Going to Puerto Vallarta for the first time

Hi!

I will be going to Puerto Vallarta for the first time. Staying at Canto del Sol, all inclusive from August 19th-26th. Considering that I have never been to Mexico what should I expect - weather, locals, food, shopping? Is it better to have the local currency or American dollars? Can most locals speak English? Will I get a tan, or is it not worth taking a sun screen? Are things expensive there?
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks.
Atena

Thanks. I was just wondering if anyone could give me an idea how much things cost in Puerto Vallarta - postcard, souveniers....

Thanks. I was just wondering if anyone could give me an idea how much things cost in Puerto Vallarta - postcard, souveniers.... again that just depends on you... most of the stuff is pretty reasonably priced... if you want quality T-shirts, polo shirts, and crop tops etc... there is a store along the malecon that we like to go to ... It is right close to Rolling Stone Leather shop... this too is a great place for leather sandals, boots, belts, halters, etc....

aneta1...prices are considerably lower than what you see at home... a post card in Cowtown may cost you a buck whereas in Puerto Vallarta a buck will get you as many as five...souveneirs, same story...for example a soccer jersey may cost you $60 cdn at home and in PV you can get it for $20 tops...t-shirts can be as inexpensive as seven for $10 cdn...art work, leather and silver all the same story (buy silver from reputable dealers though to be sure of quality)...also beer and liquor is very inexpensive...(40 oz Barcardi $9 cdn, 40 oz Kaluha $9 cdn)...sonofdob.

Is it O.K to bargain? Do I need to tip wherever I go? What are some of the necessities I should take with me?

Remember that if you exchange Cnd. $ to US $ and then to Mexican Pesos, you are will lose more money with the double exchange. Just get the Mexican Pesos right off the bat. If you need more, just go to the ATM and get some. Easy as pie.

Joyce

aneta1...always barter...always tip service people...ocean is fine, but local beach conditions vary...pack a bikini and a tooth brush...sonofdob.

You are so right about the beaches in Nuevo. In fact we found as you move further north along the coast, all the way to Puenta Mita, the beaches continue to get better. However since the hurricane there are more rocks up there now.
We are the same when it comes to all inclusive. We have done it once & never again. There is so much culture for all the senses when you are able to roam around town, especially if you eat where the locals eat & not always the regular restaurants. There are many restaurants right across from the malecon that it is hard to miss a great sunset while dinning. Also right across from McDonalds in the morning you will find all the fisherman bringing in their catches. Great to see the seafood thats if you like it. Never seen shrimp the size that you can find here.