LCBride2007

Since my wedding is offsite (not at the resort I will be staying at), I am just looking to have my WD where ever I stay. So total privacy isn't that important to me. Though I think I was able to get Dreams PV (thanks to Tammy!)!

Welcome! I'd say the first big decision is WHERE to get married, then you can worry about the resort, and all of the rest of the details. How many people do you expect? Are you looking for a beach wedding? There's Hawaii, Mexico, Jamaica, and everywhere in between! Let us know more about what you're looking for, and we will do out best to help. Most of the girls on this forum are getting married in Mexico, but there are some in Jamaica and Hawaii as well!

I love it - sweet and simple. And I just may steal it, since 1) we're paying for the wedding ourselves as well, and 2) we're simple folk!

The Presidente InterContinental Puerto Vallarta Resort lies in the most exclusive white sandy beach of Banderas Bay with a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy this boutique hotel with a very special concept of relaxation in style with warm and personalized service. Our resort includes 120 suites that overlook the tranquil Banderas Bay, where guest savor the comfort and beauty of the resort and its surroundi

This is a very long, but thorough, review on . I got it from a bride-to-be from the Puerto Vallarta Brides Yahoo group. It's very helpful! *************************************** I'd be happy to tell you about my experience at Barcelo de Mismaloya. I just visited PV over Thanksgiving and stayed there with my fiance, my sister, and my fiance's family. There were 9 of us total. The pros -- the resort is large, but is located far from the main areas of downtown or the marina, and there isn't any other hotels within walking distance so the beach is pretty much all hotel guests. There are 2 large pools, one which is adults only (its not a topless pool or anything, its just so adults can enjoy one pool without kids. And its a bit deeper than the other pool, and has a swim up bar). The rooms were definitely adequate, clean, comfortable, with AC and a nice balcony. We actually lucked out -- our group had several different rooms booked, we got a amazing deal through their website on the rooms and all inclusive. My fiance and I were to share a room with my sister -- a 1 bedroom suite, with a pull out sofa in the living room. But 2 days before we left, we inquired if there were any of the 2 bedroom, 2 bath suites. There was, and they gave us the most amazing suite. It was on the 7th floor (the higher floors are better, I think there are 9 total floors), and it was right next to the very last room on the corner overlooking the ocean. So that room was their Presidential Suite and we were right next door, so we had great views, a nice big room with lots of light and big balcony, etc. And no one was staying in the Presidential Suite when we were there, so we even snuck over the balcony ledge one night to view the sunset. But the other people in our group got rooms on the lower floors -- 2 and 3. I didn't see the rooms, but they were on the other side of the hotel and didn't have views like ours since they were on lower floors and not towards the ocean as much but more towards the entrance of the hotel. I didn't hear any complaints though. The beds are a little stiff, which wasn't a big deal but my back was a bit sore during the stay. I think you can ask for a bed pad at the front desk for extra softness though. So the hotel is located about 30-45 minutes from the airport. It's not that far distance-wise, but getting through downtown PV and dealing with the 2 lane highway takes a while. If you don't mind, and want to spend your whole time at the resort, then its fine. But we needed to go visit other resorts and villas for wedding planning, so we took a lot of cabs. It's about a $10 cab ride into town, so that isn't bad. We spent $20 for 3 of us to get from the airport to the hotel, but someone else in our group spent $25 or $30 for 2 people. So just make sure the rate you're quoted from the person selling you the taxi ticket at the airport is the same that the driver understands. We found all of our cab drivers to be fair, and safe drivers, so that shouldn't be a problem. As far as the hotel itself....its hard to describe it because I don't know what you have in mind for your wedding, but for us, it was the perfect place for our scouting trip but we would not have our wedding there. There isn't any sort of private area to have a wedding -- if you wanted to do it on the beach, the beach can get very small (when high tide comes in there isn't much beach left at all), and the beach is out in the open for all hotel guests to use. They do have one platform/balcony type area that overlooks to beach, but its right smack in the middle of the hotel by the 2 pools, so you'd have an audience. The hotel had live music out there on the balcony during different nights. The hotel itself is a bit dated. The grounds are pretty, there's lots of flowers and trees and plants and it feels jungle-y but everything is well maintained. But it doesn't have a modern feel, it has more of a older, nice hotel but past its heyday feeling. As far as food.....I don't recall our exact rates but we got a great deal for all inclusive plus hotel rooms, but the food was not fantastic. There is 1 restaurant that's open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, no reservations needed, and its buffet style. There's lots of options, Mexican specialties (quesidillas, tacos, the typical Mexican food that Americans are used to, but also Mexican specialities like different chicken dishes, soups, fish in Mexican style, etc.). I am not a picky eater, so I was fine with what was offered. We had a couple picky eaters with us though, and they didn't like the food much. Then there's another restaurant by the pool, which is kind of a snack-bar lunch spot during lunch, and then during dinner they make it nicer and its a nicer outdoor dinner spot with seafood and steak dishes. It was decent during lunch, they have tacos, hamburgers, burritos, wraps, salads, pizza. The night we went there for dinner was pretty good, but nothing outstanding. But again, its all included. My fiance's brother ordered 2 appetizers when we went there and 2 entrees -- its included so might as well eat what you want. The pizza at the lunch cafe is pretty gross though -- its like they give you the pizza when it still needs about 10 minutes left to cook. The cheese has barely melted (or hasn't totally melted) and they pull it out of the oven and serve it. But then again, its Mexico, and if you want pizza you get what they give you. There is another restaurant that requires reservations, that is Spanish, with tapas and traditional Spanish options like paella. It was interesting, not amazing, but not horrible. That's how we felt about all of the food. Decent variety, nothing to write home about. And a good deal considering the price. But nothing ever wowed us, and I wouldn't reccomend that anyone stay there who is really seeking excellent food. If that's the case, pay the extra to stay at Dreams or one of the other all inclusives. We ate out a couple times though, to check out different spots for rehearsal dinners. So if you'll be doing some of that and don't care too much about breakfast and lunch being amazing, its a very good option in that respect. The Barcelo is also about a 8 minute cab ride to Le Cliff. We went there one night for dinner and it was amazing. I've heard that the view is awesome but the food isn't, but we found both the food and view to be amazing. Worth every penny. We went to the Vista Grill the night before, which is very pricey as well, and while it was good and the view was incredible, I thought the food at Le Cliff was better when we went there. We had lobster at Le Cliff (although PV isn't known for lobster) and it was amazing, whereas someone had it the night before at Le Cliff and I thought it was chewy and tough. The Barcelo is also very close to the canopy ride you can do through the jungle, a tequila factory where you can do a tour and tequila tasting, and also the movie set of Night of the Iguana, where I think you can do tours. We didn't do any of those, but they were all across the street from the hotel it looked like. We never made it to Nuevo Vallarta, because we were staying on the other side of town at the Barcelo, and once we saw the Conchas Chinas area (the hills above PV, by Dreams) we fell in love with the feel of the part south of town. It's very old-town Puerto Vallarta, where everything began. From what I'd seen online and heard about Nuevo Vallarta, there are nice resorts and hotels but not very much of a authentic Mexico feel, so when we found Dreams (where our guests will stay) and the villa we're getting married at in Conchas Chinas, I didn't think it was worth looking into Nuevo Vallarta. Anyway....I'd also reccomend looking a the Intercontinental. We didn't go inside, but saw it from the outside many times driving past, and it looked very nice. It was a little past Dreams, and looked like it had amazing views from the rooms facing the ocean. I think it may have a all-inclusive plan available, but then also rooms only rates, so that may work well for your guests. ***************************************

