There are many reasons for Puerto Vallarta’s unquestioned standing as a peerless escape on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. From a bounty of gorgeous beaches to charming cobblestoned avenues, “PV” is an alluring oasis that boasts a pulsating nightlife scene as well, not to mention a superb culinary landscape bolstered by an endless array of fresh seafood.
Groups seeking to mix business with pleasure will find holding an event in Puerto Vallarta more appealing than ever. The new International Convention Center is just minutes from the airport, with a solid array of meetings-friendly properties ranging from affordable to four-star and higher. Group outings can run the gamut from top-notch snorkeling at the Marietas Islands to popular Art Walks showcasing the colorful creations of the city’s countless talented artists.
When you add up the culture, cuisine and convention-friendly offerings, it’s no wonder that “The World’s Friendliest City” has emerged as a regular magnet for meetings on the Mexican Coast.
case study
Jeanie Seehof
Principal
Docherty Incentives & Meetings
Minneapolis
Event Overview: Seehof planned three incentive programs with 130, 250 and 280 guests, all of which were held at the Marriott Casa Magna in the Marina Vallarta area of Puerto Vallarta.
Meetings Focus West: What are the selling points that make Puerto Vallarta an ideal place to gather?
Jeanie Seehof: Puerto Vallarta offers consistently sunny weather, an ample variety of activities, beautiful beaches and great gastronomy. They have a large variety of restaurants that offer top-notch service and food, including the award-winning Cafe des Artistes, and the very casual restaurant, Pipi’s, which is a favorite with tourists and locals alike.
Did you have any major concerns or misconceptions about Puerto Vallarta or holding an event there, and were they dispelled once it came together?
None. The Malecon (walkway through downtown) has recently been redone and is a must for travelers to Puerto Vallarta. As you walk along the Malecon there are views of the ocean, amazing sand sculptures, shops, restaurants and bars. Something for everyone. It feels very safe and we have never had any safety issues with our groups in Puerto Vallarta.
Did you find the customs process efficient (including the process for bringing materials, etc., into and out of Mexico)?
We have never had any trouble with customs for any guests entering or exiting Puerto Vallarta.
Did you work with a specific company or agency to streamline the process?
When shipping items to Mexico, I highly recommend using a customs broker. A broker will assist with the best way to fill out each pro forma invoice based on logo and non logo items and what the final use will be for these items in Mexico (give-aways, gifts, awards, etc). It also gives the planner assurance that the items will be received in a timely manner.
What unique off-site venues did you use for events or meetings?
On one program, we sailed round-trip to Las Caletas Island for a private show followed by dinner. And for dine-around evenings, the restaurants we used were La Palapa, Vista Grill, Trio, Cafe des Artistes and Tikul.
What local suppliers (DMCs, transportation companies, catering companies, etc.) did you utilize?
The best person in Puerto Vallarta to work with is Lindsay Cullen (a Canadian). When we worked with her on these three programs, she worked for IVI but now that she is with AmStar DMC, we are utilizing them. Lindsay and Leo (operations) are a fabulous team whom I trust implicitly. You can’t have a bad program when working with them. I HIGHLY recommend them.
What advice would you give other planners bringing groups to PV?
This is a fabulous destination with near-perfect weather, amazing restaurants and a wonderful variety of activities. The downtown area still offers that feel of “Old Mexico” and does not feel as commercialized as some parts of Mexico. It retains its charm yet offers all of the modern amenities one would expect. The service levels are five-star, and best of all, the hospitality is sincere. It is a win-win situation.
At a Glance
- Total Number of Hotels: 100-plus
- Total Number of Hotel Rooms: 18,150
- Largest Meetings Facility: International Convention Center of Puerto Vallarta
- Maximum Group Size: 7,000
- Average Room Rate: $160 USD
- Taxes: 16% sales; 2% lodging
- Value Season: July to September
- Top Off-Site Venues: El Malecon (waterfront plaza); Thirty-plus art galleries
- Top Off-Session Group Activities: Art walks; canopy tours of nearby forests; swim with the dolphins adventures
- Getting There: Puerto Vallarta/Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport
For more information
Guillermo Ohem, Director Administrativo de FIDETUR
Zona Comercial, Hotel Canto del Sol
Local 18, Planta Baja Zona Hotelera Las Glorias
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
C.P. 48310 México
Tel: 888.384.6822