Hotel Petit Mercedes Puerto Vallarta

Guests are met with a world of color and charm (and a friendly rescue dog) from the moment they first step into the vibrant lobby of the hacienda-style Villa Mercedes Petit Hotel. The property is bright and cheery at every turn, from the funky murals to relaxing lounge areas tucked into nooks and crannies around the property. The adult-only property draws a mix of straight and gay couples, single travelers, and small groups looking for a quiet, relaxing oasis in the middle of all the action. And Villa Mercedes is exactly that. Even though it’s just a block from the lively Malecon and surrounded by nightlife, guests would never know it when they’re relaxing in the lush interior courtyard. Full of tropical plants, an outdoor pool, and quaint strings of bare bulbs that are lit up at night, it feels worlds away from the city. This is where guests enjoy breakfast in the morning and daily poolside happy hours in the evening. Pleasant Mexican music sets the scene by day, while the sounds of nature take over at night. It’s also pet-friendly, which means it’s not uncommon to see friendly, four-legged friends wandering through. For travelers who want local charm and a great location at a decent price, Villa Mercedes is the perfect fit.

Set on a cobblestone street among the shops, restaurants, nightlife, and gay bars of the popular Olas Altas section of the old town, Villa Mercedes puts guests in a great spot for exploring some of the city’s top sights. Playa Los Muertos, one of the city’s most popular beaches, is a minute’s walk away, as is the lively Malecon, a beachfront promenade that stretches most of the length of the city. A 10-minute walk north on the Malecon takes guests to the Isla Rio Cuale, a small island full of restaurants and artisan craft stalls. Continuing up the Malecon for another five to 10 minutes brings visitors to the Malecon’s famous artworks and lively evening food vendors, as well as the landmark Parish of Our Lady of Guadelupe church. The church and the northern portion of the Malecon can also be reached by car in 10 minutes. Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport is about a half-hour drive away. 

Each of the 16 rooms at Villa Mercedes features its own individual decor, and all are outfitted with bright colors, original artwork, local textiles, and quirky knick-knacks that make the rooms feel homey and inviting. Air-conditioning, ceiling fans, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and private furnished balconies come standard. At the entry level are the Studios (seven in total), which feature small sitting areas, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers, as well as closets equipped with safes, irons, and ironing boards. Bathrooms provide hairdryers, Regina Spa Therapy toiletries, and soft, fluffy towels. Upgrading to Suites adds living areas with sofas, and kitchenettes with sinks, microwaves, and dining areas. The balconies of the suites offer partial ocean views. The one-bedroom Master Suites provide even more comfort, and feature full kitchens, large living and dining areas, and two full bathrooms. These corner units also have nice wraparound terraces with great ocean views. The top-of-the-line options at Villa Mercedes are its three Penthouses, which are one-bedroom units in a more secluded part of the hotel, each with its own roof terrace offering panoramic views of the city and ocean. 

Life at Villa Mercedes revolves around its lush interior courtyard, overflowing with tropical plants and Mexican charm. Here, guests can take a dip in the lovely outdoor pool or relax in one of the many quaint lounge areas. This is also where the hotel offers its daily free continental breakfast at a colorful tiled bar with charming shaded tables and sofas, as well as its afternoon poolside happy hours (complete with free snacks). Cooked breakfast is offered at an extra cost. Lovely Mexican music plays in the courtyard by day, and strings of bare bulbs make it even more charming at night.

Off the courtyard, and also accessible via the street, is the hip, modern Medregal restaurant, which serves up tasty Mexican fare and creative cocktails in the evening. In addition to the courtyard, there’s a large roof terrace full of lounge furniture, giving guests even more space to relax. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

The only parking is street parking, which can be nearly impossible to find during busy seasons. There’s no spa or fitness center at the hotel.