Experience Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Inmerso en el Campo de Golf Marina Vallarta, Casa Velas es un hotel de ambiente íntimo y romántico, perfecto para  golfistas,  amantes   del  spa  y  de  la gastronomía. Creado bajo el concepto de las antiguas Casas Grandes del México colonial, da lugar a un espacio dedicado a la relajación y la tranquilidad, con increíble cocina gourmet, servicio  personalizado  y amenidades que lo harán sentirse como en casa. Sus interiores enriquecidos con obras de arte mexicano, logran una ambientación única de elegancia propia de  la vida del mar, respetando  las características  y personalidad del lugar donde se ubica, Puerto Vallarta.

Majestuosas palmeras, exuberante vegetación y una cascada de estanques en donde se observa un jardín de nenúfares que nacen del agua, son algunos de los detalles que dan una increíble personalidad a este hotel boutique, exclusivo para mayores de 15 años.

Es un escape perfecto para visitar con su pareja y degustar exquisitas creaciones culinarias; vivir los atardeceres del Pacífico en un Club de Playa privado, rodeado de la calidez de la hospitalidad mexicana o practicar su swing en campos de golf de clase mundial.

Reconocido entre los mejores del mundo, este hotel boutique fue recientemente nombrado por Traveler’s Choice 2012 de Trip Advisor®  dentro de la lista de Mejor Hotel Todo Incluido de México ocupando la 2ª posición –de los 25 hoteles seleccionados–, y en la 8ª posición dentro de la lista de los 25 Mejores Hoteles Todo Incluido del Mundo. Además, ha sido acreedor al  Premio a la Excelencia  de Condé Nast Johansens 2012 como “Most Excellent Service” de México y Centroamérica.

Casa Velas es miembro de The Leading Hotels of the World y ha recibido el reconocimiento de Cuatro Diamantes por la AAA,  así como el Certificado  de Excelencia en el 2010 y el Premio Traveler’s Choice 2011 en  tres categorías:  Lujo, Relajación/Spa y Hoteles Románticos, ambos otorgados por TripAdvisor®.

No deje de experimentar un mundo de lujo y placer culinario que le brindará bienestar en cuerpo, mente y espíritu.

by Manuel Calderon de la Barca

On Saturday August 13th the Casa Velas Convention Center, located at the most exclusive boutique hotel in Puerto Vallarta, set the scene for the city council’s elegant reception to welcome the 34 contestants competing for the title of the most beautiful woman in Mexico.

On August 13th the city council and local businesspeople, among them Velas Resorts general directors, came together in support of the contest. Natural beauty abounded as the 34 lovely contestants and committee organizer were welcomed in the tranquil, chic elegance of the Casa Velas Convention Center, tucked away within the verdant greens of Marina Vallarta golf course.

Organizers of the Nuestra Belleza Mexico 2011 beauty contest and the municipal authorities of the port collaborated with ease, with the mutual objective of promoting the state of Jalisco, particularly the spectacular city of Puerto Vallarta, and hosting this well-known beauty contest.

At the welcoming event, the municipal president of Puerto Vallarta, Salvador González Reséndiz, welcomed the participants and mentioned the importance of the city being chosen as the host of Nuestra Belleza, whose final round was held on August 20th at the city Convention Center.

He also proudly mentioned that this beach destination was chosen as the host of two other important events- the Tianguis Turistico, or Tourism Fair 2012 and the 2011 Panamerican games. “We are very happy to have them and are confident that we will make the best of the events to promote this destination. Here we have the representation of the city: the chamber of commerce, the media, all willing to receive them with open arms, to make their stay the most pleasant possible, said González Reséndiz. He also added that “we are a destination that is renewing itself, that seeks to show its best side, and above all, has a grand jewel: the warmth of its people”.

Executive producer of Nuestra Belleza, Marco Flavio Cruz, graciously showed his appreciation for the hospitable welcome of the guests and assured that the airing of the contest on national television and the contest preview “Rumbo a Nuestra Belleza”, would display to all of Mexico the magnetic attraction of Puerto Vallarta and the entire state of Jalisco for tourists.

In true Casa Velas style, the presentation of each of the 34 young beauties was followed by an unforgettably elegant and creative meal.

