Ten year reunion for my impending 60th birthday. Family and friends from east to west coast US converged on Casa Quetzal, and it was even better than last time.
Beautiful property, on the top of Conchas Chinas, stunning views over all Banderas Bay. Beautiful all day long every day.
The house is big, classic Mexican hacienda style gracious villa. Wide open living areas that open to roof tops, tree tops and bay. Brick boveda ceilings that make dining broad and grand. Tile floors, wooden shutters... classic gracious home.
The only thing better than the villa is the staff. Smart friendly talented people, there to make your trip as comfortable and pleasant as possible. My mother talked for the last ten years about coming back, and when we planned this reunion she wondered "do you think they'll still bring margaritas and guacamole in the afternoon at the pool?" Turns out they still do. And take wonderful care of you at all other times too.
Gloria the housekeeper is friendly and welcoming. She manages to keep the large villa perfectly clean without interrupting anyone.
Claudio, the master of the house, watches over everyone and makes sure all goes smoothly. He's also a masterful server for amazing meals. It's hard to serve that many people at a big dinner that well and that quickly and keep up with everyone's needs. He makes it seem effortless. He did an amazing job and let us relax and have a great experience, night after night.
And then the chef, Jorge. WOW. Great welcoming dinner the first night, with arranged leftovers for late arrivals perfectly plated and ready to go.
We had a big birthday dinner and wanted something not on the menu. "Could we get filet mignon and lobster tails?" "Sure no problem". Perfectly done.
Breakfasts for varied group, including adult vegetarian, finicky teenager vegetarian, adult gluten free...
One night we asked for simple taco dinner. Jorge said "sure and for desert what about simple chocolate mousse?" Tacos so good we had them three more nights in a row (varied every night). And the "simple" chocolate mousse you could post on instagram
I could go on and on. One shout out to "La Jefe" Gabriella, the house manager who leads the house. She helps set up your trip and make sure things are ready to go well. Available for problems too, reassuring. She makes it all work
We wanted a repeat rich memorable family experience. We got even better than we hoped