escapes: Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort, Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico
For a tranquil break from Puerto Vallarta’s popular tourist scene, head to Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort. Just 15 minutes north in Nuevo Vallarta, the airy layout of this all-inclusive tropical, oceanfront hideaway makes it the perfect place to beat the heat and the crowds.
Intersperse your R & R with complimentary activities such as kayaking, boogieboarding or capoeira (an African-Brazilian martial art), or get cultured with lessons in Spanish or clay art. Then sample onward to Grand Velas’ restaurants: Choose from international fare such as homestyle chalupas and hand-rolled sushi at the beachside bistro Azul, or head indoors for formal dining at Lucca (Italian) or Frida (Mexican). Both establishments offer small-portioned servings, so you can safely order a five-course meal (dessert included!) guilt-free.
When you’re ready for pampering, follow the aroma of oranges and limes to the Spa Grand Velas. Prep for your appointment with 40-60 complimentary minutes of hydrotherapy, which includes a eucalyptus-infused steam and sauna, warm and cold plunge baths, Jacuzzi soak, and multijet Swiss shower. Afterward, treat yourself to 80 minutes of Samunprai, a massage with warm, herbal packs of ginger, lavender, laurel and tamarind leaves ($120). You’ll be ready for a good night’s sleep.
From $334 per night, per person; includes all meals, beverages, fitness classes, activities program, nonmotorized watersports, taxes and gratuities; spa admission included, treatments extra (www.grandvelas.com).–G.G.
COPYRIGHT 2005 Weider Publications
COPYRIGHT 2005 Gale Group
