The three escapes we visited in the Jalisco region serve up a menu of diverse offerings, and you can season your vacation to suit your own particular palate. Our experience along a relatively short stretch of this coastline ran the gamut from pampering by the pool, to shooting pool with the locals.

Here's a quick sketch of the choices we recommend; for details on each of these eco-resorts, check our full property reports in the Fall 1998 Hideaways Newsletter.

Soothing and sybaritic

From the moment we arrived at The Careyes, Pam and I were the objects of the staff's considerable attention. Pool attendants promptly topped off our half-empty glasses. Yolanda, the masseuse, eased every bit of tension from our work-weary bodies in the resort's expansive spa. If you're looking for a place to lose the cares of the world, settle into one of the 51 rooms and suites (some with private pool) for a week of pampering and indolence. If by chance you tire of being indulged, you can leave this secluded, island-like retreat for tours of the tropical forests, snorkeling in nearby Paradise Bay, polo matches (December to April), or even a round of golf at sister resort, The Tamarindo.

Sun 'n' fun

For a spot where you can alternate relaxing and playing, choose The Tamarindo, with its 18-hole golf course and tennis courts, nearby sport fishing, and water sports—snorkeling and scuba, sailing and kayaking. The Tamarindo's 14 open-air villas with private serpentine pools are perfect for the relaxing component of your getaway. You can forget about renting a car when you stay at either The Careyes or The Tamarindo; the resorts will arrange transportation from Puerto Vallarta or Manzanillo and for off-premise activities.

100% natural

For the most authentic taste of Jalisco, stay at Hotelito Desconocido and rent a Jeep to explore the region's natural beauty (and bumpy back roads). At Hotelito, the sights and sounds of nature in the rough harmonize with an atmosphere that is deliberately simple and truly Mexican, without compromising creature comforts.

Spring/Summer 1999