I’m writing this review missing the warmth and service my husband and I experienced during our last visit to Velas Vallarta, and to share a few of our favorite moments during our stay.

I’m from the Bay Area in California, and for us it’s a special treat to escape to Mexico and enjoy such professional service from such kind people. Mexican hospitality in general makes you feel at home the minute you arrive, but I think the coastal culture in Puerto Vallarta takes it a step further. It really feels like friendliness and the genuine desire to make people comfortable runs through their veins.

We spent most of our time by the pool, as the warm summer sun made it hard to leave the aqua bar and ocean views. Marcelino made sure our drinks were never empty – as soon as we finished with one, he’d offer us another, and he had great recommendations. We also indulged in the popsicle cart, which had some flavors we’d never tried before, like red currant and tamarind.

One of the highlights of our stay, recommended by Jenny at the Spa, was a couples’ massage under the moonlight. Just as the sun was setting we made our way to the pier, along a path lined with bougainvillea petals and candles leading to the Spa cabana with massage tables. Every movement during the massage felt like synchronized choreography, with essential aromas that the therapists sprayed on flower petals, passed in front of our noses and placed on our chests. When we turned over – this ritual begins lying on your back with gentle pressure on the face, neck, shoulders, hands and feet – we saw that they had created a flower with every scented petal used, and they continued to release their heavenly aromas.

At the end of the massage, they opened the curtains of the cabana and to our surprise, they
had set up a table with champagne and strawberries, and our romantic experience continued right there overlooking the sea. That was a truly fantastic evening, the most romantic thing we’ve done in a very long time.

I have to admit that I left a little piece of my heart with all the wonderful people who made our vacation so deeply relaxing and memorable. I can’t wait to plan our next trip.

This review has been contributed by Velas Vallarta guest Sonia B., who recently visited from San Jose, California.