The start of winter in Puerto Vallarta marks the beginning of whale-watching season, traditional pilgrimages in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe, free daily guided Artwalks in the downtown district, the International Pro Am golf tournament, the release of baby sea turtles and more.
To celebrate, the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board has launched the 12 Days of Winter (#12DaysofWinter) promotion, where travelers have the chance to win daily prizes during the first 12 days of December. To participate, travelers must register atvisitpuertovallarta.com/12daysofwinter and tell the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board what they would do on a 12-day, all-expenses-paid holiday for two in P.V. Contestants will have a chance to win one of 12 prizes, with drawings taking place from Dec. 1 through 12. The grand prize, a 12-night vacation for two in Puerto Vallarta, will be awarded on Dec. 12. Winners of that and several other shorter getaways, to be award starting on Dec. 5, will also receive a choice of two free activities in Puerto Vallarta, courtesy of Vallarta Adventures and Dolphin Discovery.
While in Puerto Vallarta, check out Casa Velas an adults-only boutique hotel and ocean club, which recently debuted a million-dollar renovation of its suites. A total of 38 suites underwent complete bathroom upgrades, receiving new Italian marble countertops, glass shower doors and double sinks. The suites also received new furnishings in the living and bedroom areas, such as HDTVs, terra-cotta floors, expansive walk-in closets, wet bars and new dressers. A majority of the 830-square-foot Grand Class suites also had Jacuzzis installed on the private terraces, while three one-bedroom Ambassador Suites and one two-bedroom Ambassador Suite received new mahogany bars in the kitchen. Room rates start at $190 per person, per night.
New on the local scene is the Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta , which opened in September. The all-inclusive, adults-only resort has 443 suites, all with views of the ocean from private balconies. The property has 10 meetings rooms, with a total of 12,787 square feet of space. Other facilities include a spa, fitness center, seven restaurants, five bars and four themed lounges