Mayan Palace Puerto Vallarta

The smaller property is closer to town, which we like, and I love the spa. Many of the staff are fantastic, though one or two aren't. We've spent a lot of money over the years, and it just doesn't add up. This year they added new rules for using credits, and credits can't be used for promotions like happy hours anymore. Just another frustrating rule. We can't wait for this timeshare to expire, and I'm not sure we'll even use our last two years. I don't want to do math on vacation.

The grounds are stunning, with lush greenery, colourful plants, and landscaping that's clearly cared for. We also had several excellent meals. The restaurants offer plenty of choices, the food was sophisticated and well prepared, and service was consistently efficient and professional. The arrival, though, was awful. After a long travel day, we were dropped at a huge, unattractive parking structure instead of a welcoming entrance. It took about 20 minutes to work out how to get our bags to reception, then we were directed to walk around 10 minutes to a large, windowless conference-style building. They asked for our passports to “pre-process” check-in so we could skip the line. That wasn't true. It funneled us into an aggressive timeshare-style sales operation. Several salespeople approached one after another, from a junior representative up to a senior salesperson, pushing a “no-obligation breakfast” presentation to sell a membership. It felt orchestrated and relentless. When I insisted we just wanted to go to our room, the senior salesperson accused me of being rude. We'd arrived exhausted with our family, and instead of a welcome we felt cornered and pressured. It left us shaken and cast a shadow over the stay. Even after we got away, the delays continued. We waited another 20 minutes for a shuttle, then it took close to an hour to reach our room. The room also wasn't what we expected: our balcony faced a service and delivery area with vehicles, bins, and constant noise, not an ocean view. It was hard not to wonder if that was because we declined the membership pitch. The resort is enormous, and getting around takes time. We were far from the ocean, and the very wide beach made the water feel disconnected. Even simple activities became logistical efforts. Vidanta Puerto Vallarta has lovely grounds and good dining, but the arrival, sales pressure, and scale seriously undermined our visit. Anyone going should avoid the parking structure entrance if possible and try to bypass the sales pavilion.

Gaytan and Jose from the Joy Squad at Vidanta made our days by the pool so much more fun. From the moment we arrived, they brought warmth, kindness, and great energy. They're engaging and easy to talk to, and made everyone feel included, whether outgoing or more reserved. They were attentive and helpful, and their enthusiasm clearly comes from loving what they do. They don't just run activities, they create experiences that leave you with laughter and good memories. Our stay became memorable because of them, and we're already looking forward to seeing them again. Thank you, Gaytan and Jose!

I like this location for trips with just my wife and me because it's in town, unlike the huge Vidanta in Nuevo Vallarta. The staff are excellent, the restaurant does a great job, and housekeeping is prompt. It's especially quiet in the off-season, which we like, and the marina is only a couple of minutes away. For a big family gathering, we go to Vidanta instead.