General Director of Nuestra Belleza Mexico, Lupita Jones, treated attendees to a wonderful description of how Casa Velas had pampered the participants with exclusive Spa treatments at their Leading Spa of the World, gourmet cuisine at Emiliano restaurant, recently recognized with the Star Diamond Award, incomparable dinners by the sea at the Ocean Club and special events within the hotel that made them truly feel like queens.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (February 14, 2011) – Velas Resorts, Natura Bissé and Tequila Tres Generaciones have teamed up to create a new sensory culinary experience which exquisitely combines haute cuisine, the aromas of natural essences, relaxing ambient music and the unmistakable flavors of tequila. Guided by the resort’s sommelier and spa staff as well as highly regarded guest chefs, the four course tasting menu intertwines flavors, aromas, colors and shapes from the finest in Mexican and international products. The first sensory experiences of 2011 are being kicked off in February at Casa Velas (complimentary for hotel guests, $50 for non-guest) and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit ($50 per person, which also includes a gourmet dinner at the resort’s beachfront Selva del Mar restaurant).

“Although other hotels and spas may already offer some sort of sensory workshop, they focus principally on aromatherapy combined with massage or meditation, leaving out a wealth of possibilities to complement them,” said Pierre Bonin, General Director of Casa Velas. “By adding exquisite gourmet dishes created by renowned international chefs Mónica Patiño and Mikel Alonso, our resorts have obtained the perfect alchemy between aromas, libations and edibles.”

February’s experience menu includes:

• First Course: Tequila plata (silver tequila) with smooth texture and taste combines with Neuro Aroma Detox (whose notes of lemon, orange, mandarin, lavender and rosemary are primary antioxidants and purifiers). Crab Salad with tangerine dressing, sage bread and lavender oil infusion enhances the scent as well as the tequila taste.

• Second Course: Tequila reposado (golden in color) with a bit stronger flavor and texture and a woody finish signals the beginning of the second phase of the experience. Neuro Aroma Relax is then provided with patchouli and sandalwood, helping to activate the body’s circulation. Incorporating all of the elements, Grouper Brandada wrapped in Acedera leaf with pink pine kernel, white pepper and fresh anis is then served.

• Third Course: Beginning with a taste of tequila añejo (aged for 14 months, with a dark amber tone and strong woody flavor) and accompanied by Neuro Aroma Stimuli (a mixture of notes of clove, cardamom, myrrh, incense, sandalwood and black pepper that alleviate muscle tension), Crocodile encrusted with pistachio, parsley and dandelion honey delights the taste buds.

• Fourth Course: A dessert such as a pink mousse of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries is served with a glass of Damiana, a beverage considered to be an aphrodisiac. With its lightly bitter flavor, it is a refreshing end to this journey.

The first Sensory Workshops of 2011 were held on February 12th and 13th at 5 pm at Casa Velas, followed by Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit on February 14th and 15th at 6:30 pm. A menu will be performed by Special Guest Chef Rafael Bautista from Les Moustaches restaurant, who holds the prestigious recognition: Star Diamond Award placing him as one of the top chefs in Mexico. Les Moustaches has been awarded with the same recognition by the American Academy of Hospitality, and is featured on the Top 10 list of restaurants in Mexico.

The Sensory Workshops are currently being held amidst the cobbled pathways and verdant surroundings of Casa Velas’ botanical garden and the oceanfront Jacuzzi terrace with vistas of the sunset at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit.

For more information and reservations on the remaining Sensory Workshops throughout the rest of 2011, please call Velas Resorts at 1-888-210-9591 or visit http://www.grandvelas.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. 

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Por Julieta Del Toro

Inspirados en la idea de crear un nuevo concepto que fusiona el despertar de los sentidos, Casa Velas, Natura Bissé y Tequila 3 Generaciones, se han unido para formar un concepto novedoso que presenta una experiencia en la que la alta cocina y su exquisita sazón, van de la mano con los aromas de las esencias más estimulantes para la relajación de cuerpo y mente además de los inconfundibles y deliciosos sabores del tequila.

El jardín botánico de Casa Velas  es el espacio seleccionado para dar cabida a este evento, entrando por su camino empedrado y observando el verdor que rodea esta área, se llega a la zona donde se ha montado todo lo requerido; mesas con hermosa mantelería, cubertería y decoración donde predominan las flores, música ambiental y un espacio donde el chef invitado hace su magia.

El sommeliere da la bienvenida y explica a lo largo de la travesía sensorial los manjares con los que se agasaja a los presentes, un mesero procede a servir una copa de tequila plata, (de sabor y textura suave) al tiempo que personal del spa proporciona la primera fragancia (Neuro Aroma Detox) donde los cítricos como el limón, naranja, mandarina, lavanda y romero son los elementos primordiales que benefician con sus anti oxidantes y purificantes; a su vez, se sirve el primer platillo realizado por el chef que cuidadosa y artísticamente reúne en combinación perfecta y balanceada, los ingredientes necesarios para una creación que presenta (además de su propio sabor) la mezcla de las esencias que se olieron y el sabor de la bebida que se tomó previamente. De manera que sin alteración alguna se converge en el mismo punto. Una segunda copa de tequila, reposado, (de sabor y textura un poco más fuerte, color dorado y un dejo de madera) es la señal que indica la segunda parte; así mismo se recibe una esencia (Neuro Aroma Relax)  en donde el aroma de patchuli, peligrán y sándalo activan la circulación. Del mismo modo, se sirve un platillo que fusiona todo lo anterior, pudiendo ser éste, un delicioso salmón marinado con pimienta, hierbas finas, paprika y acompañado de una salsa cremosa de la pasión. Una fiesta de sabores sin duda alguna.

