Time Zone
Puerto Vallarta is on Central Standard Time and changes to Daylight Savings Time each year along with the United States. When it is 9.00 a.m. in Puerto Vallarta, it is 7:00 a.m. in Los Angeles (Pacific Time) and 10:00 a.m. in New York (Eastern Time.)
Latitude 20
For the best, most enjoyable, worry-free weather while on vacation, you will look no further than Latitude 20. Some of the most wonderful vacation destinations share this band around the world, like Hawaii and the Caribbean. With mile after mile of shoreline, Banderas Bay is dotted with secluded spots as well as developed beaches with restaurants and semi-private sunbathing areas. Ocean conditions are usually good for swimming, and excellent for surfing at the beaches of Nayarit.
Climate
The climate is semi-tropical with an average temperature of 75F (24C) in winter months and 85F (29C) in summer, with sea breezes year around. The months of November through May are practically free of rainfall providing day after day of sunshine, while intermittent late afternoon showers and high humidity is typical June through October
Adults
As of January 1, 2007 everyone visiting Mexico will need a valid passport (also required for re-entering the US or Canada). Citizens of most Western European countries are required to have a valid visa to enter the USA and a tourist card. A visa to Mexico is not required. Visitors from other countries and non-citizen residents of the US and Canada should check with the Mexican Embassy (www.embassyofmexico.org) for visa information.
Minor Children
As of January 1, 2007 children will need a valid passport. If you are traveling with minor children, you must have certified proof of their relationship to you and written, notarized permission from the parent(s) not accompanying them. Check with the Mexican Embassy for details.
Vehicles
Proof of ownership and Mexican Insurance are required for driving in Mexico and there are limits on the number of motorized vehicles (RV’s, motorcycles, etc.) you may bring into the country. As laws governing driving and accidents are not the same as in the US or Canada, it is a very good idea to get information before traveling from your automobile club or from the Mexican Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Puerto Vallarta Airport 2-3.5 hours from most US International Hubs. Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport lies 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) northeast of the city and is one of the most modern and convenient airports in Mexico. The entire building is air-conditioned and offers a money exchange, restaurant, snack bar, bars, shops and newsstands. Its relatively small size makes it easy to locate friends or hotel transportation meeting flights.
Travel Insurance
It is a good idea to make sure you are covered with travel medical coverage/or travel assistance coverage when visiting Mexico or any other destination you may travel to.
Cell Phones
The best advice is to call your provider and find out if your particular phone is a “Tri Band”. This allows you to use the GSM (Global System for Mobile) network in Mexico.
This will work as long as your provider has enabled international roaming on your account and there is a reciprocal agreement with Telmex (Mexico phone company.)
You need to know that roaming charges are very high. This is worth it if you plan to travel to Mexico frequently.
Know that you can buy a “Pre-pay” Mexican cell phone. This will cost between $75 and $100 for a “phone kit” which includes a phone, charger and up to half the cost price in call credit included.
.US “calling cards” are an option too. The access numbers in Mexico are:
AT&T – 01-800-462-4240 Sprint – 01-800-877-8000 MCI – 01-800-674-7000
Electrical
Local voltage is 110 to 120 volts AC.
