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Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Puerto Vallarta like?
• What is Casa Romantica like?
• What are the private Pool and Spa like?
• How far is the Villa from the beach and from downtown?
• What is there to do in Puerto Vallarta?
• What is the weather like in Puerto Vallarta?
• What are the restaurants like in Puerto Vallarta?
• What Beaches are close by?
• Isn't a villa more expensive than a hotel?
• What time is check in and check out?
• Is there a limit on the number of guests?
• Are Housekeeping Services Included?
• Is there a minimum age requirement?
• How far in advance should we make our reservation?
• Should I tip the Staff at Casa Romantica?
• Can I arrange for a personal Chef?
• Are Spa Services Available?
• Does Casa Romantica Have a Satellite TV & a DVD Player?
• Does Casa Romantica Have Internet Access and a Computer?
• How do I Exchange Money?
• Is the water safe for drinking?
• What is the address of Casa Romantica?
• What should I expect upon Arrival at the Airport?
• Should I rent a car?
• How do I get to Casa Romantica?
• How do I Get around Puerto Vallarta?
• What should I pack?

 

What is Puerto Vallarta like?

Puerto Vallarta is one of the friendliest and most diverse beach destinations in the world. Once but a tiny fishing village, Puerto Vallarta is now a world class resort that has retained all of the quaint charms of the original village yet embodies all of the characteristics you've come to expect in a modern resort town. Puerto Vallarta has everything: spectacular ocean and jungle views, beaches on a beautiful bay, great dining, a variety of entertainment, art galleries, excellent shopping, world class golf and tennis, activities and excursions galore. It is also the ideal location for a beautiful destination wedding or honeymoon. The perfect place for the vacation of a lifetime! We've traveled all over the world, but keep coming back to Puerto Vallarta.

 

What is Casa Romantica like?

Casa Romantica is located on a beautiful hill in the Sierra Madras looking over the Ocean (Bay of Banderas) in the famous Villas Altas Garza Blanca. Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton used to stay at Casa Romantica when they visited Puerto Vallarta.  Casa Romantica sits at the top of a cobblestone street surrounded by bougainvillea growing on the stone walls. The 3000+ square foot, two story casa is accessible from street level - no dragging your luggage up or down dozens of stairs. Entering the front door of this spectacular two bedroom villa, you are greeted by a breathtaking view across the living room to the sparkling waters of Banderas Bay. The casa feels instantly like the romantic retreat for which it was named. The decor is a rich palate of Mexican colors and has been restored with care and attention to both aesthetics and convenience. The villa is beautifully decorated with one of a kind art-work from around the world. The rich, warm pallet is a perfect accompaniment to the gorgeous traditional Mexican architectural details throughout the Villa. You'll love the fabulous full size, colorful stain glass windows through out the villa.

Downstairs consists of an open entry way, plush living room, roomy dining room, and large gourmet kitchen with microwave, oven, grill, side by side refrigerator, and dish washer. It also contains a downstairs master bedroom with separate modern bathroom that has a walk in shower. There is a huge patio that runs the length of the house. A large portion of the patio is covered. You'll appreciate this once you've been to Puerto Vallarta as it gives you an escape from the sun and allows you to really spend a lot of time outside enjoying the breathtaking views. The huge private infinity pool and spa are to the left of the covered patio and offer an intoxicating escape into the warm waters. Watching the ocean, parrots and pelicans from the pool or patio is a perfect escape.

Follow the in-laid tiled steps upstairs to find a private den and master suite and bath. There are three balconies upstairs that all have awe inspiring views of the ocean and mountains. The den has a huge couch, book library, Internet accessible computer and desk, as well as big screen TV and video/DVD library. An adjoining balcony connects the den and master and offers 180 degree views of the ocean. The upstairs master bathroom is very large with a modern glass tiled walk-in shower. Both master bedrooms have plush, king size beds with designer sheets. Each bedroom has grand views and access to the patio or balcony.

There are AC units in each bedroom, the living room, and the den. They are operated by remote, and there are remotes in each bedroom. There is also a washer and dryer available for your use located outside around the corner from the downstairs master.

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What are the private Pool and Spa like?

