Amstar Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide 2021

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WELCOME TO

PUERTO VALLARTA

Nestled around Banderas Bay on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta, or P.V. as the locals call it, became a popular destination for visitors when oceanfront resorts arrived in the 1970s. Locals are open and welcoming to visitors, and provide a safe haven in which to explore the Mexican culture. Not only are you greeted with smiles at every turn, but with a plethora of activities, from ocean adventures like whale watching, swimming with dolphins and snorkeling excursions to thrill-seeking explorations on land like zip lining and rugged ATV tours.

Visit downtown for a host of shopping locales, where you will find local art, handwoven textiles, handicrafts, and fine jewelry. Dine in one of more than 250 restaurants scattered about the large, yet intimate city. Or, simply relax on the beach or poolside and take in the sunshine, as P.V. boasts an average of 322 sunny days each year! There is always something new and exciting in this growing destination, and you’ll want to come back over and over again.


EXTRAORDINARY TIMES REQUIRE

EXTRAORDINARY MEASURES

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DESTINATION ESSENTIALS

EXTREME ADVENTURE 6 HRS | INTENSE | DAILY

BOOK WITH YOUR REP OR

BOOK ONLINE

Pure adrenaline! With 9 thrilling zip lines, you can ride upside down, right-side up, and fly up to 70 miles per hour on Mexico’s longest and fastest “Superman” zip line. Then hop into Polaris UTVs and test your off-road driving skills. Have a blast as you drop down steep grades, cross rocky river beds and climb up hills. Then end the day rocketing down a hillside water slide! Twist and turn as you head for an invigorating splashdown! WHAT TO BRING

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• • • •

• Min. age: 7 years, min. height: 4 ft. • Maximum weight: 260 lbs. • ATV driver must be 18 or older and present a valid driver’s license • A $25 USD collision damage waiver (CDW) will be charged at check-in

Comfortable clothing and footwear Hat and sunglasses Biodegradable sunscreen and repellent Money for souvenirs and tips (tipping is optional)

WHAT’S INCLUDED Bilingual guide

6

UTV

Adventure equipment

Light snacks

Bottled water


DESTINATION ESSENTIALS

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE 6.5 HRS | INTENSE | DAILY

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Begin your day with an exhilarating speedboat ride across Bandaras Bay. Then board a safari-style truck for an interesting jaunt into the mountains as you head up to the base camp, where a specially designed outdoor adventure circuit awaits you. Fly through a thrilling series of zip lines and traverse, rappel, and swim your way through waterfalls, jungle bridges and natural river pools. Later, get another dose of adrenaline on an 800-foot water slide, a rip-roaring way to make a splash in the Vallarta wilderness! WHAT TO BRING

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• • • •

• Maxium weight: 260 lbs. • Minimum age: 8 years old • People with injuries and heart problems will not be able to participate • Pregnant women are not allowed to participate

Swimwear and towel Hat and sunglasses Biodegradable sunscreen and repellent Money for souvenirs and tips (tipping is optional)

WHAT’S INCLUDED Bilingual guide

Adventure equipment

Light snacks

Bottled water

7


DESTINATION ESSENTIALS

SWIM WITH DOLPHINS 20 MIN - 5 HRS | LOW/MODERATE | DAILY

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Swim with these amazing animals in state-of-the-art dolphinariums designed for maximum comfort. These incredible educational experiences are safe and fun for vacationers of most ages and swimming abilities. A variety of programs are available to fulfill anyone’s dreams. Professional photos are taken of all participants and are available for purchase after your session. WHAT TO BRING

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• Swimwear and towel • Biodegradable sunscreen and repellent • Money for souvenirs

• Min. age: varies 1-12 years old • Children under 12 years old must be accompanied by a paying adult • No jewelry or sunscreen during the program • No cameras permited in pool area • Pregnant women cannot participate

WHAT’S INCLUDED Bilingual trainer

8

Dolphin interaction

Lockers and showers

Life jackets

Lunch*

*Depending on program


DESTINATION ESSENTIALS

RHYTHMS OF THE NIGHT

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5 HRS | LOW | DAILY

Take in gorgeous views of Puerto Vallarta’s shimmering lights dotting the coastline with a cruise to the Rhythms of the Night show in Las Caletas, a cove known for its isolated beaches and unspoiled nature. There, witness a mesmerizing performance that uses colorful imagery, music and dance to explain how the human race transformed under the “fifth sun” of modern times. Later relax with a candlelit buffet dinner under the stars before your sail back to Vallarta. WHAT TO BRING

