Vacation Rentals by Owner

FABULOUS!!!

Guest: pk (California)
Date of Stay: 04/22/12 Review Submitted: 05/07/12

We spent a wonderful week at the Shangri-la in Marina Vallarta which is just a short 10 minute ride from the airport. Once you land and collect your bags you are literally minutes from stepping into your gorgeous penthouse. From the minute we stepped out of our private elevator into the living area with it's breathtaking view of the ocean and PV in the distance we were hooked! The accommodations are perfect for a large group, plenty of room for everyone and then some. The property is clean and well maintained and the pool is one of the largest I have ever seen and right on the beach. Everyone including the property manager, the pool boys, the security guards and cleaning people were so incredibly friendly and helpful. The owner, Atousa, is so nice, accommodating and pleasant to work with. We hadn't been to Mexico for quite some time and had a zillion questions which she always responded to in a timely manner. Anything and everything you could possibly want or need is available. There's a Costco, a Walmart and a large grocery store nearby. We enjoyed gathering on the spacious deck every morning with our coffee to plan our day. The deck, with it's incredible view was the perfect beginning and ending to each day. PV is only a short 10 minute cab ride away. There are many activities including golf, para sailing, jet skiing, zip lining (Los Veranos Canopy Tours-the best!) etc available. Everyone we encountered on our trip from Old Town PV to the small towns and resorts we ventured out to up the coast were so friendly and welcoming. If you've had any reservations about going to Mexico due to all of the bad press, don't worry! PV and the areas north going up the coast are SAFE! If you have the time, hire a driver, which is what we did, or rent a car and venture up the Nayarit coast and stop at the small towns and resorts. We had lunch at the Four Seasons which is lovely, shopped in the boho chic town of Sayulita which has lots and lots of great shops and a wonderful little beach. While we were driving through Punta Mita we encountered a man carrying a freshly caught whole red snapper, we immediately started thinking 'dinner!' Our driver had a cooler so he negotiated a price for us and had our 17 lb fish cleaned and filleted. We brought it back to the penthouse where we made fresh ceviche, guacamole & salsa and then BBQ'D several filets on the gas grill. Doesn't get much better than that! A great place to spend your vacation with family and friends!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Unbelievable

Guest: Diane (Dubuque IA)
Date of Stay: 01/08/12 Review Submitted: 01/21/12

Pictures and words just do not do this incredible property justice. It was WOW! Way more than we could've imagined. I just can't say enough about this clean, spacious, modern, luxurious accomodation, The outside pool is humongous. The beach is close. Our family of 12 had acres of room indoors.It is well worth the money. The owner is great to work with. I've never stayed in a better place. My only regrets about bragging about this place are for selfish reasons. I don't want to share this paradise with others because I want it to be available when we go back again.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car.

A-Maze-Ing!!!!!!

Guest: Singleton/Rideout families (Salt Lake City, UT)
Date of Stay: 08/08/11 Review Submitted: 08/22/11

We just returned from a blissful week in PV. The condo was everything that we expected, and more. The view as we stepped off the elevator for the first time was breathtaking! The condo is so spacious even our party of 12 had plenty of space to stretch out and have down time when we came in from the pool and beach. Erica and Tomas were so accommodating and made us feel so comfortable. We came to PV to spend a week with good friends and our kids before starting a new school year and the accommodations, and the city lived up to all of our expectations! Hope to visit again soon!

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Perfect location perfect holiday

Guest: Irma D.
Date of Stay: 06/15/11 Review Submitted: 07/06/11

From the beginning this experience was fantastic and easy. Once the doors opened to the penthouse elevator, we were in heaven. WHAT A VIEW!!!!! We were a family party of 12 (6-50ish yrs of age) all wanting something different and in the end pleased with all we received. The location was GREAT/clean/safe with an excellent pool and attentive/friendly/fun property staff. Reina, the housekeeper, was just fantastic/discreet/quiet and simply awesome with the kids. She came thru with everything we asked for we just gave her a tip for going beyond of what was expected of her. She loves to cook by the way and is excellent at it. The penthouse was beautiful and very well maintained/comfortable with gorgeous views. Amenities (Walmart,Costco, groceries, restaurant, OXXO, Starbucks, etc) were a short distance and transportation (taxi/buses) rt outside the front of the property. The owner is also simply one of the the nicest and easiest persons to communicate with. What she promises is what you will get. We all truly highly recommened this property. The pics do not do it justice. It is sooooo much more. Thank you for the wonderful memories Atousa. We left some pool toys for future guests to enjoy. We already miss "our" vacation home. PS: The one thing we would recommend is an actual large party toaster

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Amazing!

