Not that you’ll be spending that much time in your room. Chaise lounge lizards can luxuriate by the pool, a sanctuary with water-submerged sunning stations, decadent day beds and loungers. The surrounding real estate is ample enough that you can giggle and gossip without dirty looks; and the gracious servers are only too happy to keep your cocktail glass full and your tummy from rumbling. Or jump ship to the Ocean Club—yes, you have your own private beach club at your disposal—an oceanfront oasis a quick van ride away with a private beach, an infinity pool and alfresco dining. The menu of fresh salads, scrumptious sandwiches and sushi, not to mention top-shelf drinks galore, will please any palate. No need to lift a finger; just revel in relaxation and rejoice in uninterrupted catch-up time.
Downtime is aplenty, but it’s not your only option. For fit friends, there’s an on-property gym with all you need to get sweaty, plus free morning yoga at Velas Vallarta or discounted rounds of golf. For your pampered pals, SPA Casa Velas has a full menu of massages, balancing body wraps and fountain-of-youth facials. There’s also a weekly roster of cooking lessons, cocktail mixing and tequila tasting, not to mention karaoke and casino nights at Velas Vallarta.
But we all know the most important activity where girls are concerned is food. No doubt, you’ve shared a meal or 10 together, but eating at Emiliano, Casa Velas’ upscale à la carte restaurant, is unforgettable. Whether ordering oven- fresh sweetbread and freshly squeezed tropical juice for breakfast or organic greens, filet mignon and vanilla crème brûlée for dinner, the chef’s fine palate and eye for detail will shine through. The plates look and taste like true works of art. And in keeping with the this-is-nothing- like-an-all-inclusive-resort theme, you’re not limited to on-property dining.
Velas Vallarta’s gourmet and beachfront restaurants are at your disposal, gratis. Just be sure to book dinner reservations in advance through the always helpful concierge; they fill up fast.
The only complaint is that the food and service may be too good, especially considering that at some point your trip to paradise will have to come to an end. It’s tough not to feel like Cinderella at the strike of midnight as you bid farewell, but you’ve always got the memories—and next year’s trip with the gals to look forward to.
To Learn More:
Casa Velas 866.529.8813, www.hotelcasavelas.com.
