I booked a 5-day, 4-night stay in Puerto Vallarta with my family, using points for a free flight and enjoying an all-inclusive stay at the Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort. Upon arrival, I was greeted by humid 80-degree weather and a quick 20-minute ride to the hotel. While I don’t often opt for all-inclusive hotels since I’m more of an explorer, this one turned out to be perfect. It wasn’t overwhelmingly large, making it easy to navigate, yet it still had plenty to offer. The service during check-in was excellent, and even though our rooms weren’t ready yet, the beautifully maintained grounds provided plenty to see and do in the meantime. I was particularly excited about this trip because it gave me a chance to practice my Spanish. Adding to the excitement, we were celebrating a birthday, and the hotel staff went out of their way to acknowledge the occasion and make it special. The food was excellent, adding another highlight to an already memorable stay.

This vacation was a perfect balance of sightseeing and relaxation, catering to everyone’s preferences. The resort featured three pools, and there were always plenty of chairs available for everyone. It was a great setup that made relaxing by the water easy and stress-free. We enjoyed the facilities at our hotel as well as those at the neighboring Secrets Resort. The spa at Secrets was a highlight, and we were also entertained by their evening events during our stay. The daily activities offered something for everyone, and I particularly enjoyed participating in the intro Spanish lesson. It was a fun and rewarding way to improve my knowledge and understanding of the language, which made the trip even more fulfilling. The silent party was an absolute blast! It was amazing to see people of all ages and backgrounds hopping around, vibing out, and fully enjoying the experience.

We dedicated two days to venturing out of the hotel for a few hours to explore the sights in town. On the first day, we visited Marina Vallarta, a charming area filled with shops and restaurants lining the waterfront with views of the boats. Since we arrived in the morning, many places weren’t open yet, but it gave us a peaceful opportunity to stroll and soak in the atmosphere. I’m already looking forward to returning later in the day when the area is more lively. Our guide also took us to some stunning local viewpoints and shared fascinating insights about the local culture, making the experience even more enriching. 

On the second day, we explored the Malecon Boardwalk and strolled around Zona Romantica. Even in the early afternoon, the streets were alive with energy, full of bright colors, tantalizing aromas, and a unique, eclectic vibe. There was so much to see and take in that one could easily spend hours immersed in the experience. The sculptures along the Malecon Boardwalk are stunning! Each piece adds to the vibrant atmosphere, with intricate details and creativity that reflect the local culture and artistic spirit. It’s a great spot to walk, admire the art, and take in the views. Afterward, I separated from the group and headed to the Be You Studio, which was exactly what I needed to balance out all the delectable delights I had been indulging in throughout the week. The owner was incredibly kind and a pleasure to work with, making the visit both refreshing and rewarding.