We have traditionally been "all-inclusive" people, but this visit changed us forever. The location, in the "hotel district" just an eighty peso cab ride from the old town, is perfect. The beach is literally right our your front door as this condo is located in Tower 2000 at The Grand Venetian, which is the closest tower to the water. There are balconies on three sides off all three bedrooms. Nothing obstructs your view - ever! The entire front of the condo is glass which slides back to a single panel on each site, so the outside is part of your inside! The condo itself is fabulous, fully equipped and very comfortable. There are three pools, each with different temparatures, as well as jacuzzi's in each pool. However, the jacuzzi out on your own deck is wonderful - and private. There is food available for a reasonable price from the cantina onsite, which we enjoyed a couple of times, however, there are terrific restaurants right in the area, as well as a Starbucks next door in the Peninsula Mall. We strongly recommend Mega for all shopping. It's prices are better than Costco, and the quality is higher than Soriana's. It is a long walk (20 Min) out the gate towards town, and a cheap cab ride back. The tequila prices are better than duty free at the airport and you are supporting the Mexican economy not a foreign corporation!
Some local food recommendations:
1. El Pechugon (sp?) Fantastic entirerotisserie chicken, potatoes, salsa, and tortillas for 108 peso's. In the Soriana's Mall to the left towards town, at Puerto 2 of the mall. Go pick it up and have dinner on your deck!
2. Las Adelitas: Very good quality Mexican food. Follow the main street right out the front gate that is 90 degrees to the main street to town. It is a 15 minute walk, and worth it.
3. El Mero: Mexican lunch place tacos etc. Out the gate to the left on the other side of the street just past Starbucks across from the Krystal.
4. La Piazetta: Outpost of a very good old town restaurant, however, the space is simply ugly! Apparently the best bruschetta anywhere.
There are three lunch restaurants to the right of The Grand Venetian along the river. I am told the first one is the best.
We will be back. This is a great find with a very accommodating owner.