Climate/Weather: Puerto Vallarta enjoys one of the worlds most consistent temperature ranges.  It's actually situated on the same parallel as Hawaii.  During the months of November through May, the temperatures range from 80'-85' in the day and 68'-75' at night with little or no rain at all! This is the peak tourist period and  the most expensive.
During June through October, the temperatures range from 85'-95' in the day and in the low 80's at night.  This is the time of year when heavy rains occur.  This is the average day: sun all morning and until approx. 3pm.  Then look-out, the skies open up for a downpour you've never seen before.  After about 3 hours of this, the rains usually stop allowing you to enjoy the evenings! Then the whole scenario repeats the following day.
If you want to travel here during this period, and plan your day around this, you can save a lot of money and have a lot more privacy than during the "high season".

Transportation: There are many rental companies around to rent standard cars or jeeps.  Some companies are more reputable than others.  ALWAYS read your fine print.  If it seems too cheap, it probably is and have add-on charges. We have several companies that we deal with and know are to be honest and upfront, so just inquire when you arrive and we'll get you mobile.
Buses and taxis are also readily available.  Buses can be a bit confusing but very economical.  You can travel the entire city for only 3 Pesos (about 30 cents U.S) These bus rides are a definite adventure!! For taxis, the prices vary.  There are not meters so its up to you to be aware.  There are set "price zones" from different point A to B.  For example from the gay beach areas to Centro (downtown) you're looking at 15 pesos.  The price ranges go up from there.  ALWAYS discuss the price of where you want to go with your diver before getting in.  Sometimes if its quiet you can negotiate the fare a little.
 

Local Water:  The water used in food preparation and ice by restaurants and bars, is a secure supply monitored by "Seapal", the Vallarta water commission.  They test regularly the water supplies. So no need to worry about this.  For your personal use, its recommended you drink only bottled water, which is available at all convenience stores.
 
 

Money:  Exchanging money is very easy here.  The local banks will give you a decent rate but do vary from bank to bank.  The exchange houses (casa de cambio) rates are not as good, but they are open longer than banks and there are many more around. With ATM's (instant tellers) throughout Vallarta now, there is little need for travelers checks. The exchange rates through the teller machines are generally better.   Some of the networks available here are INterac, Cirrus, Plus. The Canadians banks give almost exactly the market exchange rate and the U.S. banks give market rate minus a commission.
 

Clothing:  Generally Vallarta is a very casual place.  T-shirts and shorts are the main attire.  At some of the more up-scale restaurants and night clubs, men wear long pants and a casual shirt. Comfortable shoes are a must as many of the streets are still cobblestone.  A day's sight-seeing and shopping can take its toll on your feet.

The only other important recommendation is caution with exposure to the sun. So many tourists come here and underestimate the intensity of the sun.  They burn (some badly) and need to hide from the sun for the following days.  Best thing is to work up slowly the first days, getting lots of shade on the beach and use a higher numbered sun-screen.