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Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic holiday retreat for families with children of all ages. The abundance of fun family-oriented activities is unsurpassed by many other tropical destinations. All-ages entertainment can be easily be found in many of the area restaurants. Delicious Mexican cuisine paired with local customs and celebrations compliment the many attractions and exciting area excursions possible for families.

Canopy tours, or zip-lining, is the latest electrifying activity that parents can enjoy with kids six years and older. The excursions begin from the towering mountains of Puerto Vallarta where everyone is strapped in for a thrilling ride, gliding over the dense jungle landscape elevated above the valley floor. Advance reservations are highly recommended for this extremely popular jungle journey. Canopy tours operate for 3-4 hours depending on the tour you choose.

Hot air ballooning is another great adventure families can relish in together. Numerous tours operate hot air balloons and offer 3-4 hour expeditions. Behold sweeping views of the jungle landscape below as you glide up to 3000 feet in the air, sailing along the Ameca River over treetops you can almost touch. The Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Madre provide more magnificent aerial vistas as everyone keeps their eyes peeled for a glimpse of flamingos, alligators, parrots and other exotic wildlife.

One of the top attractions in Puerto Vallarta is swimming with graceful dolphins in a pool environment. Families with children over 137cm can interact directly with these intelligent and playful sea creatures and enjoy exciting rides while grasping their fins and being whisked through the water. Dolphins thrill kids with handshakes and kisses and know exactly how to pose for photographs. Prices and time lengths for swimming with the dolphins vary depending on which company you choose. Make sure to look out for the offers that include free admission to the Sea Life Water Park.

When visiting Mexico between December and March take your kids on an unforgettable whale watching trip. Between these months humpback whales calve in the Pacific. Kids will delight in seeing baby humpbacks and watching the kingly beasts breaching the water's surface near the boat. Tours are run by professionals who know exactly where to anchor to see an abundance of whales. If luck strikes you can even catch site of some of the wild dolphins that frequent the region.

The eco-farm on Flamingo Beach harvests, hatches and releases baby turtles each year. Guides operate trips through the facility where educational videos are screened. Afterwards guides lead the group to the beach to patrol for buried turtle eggs found by tracking the mothers' steps in the sand. At the end children of all ages delight releasing hatchling turtles from the nursery into the ocean.

Dining out while on holiday is always an adventure. For an authentic and fun experience even the most finicky kids will like try Asadero Los Jardines on Avenue Francisco. Festive Mariachi music, live on the weekends, adds an element of festivity to meals such as grilled chicken, ribs, beef, fresh quesadillas and tacos. The colorful atmosphere is well-liked by children of all ages who love playing on the swings and slides in the outdoor area of this lively garden restaurant.

For excellent variety in food head to the Main Plaza, adjacent to City Hall, and try some delicious vendor food offering something for every palate. This is the best place to grab a bite with kids as free concerts, dance performances, movies, plays and much more transpire daily. This is one of the most fun places to eat with as Mexico's vibrant culture comes alive all around you.

Learn more about this author, Susan Laurie.
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