Sweat, Sleep, and Sunshine: Our Extended Airbnb Experience in Puerto Vallarta

Our recent five-week stay in Puerto Vallarta was made extra special by the cozy Airbnb we booked. Located just four blocks from the Malecón, this charming 2-bedroom apartment became our home away from home. We paid $2,774.89 for our stay, and it was worth every penny. From the moment we arrived, we experienced top-notch hospitality from our host, Edgar, who went above and beyond to ensure our comfort.

Edgar was incredibly accommodating from the get-go. Knowing we were traveling with our young son, Wren, he generously offered to buy a pack-n-play for our extended stay. This gesture alone made a huge difference in our experience. Upon our early arrival, Edgar was flexible and allowed us to check in ahead of schedule. He even left some water in the refrigerator for us, which was a thoughtful touch after a long journey.

The apartment itself was perfect for our needs. Wren had his own room, which was a blessing, and the air conditioning units in each room were powerful and reliable, ensuring we slept comfortably every night. The bed was another highlight – a medium-firm mattress with wonderful pillows. As someone who often worries about sleeping arrangements while traveling, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the bed.

Having a washer and dryer in the unit was a game-changer for us, especially with a toddler. It made our stay much more convenient, as we could do laundry whenever needed. The kitchen was well-stocked with plenty of dishes, pots, and pans, even though we didn’t cook much. Knowing we had the option to prepare meals if we wanted to was reassuring.

The apartment’s location was both a pro and a con. Being so close to the Malecón meant we were within walking distance of many attractions, restaurants, and shops. However, getting back to the Airbnb after a day out posed a bit of a challenge, especially with a stroller. The hill leading up to the apartment was quite steep. There is a shortcut involving about 100 stairs, which I took a few times without Wren. Despite having a bum knee, it was manageable and gave me a good cardio workout.

We only took the hill up a couple of times. Instead, we would walk down and explore the surrounding neighborhoods (Zone Romantica, 5 De Dicembre, Centro) and then Uber home. The Uber was never more than $5, which was very convenient.

One of the highlights of our stay was feeling like locals. We immersed ourselves in the neighborhood, frequenting local markets, and enjoying the vibrant street life. Edgar checked in on us regularly, ensuring everything was going smoothly. His attentiveness made us feel well taken care of throughout our stay.

During our five-week stay, we created countless memories. We loved exploring the Malecón, with its lively atmosphere and stunning ocean views. Every evening, we’d take a leisurely stroll, soaking in the sights and sounds of Puerto Vallarta. Wren enjoyed walking the streets and watching street performers (one time we saw a Parkour competition). We also took advantage of the local markets, where we found fresh produce and unique souvenirs to bring back home.

Our stay at this cozy Airbnb was nothing short of wonderful. Edgar’s hospitality, the comfortable and well-equipped apartment, and the vibrant neighborhood made our time in Puerto Vallarta truly memorable. While the hill was a bit of a challenge, it didn’t overshadow the overall positive experience we had. If you’re planning an extended stay, or even a short one, in Puerto Vallarta and want a place that feels like home, this Airbnb is an excellent choice.