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• • • •

• Minimum age: 5 years old • Premier upgrade option offers preferential seating for show (closer to stage) and open bar • Dinner with open bar and standard seating also available

Comfortable clothing and footwear A light jacket or sweater Insect repellent and camera Money for souvenirs and tips (tipping is optional)

WHAT’S INCLUDED Bilingual host and crew

Buffet dinner

Evening show

Open bar

9


DESTINATION ESSENTIALS

HIGUERA BLANCA HORSEBACK RIDE

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2 HRS | MODERATE | DAILY

Admire breathtaking scenery on a horseback adventure in the foothills of the Sierra Madres. Beginner or expert, you’ll be paired with a beautiful horse perfect for you. Then you’re off, passing through the town of Higuera Blanca, before following the trail into the jungle and it’s tropical landscape. Later, enjoy the sea breezes as you ride along Litubu Beach with gorgeous panoramic views. Wrap up your journey along deserted back roads and return to the ranch for a tequila tasting before heading back to your resort. WHAT TO BRING

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• • • •

• • • •

Comfortable clothing and footwear Sunglasses and change of clothing if raining Biodegradable sunscreen, hat and reppelent Money for meals, souvenirs and tips (tipping is optional)

WHAT’S INCLUDED Bilingual guide

10

Bottled water

Snacks

Tequila tasting

Minimum age: 6 years old Maxium weight: 260 lbs. Must be able to walk uphill for 15 minutes and walk up steps Not suitable for pregnant women and people with back/neck pain, heart conditions, or dizziness


DESTINATION ESSENTIALS

LOS VERANOS CANOPY TOUR

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4 HRS | INTENSE | DAILY

Soar from treetop to treetop on over 14 scintillating zip lines covering more than 2 miles and fly like an eagle above the jungle floor and Los Horcones River. Admire incredible views of the jungle canopy and the raging waters of the river below. Then, slide down slippery water slides into natural pools formed by the river for a refreshing swim and kayaking. Later, visit a wonderful animal sanctuary and discover exotic tropical birds, monkeys, iguanas and other reptiles. Speedboat transportation available! WHAT TO BRING

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• • • •

• Minimum age: 6 years old • Maxium weight: 275 lbs. • Pregnant women are not allowed to participate

Swimwear and towel Comfortable clothing and footwear Biodegradable sunscreen and repellent Money for souvenirs, lunch and tips

WHAT’S INCLUDED Bilingual guide

Adventure equipment

Bottled water

Animal sanctuary

11


DESTINATION ESSENTIALS

BOOK WITH YOUR REP OR

MARIGALANTE

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3.5 HRS | LOW | DAILY

Argghhh you ready for the wackiest, most swashbuckling, fantabulous pirate show sailing on Banderas Bay? Sail off into the deep blue Pacific waters and delight in a gourmet dinner, open bar and glorious sunset during this unforgettable, family-friendly evening. After dinner, watch cursed Captain Calico face a mutiny as he runs out of time to reverse the spell that has him turning into a monster. WHAT TO BRING

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• Camera • Biodegradable sunscreen and hat • Sweater or light jacket depending on weather • Money for photos, souvenirs and tips

• 6 main course selections, including 2 vegetarian choices • Kid’s menu available • $2 USD dock fee per passenger (over 8 years old) must be paid in cash at pier

WHAT’S INCLUDED Pirate show

12

Live music

Fun activities

Pirate party

Gourmet Dinner

Open bar

Fireworks display


DESTINATION ESSENTIALS

BOOK WITH YOUR REP OR

RIVER EXPEDITION

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4.5 HRS | INTENSE | DAILY

Incredible adventure activities! Fly from platform to platform perched high in the Sierra Madre mountain treetops on scintillating zip lines, traverse heart-thumping hanging bridges, swing across a jungle river with your best “Tarzan” impression and rappel from a 90-foot cliff like a seasoned adventurer! Then hop into individual inflatable rafts for a fun ride floating down the Cuale River. WHAT TO BRING

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• • • • •

• • • •

Comfortable clothing and water shoes Wear swimwear under your clothes Insect repellent Change of clothes and extra footwear Money for souvenirs, photos and videos

Minimum age: 12 years old Maximum weight: 220 lbs. Cameras are not allowed for safety reasons Pregnant women are not allowed to participate

WHAT’S INCLUDED A/C Transport

Bilingual guide

Welcome drink

Adventure equipment

Bottled water

13


DESTINATION ESSENTIALS

TROPICAL TOUR 7 HRS | LOW | DAILY

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Discover what makes Puerto Vallarta one of Mexico’s most popular destinations. Stroll along the seaside boardwalk and cobblestone streets that feature Vallarta’s colonial architecture and its vibrant shopping district. Explore the town’s iconic landmark, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, before making stops for fantastic views of Los Arcos National Marine Park and the Bay of Mismaloya. Finish the day with a visit to a tequila distillery. Salud! WHAT TO BRING

