Puerto Vallarta V

Today we did a city tour. We should have done this at the beginning of the week but whatever, it only cost $5.  It started off on a nice, air-conditioned bus (for which Marc was grateful). It took us to the main downtown area where we saw a traditional native show where some guys swung from a pole to music. The four guys are supposed to represent the four seasons and this is a ritual to the gods. It was different. The guide talked about the history of the area and pointed out a few sculptures. He also showed us Gringo Gulch before herding us over to the city hall where there was a cool mural representing Puerto Vallarta and then to the main church. After the church we headed over to the flea market. We had already done the flea market, but looked around anyway. We found some little maracas for that I think the girls will like. This concluded the city tour portion of the excursion as we headed into the jungle. I think the jungle is more impressive in the winter after the rainy season, but we say some crazy houses and enjoyed the views on the ride. On the way the guide told us about the local cuisine and a dish called fish on a stick that sounded really cool. After talking up the local fare we were taken to a restaurant that offered none of those things, it was very disappointing and overpriced.

Following dinner we went to a traditional tequila factory where they distill tequila the old-fashioned way. It was interesting to learn about the process and we drifted off as discretely as possible when they began handing out samples. We did buy some agave there, which is what tequila is made from.

The ride back was a long and I took a little nap. When we finally got back to the condo we found a little restaurant that a few people have recommended. It was OK. When we got there we were given free shots of tequila and when our meal was finished we were brought Kaluas with cream on the house. When it was obvious that the alcohol was going untouched the owner came over to make sure everything was OK. We told him we didn’t drink and he brought us virgin strawberry daiquiris. He was very nice. I think he thought we were on our honeymoon. In fact everyone here thinks we are on our honeymoon. Marc thinks it is hilarious and when I don’t do something for him he reminds me that we are supposed to be on our honeymoon.