El tercer tiempo inicia con la prueba de tequila añejo, (14 meses en barrica, de tonalidad ámbar oscuro y recio sabor a madera) que se acompaña por los olores de Neuro Aroma Stimul, (una mezcla de especias como clavo, cardamomo, mirra, incienso, sándalo y pimienta negra que alivia las tensiones musculares) dando paso al tercer platillo; unas costillas de cordero preparadas con una salsa cremosa de menta, cardamomo, finas hierbas y pimienta acompañadas de puré de papa, dando un toque perfecto que traduce esta brillante integración.

Cerrando con broche de oro, se brinda un suculento postre (mouse rosa producto de fresas, frambuesas, moras y arándanos) que es servido en copa al igual que la Damiana, una bebida considerada como afrodisiaca y que con su particular sabor ligeramente amargo, finaliza de forma refrescante toda esta travesía en donde las rutas del sabor, los aromas, colores y formas se entrelazan para establecer un parte aguas que reúne a lo mejor de México y el mundo ofreciendo productos de primer nivel. Posteriormente al taller sensorial, el invitado está listo para llevar a cabo su visita al spa, o bien, continuar con la experiencia culinaria en el restaurante.

Origen y desarrollo

 Para Pierre Bonin, Director General de Casa Velas en Puerto Vallarta y José Cabrera, Director de Alianzas y Proyectos Especiales de Natura Bissé International, la idea de evolucionar en el sector turístico e ir a la vanguardia,  va mucho más allá de ofrecer un servicio de excelencia y productos de calidad, sino que además se logren estimular detonadores emocionales a través de los cuales, el público elige y prefiere porque se le ha hecho sentir a través de todas sus percepciones.. Con base en ello e inspirados en la importancia de los cinco sentidos, Bonin y Cabrera tuvieron la idea de crear un nuevo concepto que tradujera los elementos de un auténtico taller sensorial; si bien algunos hoteles y spas ya ofrecen actividades de este tipo, todas se  enfocan principalmente en aromaterapias que se combinan con masajes o meditación, dejando de lado el resto de posibilidades para complementarlas. De manera que si a una terapia de aroma se le añade un hermoso paisaje natural, exquisitos platillos gourmet y una prueba del más delicioso tequila acompañando con relajante música ambiental se obtiene un fabuloso resultado que estimula los placeres más básicos de la vida.

 Se contó además con la colaboración de  los renombrados chefs, Mónica Patiño y Mikel Alonso, junto con personal profesional de spa y expertos catadores de tequila, que desarrollaron nuevas rutas de placer; se consiguió la alquimia perfecta y se encontró una armonía absoluta entre lo que se olía, bebía y comía.

El taller sensorial es una nueva actividad dentro del hotel que propone una forma diferente y amena de pasar un momento maravilloso previo a una deliciosa visita al restaurante o al spa. Contacte al concierge para reservar concierge@hotelcasavelas.com

Ir a la galería de fotos

By Julieta Del Toro

Inspired by the idea of creating a new experience that awakens the senses, Casa Velas, Natura Bisse and Tequila 3 Generaciones have united to form a new concept. This concept takes the form of a workshop in which exquisitely flavored haute cuisine, the aromas of stimulating natural essences for relaxation of body and mind, and the unmistakable and delicious flavors of tequila come together in perfect harmony. 

Casa Velas‘ botanical garden has been selected as the perfect space for this event to take place. After entering through its cobbled pathways and observing the verdant surroundings, you arrive to a beautifully assembled area: tables set with lovely linens, décor and flowers and ambient music create a place for the guest chef to make magic.

 The sommelier welcomes you and describes the delicacies that are to be enjoyed throughout the journey. The server proceeds to pour a taste of tequila plata (silver tequila, with smooth texture and taste), as the spa attendants provide the first fragrance (Neuro Aroma Detox), whose notes of lemon, orange, mandarin, lavender and rosemary are primary antioxidants and purifiers. The first plate is served, prepared by carefully and artistically combining and balancing the perfect ingredients to create a dish that presents in addition to its own flavor, a mixture of the essences smelled and the flavor of the tequila. A second taste of tequila, reposado (golden in color with a bit stronger flavor and texture and a woody finish) signals the beginning of the second phase of the experience. The next essence (Neuro Aroma Relax) is provided, in which notes of patchouli and sandalwood help to activate the circulation. In the same manner, a dish is served that incorporates all of the elements, such as a delicious salmon marinated with pepper, fresh herbs and paprika accompanied by a creamy passion fruit sauce.

