If you’ve ever sat through multiple light cycles in Puerto Vallarta and wondered whether the signals are even coordinated… you’re not alone. The city is currently reviewing a 14 million peso first phase to modernize traffic signals at priority intersections, with Avenida México mentioned as an early focus area. This was discussed in the January 17, 2026 City Council session and is still under analysis. What this could mean in real lifePuerto Vallarta’s traffic challenges come from growth, seasonal population swings, and heavy movement between residential, commercial, and tourist zones. Outdated or poorly timed traffic lights make this worse — more stop-and-go driving, missed turns, risky lane changes, and long waits at major crossings. City officials say this first phase would begin upgrading signals to newer, digital systems designed to be more reliable and potentially better coordinated between intersections. Important context This is not a full citywide overhaul — yet. Officials have indicated that upgrading traffic signals across the entire municipality could eventually cost up to 200 million pesos. The current proposal is being positioned as a pilot phase to see if targeted upgrades actually improve traffic flow. For expats, this kind of project can have a real impact: • Shorter commute times• Less stress on major avenues • Safer crossings for pedestrians • More predictable driving patterns (especially for newcomers) Questions raised by City Council Not everyone is ready to rubber-stamp the project. Council members have asked: • Has a proper technical diagnosis been done to justify where upgrades start? • What technology is actually being installed? • How are vendors being selected? • How soon will drivers notice real improvements? City officials emphasized that no final contracts are in place yet and that the proposal is still under review. What to watch nextOver the coming weeks, residents should look for clarity on:• Which intersections are officially prioritized• What type of signal technology will be used• How success will be measured (travel time, congestion, safety)• When visible changes might begin on the street

A new, more formal ferry service between Puerto Vallarta and Yelapa officially started this week, and it could make getting to the south side of the bay a lot easier for residents. The ferry departs from near Los Peines Pier inside the Port of Puerto Vallarta and takes about 1.5 hours to reach Yelapa. It’s a larger vessel designed for regular service, not just occasional trips, and can carry up to 400 passengers per run. One nice upgrade compared to smaller boats: • Open-air seating for those who enjoy the breeze and views • Enclosed, air-conditioned seating for a more comfortable ride, especially in hotter months For now, the ferry is running Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with plans to add more days if demand is strong. For many expats, Yelapa is one of those places that feels close on the map but still takes effort to reach smoothly. Having a scheduled, higher-capacity option could make beach days, short escapes, or visiting the south side of the bay feel more routine, rather than a special trip you keep postponing. As with most new services here, it’ll be interesting to see how reliable it is over the next few weeks and whether it becomes part of everyday life for residents — not just a novelty. 👉 Question for the group: Do you see yourself using this ferry, or do you still prefer the smaller boats or water taxis when heading south? Curious to hear everyone’s thoughts and early experiences.

Before most people had their morning coffee, 62 baby sea turtles were rescued at Flamingos Beach earlier this week. A local noticed movement in the sand, reported it, and Mexican Navy personnel responded quickly. The hatchlings were safely transferred to Puerto Vallarta’s El Holy incubation nursery, where they’re now under protected care. Moments like this don’t always look dramatic. The beach looks the same. But those first minutes after hatching are the most dangerous. Bright lights, foot traffic, birds, even well-meaning people can unknowingly put hatchlings at risk. This is a good reminder that living here means we’re sharing the coastline, not just enjoying it. If you ever spot hatchlings or a nest emergency, the best help is usually to give space, keep pets and lights away, and report it rather than intervene. The Navy’s local number is 322-216-6618, and for sea emergencies 800 MARINA1. These small, quiet efforts are part of what makes coastal life here special — locals and expats noticing, caring, and doing the right thing. Have you ever seen turtle hatchlings on our beaches, or been part of a release or rescue here in PV? 🐢💬

New Cell Phone Rules Coming to Mexico in January 2026 On December 8, Mexico’s Comisión Reguladora de Telecomunicaciones (CRT) approved new rules that will change how mobile phone lines are registered in the country. Starting January 9, 2026, all Mexican mobile phone numbers, both prepaid and contract, must be linked to an individual or legal entity through official identification. While postpaid lines already require ID and some prepaid SIMs already ask for identification at the point of sale, the difference now is that registration becomes standardized, universal, and enforceable across all carriers. Under the new framework, anonymous “burner” phone lines will no longer be permitted. Every active mobile number must be associated with a CURP (for individuals) or an RFC (for companies and legal entities). This applies to everyone using a Mexican phone number, including Mexican nationals, foreign residents, businesses, prepaid SIM users, and eSIM holders. Anyone with an existing line not currently linked to a CURP or RFC will need to complete registration by presenting valid identification and the corresponding tax or identity number. Registration can be completed through provider platforms or at customer service centers, depending on the carrier. The registry formally takes effect on January 9, 2026, and users will have 120 working days to comply. Lines that are not registered within that period may be temporarily suspended, though emergency calls will remain available. Service will be restored once registration is completed. The rules limit registration to a maximum of 10 mobile lines per person.

As we get closer to the end of the year, Puerto Vallarta is getting ready to welcome 2026 with free, open-air celebrations across the city — perfect for locals and expats who want to ring in the New Year without being stuck in one place. As usual, the Malecón will be a main gathering spot. Crowds start filling the waterfront around sunset, with a large stage near the lighthouse hosting live music and entertainment leading up to midnight. This year, celebrations will be spread out a bit more, which is great news 👇You’ll also find food, music, and performances at: - Los Muertos Pier - Lázaro Cárdenas Park in the Romantic Zone - Hidalgo Park, where the Christmas Village will feature live music, including sets geared toward younger audiences One of the highlights of the night will be a free electronic music concert on the Malecón. The French duo The Blaze will headline the evening, taking the stage at 7:30 pm. If you’re into electronic music with a cinematic vibe, this should be a really fun one — and it’s completely free. There will also be a mix of traditional and international music throughout the night, and of course, a fireworks show at midnight over Banderas Bay to welcome the New Year 🎇 The celebrations don’t stop there. On January 1, the city will host the First Sunset at Palmares Beach, inviting everyone to relax, enjoy the ocean, and ease into the New Year together. Additional music and activities are planned around the city throughout the day. Looks like a great way to kick off 2026 🌴 Are you planning to head out, or keeping it low-key this year? Drop your plans below 👇