Guest: Debbie and Ken (Minneapolis)
Date of Stay: 03/11/11 Review Submitted: 04/05/11

What a wonderful trip! Once in a lifetime to get our large family of 10 together at one time, the penthouse is beyond description - really magical. Our family with children ages 4-17 had a simply wonderful time, spent hours on the panoramic outside deck - the younger children simply on the lounge chair cushions in a makeshift fort, faces against the glass watching the cruise ships come in. They just adored that! We swam at the pool every day for hours and hours, had wonderful food at the poolside restaurant, played on the beautiful beach with the kids everyday (there are rock crabs on the rocks along side the beach area the kids loved to harass), went parasailing and, yes, even went on the banana boat - all activities were quickly and professionally set up for our convenience. The pictures on VRBO do not do this condo justice, truly a once in a lifetime accommodation for a perfect trip! Oh, I have to also mention, as a mother and having a bunch of kids with us, the wonderful maid and cook Reina, was a blessing for us. She had our condo squeaky clean each and every day (not easy with 6 children..) and she was so kind to us! Wonderful food she made and LOVED her margaritas...:) Reina alone in a shack would have been heaven... but best of all?? Our wonderful family, and really being able to enjoy our time together! Cannot say enough about this place, so I will stop. Thank you for letting us stay at your beautiful home Atousa! Few things that we did that we would HIGHLY recommend for people visiting PV: We had a magical experience whale watching with Ocean Friendly Tours - small boat, permit to go close to whales, went out with PhD students studying whales. We saw many whales very close and 3 babies, one of which breeched?? (jumped) several times. Another activity that is a MUST is Puerto Vallarta Adventures Outdoor Adventures. For the 12+ adventure seekers, very professional, mule riding, repelling, 9 zips, gorgeous scenery, very adventurous!! Have fun in PV!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

K from Minnesota

Guest: Kathy (Apple Valley, MN, USA)
Date of Stay: 01/15/11 Review Submitted: 01/29/11

This condo was the nicest accommodation I've ever had while on a vacation. I highly recommend paying extra for the maid, Rena. She was FANTASTIC. We also fell in love with Raoul, the doorman. You won't be sorry if you choose this penthouse!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Amazing Penthouse!!!!

Guest: Brooke (Chicago, IL.)
Date of Stay: 01/08/11 Review Submitted: 01/26/11

Words can't express how beautiful this penthouse is. All 4 suites are gorgeous and the views from the balcony are like nothing I have ever seen. We spent so much time outside on the balcony either having lunch or drinks before going out to dinner. My boys loved watching the cruise ships come in in the mornings. The 5th bedroom was perfect for my nanny. We loved Reyna the housekeeper so much, and she cooked us wonderful homemade mexican lunches everyday! My 2 small boys (2 & 4½) loved the pool which had a large section that was shallow for small children to swim in. It was also so nice to be able to stay in a condo but get drinks & food by the pool. My only complaint is that the ocean was a bit too cold for us but some of us still went in anyways. The marina is so close and has wonderful restaurants. It is a perfect place to stay!! We all can't wait to go back again. Thank you Atousa for a wonderful vacation!!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway.

puerto vallarta

Guest: xrated (overland park, kansas)
Date of Stay: 12/26/10 Review Submitted: 01/11/11

loved the whole experience great set-up we had the whole family(13),, much fun great service wonderful weather and wonderful view

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Wonderful Family Vacation Spot

Guest: Beth (California)
Date of Stay: 12/18/10 Review Submitted: 01/26/11

Our extended family of eight LOVED this beautiful penthouse. The rooms are gorgeous, the deck is amazing and we loved the location. Easy walking sitance to restaurants and activities and a short cab ride to town. We would definitely return to this spot. The pool is beautiful and not crowded and the beach is expansive. Everything was great.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car.

