Children in Puerto Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta

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Children in Puerto Vallarta

Mexico has one of the strictest policies about children entering the country. All children, including infants, must have proof of citizenship (a certified birth certificate) for travel to Mexico. At some airports, notaries are available to notarize noncertified copies of birth certificates -- but it's best to come prepared and not leave this to chance. Still, in a worst case scenario, ask an airline representative if the service is available. All children up to age 18 traveling with a single parent must also have a notarized letter from the other parent stating that the child has his or her permission to leave his or her home country. If the other parent is deceased or the child has only one legal parent, a notarized statement saying so must be obtained as proof. In addition, parents must now fill out a tourist card for each child over the age of 10 traveling with them.

If you are renting a car, don't forget to arrange for a car seat when you reserve. For general advice about traveling with children, consult Fodor's FYI: Travel with Your Baby (available in bookstores everywhere).

Food

Most restaurants in Puerto Vallarta are family-friendly -- especially those whose name includes Restaurant Familiar. Picky eaters and those wary of spices can usually stomach pollo asado or carne asada (grilled chicken or grilled beef). Other familiar choices are quesadillas, tortas, sandwiches made on a hard roll, usually with chicken, pork, or cheese, condiments, and a vegetable garnish, and tacos de bistec, tacos filled with grilled beef. The Sanborns and VIPS chain restaurants, though not rock-bottom cheap, usually have a good variety of recognizable, U.S.-style dishes. Most restaurants serve hamburgers, and Puerto Vallarta has American fast-food chains, plus mom-and-pop Mexican restaurants where things such as quesadillas, hot dogs, spaghetti with butter only (spaghetti al burro), and other kid-friendly dishes are available.

Lodging

Most hotels allow children under a certain age (usually 10 or 12) to stay in their parents' room at no extra charge, but some charge a percentage of the adult rate. In some hotels kids stay and eat for free. Very few charge for them as extra adults; but ask before you book. Major chain and luxury hotels tend to have the most child-friendly facilities and options, such as connecting family rooms, play areas, children's pools, and kids' clubs with special activities and outings. Extra beds and cribs are available and often free of charge; you can also arrange for a babysitter ($7-$20 an hour and up, usually with a three-hour minimum plus taxi fare home), though you'll need to specify if you'd like an English-speaking sitter. Some hotels only have children's programs during peak season. Confirm whether children's activities are included in the price or if there's an extra charge.

Sights & Attractions

Places that are especially appealing to children are indicated by a rubber-duckie icon () in the margin.

Supplies & Equipment

Baby formula, disposable diapers, baby food, and supplies such as bottles and lotions are widely available, especially in big pharmacies and supermarkets. You'll see such familiar powder formula brands as Similac, Nestlé's NAN, and Enfamil, with prices ranging from $7 (for 400 grams [14 ounces) to $18-$25 (for 900 grams [31.5 ounces). Premixed formula (fórmula infantil) isn't as common, but large stores often have Isomil ($2 for 236 ml, or just under 8 ounces). Fresh milk is readily available in both large and small groceries, as well as convenience stores. American disposable diaper brands such as Pampers and Huggies range from $5 for a package of 10 to $18 for 64. You'll often find disposable diapers (pañales desechables) at discounted prices, especially locally made brands.