Tips on Puerto Vallarta Warnings or Dangers – Stay Safe!

Puerto Vallarta Warnings and Dangers

Cultural Issues

While Puerto Vallarta has a long history of tourism and Americans have been going there for decades, it is important to realize this is still another country with a slightly different culture. You may think it is a danger, but it really isn’t at times. Vendors feel free to approach you on the beach, offering their wares, and everything is negotiable. Even when shopping in a store, prices are negotiable and haggling is expected. Relax and enjoy it.

Even while enjoying some good natured haggling, realize that there are con artists around. Silver is often sold here and you can get some great deals, you can also get home with some silver plated junk if you are not careful. When buying silver, or any other expensive item, get it from a real dealer.

Timeshares

Timeshares are big business here, and this is also a favorite of con artists. Be very wary of anyone approaching you with a great deal. They can seem very believable. It seems like every local person there has a time share deal going.

Beaches

The beaches here are not the pure white sand variety, mostly because it is on the Pacific side. The beach at Grand Palladium takes this to the extreme though. It is very rocky and can be dangerous for swimmers.

Steps, and More Steps

This is another culture and they have different safety standards. There are also a lot of hills here, so there seem to be steps everywhere. Often the railings are not sufficient and can be dangerous. Many areas are not wheelchair friendly.

Roads

If you drive you need to be very careful. In Mexico everyone uses the roads, regardless of how they are powering themselves. People walk, ride bikes, cars and whatever else. Animals use the roads too. This is not so much of a danger as it is an inconvenience. Slow down and relax until the animals move on. It is also a relatively tropical area and there are usually critters everywhere.

Drink Responsibly

There are a lot of bars and nightclubs where you can have a great time. Alcohol is also cheaper here. As long as you keep control of yourself you should be fine but just be aware of the dangers of getting too drunk. There are people who have woken up after getting too drunk and find that they have robbed.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Puerto Vallarta Shopping – Shops, Stores, Best Buys & Inside Tips
• Puerto Vallarta Zona Roja and other Nightlife
• Health / Safety in Puerto Vallarta and Other Warnings and Dangers

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Puerto Vallarta warnings and dangers.