Let me start by saying that I've hesitated to send this review because it will likely impact this property's nearly perfect reputation. With that said, as a regular VRBO user who relies on the comments posted by other reviewers, I think it's important to be honest about my recent stay. My comments are also prompted by another reviewer from 2018 who had similar issues with the unit, which leads me to believe that even though the owners have been made aware of the problems present, they've been ignored.
I chose this place based on its location, size, amenities, and description in the listing. Booking was easy and Steve was always responsive in his communications. By far, the best thing about our Christmas vacation was the resort of Velas Vallarta! The staff and amenities are exceptional, and my family always felt safe, attended to, and accommodated in every way. Not only were the grounds immaculate and gorgeous, but the pools, restaurants, shops, entertainment, and activities were impressive. Always gracious, the staff went out of their way to greet and serve their guests. If the condo would have been as impressive as the resort itself, it would have been a perfect vacation. On to the condo itself...
On first glance, it is exactly as portrayed in the pictures and is colorful, spacious, and has a fun, local flair to its decor. It doesn't take long, however, to discover that it's been neglected for months, if not years. I can mostly overlook slightly stained furniture and outdated bedding, but when it comes to cleanliness and safety, I have to speak up. If I had thought these issues could have quickly and easily been remedied by the hotel staff, I would have asked. Unfortunately, the problems were well beyond what could have been fixed during our stay. Screen doors were off track, drapes were torn and thread bear, kitchen cabinets, drawers and towels were dirty (some with dried on food), the patio doors don't lock, some of the dresser drawers were broken, the closets were stuffed with other people's belongings, dirty clothes had been left in bathroom cabinets and bedside tables, and the showers were constantly clogging. By far though, and most bothersome, was the sewer smell that emanated from the master bathroom to the rest of the condo and forced us to keep the windows open. With all of that said, I encourage the owners to do some much needed deep cleaning and maintenance on their unit; it really could be a fantastic property.