I’m referring to Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton of course and their 1960’s love affair in Puerto Vallarta.
Night of the Iguana
In 1963 director John Huston arrived in Puerto Vallarta to film Night of the Iguana. Co-stars in the film were Liz and Richard. Both were married at the time but were having a clandestine love affair. The movie was being filmed at a remote location both then and now called Mismaloya. Wanting to stay in Puerto Vallarta rather than the jungle the couple stayed in a local hotel. Each day they would take a boat to Mismaloya for the shoot.
While in PV, the hotel that they were occupying was not quite what they wanted. After one too many run in’s with cockroaches, Richard started seeking accommodation elsewhere. John Huston had been living in a house in Gringo Gulch for 10 years. Richard purchased the casa from John and for Elizabeth’s 32nd birthday, Richard gave the large villa called Casa Kimberly, to her. For himself, he purchased the villa across the street. In order to see each other when ever they wanted and not having to go onto the road where the paparazzi was, they built what is today referred to as the kissing bridge.
Strolling through the picturesque hilly streets in Gringo Gulch is absolutely beautiful. There are old school casa’s on every street. Made of brick with big wooden doors and juiliette balconies, the villas are just soooo pretty. Coming down or up Calle Zaragoza, you will pass under this lovely bridge. Originally the kissing bridge was pink, but today it is bright white and glistens against the big blue sky.
Other monuments of the lovers are sprinkled throughout the city. There are a few statues in the romantic zone and centro. A beautiful bronze bust of Elizabeth is located at the bottom of the stairs at the Rio Cuale right next to the Malecon.
Their public love affair that took place here in Puerto Vallarta still to this day, gives the city a soft romantic feeling. That took place 60 years ago now, but is fondly kept alive with the little vignettes.
Today Casa Kimberly is a spectacular hotel. Should you be looking for one of the best hotels right in the city, look no further than this extraordinary little piece of paradise. I have never stayed there, but have heard only positive feedback.