 The third course begins with a taste of tequila añejo (aged for 14 months, with a dark amber tone and strong woody flavor) accompanied by the scent of Neuro Aroma Stimuli (a mixture of notes of clove, cardamom, myrrh, incense, sandalwood and black pepper that alleviates muscle tension) giving way to the third dish: lamb chops prepared with a sauce of mint, cardamom, fresh herbs and pepper with potato puree, which brilliantly integrates the sensory experience.

 For the finishing touch, a succulent dessert is served (luscious pink mousse of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries) in a glass like a Damiana, a beverage considered to be an aphrodisiac. With its lightly bitter flavor, it is a refreshing end to this journey in which flavors, aromas, colors and shapes intertwine, combining the finest in Mexican and international products. After the sensory workshop, the guest is ready to visit the spa or continue the culinary experience in the restaurant.   

 Concept origin and development

 For Pierre Bonin, General Director of Casa Velas in Puerto Vallarta and José Cabrera, Director of Alliances and Special Projects for Natura Bissé International, the idea of development in the tourist sector and being on the cutting edge goes much deeper than offering excellent service and quality products. They wish to succeed in stimulating an emotional response in the client, by which the public then chooses and prefers their services and products because they have been made to feel more than they perceived possible. Based on this and inspired by the importance of the five senses, Bonin y Cabrera had the idea of creating a new concept that combines the elements into an authentic sensory workshop; although other hotels and spas already offer this type of activity, they focus principally on aromatherapy combined with massage or meditation, leaving out a wealth of possibilities to complement them. By adding an aromatherapy experience to a beautiful natural landscape, exquisite gourmet dishes, a taste of the best tequila and relaxing ambient music, a fabulous result is obtained that stimulates the most basic pleasures in life.

 Renowned chefs Mónica Patiño y Mikel Alonso together with professional spa personnel and expert tequila tasters collaborates with the idea’s creators to develop new routes to pleasure; they have achieved the perfect alchemy and absolute harmony between aromas, libations and edibles.

 The sensory workshop is a new activity within the hotel that proposes a unique and pleasing way to spend a wonderful moment before a visit to the restaurant or Spa. Contact the concierge to reserve: concierge@hotelcasavelas.com.

Go to the gallery

The Casa Velas staff seems to have mastered the art of pleasant service and anticipation of guest’s needs. Maybe it’s the natural grace of Mexican hospitality that seems ingrained from a very young age- it just makes you feel comfortable and at home. The service is personalized- they will remember your name and your preferred drink.

El personal de Casa Velas parece dominar el arte del buen servicio y anticiparse a las necesidades de sus huéspedes. Esto se debe en gran parte al natural sentido de la hospitalidad mexicana que se inculca desde una edad temprana, factor que sin duda provoca que uno se sienta cómodo y en casa. Siempre recuerdan tu nombre y hasta tu bebida favorita, demostrando así, un genuino interés en el huésped y haciendo todo lo posible para poder disfrutar de una estancia placentera.

Second Suite Saving, Suite Upgrades, Unlimited Golf & More
Included at Casa Velas in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (September 24, 2010) – Fifty percent off a second suite and complimentary upgrades to Grand Class Suites with private plunge pool for both are now offered at Casa Velas, Puerto Vallarta’s adults-only AAA Four Diamond resort. Guests also enjoy unlimited golf at either the 18-hole par 72 Jack Nicklaus and the 18-hole par 72 Tom Weiskopf courses in Vista Vallarta or the 18-hole par 71 Joe Finger course in Marina Vallarta and hydrotherapy treatments (Whirlpool, herbal steam sauna, crystal steam room, eucalyptus inhalation, and Swiss shower) at the world-class Spa Casa Velas.

Gourmet a la carte dining at the hotel’s Emiliano restaurant and Private Ocean Club or nearby Velas Vallarta’s La Ribera Steakhouse and Andrea restaurants; the use of all facilities at both Casa Velas and its sister property, Velas Vallarta; premium international liquors; in-suite room service, complimentary shuttle service to the Casa Velas Private Ocean Club and Velas Vallarta, and all taxes and gratuities are also included. Available until December 23rd 2010, promotion rates start at $240 per person per night, based on double occupancy. Restrictions apply. For reservations, please call 1-866-529-8813.

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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.

Neem is the name of this thousand-year old Ayurvedic ingredient from India that has proven curative properties for a range of ailments: from common cold and headaches to serious illnesses such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease.