We stayed with Pepe from 11/15 - 11/22 and couldn't have enjoyed ourselves more.

Upon arrival at Pepe's you will start looking around for Ricardo Montalban and Herve Villachez because you'll think you're on Fantasy Island. Lucky for you, you aren't - you're at Pepe's Hideaway, and you're about to indulge in the time of your life.

When the taxi brings you to entrance of Pepe's you'll be taken aback at the lush tropical surroundings, the warm, inviting dining area, and the sound of the surf that already tempts you toward the pool that looks out over the ocean. Just as you're starting to absorb the fact that you're literally in paradise, you're greeted by the 'spoiling staff'. With the cocktail of your choice in hand and a friendly greeting from Speedy, you're on your way to your casita.

The 'spoiling staff' are truly just that - there to spoil you rotton. Speedy and his crew really make you feel as though your merest wish is their delight to fulfill. I can't tell you how much the staff will add to your visit.

You begin your day awaking to the sound of the ocean crashing on the rocks below your cliff-side casita. The sun streaming across your deck tempts you to step out and take a delicious breath of fresh air, and that's when you notice the spoiling staff has already gone to work for the day. There is a tray filled with coffee, mugs, cream and sugar awaiting your consumption. Coffee on the deck? In your hammock? In bed? That's your decision. We highly recommend all three.

After leisurely waking you wander into the community kitchen, a cozy setting in the midst of lush plants and flowers. Breakfast consists of deliciously fresh tropical fruit, eggs done how you like them, delicious bread and jam, and the most amazingly thick-cut bacon. Afternoon 'botanas' include the best guacamole I've ever had, shrimp or fish ceviche, tostadas, maybe cheese quesadillas - the spoiling staff will whip you up any range of delicious bites that you can enjoy poolside, or at the table. We were regularly asked after breakfast if there was anything special we might enjoy for dinner, be it steak, pork, chicken, shrimp, pasta - whatever! Believe the hype about this place - you will get what you ask for, be it food, beverage, or entertainment suggestions.

Pepe himself is a charming, friendly, funny, and magnificent host. The stories he has to share from his time in the fashion industry will have you on the edge of your seat, and in general he's just an incredibly interesting and affable guy. You'll love having him as a dinner companion.

Pepe regularly asked if there was anything we wanted to do so that he could set it up for us - fishing, exploring, lounging oceanside at a nearby beach club... whether you're there to relax or have some adventure, he will help you make it happen.

I'm a well-seasoned traveler and I will admit, we had concerns about the cartel violence happening in some parts of Mexico. One of the reasons we chose Manzanillo is because the state in which its located, Colima, is regularly marked as the safest state in Mexico. And Pepe's, in particular, is located in one of the safest and most secure locations in Manzanillo: La Punta. We couldn't have felt any safer during our stay.

If you're torn between Pepe's and some other location, don't even hesitate to book this tropical paradise for fun, adventure, and indulgence. A relaxing respite from reality, you'll be indulged, refreshed, and reinvigorated as a result of your time at Pepe's.