My partner and I have been traveling around Mexico for a while now, but nothing quite compares to the magic of Puerto Vallarta.
We recently decided to set up shop in the Amapas neighborhood, and I have to tell you, it was the best decision we could have made for our nomadic lifestyle.
If you are a couple looking for that perfect balance between a productive workspace and a romantic getaway, this is the place to be.
Amapas sits just on the hillside south of the main action, giving you a sense of peace that is hard to find elsewhere.
We absolutely LOVE how quiet the mornings are here, with nothing but the sound of the birds and the occasional local rooster to wake us up.
It feels like a world away from the hustle, yet it only takes us a few minutes to walk down into the heart of Old Town.
Why Amapas is the Best Place to Rent
When we were looking to rent apartments in puerto vallarta, we did a lot of research on different neighborhoods.
Old Town (or Zona Romantica) is great, but it can get very loud at night with all the bars and clubs.
Amapas is the secret weapon for anyone who wants to be close to the fun without living right on top of it.
We found that the Amapas area offers the most modern condo rentals with the best views of the bay and the surrounding jungle.
The hills are a bit steep, sure, but the exercise is worth it for the breeze alone!
Plus, being slightly elevated means you get a much better perspective of the colorful architecture that makes this city so famous.
For us, the hillside escape is the ONLY way to experience the true charm of Vallarta.
Setting Up the Perfect Nomad Workspace
One of my biggest worries as a digital nomad is always the internet speed.
I was so happy to find that our rental in Amapas had lightning-fast WiFi that never let us down during important Zoom calls.
We spent many mornings working from our dining table, which was draped in a gorgeous Otomí-style textile we found at a local market.
Having a space that feels like a home rather than a hotel room makes such a difference in productivity.
We loved the traditional Mexican tiles in our kitchen: they gave the whole place such a warm, authentic vibe.
If you're planning a trip, you should definitely check out our market finds guide to get inspired for the textiles and decor that can make your remote work setup feel more comfortable.
When we needed a change of scenery, we would head down the hill to some of the local coffee spots.
Puerto Café is a total gem with amazing espresso, and the staff there are so friendly!
El Sofá Café is another favorite where we could sit for hours with our laptops and a great latte.
A Foodie’s Paradise Just Steps Away
Best of all, living in Amapas means you are right next to some of the best food on the planet.
We didn't want to deal with fancy, overpriced restaurants every night.
Instead, we spent our evenings exploring the street taco scene in Old Town.
Pepe’s Tacos is a classic for a reason: the al pastor is out of this world!
We also became regulars at Birrieria y Taqueria Liz, where the flavors are so deep and rich you’ll want to go back every single day.
There is something so special about sitting on a plastic stool, eating incredible food, and watching the world go by.
If you prefer to cook at home, the local markets are filled with fresh produce and unique ingredients.
We would often buy fresh salsas and handmade tortillas to enjoy on our balcony while looking at the lush jungle.
If you are looking to rent apartments puerto vallarta, being near these local food sources is a total game-changer.
Exploring the Local Culture and Markets
On Saturdays, we always made it a point to visit the market in the Romantic Zone.
The energy there is SOOO vibrant and fun!
You can find everything from handmade pottery to intricate jewelry and local honey.
We spent a lot of time talking to the local artisans and learning about the history of their crafts.
It’s these small interactions that make staying in a neighborhood like Amapas feel so much more meaningful than just being a tourist.
We even found some beautiful hand-painted ceramic skulls to take back as gifts for our friends.
The city is also full of amazing art galleries, and the weekly art walk is a must-do for any couple.
Walking through the historic streets, popping into galleries, and then grabbing a drink at a small bar is the perfect date night.
Wandering the Streets of Amapas
One of our favorite rituals was our late afternoon walk through the neighborhood.
The streets in Amapas are so picturesque, with vibrant yellow and orange houses draped in greenery.
We would often walk down toward Los Muertos Beach just to feel the sand between our toes after a long day of work.
The proximity to the Malecón is incredible: you can just stroll along the oceanfront and take in the sculptures and street performers.
It’s a very safe area, and we always felt comfortable walking back up the hill even after the sun went down.
For those who want more details on the best spots to hit, I highly recommend checking out our guide to living like a local for some hidden gems we discovered along the way.
Final Thoughts on Amapas
If you are looking for a place that feels like home while you explore the beauty of Mexico, Amapas is it.
The combination of modern comforts, traditional Mexican style, and a quiet atmosphere makes it a paradise for couples and nomads alike.
We are so grateful for the time we spent here and the wonderful people we met.
The properties like Sueño and Opportunity are fantastic examples of the high-quality rentals you can find in this area.
They offer all the amenities a nomad needs while keeping that authentic Vallarta soul.
We truly believe that choosing Amapas as your home base will make your trip absolutely UNFORGETTABLE!!
It is highly recommended for anyone who wants a more authentic and peaceful experience.
We can't wait to come back and do it all over again.
Don't forget to follow our adventures and see more of our favorite spots on Facebook.
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