Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Capital City

With a population of 151,432, Puerto Vallarta is a resort town firmly in the grip of tourism. Nearly 80% of the workforce caters to the steady influx of visitors, creating a two-speed economy. While the city's sunny tropical climate and gay-friendly reputation attract many, the legacy of rapid, unplanned growth remains a persistent headache - outlying areas suffer from poor infrastructure and basic services. For those seeking a Mexican getaway with plenty of creature comforts, Puerto Vallarta may fit the bill, but the realities of living there are far from picture-perfect.