Advertiser DisclosureAdvertiser Disclosure Travel Partnerships Manager and Podcast Co-Host 163 Published Articles 696 Edited Articles Opinions and recommendations are ours alone The author traveled as an invited guest of the Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta; Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa; and the W Punta de Mita The hotels had no input in this article; all opinions are the author’s own I recently had the pleasure of checking out 3 different Marriott resorts in Puerto Vallarta Puerto Vallarta; Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa; and W Punta de Mita While these 3 resorts are all part of the Marriott Bonvoy family each will appeal to different types of travelers I did the “hard work” of checking out all 3 to help you choose the best option for your next vacation Let’s jump into the fun details of these 3 Puerto Vallarta resorts These resorts were all very different and you may be wondering which one is the best choice for your vacation Here’s a quick look at some of the main highlights of each resort Keep reading for a more in-depth look at each resort with photos Westin Puerto Vallarta Marriott Puerto Vallarta W Punta de Mita There isn’t a universal choice between these 3 properties that fits every type of traveler it’s important to consider each hotel’s features and how they fit your needs Choose the Westin Puerto Vallarta if: Choose the Marriott Puerto Vallarta if: Choose the W Punta de Mita if: All 3 resorts I visited are part of the Marriott family of brands and are bookable using Marriott Bonvoy points Prices vary based on the time of year and the room category you’re booking Here’s what you can expect for starting prices (for the base-level room) in both Marriott Bonvoy points and cash (taxes and fees included) at each of these resorts: The Westin Puerto Vallarta will transition to an all-inclusive resort in 2026 Both the Westin and Marriott could be great options if you’re looking for places to use 35,000-point or 40,000-point free night certificates (remember, these can be topped off with up to 15,000 points) while the W Punta de Mita would be a great spot to redeem a 50,000-point certificate You can earn free night certificates through Marriott Bonvoy credit cards or the 75-night Choice Benefit If you’re a bit short on Marriott Bonvoy points you’re in luck because there are many ways to earn them One of the best ways to earn Marriott Bonvoy points is by using a Marriott Bonvoy credit card: The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status. Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit CardA great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status Welcome OfferEarn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.30,000 pointsUP's Offer Valuation*:$210Annual Fee$0APR20.49% - 27.49% VariableCredit RecommendedUpgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8 one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.Good to Excellent (670-850)Why We Like This CardCasual travelers who like to frequent properties that are part of the Marriott Bonvoy collection of brands may want to consider the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card The Marriott Bold card rewards cardholders for Marriott stays and gives them a boost towards Marriott Bonvoy elite status Marriott Bonvoy Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit CardMarriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays Welcome OfferEarn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) plus 50,000 bonus points after qualifying purchases.Up to 3 Free Night Awards + 50,000 pointsUP's Offer Valuation*:Up to $1,400Annual Fee$95APR20.49% - 27.49% VariableCredit RecommendedUpgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8 one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.Good to Excellent (670-850)Why We Like This CardIf you’re a frequent traveler and a Marriott loyalist there’s a lot to love about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card The card comes packed with several great benefits like a free hotel night once a year automatic Silver Elite status (with a fast-track to Gold Elite status) Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)Apply With ConfidenceKnow if you're approved with no credit score impactIf you're approved and accept this Card the latest mid-tier offering in the Marriott Bonvoy lineup of cards offers cardholders automatic elite status and ways to earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on each of their stays and daily purchases So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet Additionally, you can transfer points from Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, or Bilt Rewards If you’re paying cash for your stay at any of these hotels, you can earn 3x to 6x points by using a Marriott Bonvoy credit card, in addition to points you’ll earn if you have Marriott Bonvoy elite status The first stop on my trip was the Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta This resort has been undergoing a multi-million dollar full renovation and plans to debut in 2026 as the Westin brand’s first all-inclusive resort in Mexico Much of the renovation has already been completed About 10 minutes from the airport and across from the marina this resort is a great option for travelers who want to be close to the action I enjoyed walking across the street to visit the local shops and restaurants There’s an evening art market every Thursday from October through May at the marina just a few minutes from the Westin Puerto Vallarta I felt at home as soon as I walked into the open-air lobby My husband and I were greeted and offered a refreshing welcome drink to enjoy while we checked in we were directed to the elevators and made our way to our room The hotel is undergoing renovations to both guest rooms and common areas a Sky Pool Junior Suite room with a king bed and plunge pool a heated plunge pool (heated to perfection At the center of my room was the Westin Heavenly Bed 2.0 With fluffy pillows and crisp white linens There were also 2 small couches and a table but the family pool was the hotel’s highlight it was the warmest resort pool I have ever experienced If you value a warm pool and lots of shade like me stop what you’re doing and book a trip to the Westin Puerto Vallarta right now The second pool (which was also heated but not quite as warm as the first pool) was right in front of the dream pool and featured a swim-up bar the Westin Puerto Vallara had something that even many high-end resorts don’t have: cushioned lounge chairs for everyone there’s a dramatic difference in comfort between a cushy lounge chair and a standard thin mesh lounge chair The small beach is situated between 2 breaks and the views of the city and mountains in the distance were lovely The Westin Puerto Vallarta features 2 important details that even many high-end resorts don’t get right — well-heated pools and cushioned lounge chairs The hotel set up a private sunset picnic on our first night in Puerto Vallarta I felt very boho-chic as I dined on fancy cheeses and chocolate-covered strawberries as the sun set over the ocean the dining options at the Westin Puerto Vallarta were limited As part of the resort’s multi-million dollar renovations 12 new dining concepts will be introduced beginning in 2025 I was treated to a massage and hydrotherapy (hot and cold plunge with a small indoor pool) at The Spa at the Westin Puerto Vallarta which can be accessed if you have an appointment or book a Heavenly Pass for MX$600 ($30) The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy a beach vacation in Mexico including beautiful heated pools and cushioned lounge chairs all guest rooms have a private balcony (some even have heated plunge pools) with views of Banderas Bay and the Pacific Ocean The hotel is currently undergoing renovations including the addition of 12 new dining concepts and will transition to an all-inclusive resort in 2026 The new dining options weren’t quite ready when I was there so I will definitely be planning another trip It’s also across the street from the Puerto Vallarta marina so guests can access shops and restaurants just a few minutes away numerous group tours leave from the marina — a super convenient option if you’d like to explore the area The Westin Puerto Vallarta does many things right (things that even resorts that cost twice as much may not do) and rooms with ocean views and heated plunge pools The second stop on my tour of Marriott hotels in Puerto Vallarta was the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa It is located about 0.6 miles from the Westin and is a larger so we grabbed a table at Las Casitas for lunch I was ready to continue my Mexican Marriott adventure You can purchase an all-inclusive package for the Marriott Puerto Vallarta that includes access to all 6 of the resort’s restaurants I stayed in a recently renovated 1-bedroom Junior Suite modern design of the room gave a nod to mid-century modern design but still had a tropical flair The most prominent feature of the main room was one of the more unique (and fun) features I have seen in a hotel room — a hammock The bedroom featured a king-sized bed and had direct access to the patio My bathroom was both functional (there was plenty of counter space and the shower and toilet were separate) and beautiful (check out this amazing green tile behind the mirror) narrow balcony had entrances from the living room and bedroom I still had a nice view of the resort and the ocean The massive pool at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort looks out onto the beach Although the pool deck was crowded during my stay there was always plenty of room to move about in the pool itself I recommend renting a Bali bed to get a more comfortable sitting spot with shade and personalized service Bali beds at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta are super affordable — depending on the location prices range from MX$1,600 to MX$2,200 ($79 to $109) There was also a separate pool area perfect for little kids One of my trip’s best dining experiences was at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta’s Herb Garden My husband and I enjoyed the Jalisco at Your Table menu served under twinkling lights in a private garden setting The menu featured fresh and flavorful local ingredients It was wonderfully elegant without being pretentious I enjoyed using the steam room and hot plunge pool before my facial (available to guests even without an appointment) There were also separate relaxation rooms for men and women The Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa is a family-friendly resort that won’t break the bank It has a larger beach area than the Westin Puerto Vallarta and offers a livelier atmosphere It could be a great choice for your family vacation if you want pool and beach time at a reasonable price It’s also conveniently located less than 