Air Transat : All Inclusive Deal : Las Palmas Dec 18th - 26th YVR to PVR

I love writing about airlines services together with all inclusive deals. I find most airlines today are wonderful. Case in point my last trip to Puerto Vallarta. I was due to leave Vancouver International Airport on Dec 18th, 2010. I was a a lonely traveller because my wife felt ill at the last minute. Doctor convinced her that is was in her best interest not to fly with a plugged up sinus cavity and ears. Good call. It would have taken a toll on my wife. Nonetheless, I was at the airport waiting for my flight. It was an hour or so before the boarding time that I heard my name broadcasted on the pa system. An important message. I walked up to the desk kiosk and was informed that I was upgraded to their first class service. I have to admit I have never had this happen to me before. Sure, I have bought first class tickets, but being upgraded free of charge was a nice surprise.

I boarded the flight. Everything was on time. We left YVR and started to climb to cruising altitude. The on board service was wonderful. I couldn't have had a better flight. The staff was kind and considerate. Means were provided with a smile. The drinks were also sublime.

I noticed on their onboard magazine the idea that they were one of the many airlines who were happy to introduce their two inch extension policy for their seating arrangement on all aircraft. I was happy with the leg room and ample space between passengers. The plane inside was clean and free from garbage from the previous flight. However, I did notice that that even though our flight was a late departure out of YVR, they left all the main lights on. I was kinda hoping for the cabin to become dim after meals and such. Nonetheless, I was given free a set of comfort eye shades, a free club blanket that I could keep and headphones to listen to movies to. This made up for the lights. I assume that most of the crew was working hard attending passengers needs. That is okay.

I landed in Puerto Vallarta near midnight. The bags arrived. There was no reason to worry. The representatives for all our different hotel packages were there. They helped us all by getting into the right bus to different resorts. Most of the Mexican bus drivers knew a bit of english and were also very polite. It looked like they were all making an effort making sure we got to our destinations. We waited for all those going through customs. The busses departed. We were on our way. Each bus had a destination. It wasn't one of those deals were it stopped at each and every resort along the way. It was a direct drive to the hotel.

At our stop, Las Palmas, the bags were offloaded and we all went through the check in counter at the hotel. It was well after midnight. I checked in. There was no trouble at all. I was escorted to my room. Number 301A. I think that was the room. I was introduced to my bell boy, Antonio. nice enough gent. The room pleasant. There was two sandwiches waiting for me and two bottles of water. I didn't expect that. Antonio took off and the room was silent. I opened the deck sliding doors. The view was pleasant enough. Next to my room was one of the pools, the bar and finally the restaurant. I took a shower and got ready for bed. The bed was comfortable.

I woke up the next morning. The sound of the waves woke me up. I felt refreshed. Took another shower. Then decided to hit the breakfast buffet. It started around seven am. I was a bit early. Nonetheless, I was welcomed with a warm smile and coffee was served on the table. I was asked if I wanted an orange juice. After, I looked over the buffet, I decided to go with the scrambled eggs. The chef was pleasant enough to take my order as I went off and got some fresh fruit. The buffet was wonderful. Every morning there was combination of Mexican and Americanized food plates. They were warm, very clean and everything I tasted was great. I never got sick once.

Las Palmas, is a great resort to stay at. The people were very friendly and always willing to help you out. I took a tour which was one of the best things I did there. I found it very entertaining plus it was a great way to meet people from around the world. The food was delicious. They served different choices of food for every palate at their two restaurants. Drinks were included in the all inclusive package. They were served cold. Not shy of liquor. If you asked for a double, you got one. The beach was small, but very clean. The entertainment was a true delight. Every night there was a new show. You could feel the Mexican atmosphere in the air. A wonderful place to stay. I truly recommend Las Palmas in Puerto Vallarta. It's a 3.5 start resort. Still, it deserves a few more stars. I felt at home and never wanted to leave.

I think Air Transat spoiled me on this excursion. The flight back was wonderful. Great service along the way. On time performance. Great onboard flight crew. Did I get what I paid for. Yes, I give Air Transat 4.5 out of 5 for their all inclusive package deal that cost me around $850 with taxes and all. I couldn't have asked for a better trip. However, I wished my wife came along. There's alway's next time.

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