Costa Club Punta Arena: Resort Okay, Construction Not

For your information I have sent the following letter to Air Canada Vacations, I have received an acknowledgement that they have received it but still waiting for an official response from them: This message is intended for Air Canada Vacations. Our trip was booked early in January to the Costa Club Punta Arena Puerto Vallarta. The hotel was only a 3 star so we did not expect more than we got for this, it was a clean and friendly place to stay and the staff were very good. My complaint i [... read more]s that there was construction of a new wing of rooms ongoing at the resort every single day we were there, and our booking company did not mention that this was ongoing. I have booked with them many times, and have always been informed if there were any issues to be expected so I can only assume they were not aware of it either. It was almost impossible to sit by the pool in the late morning, and late afternoon due to the jack hammering and pounding that was non stop. I am disappointed that as a tour operator, this type of information wasn't provided to us so we could have either expected it, or perhaps booked at an alternate location. I expect this type of information to be relayed to your package sellers so they can advise customers what to expect, especially when its that close to the amenities, literally right by all of the pools. I hope that if I book any Air Canada Vacations in the future that I am informed of this type of activity so I can decide if I want to make other arrangements. My NO Recommendation below is in regards to the construction.

Tropicana Hotel: Great value resort with the best location in Old Town Puerto Vallarta!

The Tropicana resort is very good value for money. Great pool, great beach, excellent location, and very good prices on food and drink. It is basic accommodation, but clean and well maintained. If you want a good hotel in the perfect location, I recommend it!