10 minutes from the airport— which could be especially important if you’re traveling with kids who won’t tolerate a long car ride after a day of travel You can easily explore the local area with a guided city tour including pickup from the Westin Puerto Vallarta or Marriott Puerto Vallarta The last stop on my Marriott Bonvoy Puerto Vallarta tour was the W Punta de Mita this hotel felt a world away from the Westin and Marriott The first thing you’ll notice at the W Punta de Mita is the eye-catching Camino Huichol a walkway that stretches from the lobby to the beach With over 751,000 hand-placed mosaic tiles representing elements from the Wixarika culture this stunning piece of art is a gorgeous centerpiece for the hotel Base-level rooms start at around 56,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or $318 (including taxes and fees) per night Most cash rates include breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children I spent 2 nights in the exquisite Marvelous Suite (prices start around $1,709) The first thing I noticed when I entered the massive room (1,345 square feet to be exact) was the indoor and outdoor shower I soon realized that the Marvelous Suite’s bigger-than-big 2-person indoor shower opened to a courtyard with an outdoor shower and tub surrounded by tropical plants I have a bit of an obsession with hotel showers The bedroom and living room areas had high ceilings with neutral but tropical decor the highlight of the room was the exquisite outdoor patio our private patio included 2 cushioned loungers and a plunge pool heated to a near-perfect temperature A gate at the far end of our patio gave us quick access to the adults-only pool is one of the best I have ever experienced Crashing waves and mountain silhouettes in the distance combined for a spectacular setting that had me looking up real estate prices on some of the new developments in the area ($2.5 million for a beachfront condo When the sun shined on the flat expanses of sand it gave the impression that they were covered in thousands of sparkling diamonds as you may see a whale or even a turtle heading back to the ocean (we saw a turtle on our last morning) While this beach is a 10/10 for walkability and looks there were some serious waves better suited to surfers than swimmers There are 2 pools at W Punta de Mita — the WET Deck and WET TOO which stretches along the Camino Huichol walkway Punta Mita is a great area for surfing. You can try it out during a private surf lesson — a surf school is just 10 minutes from the W Punta de Mita and juice were delivered promptly and set adrift in the pool This private dining venue serves a 7-course dinner for up to 10 people and is in the middle of a lake While the W Punta de Mita isn’t an all-inclusive resort, you can purchase an all-inclusive meal plan. The W Unlimited plan includes access to 6 of the resort’s restaurants and bars — Spice Market Rubra and Mesa 1 aren’t included in the W Unlimited plan The AWAY Spa at W Punta de Mita offers customized treatments One of the highlights was the outdoor hydrotherapy pools Access is included with any treatment at the AWAY Spa Choose the W Punta de Mita if you’re looking for a secluded are willing to splurge for a truly spectacular room or consider a quiet walk on the beach part of your perfect vacation day My stay at the W Punta de Mita was spectacular the resort grounds were lush and beautiful was one of the top 3 hotel rooms I have ever stayed in offering amenities catering to different types of travelers the Westin Puerto Vallarta is the best choice for a quiet getaway for travelers who value a shady The Marriott Puerto Vallarta is the best choice for families traveling with kids or looking for a lively atmosphere The W Punta de Mita is the best choice for a luxurious Do you want even more Marriott options in Puerto Vallarta the Marriott Puerto Vallarta isn’t all-inclusive an all-inclusive plan can be purchased that includes access to 6 of the resort’s restaurants No, the W Punta de Mita isn’t all-inclusive, but there is an all-inclusive option. The W Unlimited plan includes 6 of the resort’s restaurants and bars — Rubra and Mesa 1 aren’t included there are all-inclusive Marriott resorts in Puerto Vallarta Delta Hotels Riviera Nayarit is all-inclusive and the Sheraton Buganvilias Resort and Convention Center and Marriott Puerto Vallarta have all-inclusive options The Westin Puerto Vallarta will become an all-inclusive resort in 2026 There’s an all-inclusive plan available at the W Punta de Mita the Westin Puerto Vallarta doesn’t offer an all-inclusive plan the resort is adding 12 new dining concepts in 2025 and will become an all-inclusive resort in 2026 The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card, click here.For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® card, click here Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016 and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter We respect your privacy. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy  and terms of service  apply OFFER ENDING SOONChase Sapphire Preferred® Card LIMITED TIME TRAVEL OFFERThe Business Platinum Card® from American Express BEST LOUNGE ACCESSThe Platinum Card® from American Express Privacy Policy | All Guides | Terms & Conditions | Web Accessibility Policy | Cookie Policy travel information and ancillary information concerning travel and credit cards The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial LLC uses reasonable efforts to maintain accurate information on the site — and prior to applying for any credit card offers found on UpgradedPoints.com all visitors should review other features of such credit cards including but not limited to interest rates and should determine the suitability of such credit cards considering their own individual financial position as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases Editorial Disclosure: The content featured on UpgradedPoints.com has not been influenced or reviewed by the credit card companies mentioned comments and analyses are the responsibility of the author(s) and not any Advertiser or credit card issuer Unico Hotel Collection will open its second property, UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta, on Sept all-inclusive resort will feature 141 rooms and continues the brand's focus on local culture and immersive experiences "UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta creates an intimate luxury getaway for our guests without jeopardizing the elements of the all-inclusive experience we've mastered," said Ash Tembe vice president of sales and marketing at AIC Hotel Group The property will include three specialty restaurants: Agua Madre serving Mexican cuisine Lia offering Italian dishes and KOBO featuring Japanese-inspired food The resort will also house the Esencia Wellness Spa and Cafe Inez the Riviera Nayarit location was selected for its proximity to Puerto Vallarta's historic downtown Unico Hotel Collection launched its first property over seven years ago and plans further expansion across new regions worldwide Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI based on a press release distributed by Unico Hotel Collection It was fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor Copyright © 2025 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved. 301 Route 17 N, Suite 1150, Rutherford, NJ 07070 USA | Telephone: (201) 902-2000 May in Puerto Vallarta is heating up — not just with that looming summer humidity but with a calendar packed full of art exhibitions cultural festivals and LGBTQ+ Pride events there’s no shortage of things to do in Mexico’s Pacific playground this month Here’s your go-to guide for what’s happening in Puerto Vallarta this May Don’t miss “Impressions,” a solo exhibition of collagraph prints by Cuban-born artist Joaquin Bolivar Thomas at Art VallARTa offering a chance to meet the artist and experience his textured One of Puerto Vallarta’s biggest annual celebrations is back. Fiestas de Mayo brings top acts from the regional Mexican music scene to the Explanada Vallarta Arena sporting events and food stalls featuring classic Jalisco fare; think tacos al pastor Touring Mexican superstars Grupo Firme are among the headliners Join the community in a powerful demonstration of solidarity and inclusion during the Marcha contra la Homofobia commemorating International Day Against Homophobia brings together activists and allies to stand against discrimination and celebrate the diversity of Puerto Vallarta Puerto Vallarta’s world-renowned LGBTQ+ Pride celebration returns with the theme “Revolution: The Future Has No Gender.” Events will include the vibrant Pride Parade, pool parties, drag performances, beachside celebrations and more. More details coming here soon Held at the chic Almar Resort, the Red Gala is a stylish evening of film The night includes a screening of Happy Together a red-themed dress code and honors for HIV/AIDS awareness activists Dress your dog in their most fabulous outfit and head to Parque Lázaro Cárdenas for live music Local pet businesses will be showcasing their products This five-day celebration for LGBTQ+ women offers everything from beach parties and themed mixers to community events at the all-inclusive Hilton Vallarta Riviera Resort Bearadise® Bear Pride returns with signature events like the Bearwatch Beach Party at Las Caletitas Adventure meets Pride in this jungle bash hosted by CurielXperience sip margaritas from the open bar and chow down at the taco bar— all while zip-lining and playing wild party games ADVERTISE WITH MND COMMUNITY GUIDELINES Subscription FAQ's Privacy Policy Mexico News Daily - Property of Tavana LLC 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Tryst Puerto Vallarta officially opened its doors with a weekend-long celebration that brought together some of the biggest names in entertainment and LGBTQ+ culture for an experience that was as glamorous as it was groundbreaking Curated by Tryst founder and “CEO of Everything Gay” Tristan Schukraft the grand opening weekend was a love letter to queer joy and luxury featuring exclusive performances and nonstop rooftop revelry in Zona Romántica “I wanted to create the kind of hotel I was always searching for—where the cocktails are cold and you can wear the tiniest swimsuit you own without a second glance,” said Tristan Schukraft “Our grand opening weekend was everything a gay luxury hotel should be—drag queens diving into the pool and a sea of friends (and future friends) around every corner and built for men who crave the finer things… with just the right amount of mischief.” The festivities kicked off Thursday with a Welcome Dinner & Show featuring powerhouse performances by Taiga Brava and Vincint setting the tone for what would become a legendary weekend The party continued into the night with a DJ set by drag superstars Gottmik & Violet Chachki Matt Rogers hosted the Opening