Family Celebration

Guest: Sally (Colorado)
Date of Stay: 11/23/10 Review Submitted: 01/24/11

Our 3 generations of family members from 3 to 72 years old spent Thanksgiving at Shangri La and had a wonderful time. The condo, the grounds, the pool, and the location were ideal. The kids loved the access to the beach, just beyond the huge, beautiful pool. The condo itself is lovely, and the maid was ready to spoil us. I must mention that the "detached" room is not a part of the condo, is accessed up some back stairs off the laundry room. We thought our 10 and 12 year old kids might sleep there, but it wasn't suitable for kids that young as it was too far removed from the condo.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car.

It's a must!!! You got to see it to believe it!

Guest: Shirin (Northern California)
Date of Stay: 08/12/10 Review Submitted: 09/13/10

We love Puerto Vallarta and this penthouse in particular is our favorite. We have become regulars and we have already gone there twice this Summer. It's such a beautiful place....spacious, comfortable and practical floor plan, GORGEOUS views, beautiful decor, and great maid service. The property itself is also amazing, short drive to/from the airport, walking distance to the marina for small shops and restaurants, courteous staff, great food is served by the pool, it's beachfront and we used all the water sports that are available from jet skiing to parasailing to banana boating, and much more. It's a short cab ride to downtown where it is absolutely amazing. The city itself is very clean, the restaurants are wonderful, the people are very friendly. I highly recommend this place. We will go back soon.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

An Amazing Experience

Guest: Nikki (San Jose, CA)
Date of Stay: 07/18/10 Review Submitted: 01/12/11

This gorgeous penthouse was an experience beyond my imagination and expectation. Our family had one of the best vacations while staying at this property. The penthouse is located in the central tower with an amazing panoramic view of the bay, pool, etc. The balcony is breathtaking...one can enjoy the calm weather and the views for hours. Every bedroom has a view (unlike other units at Shangri-la, which only the master bedroom has a view). The furniture and the interior details have been selected with great taste and style. There are two master suites which makes it very comfortable for a large family. The owners are quite accommodating and have done a great job in maintaining the penthouse. The pool area/restaurant is very attractive and convenient. Overall we enjoyed our trip and our stay at the penthouse! We plan to go back in the near future.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Jeff Morgan (Port Washington, WI)
Date of Stay: 04/06/10 Review Submitted: 04/06/10

We stayed in the condo for a week, March 12-19. It was wonderful. Everything was as promised on the web site. The balcony is huge and the views of the bay and PV are fantastic. We especially liked that the 4 main bedrooms all faced the bay. The location is great, just steps away from the marina but also a short taxi ride from downtown. The pool was great. It is very kid friendly and worked well for introducing our 7 month old granddaughter to the water. Having the option of bringing our own refreshments to the pool or having the wait staff serve us was nice as well. Maria was great and kept the entire place spotless the entire week. We will be back!

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Guest: Mike M. (Belmont, MI)
Date of Stay: 03/26/10 Review Submitted: 03/26/10

We stayed in this penthouse for 10 days. The penthouse was a glorious vacation home and we wish we could have stayed for a longer visit. The views from the balcony were breathtaking. Our family of 7 varied in age from 61 to 2. The weather was perfect unless you don't enjoy 85 and sunny every day. There was something for everyone and many things were left for our next visit since we did not have enough time. There was a marvelous pool for the youngest with a very attentive pool staff to provide lunch and refreshments, a beach for early morning and late evening strolls, a marvelous city less than a $10 cab fare away, and very attentive staff from Maria who saw to it that the penthouse always was in top condition to Raoul who was a very helpful concierge. The young adults participated in surfing lessons and we all enjoyed the central city of Puerto Vallarta. On days we didn't venture far, the Marina Vallarta was the perfect place for dining as well as some limited shopping. We would return in a heartbeat and probably will.

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Guest: Seth5 (-)
Date of Stay: 02/25/10 Review Submitted: 02/25/10

We had a great time at this place. Everyone from the owner and the property manager to the housekeeper were all very friendly and helpful. The place was amazing and thankfully the weather cooperated as well. I would highly recommend this place to anyone with a big group looking to get away. I will most certainly visit again (the next time I can round up all my friends).

