With Open Arms Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Welcomes LGBTQ Community
JOE MORALES
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is one of the most gay-friendly destinations not only in Mexico, but in the Americas. From its eclectic bar scene to its indulgent properties, it is one of my favorite places to visit, and I do often. Having spent many Gaycations roaming around the city everywhere from its gayborhood to the high-end properties in the South to the decadent yacht getaways around the Bay of Banderas, I have found some spots NO ONE visiting Puerto Vallarta should miss.
WHERE TO STAY
So, first things first, where do you stay when you are Gaycationing in PV? I have personally stayed at a variety of places, and there is certainly something for everyone, regardless of individual needs or tastes. If you’re looking for one of the international chains, you’ll have plenty to pick from across the city, from Casa Velas, Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, and The Westin Resort and Spa Puerto Vallarta in the popular Marina, just minutes from the
airport, to the Hacienda Hilton Puerto Vallarta in the “hotel zone”. Further south, in the city’s Historic Center and South Side you can find the legendary Casa Kimberly, the Grand Miramar, the Hyatt Ziva and the destination’s only 5 Dimond, all-inclusive adults only property the Hotel Mousai. Many of these properties are TAG certified and members of the IGLTA, like the Costa Sur Resort which has had an active LGBT friendly campaign for over 5 years. Each property offers its unique take on hospitality, from one-of-a-kind spa treatments, to cooking classes, tequila and raicilla tastings, wellness programs and even your own rent-a-Valentino-purse offerings. There is much fun to be had. Puerto Vallarta is also home to several gay-owned or -run hotels, including the very upscale Almar Resort, which sits on a hilltop, and is home to the very popular Top Sky Bar and Mantamar Beach Club. Smaller properties like the Blue Chairs, La Pinata and Hotel Mercurio are just steps away from the Los Muertos Beach, where you can mingle with the likes of Ross Mathews, Mama Tits, Hedda Lettuce and
many of the RuPaul’s Drag Race contestants who often vacation in this city. On the weekends, don’t miss the Adam and Steve show at Puerto Vallarta’s original luxury gay boutique hotel, Casa Cupula.
WHERE TO PLAY
Of course, you can’t go to Puerto Vallarta without going to Playa Los Muertos beach. The gay section of the beach officially starts in front of the popular LGBT hotel Blue Chairs and spans just past the Mantamar Beach Club. This is certainly the place to be if you want to see half naked bodies tanning during the day. Steps away, you will find Basillo Badillo street, where you can buy a unique souvenir from local designers like Casandra Shaw or Sergio Bustamante, who also did many of the statues located in the Malecon. If you have time, try the Puerto Vallarta ArtWalk, to start your evening with some wine and international artwork window shopping. Continue the day with a local taco tour with Vallarta Food Tours and mingle with the locals before heading out of the night. The bar scene in PV is quite extensive, offering something for everyone, regard-