Night Party where guests were treated to a surprise appearance by the legendary Jennifer Coolidge and an electrifying DJ set by Leland and friends lighting up the crowd as she danced to her iconic anthem The celebration continued with a rooftop fireworks spectacular over the Pacific and revelers kept the party alive well into sunrise Saturday delivered a show-stopping Drag Brunch hosted by The Tryst Puerto Vallarta’s star queens—Pelayo and Queerboy—joined by the legendary Shea Couleé The celebration rolled straight into an epic Rooftop Pool Party with music by Leland and friends that kept the energy high all the way through sunset The VIP guest list included Antoni Porowski Located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica The Tryst is a luxury sanctuary designed by the award-winning team behind the Four Seasons Tamarindo With 53 custom guest rooms and suites—many featuring open air showers private terraces and ocean views—the hotel offers an immersive blend of modern Mexican design and world-class hospitality crafted specifically for gay travelers The Tryst delivers its signature poolside glamour and brunchtime drama with the Wettest Drag Brunch in the World and rooftop pool parties that draw global talent and the city’s most magnetic crowd elevated amenities for gay travelers throughout their stay every detail is an invitation to be your best self—even on your worst behavior a flagship property located on The Waterfront in the heart of The Pines The Tryst San Juan is set to be completely reimagined and relaunched in 2026 Canada’s Drag Race winner Venus issued an apology after clearing up assault allegations against police in Puerto Vallarta the season four winner claimed that she was “abducted” “choked and kicked” by local authorities Taking to her Instagram story, Venus shared disturbing images of her body along with a statement detailing the alleged assault “Got abducted by the “police” and was handcuffed and tossed around in the back of a truck hatchback where I was choked and kicked for an hour,” wrote Venus adding that she had $1000 and her headphones stolen Venus assured fans that she was safe and “still gathering all the details” about the incident adding: “We are working with the respective authorities to come to some sort of resolve.” the 29-year-old performer returned to Instagram to give clarity on the situation revealing that the police did not physically harm or abduct her I want to take a moment and provide some clarity to my earlier post regarding an incident that took place during my stay in Puerto Vallarta I shared concerns about my treatment at the hands of the local police department after blacking out unexpectedly,” she wrote combined with the status of my physical injuries led me to believe that something serious had happened while I was detained.” Venus went on to say that after working with representatives from the authorities she gained “additional context” and recognised that her initial response was made “prematurely and without all the facts.” “It was made clear to me that I was involved in an altercation I can confirm that this occurred prior to any police involvement and is not the result of a wrongful abduction or brutality by the authorities,” she continued Venus uploaded another post to her Instagram apologising for her “terrible accusations and assumptions.”  This apology goes directly to the community here in Puerto Vallarta I really f**ked up,” she said at the start of the video “I made some terrible accusations and assumptions about what had happened the other night – just because I blacked out [But that] doesn’t excuse my behavior in perpetuating the stereotypes that this is an unsafe place and creating a narrative without actually knowing what had happened That was foolish and extremely ignorant of me Venus went on to say that she has “been called out and called in” before expressing her intent to learn from the situation I’m the type of person that I learn from my mistakes; I can guarantee you that,” she continued this is something that I should’ve known better I should’ve known the harm that these assumptions have on other indigenous people in the world because I know what it [does to] my own community Mexico and Puerto Vallarta is an extremely beautiful place.” Venus praised the Puerto Vallarta community before apologising again for her “actions and jumping to conclusions.” but this is coming from a very raw and real place I can only promise to do better before moving forward,” she continued Check out Venus’ full apology video here or below A post shared by Venus Sherwood (@legallyvenus) Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker Sonja Morgan and more attended the grand opening of The Tryst hotel in Puerto Vallarta Jalisco’s Secretary of Tourism, Michelle Fridman, recently visited the Office of Sexual Diversity in Puerto Vallarta and highlighted the important work they do on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community which recently moved to Lázaro Cárdenas Park also known as “Parque de Los Azulejos.” This initiative reflects the authorities’ commitment to supporting and recognizing efforts that promote inclusion and diversity in this city Héctor Ramírez Betancourt, head of this office, welcomed the state official and showed her this space, which recently moved to Lázaro Cárdenas Park, also known as “Parque de Los Azulejos,” where a variety of services are offered, including legal consultations with attorneys specializing in issues related to sexual diversity. “We were very pleased to welcome the secretary, who recognized the work we’ve done thanks to the support of our president, Luis Munguía. We’re also working with other departments during this vacation period,” said Ramírez Betancourt. I agree to receive email updates and promotions. Enter Your First Name and Email to get breaking news and other email updates. Then Click Submit Discover gay Puerto Vallarta with Out & About Puerto Vallarta, named PV's best LGBTQ+ print and online media outlet. Out & About PV, S. DE R.L. DE C.V. Office Address: Calle Bolivia 1631, Col. Lazaro Cardenas, 48330 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. 2025 at 11:55 AMJohanna FerreiraJohanna FerreiraLike many Americans my sister got married at a resort in Playa Mujeres it — like other tourist-heavy beach towns in Mexico such as Los Cabos and Tulum — felt disconnected from the local culture and community My second visit to Mexico City in 2023 offered a deeper more authentic connection to the country's soul but I found myself missing the warm sands and calm beach waters I enjoyed in Cancún I knew that the next time I returned to Mexico I wanted a destination that offered both: stunning beaches and immersive cultural experiences As a Latina with roots in Latin America — the Dominican Republic specifically — the balance has become increasingly important to me It's a beach town rich in history with romantic cobblestone streets and a deep respect for Mexico's vibrant culture I was fortunate to be part of a small group of journalists invited on a four-day, three-night stay at the Hilton Vallarta Riviera a stunning all-inclusive resort nestled along the beach with sweeping views of the Bahía de Banderas from every room I woke up to breathtaking ocean views every morning and every evening ended with some of the most unforgettable sunsets I've ever witnessed Johanna FerreiraJohanna FerreiraWhat I appreciated most about Puerto Vallarta — in comparison with other popular beach destinations like Los Cabos or Cancún — was how seamlessly it allowed for both a luxurious resort experience and meaningful cultural immersion we were welcomed with a beachfront dinner as the sun set complete with locally sourced dishes and tequila-infused cocktails a fitting tribute given that tequila originated in this region We were serenaded by a local mariachi and opera singer a nod to the area's claim as the birthplace of mariachi music sound healing and meditation session led by a local Mexican healer and astrologer — part of their intentional effort to incorporate wellness activities rooted in local traditions It's worth noting that most of the staff and vendors at the Hilton Vallarta Rivera are Mexican citizens reinforcing the resort's commitment to honoring the culture and supporting the local economy I also learned that Puerto Vallarta was once home to several Indigenous tribes the Huicholes remain a vibrant part of the region living in the nearby Sierra Madre Occidental mountains Their intricate yarn paintings and beadwork are celebrated throughout the city and even the Hilton's kids' club includes workshops on Huichol crafts taught using resources provided and paid for by the community itself we ventured into downtown Puerto Vallarta for a guided tour of the Malecón a pedestrian-only boardwalk stretching 12 blocks along the ocean The area buzzes with energy — street vendors selling snacks and refreshing drinks and charming cobblestone streets lined with traditional hacienda-style casitas Even in the most touristy areas (like the block surrounding Casa Kimberly the former home of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton that's now a boutique hotel) locals and visitors coexist in a way that feels authentic and vibrant Johanna FerreiraJohanna FerreiraThe resort arranged this tour intentionally to encourage guests to explore the heart of the city and contribute directly to the local community After experiencing Puerto Vallarta's mix of rich culture I came away feeling it's a destination that offers more than just a beach resort escape — it offers a deep sense of place where vendors sold everything from handmade baskets and crafts to traditional beverages and snacks like tuba and cacahuate garapiñado a definite highlight of downtown Puerto Vallarta one of the chefs led a cooking demo on how to make authentic Mexican-style paella we took a Mexican ceviche-making class — something I've always wanted to learn where locals insist you'll find the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta When people talk about traveling to Mexico Puerto Vallarta often flies under the radar Despite having its fair share of resorts and tourist attractions it still feels like a lived-in coastal town — predominantly Mexican and proudly rooted in its culture As my time in Puerto Vallarta came to a close I found myself watching the sky during one last glowing sunset I often cringe when someone mentions they've "been to the Dominican Republic" and immediately name-drops Punta Cana it felt especially meaningful to experience an all-inclusive stay that didn't strip away the soul of the place I left feeling not only recharged but also more connected to the culture and new friends I made along the way — who were seeking something real amid the luxury Johanna Ferreira is the content director for PS Juntos Johanna focuses on how intersectional identities are a central part of Latine culture she spent close to