I Never Expected Gold Watches and Beer Vending Machines at a Japanese Buddhist Temple

How a Hollywood Scandal Created This LGBTQ+ Vacation Hotspot

Scott Laird | September 9, 2024

Thanks to Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Puerto Vallarta has become a revered LGBTQ+ haven. My taco tour in the Zona Romantica revealed much more than just culinary delights—it unveiled a rich LGBTQ+ history.

While savoring delicious tacos, our guide Miel emphasized that the sauce is essential for a proper taco experience. As our discussion transitioned to the area's LGBTQ+ roots, I realized the Romantic Zone has long been a sanctuary for gay travelers, hosting numerous circuit parties and attracting visitors seeking fun and escapism.

The Cultural Significance of Zona Romantica

Miel explained the neighborhood’s name is a euphemism, stemming from its association with Taylor and Burton, who played significant roles in making Puerto Vallarta famous. In 1963, Burton filmed Night of the Iguana here, drawing attention due to his affair with Taylor, making the area a hotspot for paparazzi.

Burton purchased Casa Kimberly for Taylor for privacy, building a bridge between their homes to escape the media. As their affair unfolded, Taylor established her connection to this paradise, becoming an icon for LGBTQ+ rights later on during the AIDS crisis.

The Evolution of Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ Scene

As Taylor vacationed here, gay men, inspired by her activism, began settling in the Romantic Zone, leading to the community’s growth with bars, galleries, and nightclubs. Puerto Vallarta is now recognized as an LGBTQ+-friendly destination, with around one in five visitors identifying as part of the community.

Today, Casa Kimberly attracts attention from visitors eager to connect with Taylor's legacy as they enjoy mariachi performances and exquisite dining in the fountained courtyard.

A Lasting Impact

Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ scene thrives beyond the Romantic Zone, with new attractions emerging along the coast. Our stay at Hotel Mousai, an adults-only resort, highlighted the area’s ongoing charm and the shared history of Taylor and Burton as we explored reminiscent paths.

Ultimately, my taco tour imparted not just culinary wisdom on sauce but also showcased the enduring influence of Hollywood romance that shaped Puerto Vallarta into the LGBTQ+ destination it is today.