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Guide
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico π²π½
#1804
,
Nomad Score:
71%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Puerto Vallarta is a resort town located on Mexico's Pacific coast, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and welcoming community. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 300,000 residents. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speeds are around 50 Mbps, with some locations offering higher speeds. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 18.50 MXN. ATMs are widely available and credit cards are accepted at most establishments. |
π° Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | 127V, 60Hz, π Type A/B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Telcel and AT&T offer good coverage; prepaid SIM cards available at convenience stores. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Many banks accept international cards; services like Revolut and Wise can be useful. |
π Accommodation | Various options including Airbnb, local rentals, and hostels are available with prices starting around $25/night. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, most businesses accept cards, but carry cash for smaller vendors. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb is popular; short-term rentals often range from $25 to $100 per night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options like Hostel Vallarta start at around $15 per night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Zona Romantica is popular for its vibrant nightlife and proximity to the beach. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | 5 de Diciembre offers a good mix of local culture and coworking spaces. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Bamboo Coworking offers fast internet and a collaborative atmosphere. |
β Best Cafe for Work | CafΓ© de Olla provides a cozy space with free Wi-Fi and good coffee. |
πΌ Networking Events | Events are hosted at venues like The Beach House, particularly popular on Thursdays. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Expat groups on Facebook facilitate regular meetups, like the Puerto Vallarta Expats group. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber is popular, though local taxis are available and affordable. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Rentals are available through companies like Vallarta Bikes and Scooters at various locations. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Los Muertos Beach is a popular spot, easily accessible from most accommodations. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Volaris and Interjet provide local connections to other Mexican cities. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | American Airlines and Southwest Airlines offer frequent flights to the U.S. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Highway 200 connects Puerto Vallarta to other major cities along the coast. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no train service; buses are the public transport option. |
π Public Transport Passes | Buses throughout the city are inexpensive, with fares around 10 MXN per ride. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses connect to nearby towns like Sayulita and Punta Mita for around 35 MXN. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Hospital CMQ is a well-regarded facility with English-speaking staff. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga Vallarta offers various classes and wellness workshops. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Club Vida offers modern fitness facilities and classes starting at $30/month. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Lava Laundry provides wash and fold services, with same-day options. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Rappi is popular for food delivery across the city. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Tacos de pescado (fish tacos) are a must-try in local eateries. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Veggie Street offers a range of plant-based options. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | PanaderΓa El Molino is famous for its pastries and cakes. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Vallarta's Farmerβs Market offers fresh produce and local goods every Saturday. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon delivers to Puerto Vallarta with various products available. |
π Grocery Delivery | Superama and Walmart provide grocery delivery services. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The Malecon is the top nightlife district with bars and clubs along the waterfront. |
π» Local Brewery | Whale's Tail Brewing Company offers a variety of locally brewed beers. |
π· Wine Bars | La Playa offers a selection of fine wines and tapas. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Food stalls at the Mercado Municipal serve delicious local bites. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Daiquiri Dick's offers a range of international dishes with a local twist. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe is an iconic landmark. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Puerto Vallarta Art Walk takes place every Wednesday, showcasing local artists. |
π° Historical Sites | El MalecΓ³n promenade features historical monuments and sculptures. |
π Religious Sites | The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe is an important Catholic site in the area. |
π Annual Events | The Puerto Vallarta Independence Day celebrations include parades and local festivities. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Zona Romantica offers a vibrant mix of culture, music, and culinary experiences. |
π Theater Venues | Act II Entertainment offers live performances and theater productions. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The Municipal Market is popular for handicrafts and local produce. |
πΌ Music Scene | Vallarta also has live music venues like The Jazz Foundation featuring local talent. |
π¨ Street Art | The Malecon is adorned with colorful murals and sculptures. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Sayulita Crepes has cooking classes focused on local cuisine. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Galleria Uno showcases contemporary works by Mexican artists. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Casa de los Abuelos is a historic colonial-style building worth visiting. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Puerto Vallarta's heritage is reflected in its turquoise waters and vibrant culture. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Marietas Islands are a great spot for snorkeling and wildlife watching. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Sierra de Vallejo National Park offers beautiful hiking opportunities. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | The Malecon has a scenic walkway perfect for strolling or biking. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoint at Mirador de La Cruz offers stunning panoramic views. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | El Tuito is a great area for birdwatching with various native species. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Many beaches allow bonfires; check local regulations for specific areas. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | FedEx and DHL provide reliable parcel delivery services. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Tech Vallarta is known for good electronics repair services. |
π Table Tennis Spots | La Isla Shopping Village has public table tennis tables available. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Spanish schools like Compass offer language immersion programs. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | The local branch of the Biblioteca Los Mangos is a peaceful place to study. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Casa de la Cultura offers community events and educational programs. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Local cafes often host gaming nights; check with CafΓ© de Olla. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | Casino Life Vallarta provides gaming options along with entertainment. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $100,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $72,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $132,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,600 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $96,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $160,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $120,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 30%. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 10%. |
π¦ Tax System | Taxed based on worldwide income for residents with progressive rates. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 35%. |
π§Ύ VAT | 16% standard rate. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, strict rules apply for CFCs. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax based on value, typically low compared to U.S. standards. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Between 2% and 4% depending on the state of purchase. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Temporary residents can benefit from a low tax rate under specific conditions. |