El Centro
There's no doubt that living in the heart of downtown is attractive for many who move to Puerto Vallarta specifically for the romantic life suggested by walking along the Malecón on a sunny Sunday, surrounded by the friendly faces of Mexico. The description alone rings the bells. Or curls the toes as they dig in the soft sand. But what is life really like on the streets in the hills above downtown?
The majority of the homes are from another century. Oh, that's right, nearly everything is from another century, another millennium. Never mind. Anyway, "old" can mean full of character or it can mean complete with wrinkles. Some of the older buildings may have problems with leaks. True, this is not specific to downtown, but rather to construction issues rather than to zone. As usual, we offer a list of advantages and disadvantages to help you make your decision.
- PROS
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- Colorful, truly Mexican area to live, with genuine character in the streets, the homes, the people, the entire surroundings.
- Access to some of the best restaurants in the country.
- Very close to most cultural activities, parades, concerts, events.
- Generally very friendly neighborhoods with extended families.
- Good access to shopping.
- Close proximity to classes, learning centers, workshops on the island.
- Ease of city transportation almost anywhere.
- Good beach access.
- Views from the hills above downtown are excellent.
- CONS
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- Can be noisy.
- Close proximity of neighbors; smaller lot size.
- Events can cause the temporary detour of vehicles and public transportation.
- Parking can be problematic during heavier seasonal periods.
- Older buildings can have structural, electrical or plumbing problems.
- Rebuilding or renovating may require specific permits.
- Hilly streets above downtown frequently experience water run-off.
The heavy bus traffic through downtown on Morelos going south and Juárez going north is a reality that hasn't changed despite repeated promises, surveys, reports and corroborations that the situation is untenable. So don't hold your breath that it will change any time soon. But, one day, we'll be surprised by a smoother traffic pattern allowing not only easier access for vehicles, but an increased measure of safety for pedestrians.