Grand Sirenis Matlali Hills: Amazing week at Grand Sirenis Matlali Hills

We’ve just returned from an amazing vacation at the Grand Sirenis Matlali Resort and Spa. The resort is absolutely fantastic and the people working there are amazing. Everyone is trying to help you and they are always asking if you need anything. There are a few concierges at the resort and they were always asking if everything is all right with the room, if we need towels or anything else. The bartenders at all the bars are always very attentive, they remember your name and what you are drink [... read more]ing and they are keeping your glasses full all the time (if that’s what you want). Now, I was reading some of the reviews and I can’t believe that we all went to the same resort, but I’ll address that a bit later in my review! When you get at the hotel it is a bit of a different type of lobby then what we’ve been used to, but I guess it does the job and the people working there are very fast and efficient. It is a small air conditioned room immediately after the gates, on the right side. After you check in, you and your luggage are taken to your room by a small van. Leaving the lobby, you are starting immediately to climb the hills, so if you can’t commit to some walking, this resort is not for you. We actually enjoyed it very much, especially because we wanted to walk. They have a gym and I can’t believe that people complain that it is too small, who needs a gym when you have these hills? I couldn’t believe that there are even some trails thru the resort! We usually like to walk on the beach, but because this hotel it is not directly on the beach, we took those hills up and down every day at least three-four times. We had a room in tower six (the last building in the resort up the hill) and we were very happy with our room. Of course, if you don’t want to walk all day like we did, the mini vans can take you there, you just have to go at the lobby and they’ll take you were you need to go. From the lobby, going up the hill the first buildings on the right side will be some of the time share villas that you can’t book on the internet and here is the area where you’ll find the main pool (that actually has two pools) and a bar. You’ll also find the original buffet and one restaurant that alternates as Steakhouse and Rodizio. Here, at the main pool, you can play volleyball and this is the place where you’ll find the few people from the animation team trying to get everyone involved in different activities. You’ll also find a warm Jacuzzi that seemed very popular even at the night time. The bar at this pool becomes the main attraction during the night because it is the only one open and here is where the bands are playing: mariachi, rock bands. They were actually all very good; we really liked them very much. And of course this is the place where they’ll have the karaoke nights. A little walk from the main bar going thru the basketball court, you’ll find another restaurant that it is buffet in the morning and at lunch time, and becomes the Italian during the night. Right under the Italian you’ll find the Japanese restaurant that offers two big Teppanyaki tables. These restaurants are the newest addition to the resort, together with tower 6 and the Snack bar. Next to the Japanese they are working to open another bar, but I think that there will be a few more weeks until that will happen. After you pass this area you’ll find in your way the relaxing pool and the health bar and this is a very nice area. Now you are starting to actually climb the hills, and the road it is not straight, you take lots of turns but this is what makes it so pretty and more interesting. From here on you’ll find the actual rooms, starting with the 4000 that are all villas with one, two or four rooms. After all of the villas, at the end of the hill you’ll find tower 5(the 5000 rooms) and tower 6(the 6000 rooms), which have five floors each. At the bottom of tower 6 you’ll find the adults only pool and three tubs, the bottom two were hot and the top one was a Jacuzzi. Here you’ll find the regular pool chairs and also some cabanas that have the mattress type of covers, so they were very comfortable. Right above the cabanas is the Snack Bar, a really great place to have lunch or a snack. From here you have the view of the whole resort and it is just a gorgeous view. We’ve tried a few items from the menu and we loved all of them! While being at Grand Sirenis Matlali Hills we have tried the Japanese, the Italian and the Steakhouse and we enjoyed them very much, so we went back to some of them. We didn’t try the Rodizio because we decided not to go there, so I can’t comment on that. All the other restaurants were amazing, they have lots of things to try and everything we had was very good. Regarding the reservations for the a la carte restaurants we’ve heard some complains, but I guess that people are just waiting for those reservations to fall in their lap. Yes, while being there they had some issues with the system and that is something that you can’t blame on the people telling you that the system is down, but that didn’t stop us to get our reservations. You can make them either with the concierge or at the lobby. When they’ve told us that we can’t make the reservations for Monday and the days after, we kept asking them each time we would pass by these two locations until they said that we can do the reservations now. So, because of just checking with them each time we would pass by, we ate at the a la carte every night. It was not like at other resorts where you have to line up every morning for that night reservation. Here, you could do reservations for 2 or 3 nights at one time, depending on what restaurant you wanted and the availability. We went to the beach club, but it wasn’t our “cup of tea”. We knew that we are not going to like the beach, but we wanted to see how it was, so we had a glass of wine and left when the minivan came back. If I would have one negative think to say is regarding the shuttle to the beach. This shuttle is supposed to take you to the beach every hour, so 10 minutes before one o’clock we were at the lobby waiting. After we asked the guys at the lobby about the shuttle, they said it will be there at one, but we’ve been waiting for half an hour and when we wanted to give up the van showed up. What bothered us was the fact that they were looking at us like we weren’t supposed to be there. So, if the hotel is trying to promote the Beach Club, they should at least respect the “promised” times for the shuttle, otherwise they should just not promote it. While being at this amazing resort, we accepted the invitation for the time share presentation. We’ve been to other resorts having the same type of thing, but the guys were too pushy so we never accepted any invitation, but now everything was very “civilized”, so we decided to go and see what is it all about. The suites were absolutely breathtaking and Orlando, the guy who did the presentation for us was really amazing, not pushy and taking the time to explain everything in detail, but after we saw and heard everything we realized that this concept it is not something that would work for us in this moment. I have to talk a bit about the fact that in some of the reviews people are complaining having stomach issues. I’m sorry but, if you are going to try all the cocktails on the bar menu you are going to be sick for sure. While being there we saw, like everywhere we went, people mixing beer with mojito, with Cesars and with any other cocktail available on the menu. My question is: are you doing that at home too? I bet that you are not doing that every day for one week at home! So, why do you want to do that somewhere else? First, you are not at home, everything that you and your body is used to is not the same, so why you want to try so many different things while you are outside your comfort zone? Of course you are going to get sick; it’s common sense, it is a normal reaction to all that stuff that you are mixing! Don’t blame the food or the water! In our room we had a 5 liter bottle of water and there were signs warning you not to drink the tap water. We were actually thinking of using the water to brush our teeth, but we didn’t do it and still we didn’t have any issues with our health. Of course, before going in any trip we take our probiotics and while being in our vacation we are always having our regular drinks and maybe we would try one or maximum two different drinks different from our regular stuff. I think that if everyone would be a bit moderate in their choices, people will have a much better time while being in vacation. Now l have to talk about the people working at this amazing resort! We’ve been to lots of resorts and we can say that compared to other resorts, here everyone worked really hard to please everybody. You would find them everywhere you would walk because at some point they get moved around, one week at one bar, the next week at a different bar. The ones that would work during the night in the specialty restaurants would come earlier and try to help in different bars to keep everyone happy. Chantal, Lena, Pablo, Felipe, Jesus, Jose, Reyes, Philip, Brian, just to mention a few names of the people that we talked to and we would like to thank them for all their hard work and for making us to feel like home.