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• Comfortable clothing • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen • Money for souvenirs and drinks at lunch

• Minimum age: 5 years old • Lunch includes 1 beverage • Additional drinks available for purchase

WHAT’S INCLUDED A/C Transport

14

Bilingual guides

Lunch


DESTINATION ESSENTIALS

BOOK WITH YOUR REP OR

WILD TREKS ATV

BOOK ONLINE

3 HRS | INTENSE | DAILY

An exciting off-road adventure through the Sierra Madre Mountains! Climb onto a rugged ATV or Razor buggy, and after a safety briefing you’ll be off to tackle the straightaways and curves of the mountainside trails! Splash through riverbeds and soak up the beautiful scenery including a splendid view of Bandaras Bay. Later, stop at a mountain ranch for a dip in natural river pools and a tequila tasting. WHAT TO BRING

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• • • •

• • • •

Comfortable clothing Swimwear and towel Sunscreen and repellent Money for optional lunch at ranch, souvenirs, tips and photos

Bring a valid driver’s license Credit card needed for security deposit ATVs: Min. age 7 years. Min. age to drive is 16 years old Razors: Min. age 4 years. Min. age to drive is 18 years old

WHAT’S INCLUDED ATV or Razor

Bilingual guides

Adventure equipment

15


11 Punta Mita

20 4 29 MARIETAS ISLANDS MORRO REEF

PUERTO VALLARTA 1 Barcelo Puerto Vallarta

18 Now Amber

2 Buenaventura Grand

19 Occidental Grand

3 Casa Velas

20 Palladium Vallarta

4 Dreams Bahia Mita

21 Paradise Village

5 Dreams Villamagna

22 Playa Los Arcos

6 Fiesta Americana

23 RIU Jalisco

7 Hacienda Buenaventura

24 RIU Palace Pacifico

8 Hard Rock Vallarta

25 RIU Vallarta

9 Hyatt Ziva

26 Royal Decameron

10 Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

27 Samba Vallarta

11 Iberostar Playa Mita

28 San Marino Plaza

12 Krystal Vallarta

29 Secrets Bahia Mita

13 Krystal Grand

30 Secrets Vallarta

14 Los Arcos Suites

31 Sunscape Vallarta

15 Marival Resort

32 Tropicana

16 Marriott Casa Magna

33 Velas Vallarta

17 Melia Puerto Vallarta

34 Villa Premiere 35 Westin Resort

LAS CALETAS Majahuitas RHYTHMS OF THE NIGHT


Bucerias Beach

26

RANCHO VISTA PARAISO

13 27 24 23 25 5 15 10 8 19 21

NAYARIT

Flamingo Golf Course

New Vallarta

SAN SEBASTIAN

New Vallarta Hotel Zone

Ixtapa AQUA AVENTURAS

DOLPHIN ADVENTURE Boca de Tomate Beach

3

16 17 35

Marina Vallarta

Opequimar Pier

7 12

Northern Hotel Zone

Maritimos 31 Terminal 6

Oro Beach

Las Palmas Beach 18

30

2

22 Muertos Beach Los Arcos Beach Olas Altas Beach Amopas Beach

9

1

Conchas Chinas

Old Vallarta Downtown Malecon (Boardwalk)

Southern Hotel Zone

JALISCO


PUNTA MITA

11

20 4 29 26 13 27 24 23 25 5 15 10

8

19 21


CONTACT AMSTAR CUSTOMER SERVOCE AT: 322 209 10 11




DESTINATION ESSENTIALS

MARIETAS SAILING AND SNORKEL

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BOOK ONLINE

8 HRS | MODERATE | DAILY (EXCEPT MONDAY)

Head out on Banderas Bay aboard a charming sailboat on your way to the Marietas Islands. Designated a national park in 2005, the waters surrounding the islands are equally famous for having been a favorite spot for Jacques Cousteau and a well known playground for 100’s of species of marine and aviary life – including sea turtles and dolphins; red-billed tropics and the blue-footed booby. Whales too… in season. There’s time for snorkeling, and depending on availability, there’s a cool option to swim through an often hidden entrance to discover a secret beach! WHAT TO BRING

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• Wear comfortable clothing and footwear and wear your bathing suit underneath • Bring a towel, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen • Money for souvenirs, photos and tips (tipping is optional)

