May 14–15, 2025

Marti Eicholz

 

The Odyssey is docking in an area called Banderas Bay, the deepest and longest bay in Mexico, second largest in North America, and the seventh largest in the world.

Long before the founding of a city, before anyone lived here, this area was used as a point of refuge (a shelter to escape pirates) for ships passing through the region, carrying provisions and merchandise to and from Asia.

Now this is the home of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Puerto Vallarta, nestled between lush Sierra Madre Mountains and warm waters of the Pacific, offers a blending of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage with a charming historic center, variety of outdoor and adventure activities, dynamic arts, and modern amenities.

Puerto Vallarta, often referred to as “PV” or “Vallarta,” is a hub for artistic and cultural activity, with numerous art galleries with traditional Mexican paintings and contemporary pieces, and street art highlighting local and international talent. Its main attractions are beaches, water sports, sport fishing, and golf. Puerto Vallarta exports bananas, coconut oil, products from pigs, horses, bees and manufactures clothing, processed foods and furniture.

There is something special, a slice of paradise, that perfect spot for everyone to explore, whether you choose Old Town, the Historic Center with its charming cobblestone streets, a thriving art scene, or a beautiful beach. The picturesque beaches of Puerto Vallarta are some of the most beautiful with pristine waters and soft golden sand, ideal for swimming and various water activities. Do you prefer the youthful and festive atmosphere of Los Muertos Beach or the tranquil, peace and quiet sands of Conchas Chinas for relaxation? It’s your choice.

Thrilling adventure awaits exploring beaches by boat, venturing into lush jungles on an ATV, horseback riding through rural countryside trails, or taking a day trip to the Marietas Islands for snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to marvel at the incredible marine life.

Stroll along Malecón, a bustling seaside promenade, stretching over a mile along the coast. This walkway offers art pieces, live performances, delicious street food vendors, shopping for local crafts, culture, and spectacular ocean views.

The Malecon and its sculptures are must-see. The Rotunda of the Sea means “The Roundabout of the Sea,” comprising of a group of sixteen bronze sculptures, eight monumental and eight small ones.

"In Search of Reason" is a set of three bronze sculptures, consisting of three surrealist human figures: one with open arms; the other two ascend a staircase, the tallest on the top step. You can interact with the standing figure.

“Rain” is a monumental bronze sculpture, representing bathers who come to cool off on the beaches of Puerto Vallarta. The young man extends both arms, palms upward, receiving drops of rain.

“Triton and Mermaid” figures are the official symbol of Costalegre, Puerto Vallarta’s sister beach destination.

“The Boy on the Sea Horse” is a replica of the original piece on Pilitas Beach, south of the Romantic Zone.

Nearby are The Arcos del Malecón, four large decorative stone arches from a colonial hacienda near Guadalajara. These arches become a backdrop for the open-air theater, where children and families enjoy free shows, musical festivals, clown shows and even folk-dance exhibitions by the sea.

Just south of Puerto Vallarta, there is a Botanical Garden where you can enjoy fabulous flora and fauna in an area of ​​64 acres.

Nature enthusiasts are thrilled by the diverse eco-adventures, nestled amidst lush jungle and beautiful coastline. Embark on a thrilling zip line tour through the rainforest. Explore the scenic Los Arcos Marine Park by kayak, paddle board, or snorkeling.

Distinctive mammalian species like White Tailed Deer, Wild Boar, Armadillo, Badger, Coyote, Skunk, Rabbit, and a variety of cats like legendary Jaguar, Jaguarondi, Puma, Ocelots and small Margays inhabit the verdant forests surrounding Puerto Vallarta.

Between the months of November to March you can experience majestic humpback whales frolicking in Banderas Bay.

Once a sleepy village, Puerto Vallarta turned into a celebrity hotspot in 1964 when Elizabeth Taylor scandalously moved here to be with her then-married-to-someone-else lover, Richard Burton, who was busy starring in the film, “The Night of the Iguana.”Richard and Elizabeth built two houses, connected by a bridge, making their love story a reminder for all times.

Puerto Vallarta, a film location, served as a backdrop for movies like "The Night of the Iguana" and "Apocalypse Now,"

The thriller, The Domino Principal (1977), starring Gene Hackman and Candice Bergan, features scenes of the Malecon, the main plaza, and the Romantic Zone areas of Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta is full of curious facts and thanks to its unique history, there will always be new stories to discover.

The charming Romantic Zone is a spirited neighborhood, exuding charm and character. Wander the quaint cobblestone streets, admire the colorful buildings, and check out the array of cozy cafes and boutiques. Stop by the stunning Los Muertos Pier for a breathtaking sunset.

Puerto Vallarta is a welcoming and friendly destination with the LGBT community, calling it the “San Francisco de México.” The community is concentrated in the Romantic Zone area.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is nominated for the prestigious Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 for “The World’s Friendliest City,” It has a magical authentic Mexican taste and spirit. It is defined by the natural charm of its beaches, essence of its culture, its cuisine, its traditions, and the warmth of being welcomed like a friend.

When the sun sets The Odyssey offers several possibilities: chat with friends, sit back and listen to Mark create some great piano sounds, solve a puzzle, attend Showtime, “The Glam Dark” presented by Shari Mocheit, or enjoy a mellow evening sipping your favorite drink.

Whatever the choice, I am assured of a blissful evening at sea.

P.S. Some additional interesting and unusual happenings at this port: A sizable portion of my shipmates flocked to the Walmart and Sam’s Club, both close to the dock. A smaller group had scheduled appointments with the Clinic that specializes in “stem cell therapy” for their injections.