ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: As we climbed the coastal road, I kept trying to capture the cool-blue waters of Puerto Vallarta through the car window, though photos never quite match the view. We turned a corner framed by stone walls and lush foliage, and suddenly we were pulling into the secluded entrance of Hotel Mousai. I let out an audible gasp. The all-glass, modern entryway felt grand and private, and it revealed a dramatic lobby with floor-to-ceiling windows opening to the sparkling ocean beyond.
I was offered a fresh green juice at check-in, which I accepted before wandering through the lobby past oversized chess pieces toward the concierge desk. The wall of windows bathing the space in light drew my attention, and a butler noticed. He suggested I leave my bags with the concierge so he could continue checking me in while giving me an impromptu tour of the views, pools and beachfront from the lobby vantage point. A few minutes later he escorted me to the elevator and up to my Mousai Corner Suite for a quick walk-through and a tutorial on the in-room iPad system that controls lights, music, blackout drapes, room service and more.
PHOTO: © HOTEL MOUSAI
GUEST QUARTERS: My reaction to the suite was immediate and genuine: “Oh, my God, no way!” My butler chuckled as he showed me around. The suite opens into a cozy seating area and a stocked refrigerator before you reach the king-sized bed, positioned to face the first set of sliding doors leading to the balcony. The balcony wraps around the suite and includes a hammock, a comfortable seating area and a private Jacuzzi.
Through a second set of sliding doors is the bathroom, thoughtfully appointed with a fainting chair, dual vanities, a dedicated dressing vanity, a spacious wardrobe with a safe and plush robes, a walk-in rain shower and a smart Toto bidet toilet. The bathroom’s layout provides two entrances for convenience. At more than 1,300 square feet, the suite flows naturally from one space to another, allowing easy movement indoors and out without crowding.
SERVICES/AMENITIES: My corner suite came with an all-inclusive package that offered more activities and services than I could fit into my stay. Options included spa rain showers, early-morning kayaking excursions, and a full schedule of yoga and group fitness classes. I did manage to visit the gym, which features state-of-the-art equipment and panoramic views of both land and sea.
The all-inclusive rate covered on-site dining, beverages, pools and access to Bahía de Banderas beach, plus WiFi. An expert butler was part of the package and handled small but welcome touches like delivering sunscreen to my room. Often when I wasn’t in the suite, the butler located me on the rooftop by the infinity pool, where I spent most of my free time enjoying the sun and the view.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
- Hands down the most comfortable bed I’ve ever slept in.
- The in-room minibar is larger than expected—a medium-sized refrigerator stocked with included beverages and snacks for all-inclusive guests, replenished daily.
- Service is outstanding. Every staff member I encountered was friendly, attentive and highly efficient.
- Breakfast at The Terrace is worth scheduling—the bright, open-air atmosphere feels like a greenhouse and the menu offers varied, satisfying choices.
- The rooftop infinity pool is popular; arrive early or reserve a spot to secure seating.
HOTEL MOUSAI
Carretera a Barra de Navidad Km. 7.5
Puerto Vallarta, JAL 48390
Mexico
tel 523 22176 0738
hotelmousai.com