The West coast of Mexico, rimming the Pacific Ocean, is a paradise for those looking for a laid-back lifestyle infused with elements of the good life.  Food.  Friends.  Entertainment.  Sports. Relaxation.  All of these are found in abundance in the town of Puerto Vallarta, a Mexican landmark that has soared to fame, starting when Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton settled in to film John Houston’s “Night of the Iguana”.  The town hasn’t been the same since.

Cobblestone streets, white sand beaches, splendid fishing and fish-watching, lazy afternoons and a life of peace and tranquility are what this town located along Banderas Bay offers.  For views, the Sierra Madre Mountains rim the basin, reaching to heights of over 8,000 feet.  Jungles, quaint fishing villages, and the migratory humpback whales provide a panorama at every turn.

A strong expat community prides itself in its desire to blend in with the locals. Businesses have flourished under the direction of expats from the U.S., Canada and the U.K., and the charitable side of the new residents to Puerto Vallarta is encouraged.  Speaking Spanish is a point of pride, as is celebrating the history and festivals native to Mexico.  The goal is to assimilate, not separate.

People who choose Puerto Vallarta, Mexico  for their new home aren’t necessarily retired.  There is a large, younger population of expats who have found the lifestyle more suited to their temperaments.  Working is a part of their lives and there are business opportunities available for those who aren’t ready to end their working days. 

Families choose Puerto Vallarta because of the English-language, American School of Puerto Vallarta and its strong parental involvement.  The accessibility of an international airport and a cohesive community also draw people to this Mexican Riviera paradise. 

Puerto Vallarta’s “High Season” runs from November through May, and features an average daily temperature of 73F.  Rain is not a part of the scenery during these months.

With such lovely weather as part of the major draw, it is no surprise that golf courses, tennis courts, and a myriad of outdoor activities and sports are available.  Water sports dominate, and Puerto Vallarta is the launching pad for incredible deep sea fishing adventures.  

The influx of new residents to Puerto Vallarta has resulted in a total reconfiguration of the town’s infrastructure.  New roads traverse the city, and a major transformation has come in the water treatment.  The town boasts that the water is pure, and safe, and can be consumed directly from the tap.  The same goes for the fresh food in the markets, many of which are large, well-stocked and resemb le the markets found in the U.S.  Of course, local markets are still available. 

Modern hospitals and dental clinics with English speaking staff are found in Puerto Vallarta with many of the doctors having received their education in the U.S.  Advanced medical research is also conducted in the area and treatments are offered based on the results.

Many of the population speak English because of the demands of tourism, but it is still recommended that Spanish become a functioning second language to any person considering relocating.  Out of respect, both for the Mexicans and of them for you, learning Spanish will make a lasting impression and ensure a welcoming transition.

Technology has kept pace with the rest of the world, and high-speed internet, cell phone service and incredible satellite television that far surpasses that found in the U.S. are a part of the daily fabric.

As Puerto Vallarta is easily accessible from the U.S. and Canada, and only a two-day drive from the U.S. border, many expats flock to this Riviera locale.  A draw for those over 60 years of age is the Senior Citizens’ Benefits Program, where up to 50% discounts are offered on many services.  Couple that with the reasonable cost of home ownership or low rental prices, minimal taxes, plus the attractions placed by the Mexican government on foreign investment, Mexico becomes a lure unto itself for anyone looking for A Change of Lifestyle.