Thanksgiving in Puerto Vallarta
This was a great, relaxing trip. You can stay at the hotel and chill or take time to experience more of PV.
CasaMagna Marriott hotel was better than expected. Some slight issues with the room reservation when I arrived (three of us had an issue with this at check-in) but the staff was friendly and helpful when I suggested what they needed to do.
The grounds are very well kept and it is one of the best maintained hotels I've been to in Mexico. The restaurants are very good, but the service is casual. If you can't wait 30 minutes for your food, you'll need to let them know. We had delays with every meal at the hotel, but the food was always good.
Vista Grill should not be missed. It's a tricky cab ride, but only about 600-800 pesos from the hotel. The streets are so steep near the restaurant you wonder if the car will actually make it up the hill. Go for sunset, as the view is amazing. You overlook most of PV and the bay with the pirate ship. The food is outstanding, but expect to pay well for it.
Skip the shopping in stores (unless you're looking for silver) and check out the flea markets. Try the open air market along the river, as it is more festive and fun (and not permeated with the smell of the restaurants). The tequila stores are fun; they'll give you shots to sample to help you decide.
The Zoo is a lively place to drink and dance. Don't pass up the chance to dance in a cage. Girls, grab some drink coupons on the street before you go in and you can get some free margaritas. The music ranged from bad 80's to good 80's. A few current club hits thrown in. The waiters are obsessed about keeping drinks on the coasters. Expect to get frisked coming in to the club later in the night.
The people of Puerto Vallarta were incredibly friendly.