The top down view from the seventh floor in Old Vallarta, or Viejo Vallarta, to the square.
Is it Frida Kahlo’s turquoise house? It’s the right color.
If it part of the Kahlo catalogue, she’s got octopus on her self portrait.
But it’s not Frida. Not enough eyebrow.
Is old Vallarta safe at night? Don’t ask when there’s a pirate ship cruising the coastline.
But I still hear it: “Are they good pirates?”
They stayed on their boat, so yes, they were good pirates. Besides, would bad pirates light their boat up?
This was Christmas season, but not a lot of Christmas going on.
No tree in the main spar or Santa on the poop deck.
Watching for pirates builds an appetite. What’s for dinner?
Fans of flaming food go for the fajitas. Maybe you’ve seen waiters bring the sizzle?
This place has a flame thrower of food going a few tables away. Who wouldn’t like to warm up beside that fire.
The plate had extra juice. No worries about catching the place on fire though. It’s not their first time, just yours.
If part of the plan is seeing the church at night, you’ve got a good plan.
The dinner stop is done and it’s only half a block away.
This is where Mexico takes a vacation. Just like Americans, they come to one of the nicest beach towns anywhere.
The church puts it in perspective. Is it safe? If numbers matter, yes, it’s safe.
Don’t wait to long to head up to the gates or they’ll be closed.
We always want to go where we can’t go, where we’re not allowed, but that doesn’t mean we can’t look in the gate.
In the right circumstances, standing at the gates is the right place.
It’s all magical in just the right proportions for church fans.
What’s more fun than wandering down el malecon after a big time out?
It’s warm, the breeze comes off the ocean, and everyone is in good hands.
Let the strolling begin.
After a good night’s sleep, hit the wings for home.
When you get back to the U.S. you’ll have a chance to interview for a Global Entry pass.
If you’ve registered through Homeland Security, paid a $100, and have a contingency application ahead of time, take the interview.
My wife did this, but my application didn’t go through. She will have an easy run through customs, then wait while I stand in line.
Sound fun?
MEXICO TRAVEL: PUERTO VALLARTA PERFECTION, pt1
About David Gillaspie
