Our stay at Casa Colibri was overall wonderful. The villa itself is beautifully decorated, full of amenities, and boosts a fantastic view of Bandaras Bay. The House Manager, Abe, was very attentive and always helpful. It's worth noting that the sitting area and kitchenette are on the patio (literally open-air). Our room was cleaned weekly with fresh linens and supplies provided when requested. Communication with the owner and house manager was good. They keep us informed and answered all questions. However, there are two things I feel the property description on VRBO should have included.
Puerto Vallarta and especially the Romantic Zone is located in the hills. There is always lots of walking and inclines to be expected when in PV. However, Casa Colibri is located up a VERY VERY steep hill. You then have to climb a set of stairs to enter the villa's main gate. Once inside, RUFO is on the top floor so more stairs! There is no alternate route to the villa....the steep hill and stairs are unavoidable. Forget about wearing cute sandals or any sort of heel if you're going out. Tennis shoes or athletic sandals are absolutely a requirement. Or, you may need to take a taxi. We've visited PV many times and walk everywhere. I know the cobblestone streets are tough stuff and the sidewalks in PV are not ideal so I pack accordingly. I simply feel the location of the villa should be mentioned in the property description so guests are not caught off guard when they arrive. Also, some potential guests may not be physically able to handle the incline or stairs so it needs to be pointed out.
Secondly, the sounds of PV always include crowing roosters and barking dogs. BUT...there are 2 dogs chained to a fence at the base of the condo building. They bark and cry literally all day and night. Their barks echo around the villa's courtyard area making it impossible to sleep. After our first night there, we mentioned this to the house manger and were given earplugs. Hmmmm.....don't really want to be forced to sleep with earplugs on my vacation.
The two issues above were significant enough that I needed to mention them in my review so that potential guests can make an informed decision. When booking this property and still to date, there are no reviews for me to rely on. I do realize the property owners can't change the villas location or quite dogs they don't own so it seems these things are permanent characteristics.
