Finding Balance and Bliss in Mexico
By Micaela Riley
The W Hotel Punta de Mita is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway, balancing relaxation, wellness, and indulgence. Upon arriving at the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, I was greeted by the hotel’s incredibly welcoming transportation staff with a fresh towel and ice-cold bottled water.
After a 45-minute car ride through the city, we were welcomed to the property with a refreshing, non-alcoholic pomegranate mocktail and escorted to our Ocean Front Suite via golf cart. We were in awe of the luscious, green, jungle-like environment of the property. I could feel my stress melting away, surrounded by all of the natural beauty and sounds.
Our room was a tucked-away bungalow, resting on the edge of the property overlooking the beach. The interior design was bright, bold, and clean.. In a world of beige and minimalist aesthetics, I absolutely loved the resort’s use of color and texture—from the turquoise tile floors to the metallic silver headboard to the multi-colored straw hanging chair in the room. Floor-to-ceiling windows opened up to a private deck with lounge chairs, a plunge pool, and whirlpool.
At 8am the following morning, the wellness experience began with yoga on the wet deck overlooking the pool. The warmth of the sun combined with the flow of the class made for the perfect start to the day. Breakfast was served after the class at the lovely indoor-outdoor Venazú Restaurant. My diet largely focuses on high-protein, gluten-free foods, so by the end of the trip, I was a regular at the restaurant’s gourmet, custom omelette bar. Everything at the buffet was also labeled with allergen and ingredient details, perfect for the wellness-oriented traveler. One of my favorite parts of the trip was being able to stick to my daily routine while on vacation—a rarity. I loved taking my daily cortisol walks throughout the property with my whole milk, honey latte in hand.
The amenities didn’t disappoint either. The gym also included all of my typical weights, bands, machines, and workout equipment. I’m often disappointed by hotel gyms, but was pleasantly surprised by the attention to detail at this one. I was able to unwind after my workout with a deep tissue massage and gel mani-pedi at the Away Spa right next door. One of my favorite activities throughout the trip was tanning and swimming at the scenic main pool, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. We never struggled to find a daybed or lounge chair, even during peak times, and the service was incredible. The GF carne asada nachos and street tacos were some of the best I’ve ever had.
As someone who prioritizes health, routine, and balance in my everyday life—even on a holiday—the W Hotel Punta de Mita was perfect for me. With picturesque backgrounds during every workout, meal, and activity, it was a rejuvenating trip I most definitely needed.