three years as the deputy editor at HipLatina and she has freelanced for numerous outlets including Refinery29 She has also moderated and spoken on numerous panels on Latine identity UNICO Hotel Collection has expanded with the opening of a new adults-only, all-inclusive hotel in Vallarta. This marks the second property under the brand's portfolio.The new hotel, UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta is strategically located in Puerto Vallarta offering guests easy access to local attractions and activities It also provides an all-inclusive experience specifically for adult travelers. The property features several amenities designed to enhance guests' stay wellness facilities such as fitness centers and spas guests can take advantage of tailored services like personal host assistance for a more personalized experience.The launch of this new hotel signifies an important milestone for UNICO Hotel Collection as it continues to grow its footprint within the hospitality industry It also reflects the brand’s commitment to providing high-quality accommodation options that cater to diverse travel needs.This development comes as the travel industry is gradually recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic The opening of this new property shows confidence in tourism's recovery in Vallarta and further boosts its appeal as a desirable destination for international travelers.The introduction of this new hotel not only strengthens UNICO Hotel Collection's position in the market but also contributes positively to enhancing tourism infrastructure in Vallarta With its unique offerings and strategic location this new property is expected to attract a significant number of adult travelers looking for a comprehensive and personalized travel experience Click here to join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest hotel news and trends. Copyright © Hotel News Resource & Nevistas | All rights reserved. The origin of Children’s Day in Mexico dates back to 1924, when then-president Álvaro Obregón and Minister of Public Education José Vasconcelos established this celebration in response to the Geneva Declaration of the Rights of the Child. Since then, every April 30th has become a day to remember that the well-being, play, and education of children are a shared responsibility. To join in the celebration, the editorial team at Vallarta Lifestyles has prepared a list of 10 activities to enjoy with your little ones on this day. Fun, exploration, and unforgettable moments to treasure this Children’s Day: Go to Home PageSubscribeAdvertiser disclosureSearch The Points Guy Mexico's family-friendly Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta has unveiled a multimillion-dollar renovation that's elevating the points resort to a new level Changes can be seen across the resort, which, at the time of TPG's last visit in 2018 Accommodation upgrades include new ocean-inspired decor all-new sliding glass doors to balconies and outdoor spaces Nespresso machines and new air-conditioning systems to help combat the tropical heat Guests can book a number of room types, but there's nothing more fun than a swim-up room that makes it possible to roll out of bed open the door and wade right into the water thanks to the resort's beachfront location you can take in those breathtaking views straight from the pool Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta has plenty of restaurants to choose from a seaside grill with outdoor dining; a Vietnamese and Thai restaurant; a Mexican joint; and Italian offerings will add teppanyaki-style dining to the property a new Italian restaurant called Melanzanne will also open at the property guests can continue to enjoy poolside and beachside drinks a sports bar and a rooftop cocktail experience The resort's kids club also got a jungle-themed redesign making it the perfect place for kids ages 4 to 12 to hang out while the adults in their lives enjoy all the property's adult-oriented offerings Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta's event spaces have undergone a transformation Among the upgrades is a new terrace that offers sweeping 360-degree views of the tropical landscape and the Pacific Ocean "These updates not only enhance the guest experience but also reinforce our commitment to setting new standards in all-inclusive luxury through elevated accommodations and innovative experiences," Fernando Mulet executive vice president and chief investment officer of Playa Hotels & Resorts Over recent years, all-inclusive resorts have been redefining themselves and the sector by focusing on and improving the negative stereotypes the know-what-you-pay-up-front resorts tend to draw Rates at Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta for two people start around $430 per night. On Hyatt's all-inclusive resort award chart, this resort is classified as a Category D property, meaning award nights start from 25,000 points per night, based on double occupancy. The Points Guy believes that credit cards can transform lives helping you leverage everyday spending for cash back or travel experiences that might otherwise be out of reach That’s why we publish a variety of editorial content and card comparisons: to help you find a great card to turn your goals into reality Puerto Vallarta College Challenge has been one of the most important early-season college softball tournaments serving as an early display for eventual champions and elite competition in Division I softball.  as the tourney brings 10 teams across two sessions of competition Florida State and Oklahoma State will take center stage in the first session alongside Lousiana Tech and Northern Colorado.  will compete in two games to open the tournament and to close it out on the last day North Dakota State and Illinois State to Mexico.  Here's how to watch the Puerta Vallarta College Challenge Watch the 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge on FloSoftball, FloCollege and the FloSports App. Session 1 for PVCC will take place February 6-9th followed by Session 2 from February 13-16th The Puerto Vallarta College Challenge is at Nancy Almaraz Field in Puerto Vallarta Get the most important Softball stories delivered straight to your inbox Be one of the first to try our new activity feed We researched the seven most-touristed towns and what kinds of risks you should be aware of in each and hike to waterfalls and ATV around Santiago When friends and family learned of our plans they immediately raised concerns: Two single women driving around Baja alone We stayed at hotels staffed with security and located in main tourists hubs rather than remote Airbnbs The most alarming incident of the week was a run in with a rowdy seal pup that wouldn’t stop tugging on my flipper while we were snorkeling If you are a news junky, I understand why travel to Mexico might raise flags. Drinking the water is no longer the biggest worry. Headlines of kidnappings, shootings, and gang violence are common. Last summer, I was chilled to learn two Australians and their American friend were shot dead while on a surf trip in Ensenada But incidents like the one in Ensenada are rare pointed out that the drug cartels realize that the tourist towns fuel local economies and tend to leave them be “Mexico is not that much different from many other places in the world,” says Jack Ezon, founder of New York City-based travel agency Embark Beyond “I cannot believe how many people from New York as bullets fly on corners from those cities every day.” Spring Break and other holiday periods typically see a rise of American tourists If you’re considering a south of the border holiday these are seven of the most popular getaways Destinations NewsletterWant more of Outside’s Travel stories?Sign up here Why It’s a Popular Destination: Tucked between the rugged Sierra Madre Mountains and beautiful Banderas Bay on Mexico’s Pacific coast Puerto Vallarta is a perennial favorite getaway for American travelers thanks to its year-round warm weather and easy access from major U.S Look past the manicured gated communities and luxury all-inclusive resorts and you’ll discover the destination has a wild side Humpbacks migrate here from December through March and from July through December Puerto Vallarta’s beaches turn into hatching grounds for sea turtles Adventurers can explore the mountains by ATV Safety Precautions: Puerto Vallarta is located in the state of Jalisco, which the U.S. government deems a security Level 3 due to crime and kidnapping and cautions Americans to reconsider travel are subject to more petty crimes such as theft and vacation-home break ins The Puerto Vallarta Citizen Security Police Station ramps up efforts during peak tourist seasons dispatching daytime patrols across the city’s main avenues and near ATMS and banks Where to Stay: Spread across 85 acres of jungle and beach, Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa includes dozens of activities within the price of a stay such as kayak tours to Los Arcos and tequila tastings Book Flights to Puerto Vallarta Why It’s a Popular Destination: The first time I visited this UNESCO World Heritage City in the state of Guanajuato I was charmed by its impressive Spanish colonial architecture I devoted an entire day to wandering its cobbled stone streets and alleyways and was rewarded with serendipitous finds like the insanely addictive churros at Chocolates y Churros San Agustín Just beyond the city, you can horseback ride through scenic countryside, sip wines at Cava Garambullo — one of 30-some wineries along the Ruta del Vino — and soak in underground mineral pools but none of the incidents were directed at tourists cautions that you need to be aware while walking at night but the biggest risk for visitors is eating street meat Where to Stay: Tucked down a cobbled stone street, Keidan’s five-suite Casa Delphine feels like a stylish homestay She arranges immersive experiences such as cooking classes and tarot card dinners Book Flights to San Miguel de Allende Why It’s a Popular Destination: This 100-mile slice of Caribbean coast on Mexico’s northeastern Yucatán Peninsula is home to some of the prettiest white sand beaches I’ve ever stuck my toes in Colorful coral reefs glow electric in the crystal clear waters—the visibility is so good it’s possible to dive here year round lie inland in Indiana Jones-worthy jungles And you can swim in many of the area’s dazzling blue cenotes—natural sinkholes of freshwater carved into limestone rocks The former is known for its all-inclusive resorts and laid back vibes The latter has become a destination for yogis and the Burning Man crowd remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones and use authorized taxis instead of ride share apps Where to Stay: Just two blocks from Calle 38, a public beach in Playa del Carmen, adult-only Hotel La Semilla is a nine-room oasis in a sea of mega resorts Each of the nine rooms is