Riu Vallarta

Came with another couple last year before the renos and again this year. Honesty liked the pool area better before as they took out the fountains and many of the trees. Apparently with the renos, they also now have less staff. Less waiters at the pool only bar carts that come around. The rooms are ok but things were not done well so for example, towel racks are all on the floor. It's almost impossible to get them to replace the coffee in the room. On the plus side, the steakhouse was incredible. The food is always very good and still is. I will say that if you are looking for premium class, spend the extra money and stay at the Palace instead. That's what we'll be doing as this is more lower end. The music at night is mostly good but since it's now in the courtyard right below the rooms, you better like loud as that's what you'll get. And they took out all but 1 shop which is pretty pricey. Pretty much disappointed this year.

Just returned from a girls trip and we absolutely loved it here. I was here pre renovation a few years ago and I can say loved all the changes. There was a mix up with the rooms we had booked and I had no issue explaining to front desk and they were able to move us immediately. The food here is amazing. I’m a picky eater and had no problem finding something to eat in the buffet or the specialty restaurants. We tried the Steakhouse first and it was just ok. Next the Asian. The food was very good. It is buffet style but lots of variety. Our final night we went to the Italian..Amazing! They have an anti pasta buffet which is way more than that. The main course were all very good. I think 7 of us managed to have at least one of the choices and no complaints. If you want a coffee, cappuccino or espresso in the morning go to the Sports Bar. I agree they need more bathrooms by the pool as there is always a line up but we found one by the beach that seems to be a well kept secret. Now for the beach..lots of loungers, just can’t move them past an imaginary line towards the water. Security will come and make you move them back. Very annoying. We walked to Bucerias one morning, took 45 min by street and an hour by beach back. Although we had a great time I won’t be returning. After 2 visits it’s time to check out the other resorts in the area as it’s that and the people that bring us back.

We went back to this hotel for many reasons. Great beach wonderful staff and very good food and selection. We have met many people over the past years and they also keep coming back. It's like a reunion! I was concerned about the remodel that they were going to do. Again the RIU did not disappoint. It is beautiful, all the new pools the new lobby etc. No more fighting to be the first to get a lounge chair, more than enough for everyone and they were full to capacity! I guess the only thing I missed was the location of the steak house. It is no longer on the beach so I really miss the beautiful sunsets. They have done a wonderful job! Until next year... take care and see you again soon!