Contemporary Villas of Puerto Vallarta: Marilu III

Marilu III is a spectacular 4 bedroom contemporary Mexican style villa 10 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta.

Casa Marilu III is a spectacular, 5,000 square foot contemporary, Mediterranean style villa. The interior incorporates dramatic open spaces, skylights, interior gardens and a sensuous blending of vivid local colors and textures. Located on the water’s edge and just ten minutes south of downtown Puerto Vallarta, the villa is located between the Presidente Intercontinental Hotel and La Jolla de Mismaloya resort and Spa and overlooks the famous Los Arcos rock formation.

The sweeping ocean views from the bedrooms, bathrooms, terraces, dining room, living room and kitchen are spectacular. To the north you can see the lovely city lights and, to the south, the rocky coast lined with sandy beaches and emerald hills.

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Looking for the Best Place in the World to Retire? Puerto Vallarta

During the past 15 years, International Living magazine has calculated its Annual Global Retirement Index; a resource intended to assist retirees and future retirees in evaluating and comparing the world's most popular retirement destinations.

The number one ranked country in the world for retirement; MEXICO! Aside from the fact that Mexico is extremely convenient to the US and Canada, that Mexico's Senior Citizens´ Benefits Program offers up to 50% discounts on many services to retirees over the age of 60, that the Mexican government has enacted many new laws encouraging foreign investment, Mexico has become an incredible place to enjoy retirement, offering the quality of life that North Americans are accustomed to with numerous extra benefits.

The most desirable retirement locations from north to south along the Pacific Ocean are La Paz and Todos Santos in Baja, Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa / Zihuatanejo, and Puerto Escondido.
it's no wonder why so many retirees have migrated to Puerto Vallarta. This beautiful tourist resort area has become home to thousands of North Americans that have traveled the world, could afford to live anywhere on the planet, and have chosen Vallarta as their winter, if not full time, retirement destination.

Located at the same latitude as Hawaii, Puerto Vallarta has a perfect climate with an average daily temperature of 73°F from November through May with virtually no chance of rain. With a population of approximately 350,000 inhabitants, Vallarta now has a new and growing infrastructure including roads, water treatment plants and distribution systems, power plants and distribution grid, airport, maritime terminal, hospitals, university, etc.

High speed internet, satellite TV, VOIP telecommunications, and US newspapers and magazines are all available in Vallarta. Most of the mega-stores found in the US and Canada have come to Vallarta including Sam's Club, Wal-Mart, Costco, Home Depot, Office Depot, Staples, and of course, every fast food chain restaurant imaginable! Vallarta now has seven world class golf courses with three more either in the planning stage or currently under construction. There are hundreds of tennis courts, world class deep sea fishing, and every other activity available that you would expect in a city of this size. There are numerous new cinemas, theaters, and hundreds of fine restaurants.

Let us help you make your retirement a reality with long-term luxury rentals and real-estate in Puerto Vallarta.

An Amazing Oceanfront: The Villa Bahia

One of our most spectacular oceanfront villas in Puerto Vallarta is located 5 minutes from the excitement of central downtown in the exclusive South Bay Area. This new custom home features four Master Suites and views unparalled on Mexico's golden coast.

This brand new oceanfront custom home features four Master suites, each with balconies and ocean views, full gym, indoor and outdoor gourmet kitchens, pool and spa. The exquisitely designed interior boasts art from some of Mexico’s famous artists and folk artists. Built with affection and vision, this luxurious villa is a sublimely colorful, four bedroom indoor-outdoor coastal retreat. The expansive floor-to-ceiling glass doors of the common areas completely open to the outside, allowing for soothing ocean breezes which calm the senses. Lounge on the sundeck by the soft, freshwater infinity pool with a saltwater system. The heated mix of the water is easy on the eyes and velvety on the skin.

Discover our unique collection of Mexican Luxury Villa Rental.

Mexicana Flies San Francisco-Puerto Vallarta Route

From the “Build It and They Will Come” file there's this. Mexico's new Riviera Nayarit is attracting a slew of West Coast travelers and the best way to get there is via Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR). The airfield is about a 15-minute ride away. To that end, Mexicana intends to launch a quartet of weekly nonstops between Puerto Vallarta and San Francisco come December 3.
This will make for a pair of carriers on the route. Alaska Airlines already offers nonstop San Francisco-Puerto Vallarta flights.
Mexicana's new nonstops will operate four times per week - Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in each direction.

Help us plan your vacation in Puerto Vallarta, visit Mexican Destinations.

Luxury Rental in Costa Alegre: Villa Dulce Suenos

Close to Puerto Vallarta, discover the beauty of Costa Alegre with our luxury villa rentals.

This exquisite, newly constructed residence was designed and built by world-famous architect Juan Domingo Leano. The 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath villa is decorated with high quality furnishings from design centers in the USA. The upscale, tropical feel provides a spacious and comfortable atmosphere for a warm and inviting stay. An impressive brick dome ceiling creates a focal point in the living room and the interior lighting offers a dramatic, inviting and romantic feel.

