estate Scam in Mexico https://insightcrime.org/news/cjng-reaps-revenues-from-tourist-real-estate-scam-in-mexico/
[2] Booming Mexico Resort Town of Puerto Vallarta is Hostage to CJNG https://insightcrime.org/news/booming-mexico-resort-puerto-vallarta-hostage-cjng/
[3] Mexican authorities shutter pharmacies in Yucatán, citing threat … https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2023-08-09/mexican-authorities-raid-pharmacies-in-quintana-roo
[4] 31 pharmacies in Mexico are shut as authorities crack down on fentanyl … https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2023-12-10/31-pharmacies-in-mexico-are-shut-as-authorities-crack-down-on-fentanyl-tainted-pills
[5] Are the pharmacies legit ? : r/puertovallarta – Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/puertovallarta/comments/18u6b9m/are_the_pharmacies_legit/