Shopping in Puerto Vallarta

In Puerto Vallarta you can find a sampling of just about anything made in Mexico: silver, blown glass, pottery, serapes, sandals and other arts and crafts. There are a number of excellent shops - some near the beach, some in the major hotels and a great number along the main downtown shopping strips, Juarez and Morelos. This is historical Vallarta, where you take in village life while browsing through the galleries and shops that line the narrow cobblestone streets.

Las Iguanas Festival Center, in Marina Vallarta, is Vallarta´s newest shopping center. The brightly-colored two-story center features waterfalls, cascading pools and an open courtyard. One of the largest shopping centers in Puerto Vallarta is Villa Vallarta, located near town, in front of the Plaza Las Glorias and Continental Plaza hotels. There are lots of shops connected by walkways and portals to permit convenient shopping. At Plaza Malecon, at Diaz Ordaz and Allende, shops have been pleasantly arranged around a couryard, but be selective - only a few are worthwhile.

A more typical market area is the Central Market, located downtown, between the two bridges. Here, storekeepers enjoy haggling over prices and every coceivable souvenir item is available. Durable sandals and huaraches in various styles and colors also rank among the best buys. Don't overlook the fine work of Mexico's contemporary artists, found in some if the attractive art galleries in town. And remember art is duty free to the United States.

Stores in Puerto Vallarta are closed during the hottest time of day, from 2 to 4 p.m. Most open in the morning around 10 a.m. and stay open until 8 p.m., so you´ll have plenty of time to stroll the charming streets and discover your favorite shops.

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