Top Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

El sol sale cada mañana, pero la del 7 de septiembre de 2011 tendrá un brillo especial. Las invitadas al delicioso desayuno gourmet frente al mar, aparte de reunirse para ayudar, algo que siempre está de moda, disfrutarán de la rifa de atractivos premios y del Desfile de Modas con los más exclusivos accesorios y ropa de playa del resort.

Con este tipo de eventos, Velas Resorts se suma a las instituciones que ayudan a quienes más lo necesitan y a aquellas personas que se preocupan por su comunidad. Lo recaudado se donará al Centro de Atención a Niños con Cáncer (Canica) y a Manos de Amor por Bahía, para que causas como éstas sigan resplandeciendo.

El costo será de 250 pesos por persona. Para más información y compra de boletos dirigirse a la Asociación Femenil Vallartense, A.C., asociacionfemenil@yahoo.com.mx, o en los teléfonos 322 224 9906 y 293 2276.

También en Manos de Amor por Bahía, candyvero_casahogar@hotmail.com, o llame al 329 298 3680 y al celular 322 121 7400. De igual manera, al Departamento de Relaciones Públicas del Hotel, al correo relacionespublicas@grandvelas.com, o al teléfono 322 226 8000, extensión 5003.

The sun comes out every morning, but on September 7th, 2011 it will have a special shine. Guests of this delicious gourmet ocean-front breakfast, aside from coming together to help, which is always in style, will enjoy a raffle of fantastic prizes and a Fashion Show of the most exclusive beach clothing and accessories of the resort.

By participating in these types of events, Velas Resorts joins forces with institutions that help those most in need and people who genuinely care about their communities. The proceeds will be donated to Canica, the Children’s Cancer Center, and Manos de Amor por Bahia, which helps needy children in Banderas Bay.

The cost of the event is 250 pesos per person. For ticket sales and more information please contact the Asociación Femenil Vallartense, A.C. by calling 322 224 9906 or 322 293 2276 or send an email to asociacionfemenil@yahoo.com.mx

You can also contact Manos de Amor por Bahia by calling 329 298 3680 or 322 121 7400 or send an email to candyvero_casahogar@hotmail.com or contact the Public Relations Department at Grand Velas by calling 322 226 8000, extension 5003 or send an email to relacionespublicas@grandvelas.com.

The Bay of Banderas, home to Puerto Vallarta and the Marieta Islands, is an exceptional setting for observing humpback whales during the winter and part of the spring. Year after year the whales arrive on the Mexican Coast to rest after their long trip from Alaska to the equator, mate and give birth to their young.

By Julieta Del Toro

Every year from December to March, the waters of the Mexican Pacific are graced with the presence of one of the most enchanting marine mammals, the humpback whale.

Since the 16th and 17th centuries the area from San Blas to what is now Nuevo Vallarta was known as The Bay of the Humpback, due to its grand sighting of these beautiful creatures.

The whale season for this year officially starts on the 8th of December, according to the Secretary of the Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT). The Secretary’s office grants 200 special permits per year to recreational boats in the area, whose crews have been specially trained in responsible whale watching and to provide the best possible experience to those who go on whale-watching tours.

Groups of male whales can be found near Rincón de Guayabitos, showing themselves off and attempting to conquer a female by performing impressive leaps into the air to impress them. In the Bay of Banderas, mother whales teach their young to dive slowly and gracefully.

It is important to mention that in addition to the humpback whales, the area is visited by other species such as gray whales and orcas; with a little luck, one can see these marvelous animals as well.

Come to Velas Vallarta and take advantage of the perfect Whale Watching Package to enjoy this incredible natural show. Don’t miss the opportunity to see these wonderful creatures!

watch this amazing video:

By Julieta Del Toro

The need to foster and showcase Puerto Vallarta art and culture has been the principal driving force behind the creation of the Marina Vallarta Festival, scheduled to begin this Friday, the 3rd of December.

Laura Maíz, the project coordinator, is part of the residents association of the Marina. She and her neighbors who call this characteristic area of the city home saw the necessity to create an event that would bring new life to the Marina by spreading art and culture. In the words of the coordinator, the festival hopes to highlight the tourist attractions in the Marina while celebrating art in its many different forms.

In its first phase (since after Spring Break) the events will take place every Friday starting the 3rd of December from 5:00-10:00pm. If the turnout is satisfactory and public support is high, it will become a weekly event.
The festival is supported by the Subdirección de Arte y Cultura de Puerto Vallarta, the Regional Director of the Secretary of Tourism of the state of Jalisco, and the hotels, restaurants and residents of the Marina.
This Friday will feature a ballet show and music, as well as painting, photography, and sculpture exhibits. It will be a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the arts in this marvelous location.

