Wondering which Latin American destination is right for you? We’ve broken down our favorite Latin American destinations below, complete with insider tips from a few of our experienced Villa Specialists.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: Laid-Back Luxury

Puerto Vallarta, situated on the Pacific Ocean's Bay of Banderas, is one of Mexico's most sophisticated destinations. Bordered by golden beaches and lush palm-covered mountains, a Puerto Vallarta villa is the perfect spot to relax and recharge. Enjoy the simple pleasures of sun and sand, or indulge in more decadent treats: world-class spas, high-end restaurants, or boutique shopping. There's no shortage of active pursuits, either: options include swimming with dolphins, horseback riding, or gliding from treetop to treetop on an exhilarating rainforest canopy tour.

Insider Advice: “I wouldn’t recommend renting a car in Puerto Vallarta – you won’t need it! Reserve an airport transfer to your villa, and then take taxis or the local bus while on vacation. And here’s a fun fact: Every night at 10pm in downtown Puerto Vallarta, four different colored fireworks go off (yes, just four!).  You can also hear the ringing of the wonderful old local church bell throughout the day.  And the local food is fabulous – not all spicy if you don’t want it to be!” – Sarah, Villa Specialist

Riviera Maya, Mexico: Vacation Hot Spot

This strip of Caribbean coastline on the Yucatán Peninsula is one of Mexico's most popular vacation destinations for good reason. In addition to heavenly beaches – think powder-soft sand and warm, turquoise water – there are plenty of one-of-a-kind attractions to discover outside of your Riviera Maya villa. Explore Mayan villages and caves, swim by the only archaeological site on the sea, and snorkel along the largest coral reef system in the Northern Hemisphere.

Insider Advice:  Riviera Maya is already one of the most affordable vacation destinations (especially for U.S. travelers), but you can save even more with limited-time villa specials like complimentary nights or chef services. Book sooner rather than later, as early bird specials are also very common.

Punta Mita, Mexico: Exquisitely Exclusive

Drive just 50 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, and you’ll find Punta Mita, a gated resort town tucked away on a small peninsula. Punta Mita villas are perfect for those looking for an exceptionally private getaway, as only guests of area’s 5-star hotels and villa communities are allowed inside. You'll enjoy exclusive access to over 9 miles of blissful beaches, where you can relax in total serenity.

Insider Advice: “In Punta Mita, fishing is a must-do! Punta Mita is well known for its excellent deep-sea fishing, and you are much closer to the prime fishing areas in Punta Mita than you would be in Puerto Vallarta. The best time to fish tuna is December to March, which is also when whales come to Punta Mita to breed.” – Sue, Villa Specialist

Los Cabos, Mexico: Something for Everyone

Located on the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Los Cabos has something to offer every kind of vacationer, making it perfect for large groups or multi-generational getaways. Los Cabos encompasses the area between Cabo San Lucas, a vibrant town known for its nightlife, and San José del Cabo, its quainter, more subdued colonial-style counterpart. Our villas in Los Cabos are located in both towns and along the 20-mile corridor connecting the two, where you'll find beautiful white-sand beaches, championship golf courses, exhilarating water sports, and some of the world's very best fishing. 

Insider Advice: Los Cabos has enough attractions, restaurants, beaches and beauty to keep you more than satisfied – but if you do get the itch to travel outside of the city, you won’t be disappointed. A day trip to the charming village of Todos Santos, about an hour’s drive north, will bring you face to face with Hotel California, rumored to be the inspiration for the Eagle’s hit song.

Costa Rica: An Adventurer’s Playground

Costa Rica, translated to “Rich Coast,” is one of the most bio-diverse places in the world. Among the country's countless attractions are spectacular beaches on the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, active and dormant volcanoes, and stunning tropical forests, like Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Swing through the treetops on a canopy tour, explore rich volcanic landscape, soak in a natural hot spring, and surf at one of the incredible beaches. Or simply relax in your gorgeous Costa Rican villa!

Insider Advice: “Drink coffee! Costa Rica is known for some of the best coffee in the world, so this is the place to really enjoy it. Make sure to try gallo pinto, Costa Rica’s version of beans and rice mixed together with seasonings and sometimes veggies. You will see this served at all meals – even breakfast! And of course: ‘pura vida!’ If you can learn this Costa Rican phrase, don’t forget to use it… whenever you want! Meaning literally ‘the pure life’ or ‘the good life,’ the Ticos use this to say thank you, refer to a happy state of being, or to say anything at all.” – Maya, Villa Product Manager

Belize: Diverse & Divine

Ideally situated between the jungles of Central America and the Caribbean Sea, Belize contains a staggering amount of both cultural and ecological diversity. African, Asian, European, Hispanic, Mayan, and Caribbean cultures can all be found in this stunningly gorgeous country, home to over 500 species of fish and over 570 species of birds. The country’s most well known natural treasure is the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest reef system in the world with over 100 different kinds of coral. Nestled in your Belize villa, surrounded by turquoise-green seas and lush emerald forests, you’ll understand why locals refer to Belize as “the jewel.”

Insider Advice: A visit to Belize wouldn’t be complete without exploring Mayan ruins – archaeologists estimate that there are over 600 significant Mayan sites in Belize with likely hundreds more undiscovered. Of these hundreds, a few of the most major sites include Altun Ha, Lamanai, Xunantunich, Caracol, and Lubaantun. Climb large stone temples, crawl through excavated tombs, and navigate through hidden caves filled with relics of ancient ceremonies.

Are you interested in a luxury vacation rental? Contact us today at 800.289.0900 where a qualified villa expert will help you explore which luxury villa best suits you.