The old and quiet fishing village of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, became notorious when in 1963, the romance between Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton became public. Currently the city, considered a global gay mecca, attracts people from all four corners of the planet. It is during the end of year festivities that residents thank tourists, who boost the city's economy by around 90%.
"This year we have a greater flow of tourists, compared to the last three years", comments the person responsible for the Marketing department at Blue Chairs Resort, Boris Priego. Puerto Vallarta has a pleasant climate (almost the same as Brazil), something that is phenomenal for Americans, English and Canadians, “in addition to being cheaper to travel to Mexico”, highlights Canadian Cody, a visitor to Puerto.
Marketer Geraldo Rodriguez came from Mexico City and considers Puerto Vallarta to be the best place at this time of year. “The climate is great, the people are friendly, beautiful men parade their toned bodies all day, and I feel safe here,” he says.
Preparations to welcome visitors begin in mid-November and continue until Easter. So, take advantage of the fact that Carnival is over and buy your ticket, because if you leave it until the last minute, you run the risk of not getting anything.
It is in December that hotels, resorts, bars and night clubs increase the number of employees. “At this time of year I have around 55 employees,” says businessman Tony Tune. Most of these companies located on the seashore have a space on the sand, so customers can have food and drinks served by waiters while enjoying the beach.
Before falling into the night
One of the best-known spots is Playa los Muertos, in the Romantic Zone, the old part of the city. This is where the most popular bar in Puerto Vallarta is located, Ritmos Beach Cafe. The service is excellent, handsome men walk around, as well as a delicious shrimp quesadilla and a good bowl of pinacolada. The best time is from noon to five in the afternoon.
After five o'clock, go take a shower and get ready, because the night is just beginning. Before hitting the dance floor, it's worth investing in dinner at one of the most charming places in the city: the River Cafe. The restaurant, located on an island within the municipality, celebrated its 16th anniversary and has increased the number of employees by 30% since opening. The data is from the owner Margarito Larios.
Inside the restaurant, you can hear the sound of the waters of the Cuale River. What to order? How about a delicious and traditional tortilla soup with Epazote, ranchero cheese and cream, and as a main dish, chicken a la portobello. Further along (on the same island) is Café Bolero, simpler, but with a delicious menu. But if you prefer Mexican food, try a delicious molcajeteada salsa, freshly prepared, next to your table, at Margarita Grill, a simple and pleasant quiet place.
What to wear?
Remember that we are talking about a simple and warm city, if you know what I mean. Therefore, shorts and a t-shirt are a good option (but be careful, gym shorts are not worth it, so be a little careful). Take a chance on nice jeans and a polo t-shirt. Don't pack your suitcase with too many pieces of clothing, as the PV market is not that expensive and there are interesting styles.
At night every cat is brown
The party only starts to heat up after one in the morning. Local? CC Slaughter. Large space with two bars, as well as a dance floor. The architecture isn't the best, it doesn't have acoustics, but it's still worth it. Try to buy your ticket before the party starts to avoid queuing.
Invitation in your pocket, “go to La Noche for a few drinks, then stop by Antropology to watch beautiful men dancing”, the recommendation comes from the couple Tyler and Shawn, who have been present in Puerto Vallarta for seven years. Or if you prefer, go to The Palm, where there are local and international drag shows. The place is small and ideal for a good laugh. Then return to the CC Slaughter track which is open until 6am.
Eyes open
If you're the type who loves to pick up a prostitute, be careful! There are many, but pay extra attention to objects that can be stolen. They (boys) don't make mistakes. Also be careful with police officers, some tourists say, who ask for money during late hours on the street, when they decide to stop someone to search.
Where to stay?
A good option is private condominiums or apartments, with bedrooms, living room, kitchen and bathroom. This way you can gather a group of friends and have a party. There is an apartment complex, Loma Del Mar, a safe, calm and comfortable place (not 5 stars), but it is worth it. There are also hotels dedicated to the gay public, in fact, there is no shortage of this type of enterprise. If you opt for one of these, the Blue Chairs Resort is a good option. It is located on the banks of the sea and bars, as well as providing fantastic views.
Puerto Vallarta hides a secret. That of attracting thousands of people every year-end to celebrate life and diversity. And it proves that tourism aimed at the gay public is a key to the economic growth of that city, which depends on this revenue to overcome the global crisis.
*Article originally published in A Capa magazine #53
