Hacienda Buenaventura Hotel (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico)

Guests enjoyed a truly Mexican atmosphere at this hotel. Decorated like a Mexican hacienda, you will find rooms to not only be quiet and clean, but full of charm and character, with traditional bedspreads, curtains, furniture and art work.

While some guests found it hard to communicate with the mainly Spanish speaking staff, most found warm smiles and a helpful attitude across the board, from bartenders to management. Guests found Mexican hospitality was at its best when they tried to use a bit of Spanish at restaurants and bars.

A few guests pointed out that it seemed rooms advertised as having a view of the ocean, did indeed take in the blue waters of the Bay of Banderas. No partial, palm tree-obstructed views here.

Some guests were unhappy with the food at Hacienda Buenaventura Spa & Beach Club. While many could find what they needed to satisfy their appetite, others were unimpressed with a selection of cuisine that wasn't regularly rotated, and that catered more to the Mexican clientele than to international palates. Vegetarians and meat lovers expressed concern with the lack of options available to them.

If you are looking for a never-ending schedule of poolside aerobics, tequila tasting, and salsa dancing lessons, this might not be the resort for you. This smaller hotel provides nightly weekend entertainment, leaving guests to amuse themselves during the day and on week nights.

Many guests were satisfied with their experience at this hotel. Those that weren't, often cited several minor complaints that, when accumulated, turned into a larger grievance. Among the list of reasons why some guests wouldn't be return customers, were very spotty Wi-Fi, no elevator, and air-conditioning that was sometimes no match for the Mexican weather.