Each of the three suites (sleeps 6) was designed for the ultimate in comfort, including luxurious, high quality bedding and sheets. Each suite is equipped with a whirlpool tub and glassed-in, high performance showers, appointed with high quality bath towels and luxurious amenities. The spacious master suite opens to a private terrace with ocean views. This suite also offers a private sun bathing area, complete with a cascading waterfall. For Gourmands, a fully-equipped gourmet kitchen features commercial Thermador stainless steel appliances. A dramatic infinity pool, complete with cascading waterfall and oversized whirlpool dominate the outdoor living space where crashing waves are just a few feet away. The poolside fireplace and seating area, complete with gourmet barbeque and bar are ideal for entertaining or enjoying a romantic dinner for two under the sunsets.

Migrating whales and dolphins can often be seen playing just offshore as you swing in your hammock or lounge under the palapas. Perhaps a margarita and your private masseuse for two ocean side?

Discover Mexican Destinations' collection of luxury villa rental in Puerto Vallarta and Costa Alegre.

Getting around in Puerto Vallarta

From the Airport - The airport is quite close to Puerto Vallarta on the north side, and the ground transportation is available to take you into town and your luxury villa rental. You can buy tickets at the airport terminal.

Taxis - Puerto Vallarta's taxis are not metered, so agree your price before you get in. Hotels often post taxi rates on a board, and depending on how far you're going to travel (defined by zones), the price will vary. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage and be able to negotiate a better price! Another good reason to Learn Spanish

Rent a Car - If you are being picked up at Puerto Vallarta's airport to get taken to your resort or rental accommodation, then you may want to consider renting a car to explore the local environment. Note that parking is not that easy in Puerto Vallarta (but is possible) in town.
There are some stunning areas just north and south of Puerto Vallarta that can be explored along the coast roads, and renting a car locally is ideal and effective way to experience them.
Highway 200 is a beautiful coast road which hugs the edge of the land facing the Pacific Ocean. If you plan to explore the Costa Alegre as part of your visit to the region, a rental car will be essential, unless you plan to simply stay-put at one of our villa rentals.

Off the beaten-pass: Discover Costa Alegre

Travel south from Puerto Vallarta on Mexico's Pacific coast - to the central coastal area of the country- and you'll discover Costa Alegre.
Miles upon miles of palm trees line the land just inside the coastal shores. Jungle covered mountains plunge into the Pacific coast, or fall short to reveal golden sand beaches, begging to be discovered and walked upon by tired feet.
The Costa Alegre is not a destination, it's an area between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo. Costa Alegre offers highly exclusive travel experiences with self contained resort luxury villas that feature privacy and seclusion surrounded by a stunningly beautiful tropical paradise.
Today, this region is extremely accessible - by air (Puerto Vallarta or Manzanillo airports) and by road (Highway 200 on Mexico's Pacific Coast) - and has become a favorite holiday destination for foreigners and Mexicans alike looking for highly exclusive, extra-special travel experiences.
Costa Alegre (the "Happy Coast") is a stretch of land about 150 miles long, that features tropical forests and magical coves. This area is one of the most exclusive areas to get away from it all in Mexico. Celebrities often come here to get away from prying eyes and camera lenses. Costalegre is an area made up several towns and villages with potential for the traveler looking for that extra-special experience in Mexico.
Find-out Mexican Destination's exclusive villa rentals in Costa Alegre.

Getting to Puerto Vallarta

Find out how you can get to Puerto Vallarta

By Air - Puerto Vallarta's international airport is extremely well-served by a range of airlines. You can fly to Puerto Vallarta from the United States and and other points in Mexico including Guadalajara, La Paz, Leon and Mexico City.

By Bus - You can travel to Puerto Vallarta on a luxury bus from Mexico City - but note that the trip will take around 14 hours. From Guadalajara, the journey time is about 6-7 hours. Puerto Vallarta is flanked by large mountains, so the roads in and out of the area are steep, winding, and take time to negotiate. Flying is the most sensible way to get to Puerto Vallarta, unless you are on a budget, and don't mind the wait (and want to see the sights along the way).

By Car - The road journey to Puerto Vallarta from inland Mexico (e.g. Guadalajara, Mexico City, Chihuahua, et al) is mountainous and winding. Expect it to take longer than you anticipate if you've only looked at non-topographical road map. The easiest route in and out of Puerto Vallarta is by using Highway 200 -- the coast road -- although if you plan to go inland to Guadalajara or Mexico City, then this road will take you well out of the way you really want to go. Traveling out of Puerto Vallarta by road north to Punta de Mita, or south to Costalegre and Manzanillo is straightforward: the roads are good and the terrain is easy to negotiate in a car.

before you get there, make sure to take full advantage of our luxury villa vacation rentals.

