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Top 15 Beachfront Vacation Rentals in Mexico

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If you’re looking for beachfront luxury vacation rentals, Mexico has some of the best. With it’s warm weather year-round, Mexico is a magnificent destination for winter getaways!

While others celebrate the holidays in the dreary cold, you can enjoy pristine beaches, beautiful weather and luxurious accommodations by renting a beachfront vacation home in Mexico. From private villas tucked away in lush jungles to full-service spas within walking distance of the hottest attractions, here are 15 of our top choices for this holiday season:

1.) A four-bedroom villa located in Ixtapa, La Casa del Sol combines stunning views and access to exciting night life with a luxurious space complete with a sand garden and pool.
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2.) The beach-front property of Casa Rubia rests between Acapulco and Huatulco, providing visitors with a private waitstaff and relaxing tropical atmosphere

3.) Villa La Cascada, spanning two beachfront lots in Palmilla Caleta, features amenities like a gymnasium, movie theater and wet bar to accompany its beautiful ocean view; visitors can also take advantage of a high-tech video, audio and lighting system to set just the right mood during their stay.
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4.) Steps away from Médano Beach, Hacienda Condo 501 balances state-of-the-art technology with comfortable furnishings, including a private balcony with views of the stunning surroundings; residents are also treated to a full-service spa.

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5.) Villa Estero, located on Puerto Los Cabos, presents a stunning combination of elegant architecture and luxury fixtures, from its expansive gourmet kitchen to the infinity-style jacuzzi.

6.) Villa Taz, sitting just 100 feet over the Sea of Cortez, offers breathtaking views of the water, a relaxing atmosphere and private beach access.

7.) Located near Cabo San Lucas, Villa Miguel is both stunning and comfortable; this luxurious villa is surrounded by both gorgeous desert landscapes and fresh ocean air.

8..) Nestled within a 100 acre nature preserve south of Cancun, Casa Vela provides the perfect getaway for couples and families; visitors can enjoy the amenities or venture outside to enjoy beaches, hiking trails, rivers and jungles.

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9.) On the shores of the Mexican Caribbean rests an activity-filled vacation destination for couples or families; Villa Albatros is both spacious and serene, providing visitors with ample opportunities for privacy and relaxation.

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10.) Villa Del Mar provides five-star accommodations for visitors of Playa del Carmen; visitors who venture outside the luxurious villa can be treated to trendy shops, restaurants and clubs on famous Fifth Avenue.

11.) From family getaways to destination weddings, spacious Casa Salinas II offers the perfect mixture of privacy, stunning views and a full-service staff on the beaches of Puerto Vallar

12.) Casita de las Flores presents a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean and sits near the Playa Rosa beach club; true to its name, the village is filled with the perfume and bright hues of tropical flowers.

13.) Nestled in the exclusive Pontoquito area near Puerto Vallarta, La Caleta Villa offers access to nine nearby golf courses, several resorts and the La Cruz Yacht Club; the beachfront home itself offers the perfect mix of privacy and luxury.

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14.) Nestled within the community of Santa Carmela, Villa Hayden features a striking entryway framed with waterfalls, and the rest of the villa is simultaneously soothing and majestic.
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15.) Tranquil Las Villas Akumal offers spacious accommodations nestled in the tropics; visitors can enjoy the gardens and beach or stay indoors to take advantage of the comfortable furnishings and gourmet kitchen.

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Best Golf Resorts in Mexico

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If you’re looking to avoid the winter chill, Mexico is the ideal destination to soak in the sun and enjoy a luxury golf vacation in first-rate resorts. In Condé Nast Traveler’s 2012 list of the top golf resorts worldwide, 5 of Mexico’s outstanding locations ranked amongst the 15 best foreign golfing getaways. This natural paradise is known for its multi-faceted golf courses defined by lush tropical greenery, desert stretches, mountain vistas and dazzling waterways. Find out where to stay in Los Cabos, Cancun and Punta Mita and more, for an amazing golf trip.


