Digital Nomad Life in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

"Expats Vallarta is active and easily found on the Internet. They offer monthly get-togethers and other social events. Although mostly geared to people who vacation here every year, there is also a group that meets at Pour Favor every Tuesday evening. We have found, however, that going to the pool in our condo building is the best way to make new friends," remarked one member in Puerto Vallarta.

"Expats in Puerto Vallarta often join clubs and activities geared toward their specific interests. These include book clubs, cycling groups, wine tasting groups, church groups, expat social clubs, yoga classes, cooking classes, and salsa dancing classes. Other ways that expats in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico can meet people and socialize include going to the beach, attending art galleries and theater performances, visiting local farmers markets, and frequenting local English-speaking bars and cafes," explained one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"Go to a restaurant and talk to the people at the table beside you - talk to a anyone. It is natural and almost expected here in PV. Something I would never do in my original home of Vancouver," said one person in Puerto Vallarta.

"Take a look at Incanto: https://www.incantovallarta.com/ I've attended several events there and have made friends in this environment via Bingo & Theater. The owner is a great and friendly host. Stroll within the calendar, as well, since you teach Improv. The current calendar looks like its still within the high season. This and many other options are available in Puerto Vallarta," said one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads due to its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. Expats and digital nomads in Puerto Vallarta can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities, such as swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. The city also offers a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as a lively nightlife. Additionally, Puerto Vallarta is home to a diverse expat community, making it easy to make friends and find support. With its warm climate, stunning scenery, and friendly locals, Puerto Vallarta is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a new home," remarked one member in Puerto Vallarta.

"For Mexicans, it is all about family. Many expats here are retired and spend their time golfing, socializing, enjoying the beaches, painting, or writing. Other expats are working in real estate or own businesses like restaurants or art galleries," explained one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"I am currently happily settled in Puerto Vallarta, where I find there are more activities that I am comfortable joining than I found in Mazatlán. Though Vallarta is more "verticle" than Mazatlán (which is one of the features that appeals to former Vancouverites), there are also plenty of flat areas with nice homes and amenities and, personally, I rent 4 blocks from the beach (the last block before the hill)," explained one person living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"One way to find a place to live in Puerto Vallarta is to browse online listings of available properties. Several real estate websites offer listings of apartments, condos and houses for rent in Puerto Vallarta. Additionally, a popular option is to use the services of a local real estate agent or company, who will be able to provide personalized advice and assistance. If necessary, it may also be possible to use local bulletin boards in the area to find available properties. Finally, it can be beneficial to speak to local business owners, as they may be able to point you towards suitable housing options," said one expat in Puerto Vallarta.

"I initially chose to move to the marina area which is quite nice and a bit pricey but far from downtown Puerto Vallarta. I then moved to the Southern area of Puerto Vallarta, Old Town. This is a very trendy area and the prices are often far higher than other neighborhoods, despite this being the less modern area," remarked one member in Puerto Vallarta.

"My favorite area is 5 Diciembre with a more local atmosphere and more Mexican nationals full time occupants, than some of the others," explained one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"We visited Puerto Vallarta for 15 years before moving here. I would tell my friend to visit at least 6 times, renting in different places each time. The areas of this city/region are quite different, so that person should rent in Centro, Southside, Conchas Chinas, Mismaloya, the Marina, the Hotel Zone, and even in Nuevo and Bucerias before he or she commits to anything long term. Of course, I would also advise my friend to start learning Spanish and start saving money. Most real estate transactions are in cash because interest rates are very high here. There are long term rental opportunities, if one is comfortable living with a certain amount of uncertainty about availability year to year. I would also tell my friend that, after buying our condo, we have never been happier or so free of financial worries. We love living here," said one person in Puerto Vallarta.

"It is important for expats considering retiring in Puerto Vallarta to understand the local language, Spanish, in order to interact comfortably with their new neighbors. Additionally, it is important to review the laws surrounding residency and retirement visas. It is also critical to familiarize oneself with the local culture, as well as the potential day-to-day costs of living such as food, transportation, and healthcare. Before making a commitment, it is highly recommended that expats visit the city, meet with local organizations and staff, and explore the area. Lastly, expats should arrange for a reliable in-country contact to help them adjust to life in Puerto Vallarta," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"Expats in Puerto Vallarta appreciate the vibrant and diverse culture that greets them upon arrival. They are drawn to the warm and welcoming nature of the people, the array of delicious cuisine, the colorful streets bustling with life and the stunning selection of art and local crafts. The relaxed pace and openness of the community are also cherished by expats, allowing them to truly settle into the lifestyle and experience all the city has to offer. Aside from savoring the local flavor, the city and its beaches provide ample opportunities for adventure and exploration," explained one person living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"I loved seeing how immaterial material things were. I became friends with a woman who lived in a 2 room dirt floored house. She and her family were happy and content. She had 4 children with her and they all slept in one room. It made me realize that in the US we have so much materially but it really doesn't help us be happier. I felt sorry for her in the beginning and yet ended up a little envious after getting to know her and her family," said one expat in Puerto Vallarta.