Mexican Destinations: Horseback riding in Puerto Vallarta

Horseback riding in Puerto Vallarta is a blast! You can rent horses along the beach, at the park, near Daiquiri Dick’s Restaurant. Or, if you are a serious rider and want to really see the back country, we suggest you contact our American friend, Pam Aquirre, at Rancho Charro Stables. Pam can arrange individual or group trips lasting three hours to six days.
Other outfits include Rancho Capomo, which provides ecological horseback riding tours.
Rancho Ojo de Agua also offers high-quality tours. It is about a 10-minute taxi ride north of downtown, toward the Sierra Madre foothills. The morning and sunset rides last 3 hours and take you up into the mountains overlooking the ocean and town.

Find out more about the things to do in Puerto Vallarta with Mexican Destinations.

Mexican Destinations House Rental: Villa Amapas

Villa Amapas is a luxury beach estate and house for rent in Puerto Vallarta - lower Conchas Chinas. Enter through antique Mexican doors to the private elevator and step into one of the most spectacular beach properties in Puerto Vallarta. The villa has over 7,000 square feet on four levels and features a spacious master suite with its own terrace, three large guest suites with ensuite baths, a commercial gourmet kitchen, outdoor bar and dining areas and a magnificent heated infinity pool overlooking the beach.

The refreshing pool and nearby sheltering palapa are surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation for complete privacy. The spacious upper terrace is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset or lounge away the afternoon in the shade of the pergola.

Find the perfect house for rent in Puerto Vallarta with Mexican Destinations.

Mexican Destinations: Puerto Vallarta Walking Tours

Puerto Vallarta's cobblestone streets are a pleasure to explore; they're full of tiny shops, rows of windows edged with curling wrought iron, and vistas of red-tile roofs and the sea. Start with a walk up and down the malecón.
Among the sights you shouldn't miss is the municipal building on the main square (next to the tourism office), which has a large Manuel Lepe mural inside in its stairwell. Nearby, right up Independencia, sits the picturesque Parish of Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe church, Hidalgo 370 (tel. 322/222-1326), topped with a curious crown held in place by angels -- a replica of the one worn by Empress Carlota during her brief time in Mexico as Emperor Maximilian's wife. On its steps, women sell religious mementos; across the narrow street, stalls sell native herbs for curing common ailments. Services in English are held each Saturday at 5pm, and Sunday at 10am. Regular hours are Monday through Saturday from 7:30am to 8:30pm, Sunday from 6:30am to 8:30pm. Note that entrance is restricted to those properly attired -- no shorts or sleeveless shirts allowed. Three blocks south of the church, head east on Libertad, lined with small shops and pretty upper windows, to the municipal market by the river. (It's the Río Cuale Mercado, but I recently overheard a tourist ask for the "real quality" market!) After exploring the market, cross the bridge to the island in the river; sometimes a painter is at work on its banks. Walk down the center of the island toward the sea, and you'll come to the tiny Museo Río Cuale (no phone; Mon-Sat 10am-4pm; free admission), which has a small but impressive permanent exhibit of pre-Columbian figurines.
Retrace your steps to the market and Libertad, and follow Calle Miramar to the brightly colored steps up to Zaragoza. Midway is a magnificent view over rooftops to the sea, plus a cute cafe, Graffiti (no phone), where you can break for a cappuccino and a snack. Up Zaragoza to the right 1 block is the famous pink arched bridge that once connected Richard Burton's and Elizabeth Taylor's houses. In this area, known as "Gringo Gulch," many Americans have houses.

Find out more about Puerto Vallarta Vacations and luxury villa rentals.

Exclusive Mexico Villa Rental: Casa San Sebastian

Stay 6 nights, pay for 5 nights(holidays excluded)

Nestled majestically amidst cliff-side boulders in a sheltered pacific cove on Puerto Vallarta's exclusive south shore of Mismaloya is the spectacular Casa San Sebastian. Guests enjoy its dramatic jungle setting while being only ten minutes from Puerto Vallarta.Casa San Sebastian is the most exquisite and talked about luxury villas and exclusive resort Mexico villa rental on Puerto Vallarta's Exclusive south shore. This spectacular 8,000 sq. ft. villa was designed for pure pleasure and comfort.

The Architect, Alberto Alvarez, a local award winning University of Guadalajara graduate. He adopted the Pacific Coast style with grace and ease and added his own particular creative touch, resulting in a dramatic and spectacular residence. Comfort and luxury were always on our minds. The villa provides a happy, relaxed, leisurely setting, a place to recharge, to revitalize.

Find more Exclusive Mexico Rentals on Mexican Destinations.

Mexican Destinations Summer Specials - Casa Dos Angeles

Summer Special! Stay 7 nights, pay for 6

Enjoy old Mexico charm with all the modern conveniences. This lovely, two bedroom villa offers a 270-degree view of the ocean, Los Arcos, the Sierra Madres, and Puerto Vallarta.

