Puerto Vallarta is one of the most beautiful destinations in Mexico. The beaches are picturesquely placed overlooking blue waters beyond the mountains. Combine the beautiful views with lively Mexican culture and mouthwatering cuisine, and you will be sure to have an unforgettable vacation.
Before you travel to Puerto Vallarta, give this guide a thorough read. It will let you know all about things to do, travel tips, and information about travel medical insurance or travel insurance plans that you need to know before you go.
Puerto Vallarta Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Travel medical insurance plans are designed to protect you from unexpected expenses that may arise due to a medical emergency that occurs while outside your home country. The cost of medical treatment can be very expensive at private facilities in Mexico, so it is essential to have adequate coverage to avoid unaffordable out-of-pocket costs with proper travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Puerto Vallarta?
Though it's not legally required to have travel medical insurance before visiting Puerto Vallarta, it really isn't something you should go without. There's a good chance your domestic health insurance will not provide adequate coverage in Mexico, leaving you on the hook for potentially large bills if you were to get sick or injured. The price of even a short hospital stay can exceed that of your entire trip, so it only makes sense to have insurance that can cover you.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Puerto Vallarta?
There's a good chance your trip to Puerto Vallarta will involve adventure sports such as paragliding, snorkeling, or surfing. These activities can be a lot of fun, but they also put you at increased risk of injury. Even if you're planning a more relaxing vacation, injuries and illness can still strike at any time, so you'll want to be covered.
It's also important to remember that as a resort town, Puerto Vallarta may not be equipped to handle every kind a medical emergency. It's possible that a serious condition could require expensive emergency medical evacuation, which is something no traveler wants to pay for out of their own pocket.
Puerto Vallarta Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Traveling overseas is never without its risks, especially when your destination can be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. Bad weather can make even long-planned trips impossible seemingly overnight. Even if the weather is of no concern, there's always the chance you could get sick or injured prior to departure and have to stay home. Whatever the circumstance, trips have to be canceled sometimes. Trip cancellation insurance is designed to make sure you don't lose your money if that happens.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Puerto Vallarta?
Your Puerto Vallarta vacation will most likely require you to purchase airline tickets ahead of time, and book your resort far in advance. If your trip winds up being canceled, you may find that the money you have tied up in these expenses isn't refundable, or large cancellation fees are attached.
With trip cancellation insurance, you can avoid having to pay for a trip you're unable to take. If your vacation has to be canceled for a reason covered by your policy, your Puerto Vallarta trip cancellation insurance can help you get reimbursed for these nonrefundable, prepaid travel expenses.
What all is covered under trip cancellation insurance for Puerto Vallarta?
While trip cancellation coverage can assist you if your trip has to be canceled before it begins, some travel headaches don't surface until after departure. Travel insurance can help you in these situations as well, with coverage options such as:
- Flight delay coverage
- Trip interruption coverage
- Coverage for loss of baggage or baggage delays
- Flight insurance
- The option to cancel for any reason with some plans
Things to Do for Travelers in Puerto Vallarta
Take a Stroll Through El Malecon
Los Arcos del Malecon, or the arches of the Malecon, is the central attraction of this place and the city. El Malecon stretches for over a mile and houses many other tourist attractions such as ancient statues, and Our Lady of Guadalupe Church.
Explore Zona Romantica
Zona Romantica is a charming neighborhood with an eclectic mix of residents and attractions, including some of the best restaurants and bars in the city. This neighborhood is bound to please you if you are tired of overcrowded tourist areas.
Take A Whale-Watching Tour
If you visit Puerto Vallarta from December to February, you should make good use of the whale-watching season. Grab some binoculars, head to Banderas Bay, and enjoy gazing at these majestic creatures. If you want to see humpback whales up close, you can also take a whale-watching tour offered by many companies in the city.
Head to Playa de Los Muertos
Though Play de Los Muertos means "dead man's beach," there's no reason to be alarmed. In reality, Playa de Los Muertos is full of fun things to do like jet skiing, windsurfing and paragliding. The beachside market is also home to some great restaurants and bars.
Take A Trip to Bucerias
Looking to get away from the vacation crowd? Take a bus trip to Bucerias, a small resort town that's just 30 minutes away. You can enjoy a quiet day here swimming, fishing, or just relaxing on the Bay of Banderas.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Puerto Vallarta
Be Wary of Airport Scams
Once you step out of customs, you may be greeted by a flock of "representatives" who claim to offer everything from free transportation to free stays at fabulous hotels. Do not take anyone up on these offers. If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is.
Shop Around
The stores and vendors around Puerto Vallarta sell a variety of the same souvenirs and knickknacks, often for wildly different prices. Before you purchase an item that you like, it pays to look around and see if you can get it for less money.
Petty Theft
As is the case with any tourist area, pickpockets can lurk around Puerto Vallarta. It never hurts to invest in a money belt or keep your wallet in your front pocket just in case. Also, never leave your valuables unattended.
Protect Against the Sun
The tropical sunshine of Puerto Vallarta makes it a popular destination, but it can also do damage to your skin. Be sure to apply sunscreen before stepping out in the daytime, and reapply it regularly throughout the day. Also, a hat and sunglasses are good ideas to protect you from the glare.
Ocean Safety
The seas around Puerto Vallarta can get quite rough during high tide, so be careful when swimming or enjoying the water. Pay attention to any safety alerts, and only swim in designated areas.
Before You Travel to Puerto Vallarta - Do This
- Learn some basic Spanish. Though most resort personnel will speak English, knowing a few local phrases is always appreciated.
- Drink bottled water. Few things can ruin a vacation faster than stomach ailments. To be on the safe side, avoid drinking tap water.
- Buy travel medical insurance or travel insurance. You may not be able to eliminate all the risks of an international trip, but you can control how they can affect your finances.