Puerto Vallarta is somewhat of an isolated community. It is a 4-5 hour drive to the nearest large city (Guadalajara) with winding, small mountain roads separating it in all directions from the rest of Mexico.

The International Airport is very convenient and often an economical method of travel. It is serviced on the ground by an exclusive, rather expensive taxi system (typically twice the price of other local taxis) and by a very inexpensive local bus system.

The Port is the entry point for many cruise lines, and the associated private Marina is home to many international sea travelers. There are similar private Marinas nearby in Nuevo Vallarta and La Cruz.

Along the coast there are water taxis for transport to small bays up and down the nearby coast. This system uses small open pangas that typically hold between 12 and 24 passengers. They run regularly between Nuevo Vallarta, Marina Vallarta, Los Muertos Beach, Boca de Tomatlan and the smaller coves to the south such as Las Animas and Yelapa.

The local taxi system is extensive and provides moderate cost in town travel. The local bus system, though very basic, is very inexpensive and extensive.

The long-distance bus system in Mexico is inexpensive and of a very high quality if the first class buses are chosen.

Public Parking Lots:

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Street parking can be trying at times in Puerto Vallarta. The streets in town are often narrow and busy.

To remedy this situation, the city has constructed, in the last 4 years, 4 public parking lots conveniently located in the main tourist and commercial centers.

Along with the public parking lots, there are quite a few large lots accompanying shopping centers and supermarkets.

• Walmart is in 2 locations in Vallarta and both have easy, free parking.
• the Soriana near the Marina Terminal is a free, convenient parking lot for those needing to conduct business at Immigracion.
• Costco has one large, free lot.
• The hotel zone Mega has a Large, sheltered lot under the store and the Plaza Marina mega has a controlled outside lot.
• The Pitillal Soriana market also has large, free lot while the Hotel zone Soriana has paid parking.

The biggest event and fundraiser for the year for Biblioteca Los Mangos is almost here. Mark your agendas for Friday, January 28, 2010. The doors officially open at 6pm but if you would like to arrive around 5:30 pm to have a drink and peruse the silent auction items, you are welcome to!

LOCATION

A few highlights:

• Lounge area! Have a rest, have a chat, rest the feet and enjoy a yummy plate of food and a drink. Small items for sale in the Lounge area including tiles for the library, bookmarks, T-shirts and a few other doo-dads.
• Raffle! Instant winners! Think “scratch off lottery tickets”! No waiting around to try and hear a number called at the end of the evening. Win your prize(s) right away, collect and then, buy more tickets if you wish!
• Delicious food! A wide variety of botanas and snacks, all donated by local area restaurants, hotels and even some of our private chefs in the area.
• Drinks! Mojitos will be the drink of the evening. These, along with wine, soft drinks and jamica will wet your whistle.
• Silent Auction! Just wait until you see the gigantic variety of items available. Jump in to a silent bidding battle with your friends. And this year, only one closing time!
• Fixed Price items! Weekend escapes, Botox treatments, tours – an endless list.
• Art Auction! Decorate your home or office by outbidding someone else for a unique piece of artwork by local artists.
• Pre-register! Save time in lines for registering by PRE registering prior to the event. Send your name, email and phone number to pamela@healthcareresourcespv.com
• “Raise the Paddle” ! “Bid” on various items needed for the library – from windows to computer screens.

Again, please remember that Los Mangos Library is not “just a library.” It is a true community and cultural center. By joining in the event, you will be able to give back to our community. Folks, the coffers are nearly empty – so please, enjoy a marvelous evening filled with fun items, friends, food, drink and fun!

For further information, please contact Pamela Thompson. Cell 322 107 7007 or pamela@healthcareresourcespv.com