decorated with vintage flea-market finds and I loved all of the complimentary amenities and cold beers that can be enjoyed in the garden or rooftop terrace Book Flights to Riviera Maya Why It’s a Popular Destination: One of the planet’s greatest cities this sprawling megalopolis is a wild mishmash of historic and modern neighborhoods cheap and tasty hole-in-the-wall taco and tostada joints and pilgrimage-worthy gastronomic temples such as Pujol and Contramar The team at Journey Mexico recommends being extra vigilant in the neighborhoods of Tepito and Guerrero at night managing partner in boutique Mexican hotel brand Grupo Habita advises to avoid wearing flashy jewelry or watches and waving around expensive cameras Where to Stay: Located in the city’s historic center, Downtown Mexico is a 17th-century manor turned boutique hotel with a rare rooftop pool Book Flights to Mexico City Try to have your hotel arrange transportation in advance to avoid harassment and scams Where to Stay: If you want a grown-up experience away from the party scene, splurge on Nizuc Resort & Spa 274-room oceanfront resort has two dreamy beaches Book Flights to Cancun Why It’s a Popular Destination: Culture abounds in every corner of Oaxaca a city where pre-Columbian culture and Spanish colonial and contemporary Mexican influences coexist The city’s UNESCO-listed historic center is surrounded by spectacular mountains and important Zapotec archeological sites which includes a thrilling mix of tortilla artisans says it’s not polite to negotiate prices down at markets and to keep in mind that small vendors only take cash Where to Stay:  Set in the heart of the historic center, Casa Oaxaca has spacious high-ceiling rooms adorned with textiles and art from local artisans and a seriously delicious in-house restaurant that sources almost exclusively from Oaxaca markets and its own gardens Book Flights to Oaxaca Why It’s a Popular Destination: I have been making two to three trips a year to this region for more than a decade and still can’t get enough of its surf-swept beaches ranging from humble ceviche stands to multi-course meals prepared by star chefs Between November and April you can watch Humpbacks breach straight from shore and swim with whale sharks Hundreds of Olive Ridley turtles hatch during the summer And the sea lions are always out near Land’s End and Pelican Rock a San José del Cabo–based surf guiding company cautions that local police are known for pulling over tourists for small infractions “They may threaten to take you to the station ‘I’d like to pay the ticket now,’ and hand them $30 to $50,” he says “Be insistent.” He also warns if you’re out partying and decide to skip the bathroom line and whizz in an alleyway the cops won’t hesitate to throw you in jail Where to Stay: The Cape, a Thompson Hotel has an unbeatable location on Monuments Beach with views of the famous Arch across the bay plus a restaurant from star Mexican chef Enrique Olvera and tech with access to unlimited digital content from Outside Network's iconic brands The last time the FIU Panthers ended a season above .500 was in 2019 The team has had a rough time making waves in the NCAA since then coming off the canceled COVID-19 season with a 14-26 overall record in 2021 FIU Softball saw its best performance in the last five years in the 2023 season almost breaking even with a record of 24-27 If the Panthers want to change their team's narrative they must start their season strong in 2025 One of their first tests of strength will come early in the season at the Puerto Vallarta College Challenge The 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge hits the fields on Feb with FIU Softball beginning play on Thursday The Panthers played in the Felsberg Invitational in 2024 rather than the Puerto Vallarta Challenge Their 12 runs would go on to tie as a season-high game for the Panthers With high hopes to find success that could lead to a season above .500 here's everything to know about FIU Softball at the 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge Watch the 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge on FloSoftball and the FloSports App FloSoftball will be streaming several other NCAA Division I College Softball tournaments UNICO Hotel Collection, the acclaimed hospitality brand celebrated for its hyper-local approach, exceptional culinary offerings, and immersive guest programming, has announced the launch of its second property: UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta this adults-only boutique resort marks the brand’s first step in a bold global expansion we always aim to perfect our all-inclusive hotel formula that much more,” said Ash Tembe Vice President of Sales and Marketing at AIC Hotel Group “UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta creates an intimate luxury getaway for our guests without jeopardizing the elements of the all-inclusive experience we’ve mastered it has always been about curating a vacation for you.” Following in the footsteps of the brand’s flagship property in the Riviera Maya the new Vallarta location promises the same refined approach to regional storytelling through design and service—this time inspired by the vibrant energy and coastal charm of Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit The 141-room resort offers a boutique-style experience that merges upscale comfort with cultural curiosity From the art on the walls to the ingredients on your plate every detail is rooted in local traditions with a fresh Foodies will be drawn to three all-new specialty restaurants each echoing the culinary diversity of the region: Perfectly situated to tap into Puerto Vallarta’s celebrated culture UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta places guests in close proximity to the city’s historic downtown The property blends serene luxury with a spirit of adventure but truly experience the destination As the brand looks ahead to continued global growth UNICO remains committed to its core mission: delivering individualized travel that honors culture UNICO 20°105° Hotel Vallarta officially opens September 1 2025 — ushering in a new era of cultural immersion and elevated all-inclusive experiences for modern travelers 6vs9#4 Oklahoma State Noles Split Opening Day Doubleheader in Puerto Vallarta2/6/2025 5:21:00 PM | Softball There was a time — not that long ago — when Puerto Vallarta’s dining scene was best known for ceviche and shrimp tacos And that’s not a bad thing — PV does both of those things very well something beautiful has been bubbling beneath the surface This once-sleepy beach town has transformed into a cosmopolitan hub where cultures have converged and brought with them their eclectic but now it’s paired with a global dining scene that has made it one of the top destinations for foodies in Mexico Walk a few blocks and you can travel from Tokyo to Tuscany and the chefs are bringing talent to the table Whether you’re craving a proper French bistro moment Here are some of the best spots for international eats in Puerto Vallarta: A post shared by Torio Handroll Bar (@torio.pv) Finding decent sushi in Puerto Vallarta — or one not stuffed with cream cheese — was once quite the struggle PV has three standout sushi restaurants that have you feeling like you’ve stumbled off the cobblestone streets and into a tiny Tokyo restaurant Torio Handroll Bar is the current darling of my PV sushi obsession and a bit of a hidden gem unless you’ve spent time walking around the Versalles neighborhood This small sushi counter specializes in hand rolls (temaki) Sit at the counter and let the chef guide you (omakase menus are offered on the weekends) or order a few hand rolls and see what you like best Meanwhile, Kenta delivers with a funky industrial-chic-meets-Japanese decor Chef’s specialty rolls are exceptional Sendo upscale sushi restaurant is a more traditional dining experience Surrender your evening to the chef (and be prepared to spend a pretty peso) and emerge in an umami-induced state of bliss A post shared by Fusión Asiática (@archies_wok) Thai street food may not be what comes to mind when you think of Mexico, but Tuk Tuk will certainly change your opinion And if you haven’t fulfilled your Thai fix, Siam Cocina Thai is where you go for perfect papaya salad Bonito Kitchen is what happens when a chic design aesthetic meets pan-Asian comfort food bao buns and Vietnamese rolls are what you’re ordering here The restaurant has two locations: one in Zona Romantica and one in Fluvial And then there’s the OG: Archie’s Wok which is often ranked as one of the best Asian fusion restaurants in the city The menu offers everything from Thai street food to Chinese noodle dishes and Vietnamese snacks A post shared by 𝐋𝐚 𝐃𝐨𝐥𝐜𝐞 𝐕𝐢𝐭𝐚 (@ladolcevitarestaurantes) Italian cuisine has staked a major claim on Vallarta, and the selections have only improved over the years. One of the mainstays among PV Italian restaurants is La Dolce Vita (which has four locations) Opt for the one on the malecon waterway so you can have a spectacular sunset view friendly service and an octopus carpaccio that is a must La Traviata pairs pasta with one of the best seats in the house has panoramic views over the rooftops of Puerto Vallarta’s Cinco de Diciembre neighborhood and out over the Bay of Banderas My go-to for candlelit evenings is Trattoria Ciento Once tucked into an open-air courtyard in Versalles The pasta selection is perfect (I always order the bolognese) the wine list is solid and the live music sends the experience over the top A post shared by L U M I N A (@lumina.pvr) Speaking of Italy, the pizza scene in Puerto Vallarta deserves its own category. Errante Pizza is a trendy newcomer to PV — a roving nomadic pizza experience that pops up at different bars every week Check their Instagram page to see where they are popping up next La Notte is heaven for its gooey You can’t go wrong with the classic Margherita pizza For a really excellent sourdough crust pizza, I love to recommend Masa Madre Their thin-crust pizza — topped with arugula A post shared by Opa Greek Bistro (@opagreekbistro)  Yes! Puerto Vallarta even has Greek restaurants now. They happen to sit side-by-side, so you could easily compare and contrast. OPA Greek Bistro is splashed in classic Grecian blue and white Not to be outdone, the next-door Mykonos Greek Restaurant has succulent skewers The upstairs terrace is breezy with lovely views of the Versalles streets A post shared by Barcelona Tapas (@barcelonatapaspv) which serves fantastic French wines and a legendary cheese plate For Spanish tapas, Barcelona Tapas is a PV institution the rooftop restaurant in Centro has stunning views of the bay Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta is taking things to the next level While the 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge will include 10 premier softball programs, only one hails from the ever-growing Big Ten Conference – Indiana The event will take place across two weekends – Feb 13-16 – with all games being played at the famed Nancy Almaraz Stadium in Puerto Vallarta All of the games will be broadcast live on FloSoftball The first session of the 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge will include Florida State Indiana will head to the Pacific coast of Mexico for the second week of action and will be joined by Boise State The Hoosiers are coming off a 40-20 season that included a 12-11 mark in Big Ten play resulting in a middle-of-the-pack finish in the then-14-team conference standings Despite the mediocre performance in the regular season Indiana reached the championship game of the Big Ten Tournament The late surge was enough to earn Indiana a spot in the 2024 NCAA Division I Softball Championship The Hoosiers lost consecutive games in the double-elimination regional round Indiana’s 2024 schedule did not include a trip to Puerto Vallarta the Hoosiers will face North Dakota State (Feb Read more: Indiana Softball At 2025 Puerto Vallarta Challenge – What To Know Watch the 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge on FloSoftball and the FloSports App. highlights and breaking news will be on both platforms.  