Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Colorful House
My first trip out of the united states, similar to many other American travelers, was to Mexico. Something about its proximity to the US made it seem like the right choice for a first international trip. By this time in my life I have traveled well enough within the U.S. solo as well as some in group trips. Also, working as a travel nurse for some years, I drove to many cities and states on my own. Needless to say, I have become amazingly comfortable with driving in unfamiliar locations on my own. Therefore, using a travel agent as recommended by many online travel groups, was not really a necessity to me. I knew how to research flights, hotels, and excursions prior to arriving to my final travel destinations.
Rooftop Infinity Pool.
Multiple open browsers later, with different airline companies on each page, I ended up purchasing an airline ticket via Alaska airlines to Puerto Vallarta. A city that was recommended to me by many of my coworkers, and I have read many positive reviews on it. As for lodging, I chose hotel Mousai. A polished adults-only resort with fine dining & a spa, plus a rooftop infinity pool & ocean view. Honestly, they had me at adults only and ocean views. My favorite experience about my stay were the amenities included in the room/suite cost, such as snorkeling, kayaking, yoga, paddle boarding, cooking, wine & tequila tastings to name a few.
Kayaking Excursion.
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding
The food scene at the resort was also very satisfying, with many cuisine options to choose from. As part of the all-inclusive experience, I indulged in tasting different dishes from the many restaurants at the resort to choose from.
La LECHE.
La Leche was a gourmet restaurant outside of the resort that was on my list of places I wanted to experience. The atmosphere, service, food, as well as cocktails were amazing. Five-star experience and I highly recommend.
Malecon.
Strolling the street of downtown Puerto Vallarta was my most memorable experience of the city. By day, there are many colorful shops and vendors to indulge in some local souvenirs shopping. Fortunately, I was able to exchange my US dollars to Mexican pesos prior to my shopping trip. Be sure to familiarize yourself with your destination’s currency prior to embarking in on your international trips. An extremely helpful tip that comes in handy when dealing with foreign cash.
Mandala Nightclub.
I made the bold move to step out one night and visit the nightlife scene in downtown Puerto Vallarta alone, which now looking back it was not a very safe idea. I was feeling myself and on some YOLO vibes that night. A nightclub that had a decent yelp review caught my attention, so I kindly asked the hotel’s front desk staff to order me a taxi to the club. Once inside, the vibe was just so alive with music that ranged from hip-hop, to salsa and EDM. Luckily, my nightlife experience at Mandala Nightclub ended beautifully well.
Panorama View Infinity Pool.
Private Jacuzzi
Unfortunately I had to cut this trip short due to family emergency, but I make it a goal to return to Puerto Vallarta and get the full experience.
What was your first international trip experience like?