Crown Paradise Club: Good Resort

Had a great time. The grounds,staff and everything was great,with the exception of the food. Stayed here last year and the food was great.This year the food was pretty much the same every day and was barely warm . Friday there was seafood and it was the only good meal of the week. All other people we talked to also were disappointed with the food. The resort is definitley a family oriented place. Very kid friendly so if you don't enjoy all the noise I wouldn't go here.

Sunset Plaza Beach Resort & Spa: Very Nice

This hotel was very nice, probably a little more modern than most. The hotel was very clean, the grounds are kept very well, and everything looks lush and green. We really liked the adults only section by the pool and the hot tubs on the roof tops (which were adult only as well). The beds in the adult only pool area are fabulous! (you have to get up pretty early to get one) The pool temperature was actually very warm, almost bath tub, which is nice when it is a little cooler, but not refres [... read more]hing when it is hot. There were always enough chairs and umbrellas, no matter how late we got to the pool or the beach. The service at the pool was fabulous! The wait staff around the pool really work hard and come around quite often to bring drinks and food. Loved that they had a pool food menu and food could be brought right to your chair! The hotel itself is nice in that every room has a huge deck and great view of the ocean. My one complaint would be that if you don't get a suite- you are stuck with only queen size beds- they do not have a king bed in a regular room. I understand that it has to do with the fact that this hotel does really cater to owners (time share owners). The room was still spacious and met all of our needs. The washrooms were pretty up to date, and done very nicely. Lighted closets were a nice touch as well. We don't spend much time in the room, so everything was great. The maids do a fantastic job cleaning the room, they did a very thorough clean every day and we really appreciated that. Turn down service was nice- only problem is they come too early. 6:30 is a little early, esp. as most don't even go for supper until 7:00 or 8:00 sittings. The pillows could definitely be replaced with better ones- the website talked about a pillow menu- but I didn't see anything of the sort. They did however have a scent menu for your turn down service which was a nice touch. Beds were average as all beds in Mexico are. The restaurants were very good. Nice that the menu's change a few times during the week, and there are also some buffet nights with entertainment. (Loved our dancing food server at the buffet- he made the night so much fun!!!!) The resort manager came out to meet us when we arrived- which was very nice. He didn't really speak to us the rest of the trip, but did come around to the owners to see that they were happy and all of their needs were being met. This is a quieter resort, not really great for those with kids as there are not really any activities for middle age kids. They have a kids club for the younger ones. We really enjoyed the resort. It was the staff that made this resort. Humberto for breakfast, Alan at the pool, all of the waiters in Luciano's, and the young bartender (I am sorry I can't remember his name now) in the lounge. (He had flair!- tossing bottles while making our drinks and always a big smile) My only complaint would be that owners were really catered to sometimes more than others which is ok- they are owners and they spend more time and get to know the staff- but if you wanted me to be an owner- you should be treating me the same way. All in all we really enjoyed our time at this resort. We were able to eat, drink, and relax which is the main things we want from our holiday. We would definitely go back to this resort and would recommend this resort.

Las Palmas by the Sea: Loved it!