Your own secluded hideaway will take you back in time. You’ll enjoy 3,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor living space, a beautiful private pool overlooking the ocean, a spacious patio, large living room, dining room, and kitchen. This luxury villa rental is located in a small, exclusive, gated villa community just 10 minutes from Puerto Vallarta

Take a five minute stroll down the hill to the beach or you can drive right up to it with your picnic lunch. Guests to Casa Dos Angeles take pleasure in a secluded beach, with white sand, a gentle surf and swaying palm trees.

See more amazing vacation rentals on Mexican Destinations.

Mexican Destination other exclusive locations: Punta Mita

Punta Mita is located on Mexico's Pacific Coast, about 30 minutes northwest of the international airport in Puerto Vallarta, one of Mexico's premier vacation destinations. Punta Mita is easily accessible by air and is just a few hours from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Dallas and other major cities in the United States.

Situated at the northern tip of Banderas Bay, Mexico's deepest natural bay, and bordered by the rugged Sierra Madre Mountains to the east. The Punta Mita peninsula is surrounded on three sides by white, coral-sand beaches and crystalline waters. The land features a rich bio-diversity that includes numerous species of tropical fauna and flora while the warm waters teem with tropical fish, turtles, and other aquatic life.

Punta Mita is also home to the luxurious Four Seasons Resort, including the 18 hole Jack Nicklaus championship golf course, restaurants and spa.

With Mexican Destinations, pick your perfect Punta Mita vacation rental.

Destination Wedding in Puerto Vallarta with Mexican Destinations

Weddings are popular in Puerto Vallarta, and for good reason. A town that knows how to entertain tourists and groups, you will find the utmost service and attention to detail from a wide variety of hotels, resorts and luxury villas. With a mixture of mountains, ocean and cobblestone streets, Puerto Vallarta is like no other Mexican destination. Couples can avail themselves of secluded beaches, romantic restaurants, sunset cruises, hot air ballon rides, lively nightlife (for those who want it), shopping and day trips or the freedom of doing nothing at all. Regardless, it all adds up to the perfect blend of ingredients for an incredibly memorable romantic holiday.

Contact Mexican Destinations and let us help you with your unique destination wedding.

Mexican Destinations - Exclusive Luxury Rental: Villa Esplendora

This luxury vacation Villa rental features three oceanfront master suites with private Jacuzzis, and two beautifully-appointed garden bedrooms, adjacent to the unique bamboo gardens and waterfalls, each with a private bath. The grand staircase leads to the main salon, where the living room, dining room, kitchen and circular island bar are united for ease of entertaining. This area conveniently leads out to the fabulous terrace that features a beautiful infinity pool, 10 person Jacuzzi, dining palapa and outdoor cooking area with rotisserie and wet bar. Spend your evenings on the terrace, listening to the sound of the ocean, amidst the splendor of cascading fountains and the warm glow of the gas-lit fire pits.

To complete your stay, Villa Esplendora comes with a staff of 4, including a cook, houseman, maid and gardener. The cook will prepare 2 meals a day, breakfast and either lunch or dinner, Monday - Saturday.

See more from our unique Puerto Vallarta luxury rental collection on Mexican Destinations.

With Mexican Destinations find Alternatives to Mexico's tourist meccas

Puerto Vallarta, as resort areas go, is amply endowed with scenic beauty, cultural attractions and historical charm; away from the northern tourist zone, it even retains some of its tropical languor. It's a big city, though, and you're just one of 3 million visitors a year.
Alternative: San Pancho, about 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, is still more fishing village and mango processing town than tourist destination, but it has a smattering of beautiful villa rentals, a growing number of fine restaurants, and an idyllic beach where men cast their lines from shore, competing with flocks of resident pelicans. It's a quieter version of Sayulita, 10 minutes to the north — which would have gotten the nod on this list a couple of years ago, before the condos started going up and the main street got choked with traffic.

Find the perfect Mexican vacation rental with Mexican Destinations

Casita Colorado is a beautiful Puerto Vallarta rental home and offers breathtaking 180-degree views overlooking Los Arcos, Playa Garza Beach and the Bay of Banderas. The villa is set in an exclusive enclave of homes with a 24-hour guarded gate. It is surrounded by the lush landscaping of the Garza Blanca region and is the perfect villa for a quiet getaway. Casita Colorado's private pool is heated and the large patio offers a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the sunshine, as well as a great vantage point to watch the incredible sunsets over the ocean.

Casita Colorado is located five miles south of Puerto Vallarta. Its spacious furnishings have a Mexican-style flair. Guests appreciate the attention to detail that is evident throughout the interior. The living and dining areas open to the terrace and memorable views. Each bedroom is air-conditioned with a television and en-suite bathroom. The master bedroom opens to a private terrace with a Jacuzzi.

See Mexican Destinations' collection of 3 bedroom Puerto Vallarta home rentals.

Mexican Destinations - Luxury Property Focus: The Casa Flores

The Very Best of Puerto Vallarte Beachfront Rental!

