One of the most charming things about Puerto Vallarta is its ability to be all things to all travelers. I have always felt it was one of the few places in Mexico that could successfully balance culture and tradition with modern infrastructure. For the past thirteen years, the Puerto Vallarta Festival Gourmet International has brought a sophisticated celebration of food south of the border. This is one of those Mexican events you simply have to put on your list. It is extremely well done with 27 local restaurants participating in this wonderful event. This year’s festival runs from November  8th -18th. Chefs from around the world will work with local talent to create exquisite fusion dishes.  ^{Their website notes:}

“Festival Gourmet has also, introduced exciting new aspects to the original concept. Chef’s Table and Winemaker dinners, Tequila tasting, wine and cheese events, and the gala dinner are all opportunities for the imagination to take flight. The addition of Chef Roland Menetrey in 2000 as an associate deepened the link between education and the festival, with cooking classes offered with simultaneous translation. The Festival has been named Puerto Vallarta’s Best Established Event by Vallarta Lifestyles Magazine, and Food Industry News writer Valerie Miller says, “This Festival showcases Puerto Vallarta as the world class dining destination it really is.”

In addition to more than 25 special gourmet menus throughout the town, guests will be able to participate in cooking classes, a gourmet expo, cheese seminars, wine tastings and more. With the weather starting to cool off, November is a great month to visit Mexico. And with something a festival of this caliber going on in a place as magical as Vallarta, it’s a winning combination.