Save about 70 percent off typical rates year-round at the luxurious all-inclusive Grand Velas resort in Mexico's newest travel destination, Riviera Nayarit.
The Real Deal: Four nights' accommodations, meals, a pair of one-day passes to a spa, three shows, tips, and tax starting at $929 per person.
When: Through Dec. 18, 2008.
The fine print: Airfare and airport transfers are not included. Based on double occupancy. Meals are included but booze is not. The passes to the Spa do not include certain treatments and guests are advised to consult the hotel upon arrival to make arrangements for their appointments. Rates are higher on peak season dates and for last-minute bookings. Read these guidelines before you book any Real Deal.
Book by: Dec. 18, 2008. Based on availability.
Contact: Funjet Vacations, 888/558-6654, funjet.com.
Why it's a deal: In comparison, comparable spa vacation packages for sale on the Grand Velas resort Web site recently cost $3,560 per person for a four-night stay, based on double occupancy. Consider that for around $930 per person for a four-night stay, Funjet Vacations supplies accommodations, all meals, spa visits, activities, and tax.
Trip details: Think you know the Mexican Riviera? Well, did you know that the Grand Velas All Suites Resort is in Mexico's newest region — Riviera Nayarit? In the spirit of our Scouting Report 2007, a feature highlighting little-known places, we wanted to let you know about this package that allows you to visit Riviera Nayarit, a new tourist district created by Mexican officials this year and stretching along 100 miles of Pacific coast. The region features great surfing and golf courses. It also hosts rare native wildlife including sea turtles and tropical birds. Local markets are home to artisans who sell traditional Huichol handicrafts. Of course, there are miles of peaceful beaches, too.
The Funjet Vacations' spa package includes four night accommodations at the Grand Velas All Suites Resort, an award-winning luxury hotel that is in Nuevo Vallarta, a district of Riviera Nayarit to the north of renowned Puerto Vallarta. You'll stay in a 1,000-square-foot suite that will include a private terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The package also includes an all-inclusive meal plan and one day passes per person, per stay, at the resort's spa. Also included is access to three theme shows at the resort's amphitheatre and non-motorized water sports. Plus, you can take part in outdoor activities, such as tennis.
Getting there: International airfare is not included. The lowest round-trip fares we've found on Kayak for this itinerary in mid-October (flying to Puerto Vallarta) are $305 from Las Vegas (Aeromexico), $375 from Denver (multiple airlines), $405 from Chicago (multiple airlines), $490 for Atlanta (Delta), and $497 from Boston (multiple airlines).
For more advice, visit the official tourism Web site of Riviera Nayarit. And check before you leave to get the weather forecast, the local time, and the exchange rate.
This story was accurate when it was published. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.