Casa Flores captures the elements and spirit of resort living. Discover an unspoiled paradise, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.

Casa Flores, a unique and private residence, occupies the entire south side level within Punta Negra Condominiums. Its gracious and artistic decor provides our guests with the ultimate in relaxation.

Experience the abundant, natural beauty of Casa Flores as you enter the gated and private garden entrance. Wild orchids hang from the four story rock wall, enclosing a gazebo and mosaic-tiled, 12-person Jacuzzi.

Enter Casa Flores 3,800 square feet of sweeping ocean vistas designed to maximize ocean breezes. Sink into the Ultra-luxury Collection. Twin master suites with private patios overlooking the ocean, flank either side of the great room. The third, ‘White Orchid” suite is a zen retreat with antique candles and luxury linens. All suites have whisper quiet air conditioners and satellite television.24-Hour security. Heated junior sized Olympic pool. Daily maid service Monday through Saturday. Welcome menu of traditional Mexican Hors d'oeuvres and beverages. Gourmet Chef service available for a nominal fee.

Casa Flores is located ten minutes south of Puerto Vallarta on a semi-private beach. Only minutes away from El Nogelito, a bird watchers and hikers paradise. At Casa Flores we pride ourselves in delivering an unprecedented level of attention, including your own personal concierge to assist in bringing your vacation dreams to fruition. Massage & Spa Treatments, Shopping, Deep Sea Fishing, Culinary Recommendations. Imagine & Dream!

Mexican Destinations offers many other Beach Front Rentals. See for yourself!

What Makes Puerto Vallarta Quaint?

Some will say that Puerto Vallarta is a quaint or picturesque city due to the thousands of whitewashed villas, condos, and other buildings nestled among the Sierra Madre hillsides surrounding Banderas Bay along the Pacific Ocean coastline. Others might attribute the quaintness of Vallarta to the many nearby inlets and coves where the old fishing pangas are docked with their resident pelicans waiting for dinner or perhaps to the beach vendors selling their colorful blankets, sculptures, and artwork.

Viewing the crafts of local artisans while strolling along the seafront promenade, referred to as the malecon, or visiting the hundreds of curio and souvenir shops gives many tourists the feeling of being in a quaint little Mexican fishing village. For others, the optimum feeling of being in a quaint little Mexican village or relaxing in Paradise is derived from sipping margaritas or cervezas in one of the many beachfront cantinas or restaurants while watching the magnificent sunsets.
Although the city has reached the size of St. Louis with 350,000 inhabitants, it still possesses the atmosphere of a small village where everyone seems to know each other. Residents often consider Puerto Vallarta to be charming in an old fashioned way due to the friendliness of its people; where everyone that you meet is readily open to new friendships as recently revealed when surveyed readers of Conde Nast magazine voted Puerto Vallarta the friendliest resort destination in the world.

Find your perfect Puerto Vallarta Vacation Rental with Mexican Destinations.

Puerto Vallarta Luxury Home Rental: Villa Hacienda de los Santos

This spectacular new luxury rental in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico boasts a state-of-the-art infinity swimming pool and over 8,000 square feet of living space in this villa near Puerto Vallarta . Striking antiques and hand-painted murals grace every room. Located on a cliff at the top of Real de Conchas Chinas, the panoramic ocean, city and mountain views are unrivaled and will take your breath away.

If you are looking for the very best in accommodations, Hacienda de los Santos is for you. The stunning architecture reflects the traditions of Old Mexico, while affording guests every possible modern convenience and amenity. You'll be pampered in this custom-designed and meticulously built home. It contains extensive cantera columns and railings, bold arches, matte tikul flooring, vaulted bóveda veilings and cupolas throughout the entire home.

Discover more about the Hacienda de los Santos or other Mexico luxury house rentals with Mexican Destinations.

Fall Special with Mexican Destinations: The Casa Salinas

Fall Special! September 13 to October 4. Stay 7 nights, pay for 6

This Puerto Vallarta home rental is a luxurious, private, beachfront residence on a quiet, secluded sandy beach. The villa is professionally furnished with an emphasis on color and comfort, with unique art accents in each room. The open-air living and dining area has a unique palapa-style ceiling with lovely ocean views.

The property is located next door to Casa Salinas II. Casa Salinas I, with its spectacular ocean views, is an ideal setting for a relaxed and memorable vacation.

Enjoy year-round swimming in the spectacular heated pool and a terrace area that focuses directly on the ocean.

The staff proudly serves you with warm Mexican hospitality. A housekeeper, villa chef and gardener will provide for all your needs.

Check out more Puerto Vallarta houses for rent with Mexican Destinations.

Mexican Destinations Special: Villa Marea Alta

Now through October, stay 5 nightspay for 4

Plan your next getaway or fiesta in this colorful and spacious Puerto Vallarta Villa. Villa Marea Alta's 6000 square foot interior combines comfort with optimum efficiency and exquisite taste in design.