Las Palmas by the sea was the perfect getaway vacation- escaping the cold winter here in Canada! Couldnt ask for a better location in terms of it being directly between the boardwalk (if your looking for the market and shops) and the marina (where you do water adventures). The beach in front of the hotel was well kept and the nicest from what I saw along that shore line...I had a room that faced the pool and sea, the view was spectacular! What made the trip here most amazing was the fabulous st [... read more]aff! I participated in daily activities- aquatics, zumba and beach games... I was even encouraged to hit up a night club, and had the most fantastic time! I have Pablo and Jose to thank for making my stay there so fun and helping me make the most of my time there. They were just so wonderful and I'll definitely be back to visit soon! ... There was also a bellboy who was so helpful and I can't write a review without mentioning Antonio- he was so kind! All around good vibes- the only reason I didn't give it 5 is because there were some areas under repair, but I honestly have no complaints! Food was good-maybe too good... Staff amazing... I look forward to my next visit!

Grand Marival Emotions Resort and Suites: Good family resort

Pro: A good resort family oriented in Nuevo Vallarta. Rooms are fine. Food was ok. Drinks ok. Waiters very friendly. Big enough to look for a peaceful area. Mexican night entertainment was pretty good. Cons: Hotel assigned us a room that was occupied. Hotel gave us a two double bed when we booked a singledouble bed. Salesman Ulises very rude and unprofessional when we decided not to buy a membership of the resort with less that 12 hours of our arrival. Some issues with a broken faucett in the [... read more] shower and we have to request for towels after the cleaning staff took the old towels. Las Vegas night entertainment needs to improve.

Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta: Amazing resort that exceeded our expectations!

It was our first time to Mexico and we were sooooo impressed by this hotel! I went with my daughter and cousin this time, and would love to go back with my husband. The hotel was beautiful with lush grounds, well appointed rooms, fantastic restaurants and an amazing beach! The staff were so friendly,so helpful and could not do enough for you. We were very impressed and can't wait to go back! Thanks to our concierges, German Rodriges (he's #1) and Hector , our spa girls, Betty, Laura, Ashley,  [... read more]Violet and Guadalupe, our waiter Yomar at the Mexican restaurant! They all made our vacation memorable!

Hacienda Buenaventura Hotel and Mexican Charm: For the quiet crowd

Clean, beautifully landscaped, great friendly service, fresh food but bit repetitious, small but friendly hotel. Must be fit to stay on the top floor. We averaged climbing 500 stairs per day! Would recommend this hotel for more of the senior crowd.

Decameron Los Cocos Guayabitos Ramada: No place like home - except Los Cocos

This is a 3 star resort but it is off the charts when it comes to the heart of the resort. Staff is wonderful - friendly and efficient; the resort is older and somewhat shabby in some areas but rooms and grounds are spotless; guests usually return, some many times, and are all so friendly that friendships often continue after the holiday is over; and there is so much to do as the resort is in a lovely small town ( full of Canadians displaying Canadian flags) with small shops and restaurants if o [... read more]ne wants a change from hotel food, miles of beautiful sandy beaches which take you on to the next town and with lots of beach side bars and restaurants to enjoy along the way. Evening entertainment is good for such a small resort. The only thing we find lacking is the WiFi which only works in a few places and even then often poorly but a short walk away is a cafe with free Wifi that is always good. We love zlpd Cocos.

Las Palmas by the Sea: Fantastic resort!!

We have been to other resorts in PV and this one was by far the best. Trip central made everything smooth, From the time we landed to our transfer to the hotel to the check in it was so smooth. Flights there were uneventful and very friendly. The resort was amazing. All the staff were so friendly and fun. No complaints with the food and drinks. The resort staff took the time to ensure we all enjoyed our stay! Def a thumbs up for us and we will return!

Riu Flamingos: Fantastic Resort

The hotel was very well kept and elegant. You always have access to terrific food whether it be in the sports bar, or all day buffet. The rooms are all very close to eachother, so if you go here with a large group it is very easy to meet up. The Steak House is by far the best place to eat in terms of restaurants, but with how terrific the all-day buffet is there isn't really any need to worry about making it to the restaurants in time. However, the steak house (located right next to the beach) h [... read more]as an amazing view of the sunset around 6:30-7:00 so for that you cannot be tarty. The drinks are all very well made too, a little strong but i mean hey,you're on vacation right? The rooms are beautiful, i stayed on the bottom floor in the cheapest room and it was still fantastic. 9/10 would go again.

