A magical feeling blankets across the Mexican countryside, which helps win over visitors to the Latin nation. Though Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas, and Cancun are the more popular destinations for tourists because of their entertainment and stunning beaches, other attractive towns exist in Mexico which show off the culture and rich history of its people. The Mexican Secretary of Tourism has recognized such areas through a program that is known as Pueblos Magicos – Magical Towns. Anyone who visits this region can experience real Mexico and how wonderful the residents are there.

Magical Towns

The Magical Towns program started out in 2001, meant to determine which villages would attract the most tourism with their cultures and the beauty of nature that exude through them. San Sebastian del Oeste is an old mining town that is located about an hour and a half drive from Puerto Vallarta, that was founded in 1605. It was able to gain recognition as a Magical Town and, in turn, receives many visitors who love the quaint pueblo in the mountains. Those who visit are sure to have a unique Mexican experience with charm and simplicity.

A Day Trip or Tour from Puerto Vallarta

Are you thinking of just traveling to San Sebastian for the day? Or, do you intend on staying for a few days or longer in the magical town? Either way, you’ll have so much to do to keep you occupied and excited. You can trek up the Sierra de la Madre Mountains, which will offer you a reprieve from the heat of Puerto Vallarta. Visit the center of town, which features a plaza and a small stream along with trails of beautifully fragrant trees. It will afford you a majestic yet calming experience.

Also, you can view the stunning architecture and buildings that are covered with moss. Cerro de la Bufa has breathtaking views of the local sights and sunsets. Quinta Mary is somewhere you can get an amazing coffee, and be able to have an insider’s look at the production process that is 100% organic. Regardless of how you enjoy your days, you will have a great time relaxing and seeing it for all of the historical and cultural beauty that this natural landscape offers.

You will feel as though you stepped back in time when you visit the magical town of San Sebastian. This town, which once had a bustling population of 20,000 and now has only 600 inhabitants, will be a welcome vacation spot to let your worries melt away.

Why not book a tour from Puerto Vallarta and see what this amazing Pueblo Magico has in store for you?

Just because you’re in a foreign country doesn’t mean that you can do things on a Mexico vacation that you wouldn’t do at home! Laws are in place to protect you and the nationals of Mexico so please be sure that you stay within the law if you want to have a safe, happy and legal vacation.

Here are 5 things you should avoid on a Mexico vacation:

Leave a restaurant without tipping

This is, of course, is not illegal but is rude and is frowned upon. As people from the USA and Canada might understand, people in the service industry in Mexico get low wages and are reliant on tips. As such it’s good practice to leave something when dining in a restaurant; anywhere between 15% and 20% is usual for your Mexico vacation budget.

Swim in the sea when the red flag is up

The majority of beaches in tourist areas in Mexico are safe for swimming, but on occasion authorities may deem that they are not and will let you know by raising a red flag. If you see this red flag then stay out the water; it says that the currents are too strong. Likewise, if you know there is a hurricane somewhere in the area, you might find that the tides are high and currents are dangerous.

Never eat turtle eggs

There are so many wonderful delicacy to try on your Mexico vacation, that there really is no need to eat turtle eggs. In Mexico turtles are protected animals and, as such, the eggs are collected by the local authorities and removed to a sanctuary. Though some locals will try to sell you them, keep in mind that eating turtle eggs is illegal in Mexico.

Sunbathe nude or topless

Mexico is not only a very traditional, but a very Catholic country in which it is illegal to sunbathe without a bathing suit or to go topless. If you do so then you’ll find yourself in serious trouble with the local authorities and police service. There are, however, some designated beaches where topless and nude bathing is permitted, but there are very rare.

Never say you don’t like Mexican food or tequila

Telling your hosts that you don’t like their national cuisine or beverages is likely to offend. If you don’t like the food then seek alternatives, but don’t tell people you hate Mexican cuisine. In general, Mexicans are very proud of their culture.

Urinate in a public place

Although this will land you in legal trouble no matter where you do it the tourist areas and more stringent about the enforcement of this policy. If you get caught in the middle of this unpleasant act on your Mexico vacation you’ll find yourself the recipient of a large fine!