The villa is filled with beautiful antiques, regional handcrafts and artwork that, together, create a sophisticated, yet relaxed atmosphere. The exterior is beautifully landscaped and offers ocean views. Guests enjoy the infinity pool, stone fountains and outdoor fireplace.Music fills the villa when you take advantage of the complete sound system; or, you may just want to listen to the ocean breezes.

Your rental includes the service of the villa chef who will prepare any two meals a day for you, daily maid service and an English-speaking houseman who will take care of all your needs. This may be rented as a 3 or 4 bedroom.

Find out more about the Villa Marea Alta and other Puerto Vallarta Rental Houses.

Mexican Destinations: Villa Estrella Mar

The finest Puerto Vallarta villa rental, Estrella Mar has been featured in Veranda Magazine as well as several other publications. This one-of-a-kind oceanfront home offers six spacious suites, nine bathrooms, an exercise room, a large heated pool and a dedicated staff of fourteen.

The residence is distinctive in many ways, but one of its most unexpected features is the absence of glass in the windows. You can leave everything open to the ocean breezes and the view. Interior spaces include polished tile floors, textured wall surfaces, sturdy cotton fabrics and an abundance of wicker. During the day, the view dominates. But, at night, soft lighting warms the interiors like a welcoming abrazo-embrace and Villa Estrella Mar truly becomes a star of the sea.

The attentive staff includes a villa chef, an English speaking houseman, daily maid service and 24 hour security.

Find out more about the Villa Estrella Mar and other luxury villa rentals in Puerto Vallarta.

Fly for $76, Stay for $108: Luxury Mexico Villa Rental with Mexican Destinations

Are you trying to plan a gateway to Mexico? Here are a few deals not to be missed.

With American Airline, find fares fares as low as $76* each way to Mexico. So, hurry! – paradise will always be there, but these fares will only be available until July 31. Book today and you can be lounging on the beach while listening to the rhythmic sounds of waves crashing against the shoreline in no time, and stay for $108 per night per person at our luxury Mexico rental Casa Seis Fuentes.

Seis Fuentes is a grand and gracious Mexican luxury rental home that resonates warmth, style and elegance. Recently featured in Architectural Digest, Casa Seis Fuentes is the reconstruction of a 300 year old home. With its original three-foot thick adobe walls, it combines the style and charm of the colonial period with all the modern comforts and conveniences including a complete gym, heated pool, mini kitchens and private patios for all bedrooms and a dedicated staff of seven make this a perfect place to stay when checking out Mexican Real Estate Listings in San Miguel de Allende.
Casa Seis Fuentes, with full staff, is waiting for you anytime in August for a mere $108/night per person.

Mexican Destinations offers a full choice of exclusive Mexico villa rental.

Blissport Reveals the Top Honeymoon Vacation Destinations on the Pacific Coast & Guadalajara for 2008

Blissport, the first company to offer honeymoon travel planning tools and services exclusively to engaged men, unveiled today the best honeymoon destinations on the Pacific Coast and Guadalajara for 2008. The website highlights the most romantic hotels, restaurants, activities and nightlife the region has to offer.

"We're taking the legwork out of planning again, this time for newlyweds researching the Pacific Coast and Guadalajara," said John Hartman, cofounder of Blissport. "Mexico's coast is a lesser known slice of paradise with an abundance of nightlife, perfect for an unforgettable honeymoon."

Blissport.com calls the region an international playground for the rich and famous. From Puerto Vallarta to Manzanillo, it offers guests beaches, snorkeling, fishing, and impeccable weather. A few miles inland lay Guadalajara, the birthplace of mariachi music and the country's second largest city. Yet another ideal stop on an ideal honeymoon.

"Blissport makes research easy with search tools that give grooms access to a long list of the best honeymoon spots, including the most remote destinations," added Hartman.

For an unforgettable honeymoon in Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding coastal area, pick one of our luxury seaside rental at Mexican Destinations

Swimming With Dolphins

Ever been kissed by a dolphin? Take advantage of a unique opportunity to swim with Pacific bottlenose dolphins in one of two facilities -- a clear lagoon or a special swim facility that's part of the Vallarta Adventures offices. Dolphin Adventure operates an interactive dolphin-research facility -- considered the finest in Latin America -- that allows limited numbers of people to swim with dolphins Monday through Saturday at scheduled times. Cost for the swim is $145. Reservations are required, and they generally sell out at least a week in advance.

You may prefer the Dolphin Encounter ($60), which allows you to touch and learn about the dolphins in smaller pools, so you're ensured up-close-and-personal time with them. You can even be a Trainer for a Day, a special 7-hour program of working alongside the more experienced trainers and the dolphins, for a cost of $250.