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Guest: Roshie Towfighi1 (San Ramon, Ca)
Date of Stay: 02/11/10 Review Submitted: 02/11/10

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Ghafouri, Thanks again for letting us stay at your beautiful Penthouse. My girl friends and I have an amazing time at PV and we owe it to your first class accommodations. Your penthouse is perfect for accommodating large gatherings and your staff was extremely friendly and helpful. Every single one of us enjoyed the luxury and beauty that they were surrounded with and the memory of our trip will last us forever. Again, I like to thank you for making this a memorable trip and I will always recommend your penthouse to others. Best regards, Roshie Towfighi

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Guest: Mariam1 (Saratoga. CA )
Date of Stay: 02/11/10 Review Submitted: 02/11/10

WOW! we rented this penthouse condo to celebrate my friend birthday with a large group of friends. We were a bit nervous about the accomodations, This unit completely exceeded our every expectation. Beautifully decorated, all the room are large and clean... I can't recommend it strongly enough

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Guest: Shirin Alavi (California)
Date of Stay: 02/11/10 Review Submitted: 02/10/10

This penthouse is absolutely amazing! Great location -- you're only a few steps away from the Marina with shops and restaurants -- fantastic views, spacious and comfortable floor plan, and all the amenities of a luxury resort! We just returned from a ladies trip and we truly enjoyed the comfort and beauty of this place! This penthouse has it all. A true vacation experience unlike any other! It was so wonderful that we're going back this Summer for a family vacation!!

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Guest: Marjan S. (Los Gatos, Ca)
Date of Stay: 02/11/10 Review Submitted: 02/10/10

FABULOUS!!!I can truly say "I spent a week in paradise!"...I've been going to PV for the past 10 years, and let me tell you- THIS IS THE PLACE TO STAY. The floorplan, the decor, the pool (wow!), the amenities are just fantanstic. It's very luxurious and romantic at the same time being kid friendly too. Can't wait to go again:))

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Guest: neguin ghadessi (-)
Date of Stay: 02/10/10 Review Submitted: 02/10/10

I can sum up my stay in one word!! FABULOUS!! Everything is first class from the decor to the amenities to the maid service and view and etc etc etc!! I have never been more pleased with condo accomodations. Puerto Vallarta is beautiful especially when you are viewing it from this gorgeous penthouse. Enjoy your stay. I know I am going back for sure.

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Guest: Anita19 (Livermore, CA)
Date of Stay: 01/26/10 Review Submitted: 01/26/10

We spent my husbands 50th birthday in this beautiful condo. There were 8 in our party and more than enough room. Our children could not believe how lovely the condo was when we arrived. The grounds and pool are fantastic. Every afternoon we would be by the pool having the great drinks and food the cafe offered. I would love to again stay here as our vacation was wonderful.

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Guest: J. Mazaheri (San Jose, Ca. 95120)
Date of Stay: 08/31/09 Review Submitted: 08/31/09

We first stayed in this incredible penthouse in July 2007 and enjoyed our stay so much that it has become our favorite and permanent vacation spot. We have already been back three times and plan to be a repeat customer. The condo is immaculately furnished and decorated. The view from the large balcony is spectacular. Shangri-La complex itself is a high-end resort with friendly and courteous staff. The meticulously maintained grounds with one of the best infinity pools in the area along with the food and beverage service at the pool made our stay more relaxing and enjoyable. Shangri-La is conveniently located and within walking distance from the famed Marina Vallarta, where the restaurants and the specialty shops are located. We highly recommend this penthouse for families. Mazaheri Family, San Jose, CA

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Guest: Leigh W. (-)
Date of Stay: 08/25/09 Review Submitted: 08/25/09

WOW! I rented this penthouse condo to celebrate my 40th birthday with a large group of friends. Asking people to fly down to PVR for my birthday, I was understandably a bit nervous about the accomodations (sight unseen!). This unit completely exceeded my every expectation. The decks are stunning. And the art work, furniture, rooms and pool were simply amazing. I can't recommend it strongly enough.

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Guest: Diane58 (Los Gatos, California)
Date of Stay: 08/17/09 Review Submitted: 08/17/09

We stayed for a week (wish it could have been more) in this beautiful condo in August. Everything was magnificent, the views, the decorations, the pool, the location. Would definitley recommend this to anyone looking for a piece of paradise.

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Guest: Donna Henderson-Pfeiffer (North Palm Beach, FL )
Date of Stay: 08/16/09 Review Submitted: 08/16/09

My family and I spent one glorious week at the penthouse. When we arrived and the elevator doors opened to this fabulous view of Puerta Vallarta, we knew we were destined for more than mere luxury. The staff at Shangra La was more than helpful and went out of there way to see our every need was met. The penthouse itself is more than words can describe. It is beaufully decorated and the views from all rooms are breathtaking. There were ten people in our group that week and there was more than enough space for all to be comfortable. I highly recommend this vacation detination.