I've heard some good things about this resort. They really seem to cater to the adventurous couple! From website: Costa Azul offers a romantic wedding location for those looking for a unique and tropical destination escape. We feature white sandy beaches, beach front dinnig, ocean-front scenery, and lush outdoor lawns for your special event. We will work closely with you to create a custom wedding itinerary for groups up to 100, or can help plan a small romantic wedding on the sand for more personal events. If you're dreaming of a tropical wedding, you've come to the right place. Costa Azul Adventure Resort Tours and Excursions We have developed trips for all levels of ability. The trips we offer will take you to the most interesting areas of the region. Even for those who come to relax, we do encourage everyone to get out and see a bit of the countryside. This is where you will encounter some of your most memorable vacation experiences. All tours and activities listed under the Adventure Tour Section are included in the Adventure and Surfer Package. Resort guests who are not on one of these packages are welcome to participate by paying a la carte at the resort when space is available. Tours are subjet to change at any time. Not all tours are offered year round due to the seasonal nature of the particular tour. Tour destinations are updated on a regular basis. Scheduled tours may be canceled or rescheduled based on weather and other operating restrictions. Home

Does anyone know anything about this hotel, or has anyone ever stayed here?

Velas Vallarta Suite Resort & Convention Center is a hotel located in Puerto Vallarta on a lush, 10 acre, ocean front site, within walking distance of the most modern marina in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico with more than 300 yacht-sized slips. Most suites offer a breathtaking ocean view of the magnificent Bay of Banderas. Three beautifully landscaped swimming pools, including one with a waterfall, provide a refreshing setting for sunbathing and relaxing. Velas Vallarta Suites Resort & Convention Center offers 339 Grand Tourism Suites with studios, one, two and three bedrooms as options for your accommodation in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Master Suite with pool, private Jacuzzi, or adjoining suites. Studios have kitchenettes, while others rooms have fully equipped kitchens.

LUCK! I've heard a lot of great things about the Westin - and can't wait to hear more about it ...

My photographer (Leigh Miller) is from the US as well, her package prices are a little higher, but she also includes 2 hours the day before, and 2 hours the day after the wedding with her destination weddings. So hopefully I will get some great shots! Leigh Miller Photography

Welcome to the forum! Go ahead and ask any questions you have - and we'll do our best to help!

I can sympathize, Kash. Those same dreams of mine were quickly squashed as well. But, don't give up - you may still find the dress of your dreams for a great price! Or, if you do end up getting Scarlett - then you KNOW you will love your dress! You could consider it an awesome treat to yourself for the hard work you're doing with WW.

I was just searching on Craig's List and eBay - I should definitely be able to find something.

I agree - I may look at getting a simple, inexpensive dress to do some shots like this. Why not?!

Las Caletas Brides - do you know if there is a back up plan in case it rains on the day of the ceremony? I've sent an email to Nicole, but thought I'd check with you too.

Surprisingly, this hotel seems to be rated the same, or higher, than Dreams in a lot of places. Dreams seems more upscale in pictures - but I have never been to either one. Amy - I am looking at the Barcelo for me and my guests to stay at, and for my WD the night before. Let me know what else you hear about it - I am reading very mixed reviews on Trip Advisor (surprise surprise!).

I just came across this review by francoise30 on Trip Advisor, posted 9/26/06: Quote: I really don't know how to start my review, other than by saying, "indelible"! We had a "destination wedding", and chose Barcelo since it was an all-inclusive and reasonably priced. I didn't have much of an expectation, especially since I read mixed reviews prior to our departure. We relied on Larry, the wedding coordinator to arrange everything before we arrived, so I was prepared to have a very average wedding. Ok, so let me share with you our INCREDIBLE experience from the moment we arrived - first, Humberto and Cain greeted us with Champagne and big, friendly smiles before they took our luggage, and were so helpful throughout our stay. Martin, who works in reception, went above and beyond by upgrading rooms, passing our gift bags, and helping our 45 guests in any way that he could. The hotel is absolutely gorgeous and impeccably maintained. Beautiful, vivid flowers surround the perimeter, and the landscape that envelops the hotel is so lush and stunning. Even Guille who is the poolside waitress always had a beautiful smile and was eager to serve you everyday! The food in the buffet was always delicious (granted, I wasn't a fan of everything, but that's just b/c I'm not used to certain foods) and fresh, and the service exceptional. Although it was an all-inclusive, if you leave a couple of dollars or 10pesos each meal, it goes a long way and they really appreciate it. Now on to the wedding - I'm not kidding when I say it was what dreams are made of. No small detail went unnoticed thanks to Larry. He planned our wedding like it was his own, and I'm not kidding. The locations we chose throughout the hotel for the ceremony and reception couldn't have been more ideal, and I know our guests thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The told me that before the wedding they personally saw Larry putting red flowers in the backs of all of the white, linen chairs before the ceremony. If you have your wedding there, you must let him plan it for you. The trio of musicians he selected were truly phenomenal, and I'm a musician, so I know! I honestly don't think I have one negative thing to say other than perhaps they need to work on their "spa" facilities a little. The lobby could use a renovation too, but other than those two things, our experience was just amazing, and we're high maintenance. Barcelo is well worth your journey!

Welcome, Amanda! There are some great brides on this site that will for sure be able to help you out! How many people do you think will be at your wedding?

I just had dinner with some friends last night who have stayed at the Westin PV - they said it was beautiful. I do think your choice will really come down to where you want to be located and if you want an AI or not.

Kash - before spending that kind of $$, definitely try it on a few times. Make sure your reaction is the same every time. If you still love it the 3rd & 4th time trying it on - maybe it is worth the $$. And when searching for you, I've seen more "dress wanted" postings for that ML dress - so I am sure you could get a decent amount at an auction site (eBay). Quote: Originally Posted by gkashmira Thanks for the info tammy! I was so sad - i went ot the ML sample sale on Thursday and we litereally the 6th person i the door! If the dress was there I would have bough tit but it turns out that since the dress is so popular it wasn't included. Honestly I may just suck it up and buyt he real one. Then I can sell it after to try and get some money back. Chicago's resale shop "White" had told me (when I was askign if they had one) that if I did buy it new when I was done I could consign it through them. I would probably try and sell it on my own first but just in case. Thje fact that your (tammy) friend actually had it made by a dressmaker and she spent so much and still didn't like it makes me think I might as well just buyt he real one and sell it. I should be able to get at least $1000 for it I think and that would br basically the same price as havign it made for 3K... Anyway I'm undecided and all of a sudden nervous that maybe I didn't look so gorgeous... maybe it didnt' even look that good and I'm just being crazy...

Welcome, Taryn (I love your name, by the way)! As a Cabo bride, you will find plenty of help here on this site. It sounds like you've done a lot of the work already - you're a step ahead! I am getting married in Puerto Vallarta, but there are so many Cabo brides on here you will have no problem getting your questions answered. As for Save the Dates - they really can't be too early in my opinion. Especially if you have people coming from all over the world. Mine will probably go out about 6 mos. in advance - which is probably average, if I had to guess.

wow - he's amazing! i am sure your pictures will be fabulous - no regrets!

This hotel offers some pretty good rates on select dates - check these out ... Exclusive offers hotel Barceló La Jolla de Mismaloya

Sure is - and I learned the hard way! FI and I are now researching more AI options in PV.

Is she relatively new to the business? Oh well, I guess it doesn't matter if I love her pictures! Who did you end up going with?