I was invited by Classic Vacations down to Puerto Vallarta to visit & stay at some incredible properties. PV is an easy 3hr flight from Houston and also a popular cruise port on Mexican Riviera itineraries.
*I was pleasantly surprised to hear that the city has extremely low unemployment therefor low crime rates- you will see travel advisories due to the proximity of known drug cartels but seeing 5 cruise lines docked throughout my stay and the city gearing up for high season I think its safe to say Puerto Vallarta can/should be on our list.
Secrets Vallarta Bay is an adult only all inclusive hotel from one of my favorite brands AMResorts (see Cancun here) and connected to the family friendly Now Amber. Known for their Unlimited Luxury, Secrets has its own pool, beach & restaurants plus access to the Now side for double the options. This property is perfect for multi-generation travel & weddings where couples can have a more romantic experience on one side while families have access to a kids club & activities on the other.
Casa Velas: a boutique property set back among a golf course & lush gardens, true to its name it feels more like a home than a hotel with just 80 suites. This all inclusive adult only property is unique in that although the hotel does not have direct beach access its a quick transfer to their Ocean Club. The club offers lunch & dinner with infinity pool and views of the pacific.
Velas Vallarta is just 5 min from the airport and offers a family resort with plenty of activities and dining options. Two swimming pools connected by a lazy river, yoga, volleyball + nightly shows the possibilities are endless.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit by far my favorite property in the area and truly a 5 Star experience. At check in you receive a complimentary spa moment in the lobby to relax you and welcome you to vacation. All suites are spacious and come with spectacular ocean views. I indulged in a spa treatment courtesy of the hotel and after their water ritual of sauna, steam, & plunge pool i was treated to one o the best messages of my life. The food is top notch- the best breakfast buffet (think omelet station, mountain of bacon & every pastry known to man), lunch can be ordered pool side and all three restaurants for dinner offer à la carte or tasting menus. Room service is prompt & the butler visits you the night before departure to help with boarding passes and anything else you may need. Oh and those sunsets….I can’t wait to check out their sister property in Riviera Maya along with the upcoming Cabo location!
I recommend that you venture off property to see the downtown area to explore & shop. Stop by the Guadalupe Church, shop the flea market & search for the perfect opal (which they are known for). If you travel further south take in the views over Los Arcos National Park while you enjoy the coastline drive.
Feel free to contact me to book any of the above properties and receive some great inside perks!