The new Dolphin Kids program, for children ages 4 to 8, is a gentle introduction to dolphins, featuring the Dolphin Adventure baby dolphins and their mothers interacting with the children participants ($60). I give this my highest recommendation. Not only does the experience leave you with an indescribable sensation, but it's also a joy to see these dolphins -- they are well cared for, happy, and spirited. The program is about education and interaction, not entertainment or amusement, and is especially popular with children 10 and older.

Stay in on of of Mexican Destination's luxury rentals and swim with the Dolphins

Puerto Vallarta Summer Survival Tips

I hope this finds you sitting near a breezy fan with a cold drink in your hand. We're getting to that really hot and sweaty time here in Puerto Vallarta, so here are some summertime hints to help you get through the sticky times...Be sure to keep some Electrolit on hand with some mineral water. I like to fill a huge glass with ice, fill it half with the Electrolit and half with mineral water. Be sure to drink the whole bottle within 24 hours.If you are on any medications for heart or blood pressure be sure to check with your doctor as both of these liquids have quite a bit of potassium and you might have to limit your daily intake.Why do I recommend Electrolit over Pedialyte? Because you'll get 125ml more, the taste is the same and it costs less. It's available at Sam's for the best price.This will save your butt believe me. When we sweat we release a lot of potassium and other minerals. Water doesn't replenish it and neither does anything like Gatorade, which has artificial sweeteners in it which are drying to the body, and not enough of the re-hydrating qualities that you need. In fact, all artificially sweetened drinks will dry you out, so try switching to more water and be sure to keep several bottles of Electrolit on hand. When you start to feel the effects of heat exhaustion get to drinking a bottle right away.This is especially true if you are spending your first summer here.

By all means never leave home without a bathing suit too. You never know when you'll get the opportunity to jump in. I like to get certain pieces of my clothing wet and wear it that way through out my day. It's very refreshing and you can't tell it's wet. Try it. I know you're probably giggling right now and saying to yourself, "yeah, right."

I put this little hint out last year and I was thrilled to have some people write back saying they thought I was outta my tree, but they tried it and by golly it worked! Believe me, during the summer in Vallarta you can get heat exhaustion just by walking in the sun for five minutes. It's happened to me. So stick to the shady side of the street when your walking.I have one more helpful hint for you.

As we all know, we have no choice when living in Mexico but to put up with ants. And of course the pesky little devils are the source of our constant frustration - mostly in the kitchen. I don't know about you, but when I'm cooking or doing anything in the kitchen the last thing I want to use is bug spray. YUCK! Clear the room!!! Well, not anymore. Just whip out your Windex and spray away! They die instantly and you can keep on goin'. Now mind you, there's no protection once you've disposed of the cuerpos, but it's so quick, easy and non-offensive.

Want to stay cool in Puerto Vallarta for the summer? rent one of our Luxury ocean front villas: El Nido or Palmasola.

More information on our Luxury Villa rentals at www.mexicandestinations.com

Extreme Kiting in Puerto Vallarta

Kite surfing or kite boarding is a sport that involves navigation and consists of breaking through the waves on a board similar to a surfboard. The difference is that it is shorter and it's anchored to the feet. It is pulled by a traction kite attached to a person with a harness containing four or five ropes, two attached to the ends of the bar, which serves as a type of steering device and two or three more attached to the center of the bar.

One starts out on the sand while maintaining the kite in flight; the most important thing is to learn how to use air currents to your advantage to take you wherever you want.

This sport has become very popular recently because of improved equipment and technique, allowing kite-surfers to leap up to 13 meters and perform acrobatics on the water. The origins of this sport go back to China and Indonesia, where they used kites to move canoes through the ocean. However, it wasn't until 1977 that Gijsbertus Adrianus Panhuise patented a system of navigation on a surfboard by adding a parachute, becoming the father of this sport.

Here in our Banderas Bay, Airfish Kite School is headed by Vicente Cárdenas, who you can usually find on the beaches of Bucerías and its environs. Beginning this sport involves a nine-hour course, divided into three three-hour sessions with three hours of practice on the sand, three hours in the water without a board to learn how to coordinate the movement of the water and the kite, and three hours practicing with full gear.

Find out more about activities in Banderas Bay with Mexican Destinations

Golfing in Puerto Vallarta

Feel like golfing while staying in one of Mexican Destinations' luxury villa? Here is all the information you need about golf courses around Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is an increasingly popular golf destination; five courses have opened in the past 4 years, bringing the total in the region to nine. The Joe Finger-designed private course at the Marina Vallarta Golf Club (tel. 322/221-0073) is an 18-hole, par-74 course that winds through the Marina Vallarta peninsula and affords ocean views. It's for members only, but most luxury hotels in Puerto Vallarta have memberships for their guests. Greens fees are $136 in high season, $115 in low season. Fees include golf cart, range balls, and tax. Hiring a caddy costs $8 to $10. Club rentals, lessons, and special packages are available.

