what's the shopping like in Puerto Vallarta, for crafts, art, clothing --- or anything unique and good for gifts? Any ideas?

Thanks!

Dear Mabel:

PV has lots to choose from. Nice, expensive stores to booths along the river to guys strolling the beaches. A popular craft is the Huichol bead or yarn art. I bought some bead ornaments for gifts. They run from $8 to $15. This art can be pricy, but I found PV to to more reasonable than Cabo. I also try to look for local artisan goods. Jewelry, particularly silver is common. You will have no trouble finding places to shop.

Have fun,

MY

Great shopping...

From every-day local stuff, like the stationery store, the tiende de plastico with all sorts of kitchen goods, or the 2nd floor at Rizo's supermercado for housewares, school supplies, etc. which all have unusual souveniers and good stuff to use in your hotel room while you're there.

I buy my Mexican blankets from vendors strolling Playa Los Muertos.

Loads of good silver shops, all price ranges. Most sell by weight.

In El Centro try Morelos and Juarez (streets) and on the southside Basilo Badillo. Lucy's on B. Badillo is a wonderful oneo-of-a-kind shop featuring crafts and local artisans.

Clothing you'll find everything from cheap tshirts, specialty vacation wear, to high end boutiques.

Don't forget Lucy's CuCu Cabana on Basilio Badillo, next to Memo's.
Great crafts from all over Mexico, some very unique stuff and prices from $1 up.

A belated thanks for your tips!

For Art (paintings) the Malecon is a great place to start. For crafts, like other posters mentioned, shops are everywhere. I like Serendipity for unusual quality items. Mundo's tile factory has neat painted tiles and plates.