Casa Romantica has one of the best pool and spas available in Altas Garza Blanca. The huge, private infinity pool is about 4 feet deep all around and is heated to a comfortable temperature so that you can swim for long periods of time without getting cold. The pool attendant looks in on it about every other day to ensure it is maintained properly. It has steps in the corner closest to the patio and it has a bench that you can sit on that runs the length of the pool The infinity part of the pool looks over the ocean and mountain. Our favorite is to sit by the infinity wall and watch the water as it appears to fall off into the ocean. There are noodles and rafts available in the villa. The pool also has a fountain that is on a timer. There is a pool light that can be turned on or off by a switch in the dining room. The spa can seat six and heats up quickly using a switch on the wall under the Juliet Balcony.

 

How far is the Villa from the beach and from downtown?
The villa is right across the street from the beach (a five minute walk) and 10 minute drive to the Old Town/ Romantic Zone of downtown. Taxis generally will run you about $5-$7 to town. The office manger can arrange one for you or you can call directly from the villa. Numbers are listed in the Villa Binder. Buses are available right outside the villa complex. The bus will take you right in town for $.50.

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What is there to do in Puerto Vallarta?

The Casa Romantica Binder has a binder with a list of over 60 things to do in Puerto Vallarta. There is so much to do in Puerto Vallarta, you'll be hard- pressed to do it all in one trip. Part of the beauty of Puerto Vallarta is that it offers something for everyone …it has beaches, adventure, great dining, entertainment, but also offers everything needed for a laid back holiday.

Here is a sampling of some of the things to do. The Villa Binder has a full list with descriptions.

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What is the weather like in Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is blessed with mild tropical weather. It is the same longitude as Hawaii and experiences similar weather. Winter Season (November to May) is ideal. The weather is perfect in Puerto Vallarta and it's a good escape from the cold. The Summer Season (June to October) is warm and more humid. From mid June to August, it rains for a couple of hours in the evenings but the sun often shines for the rest of the day. The Summer can be a nice time to visit. Puerto Vallarta is less crowded during the summer. The villa has air-conditioning and fans in every room and the pool and ocean water are perfect. We have included an average temperature chart to help you plan your visit.

 

Average Temperature Chart

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What are the restaurants like in Puerto Vallarta?

From upscale restaurants with panoramic views and prize-winning chefs to street concessions, Puerto Vallarta has a dining experience for every taste and budget. Some of our favorite restaurants in the world are in Puerto Vallarta. The Villa binder has a list of our favorite recommendations. A nice overview of the many restaurants in Puerto Vallarta can be found here. Conveniently, most of the best restaurants are found in the Romantic Zone which is very close to Casa Romantica.

 

What Beaches are close by?

There are over 25 miles of beaches available in the Bay of Banderas. All beaches in Mexico are open to the public. There is a cooler, beach chairs, beach towels, and a carrying case in the closet of the Master Suite bathroom. Please return anything you use when you are done, so that other guests may also enjoy them.

The closest beach to Casa Romantica is Garza Blanca Beach. It is a very private, quiet white sand beach directly across the road, to the left. You will see a new restaurant / condominium complex to the left after the bridge. There is a dark tiled path that runs to the right of it. This will take you back to the beach. This is a five minute walk. This is a quiet beach with gentle surf. The water is clean and safe. If you don't want to carry your coolers and beach chairs, you can drive and park in any available along side the Beach Club.

Mismaloya Beach is also close. At the main road, turn left and drive 5 minutes. A bit after you pass Los Arcos, you'll see a hotel on the right with an arched entry. Turn right under the arch and there is parking available. The buses will also take you here. Mismaloya is most famous as the site where the 1963 film The "Night of the Iguana" was filmed. On the other side of Highway 200 from Playa Mismaloya is El Eden, a jungle setting where parts of the movie "Predator" were filmed. The beach at Playa Mismaloya is located in a lovely cove, with a full view of Los Arcos sea rocks - a great place to snorkel and scuba dive. Mismaloya offer boat rentals, sea kayaking, jet ski rentals, parasailing. T he beach is home to several restaurants and trinket peddlers. It is a great beach to sit back, have a cold beer and guacamole, and watch the action. I highly recommended the "Miami Vice" drink – ½ Pina Colada, ½ Strawberry Daiquiri. There is a famous pie lady who sells delicious pies on the beach in the afternoons.

Los Mortes Beach is right in the heart of the Romantic Zone. This beach is always lively and fun for people watching. There are great restaurants overlooking the beach.

For Description of Other Beaches, Click Here.

