It... well... shrunk. The two buildings near the beach have been torn down. There is still a building on top of the hill looking over the ocean. Half of it is now the La Plaza market with a beautiful variety of meats, vegetables and baked goods.  Also a creperie ,  soft serve frozen yogurt and the new French restaurant Azul on an uppper floor.  Most people do  prefer the Grand Mayan in Nuevo Vallarta because Mayan Palace guests don't have access to the big waterpark area with the lazy river and other fun stuff.  . However, some of our guests prefer the quieter atmosphere (and lower price) of the Mayan Palace. The Mayan Palace pools are also very quiet and are located down by the beach.  Because there are so few units left, you need to book these VERY early.