This once-sleepy fishing village became a popular resort after The Night of the Iguana was filmed here in 1964. Nestled on the 28-mile curve of Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta has steadfastly held on to its character. Red tile roofs and rows of balconies, spilling over with colorful bougainvillea, still line its cobblestone streets. A pleasure for both the eye and the camera. Mexico's currency is the peso (MXN). The $ sign is used to refer to pesos, so don't be shocked at the price tags. Any prices in U.S. dollars are listed as US$ or USD. Many hotels, restaurants and shops also accept major credit cards, which usually offer you a good exchange rate.

Time Zone
Puerto Vallarta is on Central Standard Time and changes to Daylight Savings Time each year along with the United States. When it is 9.00 a.m. in Puerto Vallarta, it is 7.00 a.m. in Los Angeles (Pacific Time) and 10.00 a.m. in New York (Eastern Time).

Drinking Water
The water that leaves the municipal treatment plant has been certified as safe for drinking for many years. The water department (SEAPAL) samples, tests and certifies the water in all hotels monthly, and restaurants (by law) serve only purified water.

Safety/Crime

   Theft is common, so remember to hold onto your valuables and don't wear expensive jewelry.  If you go for a swim don't leave your belongings unguarded.