Friday, September 9, 2016

Hot and Humid Vallarta

Wow, it's hot!  Okay, the temperature is only 81F/27C with a high of 88F today. Don't let that fool you. We have 89% humidity today and it is stinking hot already at 10:00 a.m. So, I'm inspired to write this "What to do when it's too hot" blog.

There has been a lot of questions floating around the Puerto Vallarta forum lately about what to do when it's so hot outside. Well here are a few of the favorite answers.

1. Catch a movie. Most movies release in PV in English first with Spanish subtitles. The movie theaters are pretty cool. You might even need a sweater. The food at the movie theaters in Mexico is definitely a step above what we find at a typical theater in the states. Many have service to your seat, but most have great buffets that you can take your tray (with arm attachment) to your seat. It is great quality and selection. All of the movie theaters I've visited in Vallarta are wheelchair accessible.

2. Starbucks. Every Starbucks is cooler than it needs to be. The coffee is great, the wifi is free, and you can usually find someone to visit with if you are interested in learning something from the locals. Most of the Starbucks are wheelchair friendly. The one on the north end of the Malecón is not.

3. Casino. Puerto Vallarta has many casinos. All of them have the air conditioning set at a cool temperature. This might not be the most cost effective way to escape the heat, but it is definitely an option. Many of the casino's have the sports competitions on TV. Buy a drink and hang out in front of the TV for a while. Hopefully the game goes your way so you can keep cool. If a casino is not wheelchair accessible, they are going to pick you up and help you inside. I think most of them are accessible.

4. The Costco cooler. Yep, it is a favorite of the locals on a hot day. You can wander in there just long enough to be happy to get back out in the heat. Definitely accessible in Vallarta.

5. The mall. The biggest option for a cooler day. You can search out whatever interests you, or just hang around in the comfy seats and people watch. The mall is a great place to go to cool down. And as a bonus, there is usually inexpensive ice cream cones to be found on a hot day. All of the malls in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta are accessible. There is plenty to see and a wheelchair is not going to slow you down one bit.

Now, it is worth mentioning before you head to the beach, that it may not be the best place to cool down. You may find some nice ocean breeze, but don't expect the water to be refreshing. Often times the water is just as warm as it is outside. You will be wet and overheated both in and out of the surf. So, even with a beach wheelchair, you might not find the beach the best place to cool down. Some of the resorts (Paradise Village for sure) have accessible pools. They are hard to find in the area, so ask that question when making your reservation.

It is important to stay hydrated, but water alone will not do the trick. You will need some electrolytes. There are several choices including Gatorade, mineral water with added salt (Penafiel orange is my favotite), and various other options. Stay hydrated, stay in the shade, and get out of the heat from time to time.

If you are in a wheelchair, make sure to have your personal fan and an umbrella. Beach Crossers has both available if you rent from us.

Even in the hottest season, September and October in Vallarta, it is a beautiful place with so much to see and do. You will find good discounts from airlines and accommodations as well making this an affordable time to visit.

Just remember to plan for the hot, humid Vallarta summer.