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Understanding the Neighborhoods of the Bay of Banderas

Puerto Vallarta has something to offer everyone. There is relaxation galore available on numerous beaches and in the privacy of your own home. Maybe it's time to catch up on your reading. Maybe it's time to write your own novel. Maybe you are interested in art. There are numerous galleries to choose from and many styles of paintings or sculpture. There are the surrounding mountains to explore with indigenous peoples to discover and learn some of the cultural differences between "modern" society and the past. You can stay on top of the news of the world with high speed internet connections or ignore the news altogether if you prefer. There are two new multiscreen movie theatres which have first run movies, usually in the original language with Spanish subtitles. You can fish, golf, play tennis, surf, scuba dive and much more. Stroll the malecon at night, expecially Saturday, and Sunday during the day. Seek out your favorite restaurants. There are literally hundreds to choose from. Why not take Spanish lessons or get involved in a local charity organization?

The greater Puerto Vallarea area begins in the central area of P V and contines south to Barra de Navidad in the extreme south of Jalisco and north to the Pacific coast outside of the Bay of Banderas.

Starting from downtown going south, there are the neighborhoods of Emiliano Zapata, Alta Vista, Amapas, Conchas Chinas, Mismaloya, Boca de Tomatlan to Cabo Corrientes at the extreme southern end of the Bay. From Cabo Corrientes to Barra de Navidad is known as Costa Allegre. Costa Allegre contains several towns and resort areas, but also much "virgin" beach property. The main areas are Cabo Corrientes, Careyes, Melaque and Barra de Navidad. From downtown PV north are El Centro, Hotel Zone, Marina Vallarta, Airport, Las Juntas, and continuing into the state of Nayarit, Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerias, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle to Punta de Mita which is the extremem northern tip of the bay. North from the bay are Sayulita, San Francisco (San Pancho), Rincon de Guayabitos, Litibu, and Lo de Marcos.

Lifestyles vary by neighborhood with unique pro and cons.

Tips for Finding the Perfect Neighborhood

1. Make a list of all of the amenities that are close by in the neighborhood you are considering as your new residence. Keep in mind what distances and routes to each of these places are acceptable and what are not.

2. Determine what the best features of the neighborhoods are. This is especially helpful if you are deciding between a few different neighborhoods.

Are there parks nearby?
Is it scenic and visually appealing?
Are there quiet areas, streets, culs de sac?
Are the people friendly in the neighborhood?
Is the neighborhood clean? Yards, streets, parks?
Are there nice trees and foliage?
Do the lots have large or small yards?
Are there walkways and are they easily accessible?
Is it a safe neighborhood?
What are the market values of the homes in the area?
Are there many houses for sale?
How long ago was the community developed?
What is the average age of the people in the area?
Are there families with small children in the area?
What is the proximity to schools?
Are there community events or organizations?

3. Walk around in the neighborhood. The best way to determine the cleanliness and friendliness of the neighborhood is to walk around in it and meet its residents.