Puerto Vallarta´s Old Town has a rich and colorful history. Throughout the 1500 and 1600´s, pirates and Spanish galleons visited this quaint fishing village to take on fresh supplies and water. In 851 Puerto Vallarta was born under the name Las Peñas de Santa Maria de Guadalupe. It was an important port, supplying salt and other needed supplies to the nearby silver mines. It´s unique charm lives on, from the traditional melody of church bells echoing down rustic coblblestone streets, to the rich aroma of fresh food sizziling oven open flames. It´s buildings painted in tones that reflect the brilliance of an inspirational, tropical sunset, Puerto Vallarta sits nestled between the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountains and Bahia de Banderas, one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Old Town has become gathering place for a cosmopolitan blend of local inhabitants, international travelers and foreign residents. You never know who you may run into in this popular seaside destination. The malecon (seaside boardwalk) Stretching northward a long the ocean, from the open air theater known as Los Arcos (The Arches) across the steet from Palacio Municipal (City Hall) all the way to McDonald´s, this expansive side walk provides the perfect spot for an early morning joy or a late night romantic stroll. Let the fresh ocean air and artistic sculptures invigorate your soul, while you snap souvenir photos, or just sit back and soak up the ambiace. Cultural and musical events are often hosted at Los Arcos, or across ths street in the Central Plaza. In the evenings you can see the Marigalante, an authentic replica of Christopher Columbus galleon, the Santa Maria, shooting fireworks from her bow. Hotel Accommodations Rich with old world charm, the hotels dotting Old Town tend to be less expensive than their five-star cousins. Within easy walking distance to all points of interes on the map, they offer quaint and intimate alternatives for those wishing to stay in the heart of the city. Some offer packages, including breakfast and complimentary drinks with your room. Walking tours A delightful way to get some exercise, while seeing some memorable architecture, not to mention fantastic views of the city, is to hike through the narrow winding streets of the area affectionately known as Gringo Gulch. From there you can catch a rar perspective of the beautiful Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. Most of the unique stucco home are better known bytheir name, thanby their street numbers. It was here that Richard Burton bought the famous Casa Kimberly for Elizabeth Taylor and himself, which is actually two villa djoined by a foot bridge over the steet. Start with a tour of the Palacio Municipal (City Hall), then head straight up Zaragoza street and you´re there. If you prefer, join one of the daily guided tours. Restaurants From early morning until the wee hours, this is where it is all happening, on an international scale! From world class French cuisine, to ethnic Asian de lights and authentic Mexican dishes, not to mention the freshest seafood around. Old Town Vallarta has something to please the most discriminating palate. The personalized first-class service of these unique eateries will keep you busy planning and anticipating your next dining experience. Nightlife All dressed and ready to party? Old Town offers entertainment and gathering places for all age groups, from high-end discos to down home live blues bars. Along the Malecón you´ll discover world famous after hours watering holes, such as Carlos O´brian´s, Hard Rock Cafe and Planet Hollywood, just to name a few. It is a great way to meet other friendly vacationers and maybe spot a a celebrity or two. Drinks are reasonably priced, most places have a Happy Hour and often no cover is charged, which makes bar hoping a must for those who want to see it all. Dress codes are casual with common sense being the guiding, rule, such as long pants for men in highend establishments. Shopping Old Town is the ultimate shopping experience ! There is one specialty shop after another lining every street in the downtown area. Leather goods, beach ware, fine jewelry, indigenous art and wavings are just a sample the Mexican treasures you will find. Fun aoutdoor markets and the famous Flea Market offer a wide spectrum of wares in had-blown glass, copper, pottery, onyx, wood, gold and silver. In clothes, you will discover everything from designer brands to traditional handmade Mexican shirts and dresses. Art galleries Browse the popular galleries of Old Town for that perfect one-of-a-kind gift Discover pieces by world renowned sculptors, painters and potters and potters . Watch for announcements of the frequent art show openings in the Old Town galleries and meet the artists while you shop. Gaining popularity with tourists are the gallery/studios, where the artists actually create their wares before your eyes. Isla Rio Cuale (Cuale River Island) Running right down the center of the Rio Cuale, from the ocean through the heart of downtown is the lushly overgrown Isla Rio Cuale dotted with restaurants, boutiques and gift shops. A quick stop in the Museum will give you a perspective of the history of the region around Puerto Vallarta. Romantic Zone South of the Rio Cuale you´ll find the famous Romantic Zone. Known for its bohemian atmosphere, it is filled with specialty shops and restaurants. It is perfect for for tourists seeking the less trendy spots, with laid-back bars offering live music and casual eateries. Basilio Badillo is often referred to as Restaurant Row. Stroll down Basilio Badillo, toward the beach, and you will cross Olaws Altas street, known for its abundance of high quality dining, sidewalk cafes and coffee shops. Dress codes, reservations and cover charges are the exception here.