By Susanna Lo
El Pescador Hotel Puerto Vallarta
The tiny 103 room El Pescador Hotel in Puerto Vallarta is similar to a condo rather than a hotel. It is quaint, not luxurious; the staff's style feels like a visit to a family or friend's house rather than a full-service
resort. The hotel is a short walk to Puerto Vallarta's popular Malecon where the daily
beach activity takes on a life of its own.
Wows and Woes
El Pescador has a "home away from home" feel to it and the rates, as low as $50 a night, are unbeatable.
This is not a fancy place and the service and amenities are pretty basic, so don't expect 24-hour room service or new sheets daily.
Insider Tips
Ask to look at several rooms before just accepting what they give you. The hotel is happy to show you their best first as they know how easy it is for you to walk to the next hotel.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
I visit Mexico regularly to take a break from everyday life and I forget how spoiled I've been by those swim up bars at most Mexican hotels. So I was a bit thrown when no such thing existed at El Pescador. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise; the pool was almost always empty and I brought my own concoction to drink, which saved a lot of money.
Bottom Line
El Pescador is cheap and convenient, in the heart of everything in Puerto Vallarta. It is worth it for the economic traveler.
About the Author:
Susanna Lo is an established writer/director/producer who has won awards in The Berlin and Montreal film festivals and is a member of PEN International. She's written for Paramount on Star Trek: Voyager and Seven Days. Susanna is a dedicated world traveler living in several countries in Europe, Asia and North America.