"One of the major challenges for expats in Puerto Vallarta is the language barrier. Most people in the city speak Spanish, and although many also speak English, it can be difficult to find locals who are fluent in it. Additionally, the cultural norms and values can be jarring to those from different countries, as the city has its own unique customs and traditions. The climate can also be difficult to adjust to, with hot and humid temperatures year-round, and the cost of living is higher than in some other parts of the country," remarked one member in Puerto Vallarta.

"The way there is nothing set when dealing with police. Or at least, what I experienced a few times. I got pulled over over something but there was an unsaid dictum that all I had to do was give the policeman some money and drive away," explained one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"Here it is: Lived in northern Virginia about 5 mins from Washington, DC, so I was able to use the office downtown DC near Georgetown. My appointment/process took about 15-20 mins before they smiled at me and said that I was going to live in Mexico. I submitted the required payroll statements, which showed them being directly deposited into my bank account. I was still working (I think this might have been an advantage...not sure) These statements listed my 401K, as well. I did not point that out to them and they didn't ask. I didn't need to use my pension info, nor did I bring it with me. I didn't apply for Social Security until 6 months after arrival, so it was not used as income. They didn't ask for bank statements and I didn't volunteer. In addition, there was no need in Puerto Vallarta for me to submit financials again... I only listed what my current sources of income were. Keep in mind that this was over 5 years ago and I did it all myself. I just took the time to read and digest online what I needed to do, period," said one person in Puerto Vallarta.

"would suggest that you research the requirements for a Residente Temporale visa at different Mexican Consulates in your area and apply if you can qualify. The income thresholds are only going to increase every year and if I had waited until now to apply, I would not qualify. The visa does not obligate you to spend any time in Mexico--just make sure the immigration officers see it when you do enter the country so you don't accidentally lose the visa by entering as a tourist. (Your customs form should have the word "canje" on it when you do this!) After you enter, you have to complete the second part of the process within 30 days at any inmigración office near where you are staying in Mexico. You can renew a Temporale each year for three years and then roll over to Permanente without any further "proof of income"," said one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"If you are planning to stay in Puerto Vallarta for a while, you will need to apply for a tourist visa or a FM2, FM3, or Residente Temporal visa before your arrival. All these visas can be obtained at a Mexican Consulate or Embassy before leaving for Puerto Vallarta. Additionally, you will need to register with Mexican immigration, also known as migración, within three days of arrival, and obtain a Migratory Identity Card, or FM3 (Residente Temporal). Lastly, depending on the amount of time you intend to stay, you may also need to register with the local health authority to get a Mexican Health Insurance Card and register with the local authorities to get a Mexican Citizen's Card," explained one foreigner living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"When traveling in Puerto Vallarta it is important to be mindful and respectful of local culture and customs. Specifically, visitors should try to avoid wearing revealing clothing in public places, particularly when visiting religious sites. It is also important to acknowledge the traditional beliefs and practices of the local population by avoiding topics such as religion and politics and refraining from disrespectful gestures and jokes. Additionally, locals are proud of their culture and food, so it is important to be respectful when trying local dishes. When interacting with locals, be sure to greet them with a friendly smile and an appropriate greeting such as a “Buenos Días.” Finally, visitors should respect the area’s historical landmarks and traditions when visiting the city," said one person in Puerto Vallarta.

"Be sure to have travel insurance... helps to speak Spanish to communicate more freely with the caregivers, however someone there will speak English," commented a person living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"Puerto Vallarta offers a wide range of healthcare services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public hospitals are generally well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals, while the private hospitals offer more specialized services and treatments. In addition, Puerto Vallarta has a number of pharmacies, medical laboratories, and other medical facilities that provide a variety of services. Many of the private hospitals and clinics also offer medical tourism packages, allowing visitors to receive medical care while enjoying the city's attractions. Puerto Vallarta also has a number of medical centers that specialize in specific areas, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. In addition, the city has a number of medical spas and wellness centers that offer a variety of treatments and therapies," explained one digital nomad living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"The culture shock has taken two years to acclimatize to, and it's not over yet for me. However, people here laugh more, smile more, and sing more than in the United States. The narco violence reported in the news is completely overblown. Private medical services, which is why we moved here, are superior to the US and are 1/20 the cost," wrote one digital nomad living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Puerto Vallarta often appreciate the city's vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and warm climate. They also enjoy the low cost of living, which allows them to stretch their budget further. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier and lack of reliable public transportation to be challenging. Additionally, the city's high humidity can be uncomfortable for some," said one foreigner in Puerto Vallarta.