Happy Friday, friends! My week seemed like a blur. I love short weeks, but losing a day definitely throws me off! Last month, the hubs and I vacationed in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico with family! It was such a great time making memories with everyone and being away from our “norm” for five days! I had so many questions on where we stayed and what we did, so here you go – a blog post giving all the details of our Mexico Vacation!
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
For years Puerto Vallarta lived in relative obscurity, eclipsed by more popular resorts like Cancun and Acapulco. But over the last decade, word of Puerto Vallarta’s beauty has gotten out. Known for it’s crystal blue water, vine-hung foothills and an idyllic old town have made Puerto Vallarta one of Mexico’s most popular travel destinations.
Today, Puerto Vallarta reigns as one of Mexico’s most popular winter destinations because of its great diversity and almost perfect climate. Along with golden beaches, mountains and jungles you’ll discover modern amenities and creature comforts. In short, Puerto Vallarta is a very simpatico and affordable paradise that will appeal to just about everyone, just as it did for us!
Where we Stayed
The six of us stayed at a private villa accompanied by a full staff to help us feel at home! Casa de las Brisas had the best staff I should add! The villa was situated on a mountaintop with breathtaking 360 degree views of the ocean, mountains, jungle, and city. Not only where the views surreal, but the property itself was incredibly rare. It span across multiple acres, was impeccably landscaped, and the staff on site were second to none. We always had delicious food, cold drinks, and a personal chauffeur wherever we went. We simply couldn’t have asked for better accommodations!
What we Ate
It’s safe to say our diet wasn’t the best. From the minute we arrived the margaritas were flowing! Each morning we had a hot breakfast made by our personal chef. My mouth is watering thinking of the French toast she served! Breakfast on vacation has always been my favorite. I think it’s the fresh fruit. Or possibly enjoying coffee with a view? Maybe it’s because breakfast around our house is non existent. Whatever it is, I love it!
I think it’s safe to say the family favorite was the fresh guacamole that was prepared daily! The staff quickly caught on that it was our favorite, too! Each afternoon we sipped our favorite beverage and snacked on chips + guacamole while cooling off by the pool.
For dinner, where do I begin? We did it all from fajitas to fish and shrimp and filets! My favorite night was our last night there! We indulged in prime filets that were perfectly prepared by Adelina, our chef. Everyone, including the staff dined with us as a thank you for such a fun and memorable week! The staff was hands down the best!
One evening we did venture out into the city and had dinner on the beach at La Palapa. Here’s the scoop; dinner with your toes in the sand, a sunset view, waves hitting the shore, smiles all around the table, live music in the background, strolling Mariachi Band and the freshiest seafood! Does it get any better? The cuisine was fresh and delicious, prepared with local ingredients. The views and service were on point, too! Yes, my mouth is watering!
What we Did
Boat Ride & Snorkeling – Sunday afternoon we took a private boat ride to snorkel! Y’all, the water was so clear! And the fish were so pretty in their natural habit. I’ve always been amazed by the size of the ocean and the creatures in it. The water was so refreshing and there’s no feeling quite like jumping out of a boat into the ocean and taking in God’s creations. I loved this experience and getting to enjoy it with our family!
Horseback riding through the Mountains – Probably the funniest adventure, and totally worth all the belly laughs! Although my horse was pretty and sweet, she was stubborn. Not complaining though because my father in law was stuck riding a donkey (insert belly laughs) up the mountain for two miles! Between the donkey sounding off and the boys cutting up, this was definitely an experience we’ll be talking about for years.
Swimming with Dolphins – Am I too old to be a mermaid to swim daily with the dolphins? I never realized how pretty and intelligent dolphins were! If only I could teach Lincoln the amount of tricks they know/do with their trainers! I think my mother in law and I both left pretty astonished by their show!
Zip Lining – A little scary at first, but I loved every minute of this adrenaline rush! This adventure was a family affair, full of 11 zip lines through a jungle with ocean views and the longest line spanning over a half mile long! With that said, no one got sick and everyone finished! A few of us (myself included) rode one line upside down, basically free flying! I’ll admit, mine was short lived.. but HEY! I did it!
Spa day – Is any vacation really complete without a relaxing afternoon at the spa?! One of my absolute favorite things to do on vacation is get pampered at the spa, and this one certainly didn’t disappoint!
What I Wore
Here, I kept it simple! Lots of dresses and swimwear! Dresses are easy and breezy! You only need to pack shoes and your favorite jewelry to finish the look. The downfall is the wrinkles. I’m not a good packer, the hubs can pack a suitcase neater than I will ever be able to. Several of these styles are still available and ON SALE! I linked sizing and prices below each picture.
Printed Maxi – $49, wearing a size small. How fun is this print? The fit is perfect and pairs well with your favorite flats.
Floral Midi Dress – on sale for $24, wearing a size small. Multiple color options and sizes available. Love this look paired with a denim jacket!
Swimwear – Top ($20) Bottoms ($20), wearing a medium in both. You can’t never go wrong with a little black bikini! Kimono Cover-Up – $14. I love it so much, I just wish it was sold in other colors. Hat – I got so many questions about it! Honestly, it’s the best $12 I spent for the trip!
Embroidered Dress $40, sold out in white but available in navy or black. This dress is on major markdown. I love the fit, wearing a small and it’s so easy to style!
White Tee – $16 and the best white or black tee that you will own. The ruffle sleeves are so fun and flirty! I can do a size small or medium depending on the fit I want. Shorts – $49 and fit true to size.
Outfit accessories – Hoop Earrings | Tassel Earrings | Pink Tassel Earrings |Wrap Bracelet | Watch | Cuff | Straw Pouch | Crossbody |
Shoes – Block Heels |Espadrille Wedges | Flip Flops | Pool Flip Flops
Peace out, until next time PV! If you know me well, of course I’m already planning our next trip! I’m thinking the mountains this fall for some cabin style scenery! Any suggestions, I’m open!
If you missed my post Wednesday about my favorite August purchases, click here to read! Stay tuned to my Instagram page/stories for a little weekend adventure the hubs and I are headed on! I hope everyone has a great weekend!
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