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Isn't a villa more expensive than a hotel?
Villas are most often an affordable, more luxurious alternative to a hotel. When you factor in all the benefits and amenities that a private villa offers, you'll quickly realize that villas offer a superb value for your vacation dollar.

 

What time is check in and check out?
Check out time is 11:00 am, check in time is 3:00 p.m. We will do our best to accommodate you and an extension may be requested one week prior to arrival if needed. You may also store your luggage at the villa before or after check in and check out at the villa office.

 

Is there a limit on the number of guests?
The villa is optimized for four guests but with an inflatable bed available in the den, can accommodate up to six persons. Casa Romantica does not accept guests under the age of 10. No animals are permitted.

 

Are Housekeeping Services Included?

Casa Romantica will be serviced every day by the housekeeping staff. They will bring fresh bath and beach towels daily, and will change the linens every other day, or as needed. Fresh towels are also located in the closet in the downstairs master bedroom as well as the linen closet in the upstairs master bedroom.

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Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes, there must be at least one individual who will be an occupant of the Villa during the entire term of this rental agreement who is at least 25 years of age. If you are less than 25 years old and interested in renting, please inquire. We may consider renting to you with an additional deposit.

 

How far in advance should we make our reservation?
Reservations should be made as far ahead as possible as we book up fast especially in the prime season. It's IMPORTANT to note that holiday reservations (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter) require as much advance notice as possible. Check our online calendar and always contact us because we could have cancellations.

 

Should I tip the Staff at Casa Romantica?
Tipping of the employees is strictly voluntary although customary in Mexico. The amount would depend, of course, on the service, number of guests, the length of the stay, service, etc. We are often asked how to tip and have established a guideline that may be of help to you. $5-$10 per day seems to be the average. This tip should be provided to the office manager (Elba) so that it can be divided among the entire staff.

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Can I arrange for a personal Chef?

The services of a personal chef are available. Contact Elba, the Office Manager the day before. You can have a chef prepare one meal for $35/day or two meals for $50/day plus the cost of food. If you would like the chef to shop for the food, just let Elba know and the shopping will be taken care of. There is a detailed menu in the Villa binder that will give you ideas of the types of items a Chef can prepare for you. Examples of items that can be prepared would be: Omelets, Huevos Rancheros, Pancakes, Salads, Soups, Grilled Shrimp, Fajitas, Taquitos, Cerviches, Mole Poblano, Paella, etc.

 

Are Spa Services Available?

Casa Romantica has a full array of in house Spa services available. Service available includes facials, massage, manicures and pedicures. Just call the office for more information and to make an appointment

 

Does Casa Romantica Have a Satellite TV & a DVD Player?

Yes, Casa Romantica has satellite TV with many English stations as well as three DVD players and a VCR. There is a DVD library including a copy of almost every movie that has scenes filmed in Puerto Vallarta. There is a page in the villa binder describing the movies and what scenes were filmed in Puerto Vallarta so that you can try to spot them during your visit.

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Does Casa Romantica Have Internet Access and a Computer?

Yes, Casa Romantica has high-speed, wireless (WIFI) access if you bring your own computer. There is also a computer in the den available for use by guests. Instructions are located in the villa binder. This is a nice option if you need to check email or check in with home or work during your vacation.

 

How do I Exchange Money?

In Puerto Vallarta, either US dollars or Mexico pesos can be used. Exchange rates are between 10-13 pesos to the dollar. You can get the most current exchange rates here. If you need pesos, we recommended getting them via a bank ATM. You can exchange money at banks or exchange booths (Casa de Cambio). Banks typically have the best exchange rate.

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Is the water safe for drinking?

Puerto Vallarta is one of very few cities in Mexico where the water is guaranteed pure. Casa Romantica has its own water purification systems. Good restaurants use purified bottled water. The housekeeping staff at Casa Romantica will provide bottled water that will last a couple of days. If you need more water, you can ask the office manager or pick up some quite cheaply at one of the many little shops in Puerto Vallarta.

 

What is the address of Casa Romantica?
Casa Romantica is located at Villa Altas Garza Blanca, Kilometro 7.5, Carretera a Barra de Navidad, Zona Hotelera Sur, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico 48300

 

What should I expect upon Arrival at the Airport?

