Solo Traveling in Puerto Vallarta

The thing I hate the most about returning from Puerto Vallarta is that my Scruff and Grindr grid switches from beautiful and diverse to basic and flavorless.

I have been going to PV for a few years now. The first time was my birthday in 2020 - right when things were starting to close because of Miss Rona. I've had such a pleasant experience that I've been spending my Christmas/New Years' holiday there ever since.

What I love most about this Mexican town is that it's a safe space for gays. While there are cishet families who also vacation there, it is gay men who predominantly go there. I stay in or fairly close to Zona Romantica (aka the old town). It is charming and right by Los Muertos beach. There are plenty of places to eat, shop, party, and attractions, that are very LGBT-friendly. There are also plenty of public art and murals all over. 

While I wouldn't consider it "pedestrian-friendly" - almost all of the places are walkable. In fact, you will walk a lot! Just going about my day, I could easily reach the daily 20,000 steps goal on my Fitbit. It is also great if you're Spanish is only so-so, as most people are very accommodating and can communicate (to some extent) in English.

These are my favorite places in Zona Romantica:

1. The Coffee Cup - This is where I get my breakfast and first cup of coffee. It opens earlier than most places here.
2. Salud Super Food - Where I get my breakfast (sometimes) or lunch and my green smoothie boosted with ginger and other stuff that is good for your health.
3. Studs Bear Bar - My preferred gay bar. Great atmosphere and it's not in the same block as the other more crowded/chaotic bars.
4. Club Spartacus - Not gonna elaborate on this one.

All in all, PV is a great place if you just want to chill and relax in one area. I spent a week here this time, and to be honest I got a little antsy and bored by my fourth day. That is because I'm the type of traveler who wants to do or see something. I did go to another island on a day trip, but otherwise, I just stayed in the area. I've made the choice to just simply stay put and absorb the surrounding - which is hard for someone with ADHD. 

I will definitely go back again.