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Puerto Vallarta: A Tapestry of Color and Culture
During my stay in Bucerias, Mexico, I made a day trip to Puerto Vallarta, a 20-minute ride from Bucerias where I am living. This colonial city became famous back in the 1960s, thanks to a global tabloid sensation when Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, both married to other people were carrying on a scandalous love affair during the filming of “The Night of the Iguana” (Can’t imagine that being a scandal today!).
Puerto Vallarta features both colonial and modern architecture recognized internationally as a resort beach town. Its boardwalk, known as El Malecon, includes unique surrealist sculptures along with boutiques, galleries, bars, and restaurants. I have visited this town several times over the past 15 years, and it has undergone significant changes each time, increasing its popularity. A fun place to stay or visit throughout the year….
First, A Bit of History
Back in the 17th century, Puerto Vallarta, known then as Las Peñas was a shipping port that evolved into a self-sustaining village. It also became known for its banana plantations which helped grow its economy in the 18th century. By the 19th century, it was attracting the attention of vacationers due to its pristine beaches and landscapes and with a bit of help from Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton forbidden romance escapades.
