Puerto Vallatarta is far from another Mexican resort city. Named for Ignacio Vallarta, a former governor of Jalisco, it is now commonly called Vallarta by the local population, further shortened to PV by its English-speaking locals. Second only to Cancun in popularity, Puerto Vallarta offers everything from great beaches, unrivaled nightlife, gourmet restaurants, art galleries and the best in shopping that you can find anywhere in Mexico.

The city is Mexico's answer to the French Riviera, a stretch of pristine white beaches, graceful palm trees swaying in the breeze and cobblestoned streets that lead to centuries-old Mexican cathedrals and small neighborhoods of traditional Mexican homes. Puerto Vallarta is one resort city that has a distinct homey feel-a traditional little Mexican town now fitted with the best of 21th century living.

The city, originally made famous by the movie ' Night of the Iguana' which starred d Richard Burton and Ava Gardner, is now dotted with hotels for any type of traveler or budget, restaurants that offer authentic traditional cuisine to almost every type of international dish that you happen to hunger for. Puerto Vallarta is also very accessible to Mexico's largest city of Guadalajara, the origin of the famous Mexican mariachi, the sombrero and the tequila.