Proof of citizenship (passport) is necessary to cross the border into Mexico. Birth certificates are no longer accepted as proof of citizenship. Upon arrival, visitors are given a Tourist Card which must be turned in upon departure at the airport. Non-US citizens need to check with a Mexican consulate for possible visa requirements.

You'll have to pass through customs after you pick up you luggage. It's a simple process of hitting a button and you'll get either a green or red light. If you get a green light, you can proceed without stopping. If you get a red light, a customs official will look through your bags. It's a random selection and nothing to stress about. After going through customs, you'll enter into the main arrival hall of the airport. Beware of greeters here trying to sell you timeshares. They'll offer you free transportation, etc but it's all a ploy to get you into timeshare presentations. Just tell them "No Gracias" and proceed to the taxi, bus, or rental car area beyond.

If you need help with your bags, a baggage porter is available in the airport. Porters are typically tipped around a $1 per bag. If you do not need their help, just say "NO Gracias".

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Should I rent a car?
A car is not necessary at Casa Romantica, however a rental car is a convenient way to get to know the surrounding area. Taxis and buses are reasonably priced and plentiful, so renting a car is a personal choice. Should you choose to drive, there is a covered garage area right outside the villa. All gas stations in Mexico are full service and attendants are typically tipped 3-5% of the cost to fill your tank. If you have the attendant provide other services, such as checking the oil, etc, a 5-10% tip is customary.

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How do I get to Casa Romantica?

Flights to Puerto Vallarta

Daily flights are offered by many airlines from all over the US, Mexico, and Canada. A good website to check various airlines is www.kayak.com . Puerto Vallarta has a nice International airport called Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport. The airport code is PVR. The airport address is:

Aeropuerto Internacional de Puerto Vallarta
Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico
Colonia Villa de las Flores
Municipio de Puerto Vallarta
Jalisco, Mexico 48311
Phone: +52 (32) 22 21 15 37

Detailed Driving Directions to Casa Romantica from the Airport

It is a direct drive from the Airport to Casa Romantica. From the Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) the approximate driving time to Casa Romantica is 20 - 25 minutes, and distance is 17 km (10.5 miles).

The main road/highway that goes along the coast line of the Bay of Banderas is Highway HWY 200, known as Francisco Medina Ascencio. You will follow this road south, through town, and along the coast until you arrive at the Villas Altas Garza Blanca, which will be on your left about 7.5 km (4.5 miles) out of town.

When leaving the airport, take the main road South (right) and follow signs to Puerto Vallarta. Follow the signs to the Malecon. This will take you by the main boardwalk in town. You'll then see signs for Mismaloya, follow these signs south out of town onto HWY 200. Around 4.5 miles out of town (Romantic Zone), you will see Villas Altas Garza Blanca on your left.

Take a left into Altas Garza Blanca, up the hill, past the guard gate, until you see a sign "Oficina". On your left. This is where you will pick up the keys from the property manager (Elba). The office staff will direct you to Casa Romantica from here.

Getting to Casa Romantica from the Airport via TAXI

In the airport, go to one of the booths marked TAXI in the arrivals lobby and buy the ticket there for "Garza Blanca Villas" Expect to pay around $25 dollars for the trip. It will take approximately 25 minutes to arrive at the Villa from the airport.

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How do I Get around Puerto Vallarta?

By Taxi -- Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced. From the Romantic Zone to Casa Romantica, rates are roughly $10. Always establish the cost before you get in and close the door!. The property manager can provide you with an idea of acceptable rates to various destinations. Taxis can also be hired by the hour or day. Rates typically run $12 to $15 per hour. Discounts may be available for full-day rates. The office manager can call a taxi for you or you can call from the villa. Phone numbers are located in the Villa binder. Taxi drivers are typically only tipped if the driver assists you with your luggage or offers you some sort of other assistance.

* WARNING* Beware of restaurant recommendations offered by taxi drivers. The driver may receive a commission from restaurants they are recommending.

By Car – There are numerous rental car companies in Puerto Vallarta (Avis, Euro Car, etc) Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced, so renting a car is really a personal preference. Driving in Puerto Vallarta is not too difficult, although it can be crowded and chaotic. There is a nice, reasonably priced, multi-level parking garage off the main street in town just south of the Malecon (boardwalk). Other parking is available all around town. Click Here for specific information/ rules for driving in Puerto Vallarta.