North of town in the state of Nayarit, about 16km (10 miles) beyond Puerto Vallarta, is the 18-hole, par-72 Los Flamingos Club de Golf. It features beautiful jungle vegetation and has just undergone a renovation and upgrade of the course. It's open from 7am to 5pm daily, with a snack bar (but no restaurant) and full pro shop. The greens fee is $95 and includes the use of a golf cart; hiring a caddy costs $12 plus tip, and club rental is $27 to $44. A free shuttle runs from downtown Puerto Vallarta; call for pickup times and locations.

The breathtaking Jack Nicklaus Signature course at the Four Seasons Punta Mita has eight oceanfront holes and an ocean view from every hole. Its hallmark is the optional Hole 3B, the "Tail of the Whale," with a long drive to a green on a natural island -- the only natural-island green in the Americas. It requires an amphibious cart to take you over when the tide is high, and there's an alternate hole for when the ocean or tides are not accommodating. It's open only to guests of the Four Seasons resort or to members of other golf clubs with a letter of introduction from their pro. Selected other area hotels also have guest privileges -- ask your concierge. Greens fees for nonguests are $260, including cart, with (Calloway) club rentals for $60. Lessons are also available.

A second Jack Nicklaus course is at the Vista Vallarta Golf Club (tel. 322/290-0030), along with one designed by Tom Weiskopf. These courses were the site of the 2002 PGA World Cup Golf Championships. It's in the foothills of the Sierra Madre, behind the bullring in Puerto Vallarta. A round costs $167 per person, including cart.

The Robert von Hagge-designed El Tigre course at Paradise Village in Nuevo Vallarta, opened in March 2002. The 7,239-yard course is on a relatively flat piece of land, but the design incorporates challenging bunkers, undulating fairways, and water features on several holes. El Tigre also offers lessons and has an expansive clubhouse. This seems to be the favored course of local pros. Greens fees are $185 a round, or $85 if you play after 2pm.

Start organizing your golf vacation in Puerto Vallarta with Mexican Destinations.

Puerto Vallarta in the Los Angeles Times

Puerto Vallarta was reviewed last week in the Los Angeles Times travel section. Here are a few extracts.

Puerto Vallarta: Spectacularly wide Banderas Bay offers 42km (26 miles) of beaches. Some, like Playa Los Muertos -- the popular public beach in town -- abound with palapa restaurants, beach volleyball, and parasailing. The beaches of Punta Mita, the exclusive development north of Vallarta, are of the white-sand variety, with crystalline waters and coral reefs just offshore. Others around the bay nestle in coves, accessible only by boat. Puerto Vallarta is the only place where authentic colonial ambience mixes with true resort amenities.

"Gourmet Festival": This festival of fine dining held in Puerto Vallarta brings together some of the world's finest chefs creating magical menus in the town's top restaurants. Added attractions include a gourmet food expo, cooking classes, tequila and wine tastings, and an array of special events and parties. Dates vary, but the festival generally takes place for 10 days in mid-November.

Start organizing your beach vacation in Purto Vallarta at Mexican Destinations.

Destination Weddings in Puerto Vallarta

Imagine getting married in the balmy breeze at sunset on the Mexican Pacific. The invited guests are hand chosen, numbers are limited and everyone looks bronzed and happy. In fact, you are the entire focus of the weeklong event. Can you picture a more romantic way to get married? In recent years, destination weddings have moved to the forefront from what was previously a fledgling industry existing only for those with connections. What makes a destination wedding different from just getting married in some exotic locale? Invited guests invariably say, as Christine recently enthused, “This is the best experience I’ve ever had. I wish I had known about it when my husband and I got married. It’s unique and something that can only happen when the entire trip is focused on the wedding. I’ll remember it for the rest of my life.” Superlatives aside, a destination wedding is created within the framework of the destination. In our case, Puerto Vallarta offers specific elements that factor into its appeal in a major way. Numerous activities are available for the entire family or wedding party. Start organizing your wedding by finding the perfect location in one of Mexican Destinations' Luxury Villas

Puerto Vallarta's not just for tourists, it's for artists too

A five-day festival hopes to enrich a contemporary art scene in the Mexican resort city.

By Reed Johnson
Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
June 04, 2008

PUERTO VALLARTA, Mexico -- Strollers passing along the river that flows through downtown here were startled last week to encounter a pair of "Towel Swans" gliding atop the murky water. Crafted out of plastic foam by Chilean artist Cristián Silva, they resembled the decorative birds sculpted by chambermaids to be left on tourists' hotel beds, in hopes of earning a few extra pesos in tip money.

The "swans" briefly drifted on Saturday afternoon but were retrieved after a few urgent cellphone calls. As to how those stealthy avians got there in the first place, the answer was simple: Provocateurs were in town.

It's been 4 1/2 decades since director John Huston and company came here to shoot “The Night of the Iguana” and placed this former fishing village on the map. But Puerto Vallarta still conjures up Hollywood-style tropical fantasies that lure cruise ships and charter-jet tourists by the tens of thousands every year.

Read more here

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