  Complimentary Night, Innovative Activities and  Specialty Cuisine Included With Last Minute Holiday Travel Promotios

Folkloric Dances, Bicentennial Fiestas, Christmas Circus & More for the Holidays in Puerto Vallarta

   Puerto Vallarta (November 10, 2010) – This Holiday season enjoy quality family time during an activity-packed Christmas and New Years, with one night free, folkloric dances, fiestas celebrating Mexico’s Bicentennial, a Christmas circus and more, from the oceanfront all-inclusive family-friendly Velas Vallarta and Casa Velas, an adults-only boutique hotel and ocean club on the Marina Vallarta Golf Course.

The Christmas and New Year’s Special includes a range of daily exciting activities for children and adults alike. The Velas Vallarta Kids Club, open from 10 am – 5 pm daily, offers treasure hunts, water balloon fights, juggling, and Christmas fun, as well big surprises. The whole family can participate in regional folkloric dances, casino night, dance lessons, and a Christmas adventure circus. Velas Vallarta restaurants’ Andrea and La Ribera and Casa Velas’ Emiliano offer unique menus each night including Oriental, French, Italian, Steak House, and authentic Mexican cuisine. Nearby is downtown Puerto Vallarta with its art galleries, cafes and shopping, ideal for family strolls.

Casa Velas’ and Velas Vallarta’s all-inclusive rates include luxury suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, nightly entertainment and more. The Christmas and New Year’s Special is available from December 18 to January 2, starting at $295 per person, per night in double occupancy, with a minimum stay of five nights. For reservations, please call 1-866-847-4609 or visit http://www.velasvallarta.com/ &  http://www.hotelcasavelas.com/ 

About Velas Vallarta:Velas Vallarta, an all-suite resort and convention center located on 10 acres of oceanfront in Puerto Vallarta, is walking distance from Marina Vallarta Golf Course and just minutes from Downtown Puerto Vallarta’s captivating attractions, activities and landmarks. Situated on the emerald waters of Banderas Bay, Velas Vallarta features 345 suites, a high-tech Convention Center that can accommodate up to 700 people, three swimming pools, a rejuvenating spa, fitness center, multiple restaurants, and an inviting lounge with live music and entertainment nightly.

About Casa Velas:

Casa Velas, a boutique hotel and ocean club nestled on the greens of Marina Vallarta’s 18-hole golf course, is a member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World and a recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award. Located just five minutes from Puerto Vallarta Airport and only 15 minutes from the popular downtown area, art galleries and “El Malecon” (the boardwalk), the hotel features 80 suites, some with private pools and Jacuzzis. Spa Casa Velas, a Leading Spa of the World, encompasses five treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy area, a fitness gym and a beauty salon. Emiliano a la carte fine dining restaurant is at the hands of one of the area’s leading chefs serving Mexican and international cuisine. 

by Julieta Del Toro
Now in its 55th year, from the 10-13th of November the traditional International Puerto Vallarta Marlin & Sailfish tournament will take place, organized by the Puerto Vallarta Fishing Club.

Sr. Andrés Famanía Ortega, president of the association and other important members shared some of the most important details about the event during a press conference, including information about the exciting prizes to be awarded. Among the many prizes are new cars, a check for $200,000 pesos, and vacation certificates! The tournament will be divided into five categories:  Marlin, Sailfish, Catch and Release Sailfish, Tuna and Mahi-Mahi (known locally as Dorado).

He also announced that, in support of the marine life of the region, the specimens weighing less than 30 kg in the category of Catch and Release will be returned to the sea.

It bears mentioning that sport fishing is the single most lucrative generator of income for the local area, placed above golf and other highlighted events. The stakes are high for this tournament and it is an exciting part of Vallarta’s history!

For more information visit www.fishvallarta.com.

The 9th Annual Vallarta Golf Cup Returns to Puerto Vallarta

Value-packed Packages for Golfers & Non-golfers Alike at Velas Vallarta, Casa Velas & Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

Puerto Vallarta (October 26, 2010) –   The prestigious Vallarta Golf Cup returns to the championship Vista Vallarta Golf Club in Puerto Vallarta for its ninth year November 14th.  The Cup features play on the 18-hole Tom Weiskopf course set amongst a dramatic jungle backdrop and many attractive prizes, such as $100,000 cash, new cars, jewelry and other luxury amenities. In celebration of the tournament, Velas Resorts is offering value-packed packages at the oceanfront family-friendly Velas Vallarta, AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and Casa Velas, a luxury boutique hotel and ocean club situated on the spectacular greens of Marina Vallarta’s 18-hole golf course.

Velas Resorts’ Golf Club Packages include registration in the Cup, a welcome cocktail hour, snacks during the tournament and an awards lunch for golfers.  Non-golfers will be treated to a $100 spa credit per suite per stay at the respective Velas Resort.  The Velas Resorts’ all-inclusive rates also include plush suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a choice of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24 hr in-suite service, fitness center, kids’ club, evening entertainment, activities for adults and children, taxes and gratuities, and more.

