The new kids on the block
The latest on Puerto Vallarta’s thriving hotel and resort scene
ANN RUPPENSTEIN
Whether your clients are looking for luxury, an all-inclusive escape, a no-frills hotel or something in-between, Puerto Vallarta has a lot of options for leisure and business travellers alike.
Here’s the scoop on some of the latest updates and openings in the popular Mexican tourist destination, which Conde Nast Traveller named one of the Top Cities in the World.
Hotel Amapa
Hotel Amapa is a soon-to-open, stylish and Instagram-worthy boutique hotel in the Colonia Amapas neighbourhood of Puerto Vallarta. Featuring modern minimalist Mexican designs, a picturesque rooftop pool and sweeping views of the city and ocean, this is a great option for those who are looking for an alternative to an all-inclusive getaway.
Photo-worthy: it will come as no surprise that integrating Instagrammable areas into the hotel was integral to its design. Although there are countless spots to ‘gram, the rooftop pool, which has a see-through panel, tops our list.
(hotelamapa.com)
Hotel Fiesta Americana
Hotel Fiesta Americana
Hotel Fiesta Americana has long been a popular all-inclusive option in Puerto Vallarta, but with its latest batch of upgrades, it’s fair to say this resort is now extra desirable. With an infinity pool boasting views of Banderas Bay, Jacuzzis, lounge areas, cabanas and Bali beds, the new adults-only Sonne Club will appeal to leisure travellers in search of a private oasis. Part of the $3.2-million investment also went to the beachfront Chulavista restaurant, and the new alfresco restaurant, La Veranda, where 14 guests are able to sit at the chef’s table and watch as meals are prepared right in front of them. The property is available through the likes of Transat, Sunquest, ACV and WestJet.
Photo-worthy: the infinity pool is a show stopper.
Hotel Sheraton Buganvilias
Fresh off an extensive multi-million dollar renovation, the rooms at The Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center — all of which face the ocean — have been renovated with modern flair, along with the grand lobby and a state-of-the-art spa. Although nature is a common theme throughout the resort — it’s home to hundreds of plant species — so is tequila. All the spa treatments incorporate agave; there are no fewer than 60 different brands of tequila to try during a stay, and the all-inclusive resort has an on-staff tequilier.
Photo-worthy: the wall to ceiling wall displaying different types of tequila at Embarcadero Bar is worth a shot, pun intended.
(www.sheratonvallarta.com)
Hotel Costa Sur Resort and Spa
Hotel Costa Sur Resort & Spa
A great option for families and multi-generational travellers as all rooms feature kitchenettes, Hotel Costa Sur Resort and Spa recently underwent a $1-million renovation and now has 60 newly re-envisioned Premium Ocean Front Suites. A unique feature of the property is its stretch of beach has a private cove, making the water calmer for swimming, snorkelling or kayaking. The resort will be added to WestJet’s vacation packages in May, and offers 10% commission for agents.
Photo-worthy: grab a mimosa to add an extra pop of colour to photos overlooking the natural cove. With multiple shades of blue, this is also photo-worthy without a cocktail.
(www.costasurpuertovallarta.com)
The Hacienda at Hilton Puerto Vallarta
Taking its name and design touches from a classic Spanish Hacienda, The Hacienda is a newly opened adult-only section at Hilton Puerto Vallarta. With plenty of private spaces and secluded suites, this is a solid option for couples who are looking to stay at a new property that still offers loads of character.
Photo worthy: from the impressive lobby to the tile and wall details, there are lots of photo opportunities on-site, but those staying in a swim-out suite are guaranteed a photo that’s worthy of likes.
(www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/jalisco/hilton-puerto-vallarta-resort-PVRPVHF/index.html)
Hotel Fiesta Inn Puerto Vallarta La Isla is located in La Isla Shopping Village
Hotel Fiesta Inn Puerto Vallarta La Isla
One of the newest hotels to open in Puerto Vallarta is the Hotel Fiesta Inn Puerto Vallarta La Isla. The hotel is within walking distance of the beach and is located in the La Isla Shopping Village, a luxury Venice-inspired shopping centre, which also houses a VIP cinema, outdoor performances, restaurants, and more. The new property is an affordable option for business travellers, and has an open-air pool for those looking to unwind. Agents can earn 10% commission on bookings. It’s European plan, but breakfast buffet credit can be added, which includes a wide selection of options along with local flavours.
Photo-worthy: be sure to tell your clients to look down as they walk around the outdoor mall. Mosaics of turtles, colourful fish and starfish are incorporated into the design on the floor.
(www.fiestainn.com)