Decameron Los Cocos Guayabitos Ramada: GOOD RESORT

This is an older resort with lots of the problems that go with that situation, it is very very clean and under construction so understandably it was noisy at times. The food is what I would describe as slightly below par to good but the steak ala-cart is very good. lots of beach chairs and seating room for the number of people and there is plenty of room on the grounds to spread out. If there is one thing that I disliked about my stay it would be the entertainment this resort has 80% Canadians b [... read more]ut the entertainment is mostly in Spanish and much too loud it is turned up to the point of speaker distortion then a bit louder yet and while this racket is going an all of a sudden some kind of band sets up on the beach adding to the noise and at the same time both bars are playing different music at the height of this so called entertainment it is very very loud and annoying. But over all it was a pretty good place to go I personally will not return as I appreciate some thing quieter.

Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort and Spa: Amazing resort with Unbelievable Kids Club

The best thing about the resort is how friendly all of the staff were. At the buffets and pool area the waiters were amazing. The food at the al la carte's was very comparable to other resorts maybe even more on the average side. The Kids club was amazing. Very secure and I felt very comfortable leaving my kids their for activities.

Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta: Beautiful Resort

Upon your arrival at the Fiesta Americana you are greeted by the hotel staff that promptly gather your bags and lead you to the front entrance for check in as you feel the most amazing breeze through the open lobby. During our stay we tried all of the restaurants, the food was amazing, the staff was outstanding, the beach was best. Did not spend a lot of time in our room but that was great too. Overall it was a fantastic vacation and we would definitely return.

Buenaventura Grand Hotel and Great Moments: Beautiful Resort

We had an amazing time at this resort, service was wonderful, all the Staff it's so nice and friendly, they make our stay even better. Food was excellent at the buffet, we weren't to impressed with the food at the Resturant a la carte, wasn't anough and not as good as the buffet. We are very happy and satisfied, we would like go back a second time

Buenaventura Grand Hotel and Great Moments: Amazing Resort

One cannot say enough about how wonderful the hotel and their staff were during our stay. Everyone was so friendly and accommodating to anything we needed. The food was excellent and the beverages delicious. Excellent resort!

Canto Del Sol: Canto del Sol Tennis and Beach Resort, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Two nights before coming home, I got very sick, and 2 days after I returned, spent 2 days in hospital. The bacterial infection I had was identified as really nasty, and sometimes fatal e-coli from contaminated food prepared by someone who didn't wash their hands after using the bathroom. I have stayed at this hotel before, twice, but found the standards generally to be much lower this time. It would appear that efforts are made to make the appearance clean and cared for, but the tennis centr [... read more]e is totally neglected, the lowered quality of entertainment forced on guests on Monday nights when the whole restaurant moves outside, and there were so many more out-of-control kids yelling and screaming, along with doors slamming at all hours of the day or night. I really doubt that I was the only guest that fell victim to this bacteria, and I hope no-one died! I will never go to this place again!

Grand Decameron Complex Bucerias Trademark: FANTASTIC VACATION

This hotel boasts many repeat guests. The grounds are beautifully manicured. Staff work very hard and are very friendly. The rooms are basic but are very clean. Block 5 is adults only with its own pool. The nightly shows were excellent and the entertainment staff do a great job. You can walk for miles on the beach and it felt very safe.

Hilton Vallarta Riviera Resort: Rooms are Amazing

The hotel was wonderful. My biggest concern was the maid service. Maid service was terrible. They would take all the robes and not replace them. They would not resupply my room with coffee, I had to call down to reception every morning. Hotel grounds were very nice, pools were amazing. Waiter and waitresses around the pool did not speak very good English so it was hard to get a drink. Room service was amazing and fast. Lunch menu was very repetitive, food at buffet was good but alw [... read more]ays cold Resort does not exchange currency Resort is not walking distance to anywhere. If you wanted to leave the resort you had to take a cab.