Now and again we feature a region where you'll find villas; this time, it's Mexico's legendary Puerto Vallarta.

Nestled on the western coast of Mexico, on the ruggedly beautiful Bay of Banderas, Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico's oldest vacation spots. Once a quiet fishing village known primarily by an exclusive "in crowd" that favored fully staffed villas, the area gained international fame when Night of the Iguana was filmed in nearby Mismaloya. In the 30 years since, PV has grown (some even say "overgrown") into a world-class vacation spot, with fantastic water sports, tennis courts, golf courses, health clubs, hotels, and marina.

Rent one of PV's many villas if you want to hide out and still sample the flavor of PV's yesteryear. Hideaways Guide showcases several luxurious villas, from tropical, hillside homes to grand, oceanfront estates. Villas are both staffed and unstaffed, and sleep up to 20 guests. Select the home that suits your taste and enjoy the best of both worlds: easy access to the beaches, dining, shopping, and nightlife that have made PV a modern must-do . . . and the beauty and seclusion that made it the elite escape of years past.

Spring 1999