• Minimum age: 5 years old • Port Fee is not included and must paid at check-in at the marina (30 pesos /1.5 US approximately) • Motion-sensitive guests are advised to consult their physician for apropriate medication • Not permitted for pregnant women

WHAT’S INCLUDED Bilingual guide

20

Boat ride

Snorkel equipment

Soft drinks and water

Snacks

Lunch

Open bar


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DESTINATION ESSENTIALS

PRIVATE CHARTERS & SHARED FISHING

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BOOK ONLINE

4 - 12 HRS PVT | 6 HRS SHARED | MODERATE | DAILY

With options ranging from short and enjoyable fishing and snorkeling adventures for the whole family to serious 12-hour big game fishing expeditions, an expert crew will do everything in their power to surpass your expectations. Whether you’re new to fishing or a seasoned professional, select from a varied fleet of fishing boats and let the crew take care of the rest. Just sit back, relax and enjoy the ride! WHAT TO BRING

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• • • •

• A $2 USD dock fee must be paid at the pier • Motion-sensitive guests are advised to consult their physician for apropriate medication.

Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and camera Snorkelers: swimsuit and towel Long sleeve shirt (recommended) Money for tips

WHAT’S INCLUDED Bilingual crew

22

Fishing licence

Snorkeling gear

Fishing equipment

Live bait

Beverages


A PASSION

FOR FOOD Dining in Puerto Vallarta

Whether you love Mexican food and want to sample the best, or you’re looking for international flavors from around the world, or you just can’t wait to feast on the freshest seafood caught right off the coast, Puerto Vallarta’s dining scene will not disappoint. The city offers more than 250 restaurants, ranging from taco trucks to mom-andpop spots to open-air and ocean-front dining to gourmet and world-renowned establishments.

Not only will you find Mexican food at its finest, but also Argentinian, Italian, Japanese, Mediterranean, Asian Fusion, French and more. Keep your feet in the sand at a beach location, enjoy a sunset view at a cliff-side seafood locale, or try one of Puerto Vallarta’s five-star restaurants in the city’s Romantic Zone. If visiting in November, don’t miss the annual International Gourmet Festival, a competition between the world’s best chefs where you get to sample their creations!


TEQUILA

How agave plants become Mexico’s renowned liquour Thinking about grabbing a refreshing margarita as you’re relaxing on the beach? Or calling for a round of “shots!” to celebrate a special moment? Did you know tequila was first created in the state of Jalisco? And did you know there are more than 1,000 brands of tequila to choose from? Tequila is a product made from the agave plant that thrives in Central Mexico. The ancient Aztecs would ferment the plant’s sap to create a drink called pulque. When the Spanish arrived in the 1500’s, their experimentation gave way to mezcal and further refinement eventually led to the first versions of tequila.

The first agave distillery was created by the Marquis of Altamira in a little town, named of course – Tequila. In the 1930’s, a bar owner near Tijuana created a drink called a Tequila Daisy, which was discovered by a U.S. journalist who took the recipe home. The “Daisy,” or “Margarita” in Spanish, became so popular, it is still one of the top-selling drinks at bars and restaurants today. All tequila must come from specified Mexican regions and be prepared from blue agave, or cannot legally be called tequila. Considered one of the country’s cultural treasures, tequila has transformed itself into a meaningful gift for family and friends. What did you bring me back from Mexico? Tequila!


SHOP ‘TIL YOU

DROP

Shopping in Puerto Vallarta When visiting a foreign country, taking home a piece of your destination can bring back fond memories of your travels. Puerto Vallarta is filled with shopping areas, from traditional market stands to plazas filled with local handwork and souvenirs. In the hotel zone, modern shopping malls are available, including Plaza Galerias, Macroplaza, and the Plaza Marina, where you will find stylish clothing, leather goods, and home furnishing. You’ll also find handcrafted goods and more traditional souvenirs on sale in shops along the Malecon’s bustling side streets, many open well into the evening inviting you to shop after you dine. The Plaza Market is a popular flea market-style shopping stop, where you

are free to barter with vendors for a better price—they welcome it! When shopping in Puerto Vallarta be sure to take a look at the local specialties of the region. Puerto Vallarta is known for its colorful pottery and hand-blown glass, with glass-blowing factories and shops open for tours. The nearby state of Guerrero is home to the town of Taxco, world-famous for its beautiful silver handcrafts. Capturing the essence of Mexico in its locally sourced mines, Puerto Vallarta shops and markets often feature bracelets, earrings and other silver jewelry that will always remind you of your Pacific Coast visit.



PRESENT THIS COUPON AT TIME OF PURCHASE

VALID DURING 2021

15

%

OFF Discount in our boutique


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