Puerto Vallarta Smart Splurges

This tony hotel, is ideally located on the beach and just a few blocks away from the malecón. The fresh property offers chic, contemporary digs with an intimate feel. Guests can indulge away at the fabulous bi-level spa (reason enough to stay here) that offers a plethora of hydrotherapeutic treatments and massages. Another plus, if you’re traveling with your sweetie, is that guests must be 16 and older so, you won’t be bothered with the noisy family crowd that monopolizes many of the all-inclusive beach resorts. Enjoy some down time by the beachfront pool while lounging on suspended Arabian bamboo beds or, dining at La Ceiba, the beachside open-air restaurant. All 83 rooms here – although in four different categories – are quite deluxe, some with hammocks and hot tubs on their own large terrace. Most standard units have Mexican-style furniture and art, private balconies, and sliding doors that overlook the ocean. Soft muted colors and recessed lighting contribute to the overall calming feel. Upscale amenities include pillow menus with four fluffy choices, plush bathrobes, and bathrooms with whirlpool tubs.

The superlative colonial-style hacienda is made up of several villas with commanding views of the muddled village and bay; one of the villas was originally purchased by Richard Burton as a gift for his wife. While the beach and Old Town are within walking distance, this heavenly antique-filled hotel is so divine – dotted with such lush courtyards, pools, and trickling fountains – you may not want to leave at all.

A Mariachi band or a quartet serenades guests every evening at 6pm in the courtyard where guests can enjoy sweet mojitos and complimentary snacks (be sure to sample the spicy guacamole). Continental breakfasts with warm croissants, sweet yogurt, and coffee or tea, are brought to your room every morning.

The hacienda’s suites are all superbly decorated with one-of-a-kind antiques. One of our favorites, Celestial Suite, comes with a dripping candelabra, a gorgeous four-poster bed with billowing gossamer drapes, a Venetian chandelier (circa 1850), a 17th-century silk tapestry, and its own large palapa complete with a thatched roof, private bar, sitting area, and fantastic views of the town, the water, and the velvety Sierra hillside.

2008 SMART LUXURY WINNER
Charming Costa Alegre Perch

When Janice Chatterton finally decided to share her colonial-era home and its unmatched views over old Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay with the world, she didn’t scrimp. In fact, she spent six years collecting fine colonial furniture and artwork (from quirky folk pieces to intricate religious art), and acquiring four adjacent villas to create a sprawling hacienda with 16 spacious suites. The staff can direct you to Puerto Vallarta’s best-kept-secret galleries, eateries, and stretches of sand, unless you’d rather sample the three on-site heated pools. Best season for value: early summer.

Great Value Alternative: Cozy Quinta Maria Cortez hotel has great views and excellent service. From $140/night; www.quinta-maria.com

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