one-and-only-palmilla-golf-resort1) One & Only Palmilla, Los Cabos, Mexico
Three nine-hole layouts, Ocean, Arroyo and Mountain, form the spectacular 27-hole design of One & Only Palmilla Resort’s 7,000-yd course in Los Cabos, Mexico. True to its name, the resort offers an exceptional multi-terrain experience envisioned by Jack Nicklaus. Golfers are transported to Mexico’s enchanting countryside where majestic cacti, placid lakes and sprawling inclines create a versatile landscape for athletes of all skill levels. Rated amongst the top 100 courses in the world, One & Only is the perfect location to host company tournaments or enjoy professional lessons while vacationing.

punta-mita-four-seasons-golf2) Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita, Mexico
The Four Seasons is host to two Jack Nicklaus courses inspired by the resort’s tropical seaside location. An exclusive natural island green is the standout hole of the Pacifico course, which offers seasonal views of majestic whales traversing the Pacific Ocean. Golfers can test their technique along the complex fairways and hills of the Bahia course, an incredible beachside layout that takes players through green hills and white sands for an unparalleled view of the bay. Guests won’t be disappointed with the Four Seasons’s famed services, which range from state-of-the-art fitness facilities to luxury yachting.

golf-canto-del-sol-esperanza3) Esperanza, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Guests of Esperanza can explore the nearby 18-hole Cabo Del Sol golf course. A true gem for golfing connoisseurs, the layout mirrors striking aspects of Mexican landscape. Surrounded by shelves of craggy rock, smooth white sands, breathtaking arroyos and well-placed bunkers, the desert and ocean courses provide a versatile environment for one exciting game after another. Two of the ocean course’s inventive holes, designed by Jack Nicklaus, rank among the top 500 worldwide. After a long day of golfing, guests can relax with botanical spa treatments or visit Esperanza’s exclusive gallery for a look at authentic Mexican art. For more about  Cabo San Lucas read our blog post 5 Top Luxury Mexico Vacations for Spring 2012 .

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4) Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Mexico
Home to Mexico’s only PGA Tour course, the El Camaleon Golf Club at Fairmont Mayakoba Resort in the Riviera Maya is no less than a golfing adventure. El Camaleon, or the chameleon, is the brainchild of Australian golf legend, Greg Norman. The 7,000-yd course is brilliantly designed to blend into the stunning tropical landscape, spotted with clever obstacles ranging from mangrove trees and sparkling lagoons to sand dunes and natural subterranean caves. Off the course, guests of all ages can enjoy luxury amenities like treetop spa therapy, seaside dining and children’s adventure camp.

5) Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort, Cancún

Guests at Moon Palace Resort will find serenity in the dynamic Jack Nicklaus course set against Cancún’s breathtaking scenery. Beautiful stretches of greenery are surrounded by crystal waters and spotted with challenging bunkers and wetlands for a compelling game. Strategists will appreciate the meticulous details of each nine-hole course as they navigate the distinct environments created for each layout. At this palace resort, golfers receive the royal treatment with snacks provided along the course and drinks at the clubhouse. Golfing lessons and pro rentals are available for novices who want to sharpen their skills.

If you’re looking to get a relaxing golf break this winter, visit Mexico, and you might just experience a trip of a lifetime.

Where to Vacation in Mexico in December

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As December approaches, the vibrant traditions of Mexico come to life in new ways. In a country with strong historical ties, cultural celebrations dating back to colonial times and beyond take the forefront in communities all over Mexico. Everywhere you go, the holiday season is marked by robust flavors, colors and aromas. Seasonal food and goods become available, offering fresh experiences even to veteran travelers. The spirit of Mexico in December is enchanting and an opportunity to enjoy unforgettable festivities.

Mexican Celebrations in December

For nine days stretching from December 16th to the 24th, the Mexican Posadas take place. Singing processions travel the streets with candles, reenacting St. Joseph and the Virgin Mary’s trek through Bethlehem in search of shelter. Residents in nearby homes play the roles of innkeepers who refused to help the travelers until Joseph and Mary are received at a designated area. In many places, the procession is beautifully detailed with angels, pilgrims, shepherds and children carrying poinsettias. The entire scene is performed in song and at the final location the participants share prayers of thanks before enjoying a marvelous feast.

