Our journey from Grenada to Mexico was long and emotional. After 22 hours of flying with a less-than-ideal airline and freezing in various airports, we finally landed in Puerto Vallarta! Feeling like true backpackers again with our bags on our shoulders, we waited for the local bus to take us to Hotel Catedral, located right in the heart of the old town (centro).
Exhausted from our long journey, we were thrilled to arrive at the boutique hotel, which featured incredible artwork and Day of the Dead sculptures. The central courtyard, open to the sky and adorned with pretty vines, made for a welcoming atmosphere. Mara, the lovely receptionist, quickly noticed our fatigue and escorted us to our room.
Once we opened the doors, we were delighted with what we saw! Two comfortable beds were ready for us to nap on, and a day bed in the corner with brightly colored pillows added a cozy touch. A flat-screen TV and an air-conditioner, luxuries we didn’t have in Grenada, were also present.
We spent two nights in this vibrant Mexican city. For the first time, we swam in the Pacific Ocean and faced its big waves, which felt immense compared to the calm waters of the Caribbean we were used to. We explored the old town, climbed cobblestone steps to lush residential areas, enjoyed beautiful views, and ate countless tacos. We even had an impromptu meetup with friends, sharing a night of fun over margaritas.
Before coming to Puerto Vallarta, we pictured it as a city crowded with resorts and tourists. However, we soon realized that area is called Nuevo Vallarta. The old town and town center still retain much of their authentic charm, with food carts, colorful homes with wrought iron balconies, laundry hanging on ropes, tree-lined parks near the river, and locals outnumbering tourists.
Immediately, we noticed the unique landscape of this part of Mexico. Lush, rolling mountains surround the vast Bay of Bandaras with its deep blue waters and golden shores, a stark contrast to the flat terrain of the Yucatan. While the Yucatan boasts turquoise blue waters and blindingly white sands, Puerto Vallarta offers a different, equally enchanting scenery.
Traveling independently to Puerto Vallarta was a fantastic experience. We stayed in a beautiful, budget-friendly hotel, enjoyed amazing Mexican food, wandered around back lanes, and met local people—all of which made our trip unforgettable. We highly recommend independent travel to Mexico. Contrary to popular belief, it’s cheaper than an all-inclusive resort package and offers unforgettable experiences outside the hotel gates.
After two days of exploration, we headed to the little surf town of San Pancho, where we planned to stay for the next two months.
To get downtown from the airport, head out of arrivals, turn left, and walk until you see the pedestrian overpass. At the base of the walkway, there’s a bus stop on the same side of the road as the airport. Catch the blue and white bus labeled “Centro” to get downtown. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs 7.5 pesos ($0.60 USD).
For accommodation, we recommend Hotel Catedral. It’s in a great part of the city, clean, with excellent staff, comfortable beds, and wi-fi. Don’t forget to check out the rooftop area. A double room costs 700 pesos for two people ($50 USD).
For cheap drinks, visit Sea Monkeys Restaurant, which offers $1 beers and margaritas all day long. For a delicious breakfast near Hotel Catedral, try CoExist Restaurant for both Western and Mexican meals. For a more authentic experience, check out El Hurachan Mexican restaurant and bar just down the road. They serve cheap and delicious meals, and the owner, Frank, is fantastic.
To travel north from Puerto Vallarta, catch a local bus labeled “Wal-Mart.” After about 25 minutes, you’ll reach Wal-Mart, where you’ll need to switch buses to your next destination, such as Bucerias, San Pancho, Sayulita, or Punta de Mita. Bus workers are available to help you get on the right bus.
