With my in-laws in town, a town we have all traveled to many times in the past, I was looking for unique activities to charm them with. I found this charm at Hacienda Escondido ~ a B&B Haven in old town. I think they all thought me a bit daft. Why, exactly, did I want to drag them to some bed and breakfast? I assured them they would enjoy what they found beyond that 30-foot fence in a not so touristy area of Old Town Puerto Vallarta. The dubious looks continued as we pulled up to the address. No signs of life were in evidence on the street. No restaurants. No cars driving by. No other travelers. My mother in law looked concerned. However, we then approached the immense wooden doors, taking note of the beautiful murals on the wall. As the doors swung open, we all inhaled in delight at the absolutely mesmerizing gardens within.   In three short years, Scott has transformed a neglected property into an absolute showplace. The gardens alone are enough to bring me here again. Lush, tropical landscapes brimming with floral and fauna. The recently finished treehouse towers over the yard, offering spectacular views of the surrounding neighborhood, a fantastic site to capture the sunset. The grounds include a pool and lounge area, but the real charm lies in the suites themselves. We were first shown the very large 2-bedroom suite. A grand kitchen/ living room/ dining room was flanked on either side by spacious bedrooms, each with their own bath. Next up, the 1-bedroom and studio rooms. All rooms were generously large. All featured lush bedding and quality linens, artfully decorated without being over the top. The colors spoke of Mexico and were both soothing and vibrant at the same time, and all offered up a kitchenette. We toured the rooms, chatting with Scott about the project, and reluctantly left him to his evening to head to dinner. In the end, we were all totally enthusiastic about the property. My in-laws, no longer of the age to just bum about the beach all day, fell head over heels in love with the serenity. Even Jim & I, total beach fiends, could see ourselves spending time in the lush surroundings. Scott’s prices are extremely reasonable compared to the many hotels of the city, and when you consider breakfast is also included you just can’t go wrong. Next time you’re thinking of a trip to Puerto Vallarta, consider the Hacienda Escondido, surely one of the most desirable spots to call home for a bit! Hacienda Escondido- Calle Lázaro Cárdenas #567, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta – 044 322 120 8611