Nuevo Vallarta Getaway

Grand Velas All Suites & Spa, Nuevo Vallarta, March 3 to 10, 2006

Our first time to the Puerto Vallarta area was very enjoyable. Timing it right made our arrival very smooth, as we arrived right at the terminal and did not have to take the bus from the airplane. Customs was very quick, as we only had one person in front of us.

Upon request, the resort will pick you up at the airport for no charge via their VIP services. The reception at the resort was great and extremely efficient. After a warm greeting, we were escorted to one of the many resting areas and some refreshing fruit punch was in our hands after a nice cool cloth was presented. The all-inclusive fee was discussed, and they collected it for the week, which is normal in our experience.

We had selected a one-bedroom room through our exchange and received just that. It was very clean and comfortable. The simple, earthy tone to the room was adequate and the pillow menu really does exist. We were very satisfied with the room for the duration of our stay.

The outside areas were very well kept and almost everyone says hi when you walk by. English is quite abundant and is usually their first choice in communicating with you. Note, however, that their English is limited to their jobs, so don’t expect the waiter to understand you when you ask for directions into town, etc. The concierge and front desk staff were fully bilingual.

The three-tiered infinity pool area was a really nice touch to this resort. Only the lower pool is heated.

Almost every night there was some special reception that was setup for newly arriving groups. I believe this is why the place has a combination conference centre/resort feel to it The groups showed up did not impact getting any chairs by the pool.

Azul is the only place for breakfast. We tried a mix of menu and buffet, typically preferring the buffet. The food was good and I quite enjoyed the omelettes and the selection of juices and fresh fruit.

There three formal restaurants; Frida (Mexican), Lucca (Italian) and Pilaf (French) offer great food and fantastic service. For some reason, Pilaf is not mentioned in too many places and may be a newer restaurant. For our tastes, Lucca was the best, both in food and service.

We heard wonderful things about the spa, but we only used it for the Grand Velas Ritual. It’s complimentary and is definitely worth it. I think we probably had the best sleep that night.

The lobby bar was formal and usually quiet until later in the evening.

Tipping is included in the all-inclusive fee, and you are not pressured to leave any additional amounts.