 Packages are valid from November 13th-16th at $240 per golfer per night at Velas Vallarta and $260 at Casa Velas.  Non-Golfers are priced at $225 per night at Velas Vallarta and $245 at Casa Velas.  All prices are based on double occupancy.  For reservations, please call 1-866-847-4609 or visit http://www.grandvelas.com

 About Velas Vallarta:

             Velas Vallarta, an all-suite resort and convention center located on 10 acres of oceanfront in Puerto Vallarta, is walking distance from Marina Vallarta Golf Course and just minutes from Downtown Puerto Vallarta’s captivating attractions, activities and landmarks. Situated on the emerald waters of Banderas Bay, Velas Vallarta features 339 suites,tech Convention Center that can accommodate up to 700 people, three swimming pools, a rejuvenating spa, fitness center, multiple restaurants, and an inviting lounge with live music and entertainment nightly. 

 About Casa Velas:

            Casa Velas, a boutique hotel and ocean club nestled on the greens of Marina Vallarta’s 18-hole golf course, is a member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World and a recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award.  Located just five minutes from Puerto Vallarta Airport and only 15 minutes from the popular downtown area, art galleries and “El Malecon” (the boardwalk), the hotel features 80 suites, some with private pools and Jacuzzis.  Spa Casa Velas, a Leading Spa of the World, encompasses five treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy area, a fitness gym and a beauty salon. Emiliano a la carte fine dining restaurant is at the hands of one of the area’s leading chefs serving Mexican and international cuisine.

About Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit:

            Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, an all-suites and spa resort located just 15 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay, is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and a recipient of the AAA Five-Diamond Award.  The resort features 267 spacious ocean-view suites.  The crown jewel of the resort and a member of Leading Spas of the World, the Spa at Grand Velas features 20 treatment rooms, over 80 spa treatments, gym and exercise room, spa boutique and beauty salon.  Five restaurants, three of which have been awarded the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award, feature stylish decor and a la carte choices for French, Italian or Mexican cuisine. The family-friendly resort also offers t iered three-temperature infinity pools, tennis court, 25,321 total sq feet of meeting space and a Kids Club. Nearby are championship golf courses, numerous options for soft adventure, and the charming town of Puerto Vallarta with its many shops, art galleries and nightlife.

  a high-tech Convention Center that can accommodate up to 700 people, three swimming pools, a rejuvenating spa, fitness center, multiple restaurants, and an inviting lounge with live music and entertainment nightly. 

  Join our Social Networks!

by Julieta del Toro

On the 14^th of November Vista Vallarta golf course will proudly host the 9^th Vallarta Golf Cup, presented by the Fideicomiso of Puerto Vallarta as part of the “Torneo de la Organizacion Mundial de Turismo (World Tourism Organization Tournament)”.

Since 2002, with the event of the EMC World Cup, the world of golf and its most important figures have set their sights on this marvelous tourist destination. The area has beautiful, adequate facilities and the necessary support from authorities and sponsors, making Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit among the favorite places to practice golf. 

Recognized sponsors including Casa Velas and Velas Vallarta will award a total of 800,000 US dollars in cash prizes, cars, jewels, and vacations in incredible destinations. The 1^st and 2^nd place winners will receive a bronze trophy as well as recognition from the Gira Ingolf and Campeonato Latinoamericano Golf Channel.

For more information please visit www.vallartagolf.com.  

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

by Julieta Del Toro
This year La Copa de Naciones de Vela will take place in Riviera Nayarit. This exciting competition will be held between the 20^th to 24^th of October 2010 and is the preliminary event for the October 2011 Panamerican Games, for which it will serve as the elimination challenge for many classes.

The competitions will take place in different areas depending on the sailing category: Paradise Village Marina, Nuevo Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit Marina and La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. Ralph Nelles, president of the Mexican Sailing Federation is proud to be part of this event, emphasizing that all that has been achieved is due to a concerted effort between the invited countries and the authorities in each country.

Mr. Nelles goes on to say, “La Copa de Naciones is a preparatory event for next year and will be a great test to detect competitor’s faults. Although we have already proven that we have the capacity and experience to host such an event, on this occasion we have the support of the government of Nayarit, through the Instituto de la Cultura Fisica y el Deporte”.

This year the Regata Copa Mexico Edicion Nextel Bicentenario also took place in the local area, drawing more than 2400 competitors from 27 countries.

Events such as these highlight the ideal conditions found in the region for practicing nautical sports and capture the attention of world-wide experts. Riviera Nayarit is now one of the most important tourist destinations for sailing, having attracted the attention of important athletes such as Tania Elías Calles and Pablo Rábago who have settled in the area to train for their high-performance sports. 

Resorts nearby:

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Casa Velas Hotel Boutique   |  Velas Vallarta Suite Resort  |  Grand Velas All Suites and Spa Resort

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .