The sun shines everyday here in Puerto Vallarta Mexico...or so it seems. Holidays in Mexico are amazing!! I'm astounded to hear of people who have still today, not been to Mexico. Holidays here are filled with adventure and wonder. You can do as little or as much as you want. Enjoy fabulous beaches or tours, scuba diving with Giant Manta rays, cruise to the Marietas Islands, whale watch, or take a Jungle Jeep Safaris. Hmmm...scuba diving? or shoveling snow? No contest! Diving with dolphins in Mexico wins hands down!

Picturesque Puerto Vallarta Mexico is surrounded by the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains and the magnificent Pacific Ocean. Banderas Bay is lined with spectacular beaches for sunning, surfing, kiteboarding. With every wave, the ocean invites us to come out and play or to explore her mesmerizing underwater world - a new experience every time. This popular vacation spot guarantees friendly people, vibrant colors, exquisite beauty, fascinating culture, soothing warmth, intoxicating sunshine every day ... Aahhh, Puerto Vallarta! How did I get here?

The mountains, beaches and ocean called to me. Banderas Bay opened my eyes to its treasures - land and sea. I learned about scuba diving and experienced up close and personal encounters with gentle giants as whale sharks, Giant Mantas, and humpbacks. Diving comes highly recommended for the whole family. I learned that Banderas Bay is the largest natural bay in Mexico, 2nd largest in North America. I learned that there are about 26 beaches inside this bay, some perfect for kiteboarding and windsurfing. I learned that beaches on Sundays are swamped with friendly locals, a very strong family tradition to spend the day together and relax. I learned that the Marietas Islands, off the north tip of Banderas Bay, are a protected wildlife sanctuary and marine preserve made famous by the famed Oceanographer Jacques Cousteau. I learned that iguanas taste like chicken (but not from personal experience!)

Working primarily as a Destination Representative for major Tour Operators became my passion. The payoff? Happy tourists ending their holidays with smiling faces. Days off were mini-holidays around Banderas Bay with so much to do: a day at the beach with friends, people watching on the Malecon, eating real tacos!, cruising to Los Arcos or Quimixto, diving, renting a jeep and exploring the off roads! Never a dull moment!

This town has come a long way. Holidays in Vallarta have bridged over to being 'home' to so many foreigners today, including me. The last 20 years are testament to my gratitude and love of Mexico, Banderas Bay, the ocean and its friendly inhabitants, nature, our Mexican friends and neighbours. This paradise by the ocean, continues to be as magical a place today as it was the day I arrived. Couldn't imagine being anywhere else.

Andrea Nadon is a successful author and regular contributor to How to get cool JOBS in Paradise offered at