Though Indiana was not one of the Big Ten squads ranked in the ESPN.com/USA Softball College Top 25 Poll the Hoosiers were among the teams receiving votes.  The Big Ten teams that did make the top 25 were UCLA (6) Others receiving votes with Indiana were Penn State and Washington expanding to 18 (17 for softball) with the announcement coming in early August 2024 USC does not have a softball program.  Along with the Puerto Vallarta College Challenge there are many other early-season tournaments and invitationals that allow teams to see parts of the country and opposition they won’t face during the regular season The No. 5 UCLA Bruins will kick off their season Feb 6 at the Stacy Winsberg Memorial Tournament in Los Angeles and that will be one of five classic/invitational events on the front end of the UCLA schedule that will allow the Bruins to test themselves against many of the nation’s top teams The series of events will take UCLA from coast to coast The slate includes the Mark Campbell Invitational (Irvine Shriners Children’s Clearwater Invitational (Clearwater the prestigious Mary Nutter Collegiate Classic (Cathedral City California) and the Judi Garman Classic (Fullerton UCLA was one of the eight teams to reach the Women’s College World Series last year The Bruins finished the 2024 season at 43-12 overall and 17-4 in conference play which helped them win the conference title based on their .810 winning percentage They also won the conference tournament.  No. 19 Nebraska also will get the 2025 season going on Feb 6 at the NFCA Leadoff Classic in Clearwater for the Troy Cox Classic and Cathedral City for the Mary Nutter College Classic the Huskers will work their way back to the Midwest the Huskers were 30-23 overall and 12-9 in Big Ten action They finished fourth in the conference standings No. 22 Washington begins its inaugural Big Ten softball season Feb 7 against SEC powerhouse Alabama at the Candrea Classic in Tucson The stint in Arizona also will bring the Huskies to the Littlewood Classic in the Phoenix area.  The next stop for Washington will be the Mary Nutter Collegiate Classic in California which continues to be the ultimate way for teams to gauge themselves early in the season.  Washington will play five games at the Mary Nutter and a one-off contest with CSUN before venturing off to the OUTRIGGER Invitational in Honolulu and the Black and Orange Classic in Pocatello The Huskies previously played in the Pac-12 They were 32-15 overall in 2024 and 13-10 in conference play Fellow Big Ten newcomer Oregon will begin its 2025 campaign Feb followed by the Littlewood Classic in the Phoenix area and the Mary Nutter Collegiate Classic on the West Coast.  After testing themselves against the challenging Mary Nutter field for the Oregon Classic and the Jane Sanders Classic The ducks were 30-21 overall in 2024 and 13-10 in conference play which left them tied for third in the Pac-12 standings the Big Ten softball standings will include Illinois the regular-season Big Ten title went to Northwestern a third consecutive win for the Wildcats.  Northwestern lost to Indiana in the quarterfinals of the Big Ten Tournament Here’s everything you need to know about Indiana at the 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge: The Puerto Vallarta College Challenge is being held at Nancy Almaraz Stadium in Puerto Vallarta Watch the 2025 Mary Nutter Collegiate Classic on FloSoftball and the FloSports App. highlights and breaking news will be on both platforms The 2025 Mary Nutter Collegiate Classic will take place Feb Games begin Thursday and culminate with the final games on Sunday.  The Mary Nutter Classic returns to the Big League Dreams Complex in Cathedral City The complex has five fields available.  Video footage from the event will be archived and stored in a video library for FloSoftball subscribers to watch for the duration of their subscription The Vallarta Gay+ Community Center has launched a new free English language program aimed at empowering local residents and newcomers with valuable communication skills many participants are recent arrivals from other Latin American countries seeking to build confidence and opportunities in Puerto Vallarta the program features a 12-month curriculum designed to blend grammar fundamentals with practical and the structure allows new students to join progressively Future plans include hands-on sessions like roleplaying conversations relevant to local hospitality settings Students discovered the program through various community channels The initial six months of this pilot program received sponsorship from Matt Karimi and David Smith “Learning English creates access to employment and a better quality of life,” said Matt Karimi reflecting on the program’s potential impact As the center looks to the future success of the English classes The operational cost to support a student’s participation is estimated at $500 MXN (approximately $25 USD) per month or $6,000 MXN (approximately $300 USD) for a full year Those interested in learning more about how to support the ongoing program can contact Matt Karimi at the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center I agree to receive email updates and promotions Enter Your First Name and Email to get breaking news and other email updates Discover gay Puerto Vallarta with Out & About Puerto Vallarta named PV's best LGBTQ+ print and online media outlet By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Private Policy and Terms of Use Drag Race winner Venus shares apology video to Mexican people Canada's Drag Race season 4 winner Venus shares apology video Canada's Drag Race season 4 winner Venus has shared a video not only clarifying that she drew wrong conclusions about an incident she experienced over the weekend but also flat-out apologizing to her fans and the people of Mexico Earlier this week, on Tuesday, April 22, Venus set the record straight in a social media post explaining that she wasn't actually in any altercation with local law enforcement in Puerto Vallarta Venus shared an actual video apologizing about the misunderstanding "This apology goes directly to the community here in Puerto Vallarta and assumptions about what had happened the other night — just because I blacked out [But that] doesn't excuse my behavior in perpetuating the stereotypes that this is an unsafe place "I've been called out and called in," Venus went on "I've been able to have conversations with other Mexican drag queens and local people here I'm the type of person that I learn from my mistakes; I can guarantee you that." this is something that I should've known better I should've known the harm that these assumptions have on other indigenous people in the world "If you have not been here — you can ask anyone who has and they will say the same — the people here are so kind "I'm extremely privileged to be able to experience this place and their culture The Canada's Drag Race season 4 winner concluded: I can only promise to do better moving forward Venus' apology video has gotten many noteworthy comments from the RuPaul's Drag Race universe which Venus won — commented with a few heart emojis "Omg Venus I hope you're doing okay "Accountability is a brave act of truth and vulnerability I love you and I'm proud to call you family." "So proud of you for being brave enough to take accountability boo make mistakes and have done things we’re not proud of Protect your peace and surround yourself with grounded loving Canada's Drag Race is streaming on WOW Presents Plus Bernardo Sim is the deputy editor of Out. He's also a staff contributor to The Advocate, PRIDE, and other equalpride publications You can follow Bernardo Sim on Instagram. Otherwise, you can find him on Bluesky, Threads, X/Twitter, and TikTok the tacos flow and your step count goes through the roof — whether from marathon training or salsa dancing ‘til sunrise From sizzling DJ sets to savory taco fests Here’s what’s happening in Puerto Vallarta this April Lace up those sneakers and channel your inner speed demon because the Puerto Vallarta Marathon is back this beachfront beauty of a race kicks off and finishes at the sparkling Puerto Mágico terminal The 2025 edition brings four ways to get sweaty: the full 42K Pro tip: the 42K is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon as serious as anything can be when you’re running past beach bars and bougainvillea What better way to honor this handheld icon than with a full-blown Feria del Taco this celebration of tortilla-wrapped goodness brings more than 40 different styles of tacos giving you plenty of time to sample your way to taco nirvana Easter, but make it techno. Industry Club’s Semana Santa party is bringing a lineup of DJs and deliciously debauched dancing to Vallarta just in time for the holiday Easter weekend at Mantamar is not for the faint of heart— or the easily sunburned international DJs and swimwear that leaves very little to the imagination hydrate often and don’t forget your best poolside strut Guadalajara’s beloved sunset party, Rico Atardeset a stylish crowd and a dance floor that doesn’t quit but it’s bringing a Saturday session to Puerto Vallarta Live music, tasty eats and artisan vibes: Selvamania is part night market food and craft vendors and those epic Bay of Banderas and Sierra Madre views Colombian pop phenoms Morat will take the stage at the luxurious Vidanta resort as part of their 2025 concert series — their first-ever performance here If tearjerkers in Spanish and swoon-worthy harmonies are your thing Four days. Endless dancing. Zero regrets. The Vallarta SBK Dance Festival is where the sensual world of salsa pool parties and enough body rolls to put “Dirty Dancing” to shame Catch performances by Mexican salsero Jimmy Rodriguez and World Salsa Champion Dioney DaSilva or just show up to move and make a few friends on the dance floor This February, ten college softball teams will head to Puerto Vallarta in Mexico to play in the Puerto Vallarta College Challenge for two weeks of intense action to kick start the 2025 season Preseason ranked teams Oklahoma State softball and Florida State will begin play in Session 1 against Louisiana Tech and Northern Colorado The OSU Cowgirls will be looking to continue their recent success making it to the Women's College World Series each season since 2019 Florida State is one of the top teams in the US with two recent visits to the WCWS Championship finals They nearly made it all the way to the national title but lost to Oklahoma in both 2021 and 2023 In Session 2, BYU and Boise State headline the second group of games in the middle of February.  