7 Things I Experienced on My Travel Day from Sayulita to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Travel Day in Mexico
Leaving Sayulita is never easy. After soaking in the sun, beach vibes, co-working spaces, and that laid-back energy, it always feels like a gentle shock to the system when it’s time to re-enter the hustle of a bigger city like Puerto Vallarta. But that’s the beauty of travel: the transitions, the contrasts, and the small, unexpected moments that make the journey memorable.
Here are 7 things I experienced on my recent travel day as a solo backpacker heading from Sayulita to Puerto Vallarta—with a surprise twist involving a dentist appointment.
1. Backpacking Through Sayulita's Cobblestone Streets
My morning started with the familiar routine of stuffing everything I have with me into my travel backpack. Sayulita’s narrow, hilly streets are charming when you’re exploring leisurely—but hauling gear through them on foot? A workout. Still, it was the perfect way to soak in one last look at a place I’ve come to love deeply.
2. Catching an Uber from the Bus Station
Instead of waiting for a colectivo or first-class bus, I opted for an Uber. It’s about an hour’s ride to Puerto Vallarta, winding through mountainous roads and small towns like Bucerías. My driver was kind and careful, and the trip gave me a fresh perspective on the region’s geography and road conditions. For solo travelers, this is a safe and scenic option.
3. The Beauty of Road Travel in Mexico
As we left Sayulita and made our way toward PV, we passed through construction zones, forested hills, and towns teeming with life. Road travel in Mexico isn’t just about getting from place to place—it’s an experience. From colorful street signs to vendors on the roadside, every curve in the road offers something new to observe.
4. Passing Through Bucerías and Vidanta
Bucerías is always a lovely sight. Quaint, coastal, and full of culture. We also passed Vidanta, a massive timeshare resort that many travelers recognize for its high-pressure sales tactics. (Pro tip: if you go to one of these presentations, just know you might be there all day.)
5. Arriving in Puerto Vallarta and Facing Real Life
As we entered Puerto Vallarta, the traffic picked up, and the noise grew louder. Compared to Sayulita, PV feels like stepping back into the “real world.” Highways widen, billboards appear, and the pace quickens. My Uber driver dropped me off at a hostel in a neighborhood I hadn’t explored yet—and I was ready to dive in.
6. Rushing to the Dentist in Zona Romántica
But first: the dentist. I had scheduled a dental appointment in Old Town Puerto Vallarta and was running behind. After walking a bit too long, I hopped in a taxi and made it just in time. The clinic, Una Cita Dental, was wonderful. Clean, professional, and affordable. For those interested in dental tourism, PV has a solid reputation.
7. Exploring with a Numb Face and a Full Heart
Post-filling, my face was numb, but my curiosity wasn’t. I sat briefly to rest, then kept walking. The streets of PV pulled me in. From bustling markets to quiet corners, every step reminded me why I love travel. I walked back to my hostel, took in the new neighborhood, and felt grateful to be on this journey.
Travel days are rarely smooth or glamorous, but they’re real. They’re where the memories live. From lugging a backpack through Sayulita to getting dental work in Puerto Vallarta, this day reminded me why I chose this lifestyle: the freedom, the stories, and the constant rediscovery of myself and the world.
If you’re considering solo travel in Mexico, or planning a backpacking route through beach towns like Sayulita, San Pancho, or Puerto Vallarta, let this be your encouragement. Pack light, stay open, and remember—even a dentist visit can be part of the adventure.
Looking for tips on how to travel Mexico as a house sitter or digital nomad? Check out my guide to international house and pet sitting here: https://ko-fi.com/traveldocumented
Want more stories like this? Visit me on YouTube at @travel.documented to explore more of Mexico and beyond.
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