And where the gays go, gentrification quickly follows, and the Romantic Zone is now filled with bars, restaurants, stores, nightclubs, and both budget and boutique hotels. Puerto Vallarta’s gay neighbourhood is in the city’s “Old Town”, also known as “The Romantic Zone”, which is where the gay community began buying land and properties back in the 80s alongside the retired Americans and Canadians. But just how big of an impact do laws and declarations have on countries and cities with such a strong history of religion and masochism? Quite a lot actually. In 20, same-sex marriage and same-sex adoption followed. Same-sex activity has actually been decriminalised in Mexico since 1871 thanks to the French influence of the 19th century, and the Federal Law to Prevent and Eliminate Discrimination was passed in 2003 to protect the rights and safety of LGBT citizens and visitors. Add to that, year-round sunshine, gorgeous beaches, and friendly locals, Puerto Vallarta should definitely be on your list of gay cities to visit. This is a city that, amidst its staunch Catholic roots, has a history of LGBT rights that spans back decades.
Welcome to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico’s gayest city, and second only to Rio as the gayest city in all of Latin America.
