If you told me last year that I would be going to Mexico, I would laugh and say “no way!” but that dream became a reality in July and I brought our editor & site photographer, Megan along for the fun, adventurous ride. With her camera in hand, she captured some amazing photographs of our adventures that I am so excited to share with you today.
Where We Stayed: Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta
For four days, we got to escape to a luxury Vallarta beach resort that rocks! We are talking about the Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta in Riviera Nayarit. When you think of the perfect place to stay when you are visiting Mexico, Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta would be it. Everything is all-inclusive and the views are limitless.
By visiting this amazing property, you will enjoy the life of a rock n’ roll star, with all the very best at your fingertips. You can easily escape to the legendary beaches and azure waters of Bahia de Banderas in the heart of Riviera Nayarit, Mexico.
Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta is a luxury, all-inclusive resort 20 minutes from the excitement of Nuevo Vallarta that indulges your senses.
You are free to relax, play, eat, love and explore.
With a gorgeous beachfront setting, mesmerizing views, and a fusion of traditional and modern design, the Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta is the perfect place to stay, with or without children!!!
The first night we were there, a couple who we met while dining on property at Zen, stopped us and told us that this was the first place they felt safe with their children. They had no issues letting their 10 & 13 year old roam the comforts of the resort grounds, lounge at the computer area or stroll the property. It was very nice to hear that.
Did I mention we had a double jacuzzi tub in our room? The first night we were there, we definitely had coffee, sat in the jacuzzi with our bathing suits on, filled to the brim with bubbles, and watched reality TV! Mom life, right there. That’s what we considered to be the perfect vacation!
While we were there, we had to explore. Edging the jaw-dropping sand beaches of Vallarta, a charming Colonial fishing village and the Sierra Madre Mountains, the Nuevo Vallarta resort is the place to play and enjoy incredible golf courses, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, horseback riding and shopping. The resort itself offers activities – from kayaking to beach volleyball – and the Kid’s Club for the ultimate family vacation or honeymoon in paradise. Not only did we enjoy everything the Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta had to offer in terms of swimming, relaxing, dining… we wanted to see the surrounding areas and everything it had to offer. So we went sight-seeing. More on that in a minute.
Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta is definitely not short of dining options. They offer six distinctive restaurants with an amazing variety of international cuisines, including Italian, Asian, Mexican, Brazilian and more. We had a chance to experience most of the restaurants! I would have stayed longer to try them all if they would have allowed. :)
The Market
Rock out to fresh and exotic International cuisine at this bountiful buffet that takes you on a culinary odyssey around the world – from Mexico to Asia.
Frida
Discover the fiery flavors, spices and passions of Mexico at Frida, serving Mexican cuisine in a festive atmosphere. The a la carte menu offers regional specialties, paired with tasty margaritas and tequilas.
Zen
Enjoy mouthwatering Asian cuisine, including Izakaya, teppanyaki and sushi from the extensive a la carte menu. With its modern Japanese decor and peaceful vibe, Zen dishes up fresh, creative eats off the vibrant lobby.
Ciao
Savor exquisite Italian cuisine in the warm, romantic ambiance of Ciao. Indulge in the vivacious foods of Italy and the Mediterranean with subtle textures and bold flavors that infuse passion and zest into your dining experience.
Ipanema
Enjoy the sexy, modern outdoor ambiance of this Brazilian grill. Sit and savor sumptuous Brazilian cuisine and authentic Rodizio service so you can sample and share. At Ipanema, you’ll enjoy the passionate cooking and culture of South America.
Pizzeto
Dig into brick-oven style pizza that’s piping hot and crispy at Pizzeto.
While at Zen, the chef gave us the recipe for a delicious dipping sauce that went SO WELL with my steak.
Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta’s accommodations feature beautifully decorated suites and modern amenities, including WiFi, double Jacuzzis (YES!), 32″ flat-screen, Sony alarm clocks with mp3 connections and all-day room service.
Oh, the spa… the Rock Spa. While staying at this property, you can rejuvenate your body and soul with holistic spa rituals at Rock Spa . Relax by two sparkling tropical pools, soak in the bubbling hot tubs and get energized in the Body Rock fitness center. When night falls over Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta, the entertainment heats up with live music, concerts, entertainment and parties that put you in the mood for anything!
Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta features six stylish meeting and event spaces – from beaches to ballrooms – for conventions, meetings, events, banquets and receptions in the Mexican Riviera. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, radiant sunsets provide a stunning backdrop for a romantic wedding ceremony. Celebrate the wedding of your dreams with complimentary wedding packages and their exclusive Colin Cowie Wedding Collections.
What We Saw Day 2: Puerto Vallarta
The second day we were in Mexico, we decided to take a taxi to Puerto Vallarta on our own. Brave but fun! We got to do a little shopping and enjoy the sites.
We were even serenaded at lunch:
That evening, we sat on the lounge chairs and enjoyed the views of the water. It was absolutely breathtaking.
That next morning, we got a tour of the property from Hector! A lot of people get married right at this spot:
So beautiful! and yes, those are coconuts!
Do you see Santana & the Mexican Flag in this photo collage?
What We Saw Day 3: Nuevo Vallarta, Sayulita, Bucerias, San Pancho (San Francisco), Sierra Madre Mountains, Bahia de Banderas…
That afternoon, Guillermo, our tour guide, took us all over Riviera Nayarit. THERE ARE NO WORDS to describe all the beauty we saw. We went to Bucerias, San Pancho (San Francisco), Sayulita & Nuevo Vallarta. From the mountains to the ocean, it was nothing short of amazing. We even got to stop on the side of the road and buy some candy and try a fruit that has 7 different flavors.
Just north of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and spanning over 190 miles along the Pacific coast of Nayarit, Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit is not only the perfect holiday destination, but also the ideal place to establish your temporary or permanent residence and we got to explore it…. with our cameras to our eyes.
Now, here is where I’m going to let the photos do the talking. Sit back, relax and enjoy.
Back at the Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta, we enjoyed our last night by witnessing this sunset. Believe me when I say, I’d happily recommend this place to everyone I know.
This is a trip I will always remember. Thank you Mexico and Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta for giving us this once in a lifetime chance.
Helpful links:
Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta
Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta’s Facebook Page
Image Credits: Sidison Photography
Revoluci n del Sue o
Don Juan’s Restaurant in Sayulita
Riviera Nayarit
Sayulita
San Pancho
Bucerias
Punta de Mita
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle
Nuevo Vallarta
Disclaimer: All images belong to us. Please do not use without our permission. Also, a big huge thank you to the Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta for hosting us!!!!!
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