Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

The Crown Princess took its berth in port located on the banks of a sweeping inlet called the "Bay Of Banderas" (Bay of Flags). It was a glorious sunny day, breezy, warm with a baby blue sky overhead. We had arrived in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and this would be our last port before disembarking at our next stop in Los Angeles.

Although there was evidence that the Aztala'n Indians dominated this area beginning around 580 B.C., it was conquistador Francisco Corte's who uncovered this wonderful gem. In 1525, Corte's and his army marched through the mountainous area, along the Pacific coastline and stumbled into one of the largest bays in the world. The harbor was used by Spanish sailors for ship repairs, but the area was largely unsettled for the next 300 years. Then the town began to prosper in 1851 when the port was used for trading salt and minerals. However, it still remained small until Hollywood made it a star. Director John Huston filmed the movie "The Night Of The Iguana" in and around Puerto Vallarta. Soon, Director Huston and star Richard Burton (who played in the movie) purchased homes in Puerto Vallarta. The rest of the world then followed.

 (Photo courtesy of Internet)

Puerto Vallarta offers an indulging visit to anyone seeking fun and relaxation. Palm fringed "palapas" (Spanish word of Mayan origin meaning "pulpous leave") are thatched roof huts and are seen along the beaches. Meandering Mariachis beckon you to the Maleco'n, a modern ocean side promenade. Most of the streets around Puerto Vallarta are cobble stoned. The Sierra Madre Mountains sat majestically in the background and created a stunning backdrop to a great port of call. 

Rick and I decided we would walk around town and explore along the seaside. First, we did a "Kentucky Fried Chicken Run" for the crew. Most of the ship's crew did not have shore leave on that day and there was a serious craving going on after having been in South America for fifty days.  So this made it extra special. There was a KFC in Puerto Vallarta so Rick and I agreed we would buy buckets of the much treasured chicken that is adored by most of the crew. We went ashore and hailed a cab. The driver took us to the nearest KFC and we purchased as many buckets with sides of biscuits, coleslaw, mashed potatoes and gravy as we could carry. Then we delivered it back to the ship and watched the quick grapevine action as crew came from everywhere on the ship to pick up some chicken and fixings. This was another way Rick and I said "thank you" to all the ship's crew who made our trip so memorable. 

Then back onshore for some sightseeing on foot. It was once again getting warmer and the sun a bit intense. We had our bathing suits on and decided to head towards the nearest beach for a dip in some cool water.

Eager fishermen were wading along the rocky jetties gathering oysters, prying them open and serving them raw and fresh on a plate right on the beach. Presentation was amazing but we decided to play it safe just in case our stomachs didn't agree with the lovely bounty.

Along the sea were many hotels with amazing infinity pools and fun areas for kids (of any age).

I adore hammocks...

especially a chair hammock on a balcony overlooking the ocean. Beautiful...it just begged to be enjoyed. 

Unfortunately, many hotels did not allow anyone but guests to use their pools and facilities, including their outdoor bar areas. We did find a gorgeous Hilton hotel and spoke to the manager who agreed to allow us the use of their lovely chairs and umbrella by the pool (but could not swim in the pool) in exchange for purchasing food and drinks from their bar. Our pleasure. 

As we scouted for some lounge chairs and an umbrella closer to the beach, we did see the captain of our ship and some of his staff in the pool. They had purchased a "day pass" and were wearing colored wrist bands. The "day pass" allowed use of the pool, facilities and a free buffet lunch with drinks. I must say this: the security at this pool were diligent and strict, constantly checking for wrist bands or making sure only guests enjoyed the pool area. The manager spoke to security on our behalf so that we weren't bothered by them. The vendors strolling along the beach were kept at a distance by security and not allowed to enter the pool area from the beach. In all, it was a good thing.

I cooled off in the ocean then relaxed by the pool in the shade.

We watched the activity on the beach, which included some para sailing. 

Rick and I took turns saying "No gracias" a lot as we were approached by kind yet persistent vendors strolling along the beach selling beach wraps, towels, hats, souvenirs and jewelry. This salesman was clever and maximized his ability to carry lots of different styles and colors of hats for his potential customers.

We ordered food and refreshments from the outdoor bar and had it delivered to our lounge chairs. It was so relaxing and the view could not have been better. Once we had enough sun and surf and enjoyed our afternoon, we thanked the hotel staff and made our way back to the ship.

Our day went by too fast. Puerto Vallarta would be a port to come back to and we would look forward to it.

On to the next adventure...have you ever wondered what a ship's bridge looks like up close? Join me on this tour: South American Cruise 2014