Under $100: Puerto Vallarta

Start your day with a delicious brunch right on the beach, at La Palapa, a Puerto Vallarta institution since opening in the 1950s. You can spend less than $10 and still get a great variety to choose from, like the enfrijoladas, a tortilla filled with eggs, chorizo, queso and pickled onions, or the tropical pancakes with mangos, pineapple and guava.

Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe © Elena Elisseeva | Dreamstime

One of the most eye-catching attractions in the city is the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The artwork is abundant and the church is open every day, to welcome the thousands of pilgrims who visit annually. You’ll find the center of worship is busiest during the Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe in December.

The nearby beach of Mismaloya is a favorite, where white sandy beaches meet a lush jungle. The tropical region nearby was a filming location for Predator. The beach was also transported into the spotlight when it was used for filming Night of the Iguana during the Golden Age of Hollywood.

© Vividpixels | Dreamstime

Grab lunch or dinner in the historical area of the city known as the Romantic Zone, where small cafes and shops abound. If you’re looking for great views of the city for an affordable price, head to Vista Grill. You can easily snag dinner for less than $25. The menu is compact, featuring only the best local flavors and products to create a modern Mexican dining experience.

From the Romantic Zone, head to the Malecon, a 2,800-foot boardwalk that follows the ocean, passing through the historic district. The boardwalk is lined with quaint shops, art and bars, and is a great place to go after dark.