Boise State's softball team has been a force to be reckoned with in the Mountain West 2025 could be their year to win another conference championship and extend their postseason run into the NCAA tournament—and it all begins in Puerto Vallarta Here's all you need to know about watching the Puerto Vallarta College Challenge softball tournament Session 1 for PVCC will take place February 6-9th followed by Session 2 from February 13-16th PVCC Session 1 schedule (all times CT):  The Puerto Vallarta College Challenge is streaming on FloSoftball and the FloSports app. Replays of the games highlights and more breaking news will be on both platforms.  Watch the 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge on FloSoftball and the FloSports App. Game Recap: Softball | 2/15/2025 10:05:00 PM Thanks for visiting ! The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy. We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here. Seminole Softball Begins 2025 Season at Puerto Vallarta College Challenge on Thursday2/4/2025 3:51:00 PM | Softball Mayor Luis Munguía launched a security and assistance operation for Holy Week and Easter 2025 The operation includes the deployment of units and personnel from the Police Speaking at the Agustín Flores Contreras stadium esplanade on Monday, April 14, 2025, Munguía said Puerto Vallarta is prepared to welcome tourists with safety Juan Ramón Reyes of the 41st Military Zone Infantry; 2nd Capt Mauro Romualdo Rodríguez of the Military Police; and Capt along with directors of various municipal areas the mayor delivered new equipment to be used by public safety operations including 30 pickup trucks and eight sedans to the Public Safety Department with the goal of ensuring the safety and peace of mind of residents and visitors The second tournament of the 2025 Illinois State softball season will take place in Mexico as the Redbirds travel to compete at the Puerto Vallarta College Challenge Mexico – The second tournament of the 2025 Illinois State softball season will take place in Mexico the first-ever D-I softball event held outside the United States began in 2015 and has evolved into one of the premier tournaments designed to begin the softball season The Redbirds will open the tournament on Thursday with a game against second-year Big 12 Conference foe BYU before playing two games on Friday against FIU and 2024 NCAA Tournament qualifier Indiana The Challenge will wrap on Saturday with a contest against North Dakota State who the Redbirds own a 2-1 record against and last played in 2021 follow the Redbirds on Twitter (@RedbirdsSB) and Facebook (Illinois State Redbird Softball) Thanks for visiting ! Cowgirl Softball begins 2025 season internationally at Puerto Vallarta College Challenge February 04, 2025 | Cowgirl Softball PANORAMIC VIEW FROM EL FARO DE MATAMOROSIn the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s downtown, nestled among cobblestone alleyways and tile-roofed houses, lies a spot that captivates at first sight: El Faro de Matamoros. Built in 1932, this historic lighthouse served as a maritime beacon for over four decades. Today, repurposed as a scenic lookout, it offers one of the most spectacular views of the city. From its platform, you can take in the majestic Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, the silhouette of Banderas Bay, and the sea of white façades that make Puerto Vallarta such a picturesque destination. It is the perfect place for a quiet moment of reflection, capturing memorable photographs, or simply falling in love—all over again—with the charm of this city. SUNSET FROM THE BRIDGE OVER THE CUALE RIVERSome sunsets stay with you forever—and those in Puerto Vallarta are just like that. One of the most magical places to watch the sun go down is the pedestrian bridge over the Cuale River, which connects the Malecón with the Romantic Zone. Sitting on one of its benches and watching the sky transform into shades of orange, red, and violet as the sun sinks into the Pacific is without question one of the most romantic (and poetic) experiences you can have. At its southern end, you will find a small, lesser-known lookout point—ideal for those seeking a peaceful moment away from the bustle. ADVENTURE TO THE PALO MARÍA RIVER WATERFALLFor lovers of hiking and nature, this is a must. Just a few minutes south of the city, near Garza Blanca Resort & Spa, you will find the trailhead leading to the Palo María River waterfall. The 25-minute hike takes you deep into lush tropical jungle and ends at a refreshing waterfall with natural pools perfect for a swim. However, this adventure is best suited for those in good physical condition, as the path can be challenging. If you decide to take on this trek, be sure to wear proper footwear, bring plenty of water, and, most importantly, respect the natural surroundings. A STROLL ALONG THE MALECÓNThe Malecón is the beating heart of Puerto Vallarta. Stretching for a kilometer along the oceanfront, this pedestrian boardwalk is an open-air museum, a cultural promenade, and a beloved meeting spot for locals and visitors alike. Along the way, you’ll encounter iconic sculptures such as “The Seahorse” and “The Rotunda by the Sea,” as well as live performances and street artists. Every step offers a picture-perfect scene, every corner tells a story. Whether you’re visiting with family, as a couple, or solo, a walk along the Malecón is always a great idea—especially at sunset, when the atmosphere is filled with music, enticing aromas, and smiling faces. 5 EXTRA FREE ACTIVITIESPuerto Vallarta is much more than its beaches and landscapes. During the holidays, you can also enjoy experiences that highlight the destination’s local identity. Here are a few extra (and free!) ideas worth considering: Whether you’re in search of peace, adventure, or simply quality time with loved ones, Puerto Vallarta has something for everyone. These free activities will not only introduce you to some of the destination’s highlights, but will also connect you with its most authentic spirit. MexicoChevron JaliscoChevron Puerto VallartaChevron Puerto VallartaSave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links The beaches are not necessarily extraordinary, but the views more than make up for it—the sunsets in Puerto Vallarta are among the best you’ll see in your entire life and the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range is a stunning backdrop to Banderas Bay choosing the best place to stay is truly about personal preference Proximity to the Malecon puts everything right at your fingertips but the laid-back marina offers more serenity while still being close enough to the city center for a visit Read on for nine of the best Puerto Vallarta hotels for families How we choose the best hotels in Puerto Vallarta Every hotel review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination and sustainability credentials top of mind and exclusivity will leave you feeling like Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton the very movie stars who once called it home The villa served as a place where they could romantically rendezvous out of the public eye It’s the most notable destination in the trendy enclave of downtown Vallarta called “Gringo Gulch,” surrounded by beautiful houses built in Vallarta’s traditional style with whitewashed walls and red clay tile roofs but one equipped with a full staff ready to serve Every suite is completely unique and lavish though the 2,500 square-foot penthouse—Taylor’s former bedroom—takes the cake with its wraparound terrace this adults-only hotel could very well be the set with every corner and angle providing a sense of peace and tranquility Villa Premiere markets to couples—who make up the majority of their clientele—but a number of duos come with friends for multi-day double (or triple) dates in paradise Every room includes amenities that are frivolously fab: Choose between six types of pillows to sleep on all with differing degrees of softness and support and six different aromatherapy scents to permeate your quarters Guests are guaranteed an oceanfront balcony With three sit-down restaurants and a hearty poolside menu on-site there are more unique dining options here than at most nearby resorts with triple the occupancy Orders are taken and charged via QR code on your room key wristband with winding rows of pale yellow casitas housing each of the sophisticated The design and decor are charmingly Mexican with many original pieces commissioned from area artists The energy is mellow at all hours; During the day and mixing your own herbal tea in the garden greenhouse offer a welcome change of pace from poolside lounging including a sunset violinist and acrobatic dances to opera as even during high season occupancy hovers around 30% It’s easy to feel like the gorgeous grounds belong to you this outpost of Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa sprawls across 85 acres of jungle and beach The elegant and spacious suites feature terraces with sun loungers and panoramic ocean views guests can enjoy the resort's infinity pools plus guided activities like jungle hikes and birdwatching tours The Blanca Blue Restaurant serves up avant-garde Mexican cuisine while the Aquazul Beach Bar & Lounge is the perfect place to grab some casual poolside bites Hacienda San Angel retains the romance of that gesture American Janice Chatterton bought Casa Bursus (Bur for Burton adding two adjacent properties before deciding to turn her vacation home into a 12-suite hotel Chatterton personally welcomed guests to this hideaway perched above Banderas Bay but her daughter and grandchildren are committed to protecting her legacy in the form of Hacienda San Angel and a nightly cocktail hour round out this property—a delightful surprise for those weaned on The Love Boat’s portrayal of this town at its tackiest The grounds were actually sculpted around the palms cozy stay with wellness and convenience at the forefront There’s a balcony and bathtub in