With the holiday season approaching, travelers and locals alike are seeking the best ways to celebrate. Two popular destinations, Puerto Vallarta and Mallorca, offer unique experiences for Christmas and New Year's festivities.
For those planning to spend Christmas in Puerto Vallarta, the city presents a plethora of restaurants and dining options featuring special holiday menus. Reservations are strongly recommended at many establishments, as they tend to have set menus for the occasion.
One of the highlights includes Bar Frida 4.0, which will host a Christmas and New Year’s buffet crafted by Chef Alberto from Frida’s Kitchen. For those eager to indulge, they can reserve their spot by calling 322-240-7565.
Another festive option is Canto, offering its Christmas Eve dinner, where traditional Chinese food will be served. With shorter hours on Christmas Eve from 5:30 PM to 9 PM, interested diners should book their reservations early by emailing [email protected] or phoning +52 322-222-0566.
If you’re craving Italian cuisine, Di Vino Dante has planned a delightful three-course dinner for Christmas Eve, including a welcome drink for $1,450 pesos. Meanwhile, El Rey will present a festive Christmas Day dinner starting at 7 PM featuring Smoked/Seared Picaña and dessert for just $700 pesos.
Similarly, The Swedes Bar and Bistro offers its Christmas menu for $925 pesos, featuring enticing options like Turkey Breast Dinner or Salmon Meunière. Whiskey Kitchen is also getting festive with a buffet on Christmas Eve priced at $600 pesos, providing diners with turkey, BBQ pork, and more.
The holiday spirit continues across numerous eateries, with options such as Route 66, Eat at David’s, Season’s Restaurant and Bar, and River Cafe, each providing their own unique menus for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
On the other side of the globe, we find Mallorca—a perennial favorite among travelers. Alexis Averbuck, author of the upcoming Lonely Planet's Mallorca guidebook, shares insights on the island's offerings, advising on the best times to visit. The summer is the busiest period, known for vibrant festivals and parades, particularly from July to August. For those who prefer quieter experiences, the shoulder seasons from Easter through early June and September to October are ideal.
During these shoulder seasons, visitors can enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring Mallorca’s outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and canyoning. October does see increased rainfall, so travelers are advised to pack appropriately.
To make the most of your visit, Averbuck suggests spending at least a week to ten days exploring Mallorcan villages, beaches, and hiking the Serra de Tramuntana, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This mountain range offers stunning landscapes and diverse activities—from mountain climbing to serene walks through nature.
Accessibility to Mallorca is straightforward, with Palma de Mallorca Airport located just 9 km from the city center, and ferries available from various locations including Barcelona and Menorca. A reliable public transport system of buses and trains supports intercity travel, with car rentals available for exploring the island more freely.
When it’s time to enjoy the local flavors, Averbuck emphasizes the vibrant food scene. Visitors can indulge by hopping between lively markets, like Palma's Mercat de l'Olivar, to savor the island's culinary delights. Beyond dining, wine tasting is highly recommended, particularly at the region’s famed vineyards.
For cultural enthusiasts, the rich history of Mallorca is showcased through its ancient ruins, art, and architecture. Averbuck encourages travelers to visit contemporary art galleries and immerse themselves within the historical quarters of Palma to appreciate the island's artistic heritage.
Whether travelers are drawn to the festive dining options of Puerto Vallarta or the diverse adventures and rich culture of Mallorca, both destinations promise memorable holiday experiences. A little planning and indulgence will certainly enrich your holiday atmosphere among friends and family.
