I ON TRAVEL: Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico

I ON TRAVEL: Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico
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PHOTO FROM THE COLLECTION OF IRENE MICHAELS

Nuevo Vallarta has become a rising star in the Mexican Tourism scene since it was first established in the ‘80s. Located on the iconic Banderas Bay, Nuevo Vallarta was built from the ground up as a tourism and entertainment destination and features and impressive selection of sights and attractions. Nestled against several kilometers of pristine beachfront Nuevo Vallarta is home to world class golf courses, a wide array of boating activities and plenty to do inland including ATV and horseback riding. The Mexican government has truly built something unique with the Nuevo Vallarta project and it is well worth considering for your next vacation.

Private Villa

Private Villa

PHOTO COURTESY OF FACEBOOK

It is often the most overlooked details of a vacation that can define your experience, which is why Nuevo Vallarta has gone to such great lengths to ensure every element of your stay exceeds your expectations. The diversity of hotels, villas and condos available for your stay is staggering and features everything from the health oriented Grand Marival Spa to the luxurious Grand Velas Resort. Since the entire community was built specifically for tourism Nuevo Vallarta has been able to select only the finest and most well managed hotels guaranteeing that no matter where you end up your trip will be comfortable.

For families looking for a more private abode numerous semi-detached condos and properties and also available. Those looking to avoid the crowd should seriously consider one of these smaller properties as plenty are open for short and long term rental at all possible price points. One of the most noteworthy parts of Nuevo Vallarta is the artificial canal system that serves many of these villas and other properties. The canal system offers a unique way of navigating the area while avoiding the hustle and bustle of the city streets. At night the canals provide a quiet, romantic vista without the need to compete for beachfront space.

Hotel Swimming Pool

Hotel Swimming Pool

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Although hotels can make or break a vacation the true appeal of Mexico has always been its iconic beaches and crystal clear oceans. Beyond the beach front lounging people have come to expect from resorts Nuevo Vallarta also offers certified dive courses, snorkeling, ecological tours, whale watching, specialist fishing and a myriad of watersports from kitesurfing to sailing. The uncompromising selection of activities insures that people of all fitness levels and interests can find something to keep them occupied. The ecological tours offer an incredible look at some of the world’s most unique ecosystems and species. The whale watching and dolphin spotting can be an incredible experience, however it is the Sea Lion encounters that really set apart Nuevo Vallarta from its competition.

Visitors might come to Mexico for the beach but the inland activities available at Nuevo Vallarta are not to be overlooked. Horseback riding and ATV tours of the diverse ecosystems of western Mexico are available in addition to breathtaking zipline tours along the forest canopy. Walking tours and river rafting provide even more ways to experience the Mexican jungle so that everyone is capable of witnessing its unique plant and animal life. Tours often include visits to the Huichol Indian communities where traditional native culture still thrives in the form of traditional craftwork and tribal ceremony. Beyond jungle tours and beachfront rides Nuevo Vallarta offers many ways to unwind including over a dozen golf courses and several themed tours of the city. Whether you are interested in the cultural significance of the area or just want to sample all the food Nuevo Vallarta has to offer there is a foot tour that fits your needs.

When you are ready to return to your hotel and wind down for the day Nuevo Vallarta still has plenty to offer for the evening. Dozens of first class restaurants line the streets and specialty foods ranging from local favorites to international delicacies are available for an affordable price. The city also features a robust shopping scene for people looking for pick up a few souvenirs or those who might have forgotten something essential back at home. Food, furniture, artwork, clothing and craft supplies are all available at a variety of price ranges for the traveler on a budget and for those looking to splurge. Nuevo Vallarta is truly a place with something for everyone and is well worth considering as your next getaway destination.

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