every room along with Westin’s incredible “Heavenly Bed” mattress and linens It’s impossible to get a bad night’s sleep as you’ll melt straight into the plush sheets making this a popular choice for those looking for a peaceful and pretty place to rest before or after a flight but what’s telling is how every type of person seems to genuinely enjoy themselves—staff included Some of the property’s unique highlights include its “Gourmet Moments” tasting menu meals and a spa treatment meant to mimic returning to your mother’s womb including a new pool area and fresh restaurants will keep this well-loved hotel from feeling stale and unlike some beach resorts that feel generic and overly Americanized here you will be immersed in the charm of the destination colonial-style exterior of the resort is dripping with tropical flowers and the landscaping around the swimming pools is lush and inviting A family of peacocks lives onsite and freely wanders exciting onlookers of all ages with their beautiful feathers and quirky struts The accommodations are massive and fully decked out making it a particularly great option for multi-generational family fun Many of the suites have multiple bedrooms and full living rooms and dining rooms; Some of these amenities are perhaps unnecessary given the resort’s all-inclusive model but they offer families flexibility and freedom and fussy eaters need to be taken into account up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse We understand that time is the greatest luxury which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world A gay Canadian couple claims a Sheraton hotel in the gay-friendly resort city of Puerto Vallarta as part of what critics of the hotel chain claim is a pattern of anti-gay behavior Jeremy Alexander and Ryan Sheepwash, of Vernon, British Columbia, posted a video to social media detailing the months of back-and-forth they engaged in when trying to book a wedding with 50 guests at the resort The two had gotten engaged in February 2024 in Puerto Vallarta and had hoped to return to the gay-friendly vacation destination for their nuptials The couple scouted potential resorts where they could hold their destination wedding and settled on the Sheraton Buganvilias Resort and Convention Center told them during their tour that a deluxe wedding package ceremony would cost them $8,500 the couple requested an official quote for a wedding in February or March 2026 Espinoza informed them that the hotel had no remaining wedding availability until March 2027 Alexander and Sheepworth requested a rate for that month to which Espinoza responded with a quote of $485 per person per night based on an estimate of 50 guests staying in 25 rooms for three nights the couple would have to put down a deposit equal to 50% of the total room costs Googled the terms “Sheraton Buganvilias Puerto Vallarta homophobic.” The results included a story about the resort refusing to book a same-sex wedding for Josh Rimer Sheepwash also encountered a TikTok video posted by Daniel Galecio who claimed to have received an email from Espinoza on Nov 13 — the day before Alexander and Sheepwash toured the Sheraton resort with Espinoza — saying that because of internal company policies the resort was unable to host same-sex weddings Galecio told NBC News that he had initially reached out to the Sheraton Buganvilias to request a quote for an opposite-sex wedding he told Espinoza that he had gay clients who were interested in getting married there prompting her to elaborate on the de facto ban on same-sex weddings He was shocked by the response because same-sex marriage was legalized in 2022 and Mexico’s laws have prohibited anti-gay discrimination in public accommodations since 2001 “That hotel has a history of years of discrimination and all the city knows — all the gays know,” Galecio said Alexander and Sheepwash enlisted the help of a few friends to gauge whether the hotel was treating them unfairly their friend Marcia Escontria requested a quote for a deluxe wedding package and weeklong stay for 50 guests in 25 rooms in February 2026 the month the couple had initially requested told Escontria that the hotel had availability for a wedding on Saturday providing her a quote of $254 per person per night the couple would have to put down a deposit of 20% of the ceremony cost as Alexander and Sheepwash had been quoted Four days after Escontria received her quote to “confirm if any dates could work in 2026,” to which she responded that there was no availability remaining in 2026 To get an “apples to apples” comparison of the rate they were offered Alexander and Sheepwash enlisted the help of a second friend who requested a similar wedding package and three-night stay in March 2027 for his guests told him that 50 guests staying in 25 rooms for three nights would be $272 per person per night To reserve the date and the block of rooms the couple would have to put down a deposit equal to 20% of the ceremony cost Alexander and Sheepwash ultimately decided to speak out about the experience “We just want to let other people know,” Sheepwash told NBC News “How many people have had the same situation happen to them?” “We felt we’d be indirectly complicit to the system if we’re aware of it and we’re not combating it,” Alexander added “That was the major driving factor in us wanting to put the story out there.” The couple’s video has been shared widely on Instagram and TikTok A post shared by Jeremy Alexander (@illuminaughtytriangle) The Sheraton Bugnvilias didn’t respond to a request for comment from NBC News When confronted about the email correspondences and differences in room rates given to Alexander the parent company of Sheraton Hotels and Resorts said in an email to NBC News that the company has reached out to the couple “to learn more about their experience and are working with the property to offer a solution.” “The Sheraton Buganvilias has been active in the LGBTQ community in Puerto Vallarta for years not only hosting LGBTQ+ weddings and groups but also supporting Pride events in Puerto Vallarta,” the spokesperson said “Marriott remains steadfast in our commitment to ensure guests are treated with respect and understanding.” The spokesperson also said that the Sheraton Buganvilias is “operated by a third-party franchisee,” but didn’t provide further information about how that affects the resort’s policies Alexander later confirmed to NBC News that a diversity and inclusion representative from Marriott called him after he posted the video and told him that the hotel chain was looking into the incident Marriott has previously claimed to support the LGBTQ community the LGBTQ travel association formerly known as the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association The hotel chain also earned a perfect 100 score on the Human Rights Campaign’s 2025 Corporate Equality Index which rates companies based on their LGBTQ-inclusive policies and benefits Alexander wants Marriott to commit to meaningful change at all of its subsidiaries and their respective properties “It’s very clear there’s an issue all the way to the top at this particular Sheraton of homophobia,” he told NBC News He added that Marriott “would need to make some seriously impactful change before I’d be entertaining what they have to say there They are part of a lot of queer travel alliances and the actions have to line up with reality A new study claims that people in non-monogamous relationships are just as happy as those with only one partner published in The Journal of Sex Research on March 24 measured the difference in romantic satisfaction and sexual satisfaction between those practicing monogamy and those practicing non-monogamy Researchers analyzed 35 studies across the United States and Europe that looked at 24,489 people involved in both types of relationships between 2007 and 2024 Respondents in those studies shared how they felt about their romantic lives and their sex lives A former firefighter has been awarded $1.75 million in damages as part of a lawsuit alleging she was retaliated against -- after filing a separate lawsuit alleging she was discriminated against but claims she was mistreated due to her gender and sexual orientation She claims to have been subjected to a host of abusive behaviors at the hands of fellow firefighters Examples included being called lewd nicknames such as "Fran-gina," ignored in life-or-death situations and even having a bloody glove snapped in her face splashing another person's brain matter into her eyes There are currently no upcoming/recent events Thanks for visiting The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here Thanks for visiting This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page The Indiana Hoosiers enter the 2025 season coming off two of their best performances in recent history Two 40-plus win seasons with NCAA Tournament appearances in each highlight the Hoosiers success in 2023 and 2024 the Hoosiers had not appeared in the NCAA Regionals since 2011 when the team went 37-18 overall and lost in the first two games of the tournament Despite also being knocked out in the '23 and '24 Regionals Indiana Softball has been trending in the right direction As they look to claim another NCAA Regional berth this season the Hoosiers will first look towards the 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge with Indiana Softball beginning play on Thursday The Hoosiers faced a challenging yet rewarding start in 2024 at the NFCA Leadoff Classic missing the 2024 Puerto Vallarta Challenge Their one loss in the classic came at the hands of then-No As redemption at this season's NCAA Tournament weighs on their minds here's everything to know about the Indiana Hoosiers at the 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge The Illinois State Redbirds have struggled with consistency in recent history Two great seasons highlighted by 30-plus wins in 2021 and 2023 are at the forefront of the Redbirds success But two seasons of tough matches and losing records in 2022 and 2024 have also highlighted the Redbirds struggles Illinois State Softball also saw an early exit from the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament last year being knocked out in its second game of the tournament to MVC No If the Redbirds want to stay consistent this season they must first face four teams in the 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge with Illinois State Softball beginning play on Thursday The Redbirds missed the 2024 Puerto Vallarta Challenge facing five consecutive losses at the University of South Florida Tournament While many of Illinois State Softball's matchups were close it suffered a devastating 12-1 loss to Florida Softball in the last game of the tournament With a chance for redemption at a winning season here's everything to know about Illinois State Softball as it faces the 2025 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge