Where? On the Mexican Riviera, between the towns of Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo. Isn't that stretch of coastline terribly touristy? True, but Las Alamandas is a far cry from the over-developed Acapulco scene. Set on a sprawling estate and fronting a pristine beach it occupies virtually the only stretch of coast that looks like it did when the Aztecs arrived. So no takeaway taco joints or wandering mariachi players? Absolutely not. Created by Isabel Goldsmith, daughter of Sir Jimmy, the resort comprises a small collection of differently decorated bungalows, each featuring a jewel-bright colour scheme, oversized bathroom trailing greenery and Mexican furniture and furnishings. Brad 'n' Jen are fans, right? In addition to Robert De Niro, Sting, Nicolas Cage, Courtney Love, Francis Ford Coppola, Robin Williams, Sean Penn and Sandra Bullock. Must be pretty special to attract so many A-listers? Decor apart, the best thing about staying at Las Alamandas is the total lack of agenda. For example, menus are non-existent; instead, guests set the culinary pace. Breakfast in the afternoon no big deal, then? With a staff-guest ratio of 15-1, catering for client peccadilloes is all in a day's work. What's the food like? Organically produced ingredients, grown on the estate, are used to create both European and Mexican dishes. Apart from lazing on the private beach what else is there to do? Those on a fitness drive can tone their bods in the 20-metre pool, gym or on the tennis courts; and riding, boogie-boarding, snorkelling, fishing and mountain biking can also be arranged. Anything else we should know? Loved-up couples should request Casa San Antonio, which has a vast four-poster bed, private roof terrace and outdoor jacuzzi. Full board: Junior suite US$520-$610 (HK$4,050-$4,750); Casa San Antonio US$740-$860; Presidential suite US$860-$1,520 (rates vary according to season). Las Alamandas, PO Box 201, San Patricio Melaque, CP 48980, Mexico: Tel: [52] 322 285 5500; www.alamandas.com