* WARNING* You may see places offering Jeeps or VW convertibles for $10.00 a day in Puerto Vallarta, but be forewarned; these deals are usually contingent on you attending a timeshare presentation to get the cheap rate.

By Bus -- Puerto Vallarta offers an efficient municipal bus system. City buses are easy and inexpensive. The bus will pick you up right outside the Villa complex. The property manager can assist you with detailed bus information. One bus route runs from the airport to the Hotel Zone along Morelos Street (1 block east from the malecón), across the Río Cuale, and eastward on Vallarta, looping back through the downtown hotel and restaurant districts on Insurgentes and several other downtown streets.

Another bus route operates south to either Mismaloya Beach or Boca de Tomatlán from Constitución and Basilio Badillo, a few blocks south of the river. These buses will bring you right back to Garza Blanca. These buses run every 10 to 15 minutes and will have a sign in the front window that will indicate the destination.

Buses run generally from 6am to 11pm,. The fare is about 50¢ ($150 pesos).

By Boat – All boat excursions to Yelapa, Las Animas, Quimixto, and the Marietas Islands run from the cruise ship pier (muelle), also called Terminal Marítima. The terminal is in the north part of town close to the airport. You can take a taxi or bus. Just take any bus marked IXTAPA, LAS JUNTAS, PITILLAL, or AURORA and tell the driver to let you off at the Terminal Marítima. You'll have to pay a $1.50 federal tax fee to gain access to the pier.

Water taxis to Yelapa, Las Animas, and Quimixto leave at 10:30 and 11am from the pier South of downtown at Los Muertos Beach on Rodolfo Rodríguez next to the Hotel Marsol. Water taxis also departs at 11am from the beachside pier at the northern edge of the malecón. A round-trip ticket to the furthest point, Yelapa, costs around $25. Return trips usually depart between 3 and 4pm. Be sure to confirm the pickup time with the captain. Other water taxis depart from Boca de Tomatlán, about 30 minutes south of town by public bus. These water taxis have more flexible departure and return times. They generally leave on the hour for the southern shore destinations. It will cost approximately $12 round-trip. Rates are posted on a sign on the beach. Depending on your destination, a private water taxi costs $35 to $55. They will take up to eight people for the same price and will allow you to choose your own return time.

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What should I pack?

We suggest you pack light so that you have room to bring home souvenirs. As avid travelers, one thing we've learned is to line our suitcase with a light duffle bag (without wheels). If we end up buying a lot of stuff, we can use the duffle for clothes, etc and then use our suit case for more breakable items.

• Swim Suit – bring at least two so one can dry while you use the other
• Swim Suit Cover-up
• Beach Shoes (flip flops or other shoes that can get wet) We love Land's End water shoes – they are like mesh sneakers, you can hike in them and then walk directly into water.
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Sun Glasses
• Casual Clothes
• Light Jacket/ Sweater (nights can be cooler)
• Usual Toiletries – Casa Romantica is equipped with hair dryers, iron, washing machine/ dryer.
• Large Zip lock Bags- this are useful in packing wet clothes, etc to take home
• Camera, video camera, Binoculars ( a basic pair is in the villa, but a good pair in nice if you like to watch the birds)

Another helpful packing hint I've learned from years of travel ... when I pack wrinkable clothes, I put them on narrow metal hangers and put dry cleaner plastic over them. I then roll them into my bag. When I arrive, I just pull them out and hang them right up. It's the easiest unpacking you'll ever do and your clothes will be wrinkle free. I'll usually put 2 to 3 items per dry cleaning bag.

WARNING- Puerto Vallarta can have a high humidity. If you bring electronic equipment such as a camera and bring it from inside the cold, air conditioning to the warm outside the lens may fog up. We suggest that you leave your camera in an unair-conditioned room or outside, under the patio wrapped in plastic bag. This will prevent the lens from fogging up so you’ll be ready to use the camera at any time. The fogging will go away if it happens but it takes a little while for it to dissipate. It typically won’t hurt the camera.

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Links:

http://www.globaltravelonline.com

At a Glance

• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico 
• 2 King Bedrooms
• 2 Bathrooms
• Ocean & Mountain Views
• 5 Minute Walk to Beach
• 10 Minute Drive to Downtown
• Modern Kitchen
• 3000+ sq ft
• Private Infinity Pool
• Private Hot Tub
• Wireless Internet