Ok - so I really HAVE read posts on fodors, tripadvisor and have a ton of print outs next to me so don't get too annoyed with me. Seems like there are a lot of good reviews of places to stay, but if you could really help me pin down some that would be great. Details: It would be my boyfriend and myself, 30 yrs old, like nightlife, but not clubbing nightlife (just be able to get out and have a couple drinks..maybe some dancing), beach/pool, shopping/dining within walking distance and the opportunity to do some side trips as we can't sit at the beach/pool day in and day out. Price range - not on a major budget, but nothing really over the top. Suggestions please!?

The Tropicana or Playa Los Arcos would be my 1st picks because of their location on the beach (Playa Los Muertos) in "zona romantica" which is my favorite part of town by far.

I'm not sure what you consider "over the top" but I would definitely consider Quinta Maria Cortez, if that's in your budget. Special hidden gem of a place.

If you are willing to be near but not actually ON the beach, that opens up many more choices.

In the Hotel Zone I would suggest Buenaventura. Mostly because most places any further away (i.e., The Marina) I do not consider "walking distance".

I would recommend the Sheraton only because I have stayed there so many times and always go back. It is a good location you can walk into town although I would consider it a nice walk. On the way you would get a chance to see the real Mexico because you would be mingling with Mexican families and also people from other places. So much fun

Try auctin websites like luxurylink.com and skyauctions for a great deal on a hotel. I would recommend Camino Real and La Jolla de Mismaloya, excellent elegant hotels but are not in downtown, but is probably 5-10 minute cab ride.

Nobody knows PV better than Suze. I've been going there since 1982 but in the more recent times she is much more knowledgeable than I as I only pass through now staying just a few days. The Playa Los Muertos area is defiantly the Best for what you are looking for IMO which is where Suze is sending you.

I would strongly recommend Casa Isabel, it is in the old part of PV and about a 10 minute walk to the beach, the view especially the sunset is unbelieveable, rooms are spotless and beautiful. Take a look on the internet. The owners are the best and treat you like family.

Location is a bit tricky as you walk up a cobblestone road but nothing serious and cabs are very inexpensive.

Camino Real is no more, it's not a Dreams resort.

oops/typo... it is now a Dreams resort.

Also read reviews on Mismaloya before considering that suggestion, there's been questions at that hotel of some serious health issues lately.

I need to know more details from Suze about hotel Mismaloya. What serious health problems did you hear about?? We are planning a wedding and I would love to know this info before booking.

Hop on over to Trip Advisor, the forum section for Puerto Vallarta (not the hotel review section). There are several threads you can find using 'search' and La Jolla de Mismaloya. Maybe check the reviews section also.