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Guest: Roshie Towfighi (San Ramon, Ca)
Date of Stay: 07/21/09 Review Submitted: 07/20/09

We stayed in this beautiful penthouse for the whole week and truly enjoyed our stay. The penthouse is wonderfully decorated and is extremely comfortable. The location of the penthouse is amazing as it is so close to the beach and it also has an amazing pool with great poolside service. There is so much to do around Shangrila and it is the perfect location for a family with children. The Penthouse is well staffed and have all the amenities for the perfect vacation house.

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Guest: Linda81 (Los Gatos, CA)
Date of Stay: 07/20/09 Review Submitted: 07/20/09

This place is by far one of the most serene, beautiful, and luxurious places in which I've ever stayed. The breathtaking views, the warm and friendly staff, and the exquisite accomodations are unlike any others'. The amenities of Shangri La are also great. The infinity pool is one of the best. Being able to take 10 steps from the pool and be on the beach watching the sunset was really nice. I loved the fact that you could walk 5 minutes and get to the Marina where all the restaurants and great shops are. I would give anything to be in the balcony looking at the ocean view right now...

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Guest: Margie (calistoga ca)
Date of Stay: 04/20/09 Review Submitted: 04/20/09

UNBELIVABLE!!!! The view as your elevator door opens and you have the most incredible view of the ocean. This condo is magnificent in comfort, luxury and service. We were a group of 5 moms with our 5- high school senior daughters and we couldn't have picked a better place. The pool is amazing and everyday they have a 2 for one special at the swim up bar. Very cheap prices for food and drinks and the tacos at the pool are great. The location was perfect as we were close enough to downtown PV to take a bus or taxi right outside the complex yet we were in a quieter area. Next door is the marina which has shops and restaurants and a day spa that I got a one hour massage, pedicure and manicure for $48.00.After a day at the pool or other day trips it was so nice to come back to the penthouse and sit on the huge deck and have appetizers that were made by Maria- our lovely maid that came everyday and kept our place immaculate. She was such a sweet woman. At night we would venture into town with the girls and go to the clubs. The Zoo- Helo and Mandala were their favorites. We felt very safe in Puerto Vallarta. The pictures on the website do not do the place justice, the grounds are beautiful with flowers and palm trees all over. Also Atousa the owner was a pleasure to do business with. Thank you!!

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 03/22/09 Review Submitted: 03/22/09

My family & I enjoyed a spectacular holiday in this lovely penthouse. The accommodations were second to none. We loved the beautiful view, the lush surroundings, and the gorgeous pools. It is ideal for families and for couples seeking to relax in luxury. We look forward to a return visit in the near future.

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Guest: Kelly Swanson (Kimberling City, Missouri)
Date of Stay: 03/05/09 Review Submitted: 03/05/09

This is the most beauitful place we have ever stayed. We visited in late January and the weather was perfect. This condo is 5 star all the way. The most beautiful setting, watching the fishing boats go out and come back in every day with flags flying to show the success of their day. The private beach is so serene and no vendors allowed. The pool was huge and seemed so spacious, not crowded at all. This unit is perfect for small children as we bought 2 grandchildren under 3 with us. Each room has it's own bath and walk in closet. Mary is a dream, tidying up after everyone and making wonderful snacks. The huge deck was my favorite place sunrise and sunset. Wonderful breezes and a beautiful place to just veg and read a book or just take in the beauty of Puerto Vallarta. We felt extremely safe here and walked to the marina many nights for dinner or drove downtown for a chage of pace. There is so much to see and do you will want to come back again and again. Our Son and his wife just returned from Cabo and they said it paled in comparison to everything we had in Janaury. I can't wait to return. This is the best kept secret!!!

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/23/08 Review Submitted: 10/23/08

Words cannot describe the magnificence of our unit. From the custom-made furniture, to state-of-the-art technology and the breathtaking views, we could not have asked for more luxurious accommodations. Mere steps from the four bedroom, five bathroom penthouse, a vast, resort-style pool overlooks a private beach. Combined with the incredible service offered by the Shangri La staff, we felt as if we were in paradise. Perfect for both honeymooners looking for romance and families looking for fun in the beautiful Puerto Vallarta sun, I unequivocally recommend this unit to anyone looking to experience a vacation experience unlike any other.

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