Throughout the month, visitors are sure to see Nativity scenes decorating homes, churches and several public venues. Scenes of Jesus’ birth in a manger are carefully laid out with ceramic figures often representing the Biblical characters. Along the streets of Mexico, these scenes range from simple setups to elaborate designs with breathtaking detail. As December 24th arrives, families gather for a nourishing meal on Christmas Eve, honoring the Nativity scene with prayer and gratitude.

Holiday Markets in Mexico

Public areas quickly transform into scenes of holiday cheer with attractive Christmas decorations. As the holiday is widely celebrated in Mexico, special markets are arranged where locals can purchase Christmas decorations, supplies for the Nativity scene and other seasonal items. For the children, holiday candy is a common attraction, and of course, the bright and inviting plazas are great place for amusement and mingling.

Where to Vacation in Mexico in December

If you want to experience the holiday season in Mexico, visit the colonial cities for an up-close look at the rich cultural traditions.

Mexico City

The country’s dynamic capital is one of the most exciting places to visit worldwide. From bustling bazaars full of exquisite artisan jewelry, glassware, silver and weavings to the astonishing archaeological sites of ancient civilizations, Mexico City is pulsing with invigorating culture, living history and thriving arts. Visitors are charmed by the Zocalo plaza and quaint colonial layout of the city, which features stunning architectural landmarks that house museums, cathedrals, galleries and government offices. The homes of remarkable figures like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera still stand in remembrance of their work while just beyond the city the ruins of Teotihuacan tell the story of Mexico’s pre-Hispanic ancestors, the Aztecs. To find out more visit our Mexico City tour, one of several private journeys to the city.

Other Destinations

Guanajuato, located in central Mexico, is another destination for a memorable vacation. In this colonial heartland, the city is still home to incredible Baroque architecture and underground pathways such as Boca Mina, a famous mine once coveted for its silver. For the traveler who enjoys diverse entertainment, the city is bursting with thrilling nightlife, chic restaurants, live music and boutique hotels with luxury amenities.

Just a few towns away, Patzcuaro lies amidst charming artisan communities where visitors can truly dive into the local cultural, from tasting traditional cuisine to checking out the artisan and copper workshops. Or if you prefer to see a UN World Heritage site, travel to nearby Morelia for authentic souvenirs from Michoacan markets and a chance to see the city’s treasured historic center. Wherever you decide to visit, the holiday season is sure to bring impressive festivities that will be remembered for years to come.

Best Boutique Hotels and Luxury Villas in Tulum

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Tulum, Mexico, a coastal land once inhabited by the Mayans, is known for its mind-blowing natural landscape, blanketed with tropical vegetation and bordering the crystal waters of the Caribbean Sea. Its name stems from the Mayan word for “wall,” describing the fortification that surrounded the Pre-Columbian city, the ruins of which still remain on 12-meter cliffs along the Yucatan Peninsula’s coast. Like so many other ancient cities, Tulum thrived well into the 15th century but eventually fell to Spanish conquest. For the traveler looking for a unique Mexican vacation, here are our top 10 picks for best boutique hotels and villas in Tulum.

1)Shambala Petit Tulum

Ten thatched-roof cabanas named for Mayan deities line the shores of South Beach, offering an unparalleled view of sparkling ocean. This hidden retreat features relaxing minimalist décor and lounge chairs shaded by palm trees. Guests can arrange cooking and Spanish lessons or enjoy tranquil yoga classes.

2)Be Tulum

A captivating blend of nature and luxury awaits in 20 suites decorated with reeds, stonework and distressed wood. Glass doors and private terraces give a breathtaking view of the ocean, beaches and tranquil gardens. Weary travelers can relax at the poolside bar or enjoy a spa massage.

3)Casa Yakunah

Oceanfront and private lagoon surround this stunning boutique villa, where all guests can tour ancient Mayan canals. Spacious rooms of contemporary Mayan décor come with maid services, full meals and a complimentary Swedish massage. The villa is charmingly sustainable while offering luxury amenities like rooftop dining and satellite Internet and TV.

4) Ana y Jose Hotel & Spa

Tropical landscape and the Caribbean Sea provide an incredible backdrop for luxurious oceanfront suites that welcome guests with bright colors and nature-inspired décor. Palm-shaded hammocks, spa treatments and linen drapery make this hotel a romantic hideaway, while nearby remnants of Mayan culture provide exciting day excursions.

5)Hotel Esencia

The regal estate of a former duchess houses this contemporary retreat, a spectacular blend of lush scenery, modern simplicity and authentic Mexican décor. Traveling families will be enchanted by versatile amenities ranging from children’s cooking lessons to pre-loaded iPods to relaxing private pools.

6)Casa Godi

This 3-bedroom private villa lies in the Sian Kaan reserve amidst the sparkling Caribbean Sea, Tulum archaeological ruins and the famed ancient Mayan canals. Fully staffed and environmentally conscious, Casa Godi uses green energy to offer satellite TV, Internet and iPod entertainment. Services are expertly tailored to guests’ needs, including pre-planned gourmet meals.

7)Villa Bel’Ha

Plan an unforgettable family getaway to this private rental villa with four suites, seven stunning terraces and two beachside huts. Elegant rooms combine Meso-American influences with natural and contemporary décor, incorporating tranquil comforts like balconies and hammocks. Dine amidst lush tropical scenery and enjoy local eco attractions from swimming with dolphins to visiting the enchanting butterfly pavilions.

8)Villas Akumal

Twenty-six villas and studios make up this impressive resort on the Caribbean shore. Airy, open spaces, white linens, and wood and thatch décor merge luxury with the natural beauty of tropical gardens and white sandy beaches speckled with nesting turtles. This private paradise appeals to adults and children with onsite water sports, babysitting services, massages and gourmet meals.

9)Kite House

A brand new 4-bedroom villa, Kite House is artfully balanced, offering cutting-edge technology alongside airy, tropical-style rooms with views of the Caribbean Sea and ancient Mayan ruins. Private bathrooms accompany each unique room and the house is fully staffed with a butler, chef and maid services. A wealth of upscale shopping and cuisine stops are nearby, but guests won’t want to leave the villa’s automated current infinity pool.

10)Zacil Na

For a sweet escape, Zacil Na is the perfect private villa for the whole family, offering four bedrooms right on the waterfront. Guests are pampered with custom meals from an onsite chef, concierge services and water sports equipment to enjoy in the soothing pool or beach. Bask in the tranquility of natural gems while having plenty of tech power ranging from outdoor speakers to an in-house computer and flat screen TV.

Mexico Culture Travel: Dia de los Muertos en San Miguel de Allende

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Mexican culture exudes spirit and vitality that truly comes to life during the El Dia de los Muertos celebration, a national event honoring the lives of lost relatives, friends and public figures. This important holiday, known as Day of the Dead in English, takes place annually on November 1st and 2nd.

Many people believe Halloween and Dia de los Muertos are versions of the same holiday. Both celebrations coincide with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, occurring when the veil between the living and the dead is believed to be weakened, enabling communication with spirits. Yet, the spirits of Halloween are harmful, magical and mischievous, so children wear costumes to scare them away. Day of the Dead is a joyful holiday that handles death from a lighthearted and sentimental perspective, allowing individuals to show respect and love for ancestors and friends who have passed away.

Day of the Dead Festivities in San Miguel de Allende

Dia de los Muertos originated from a centuries old Aztec festival in honor of Mictecacihuatl, a goddess known as the Lady of the Dead. Today, Mexican families create colorful altars in their homes. The living also come together to decorate the graves of the dead with their favorite foods, tequila, flowers and sweets while encouraging the presence of these benevolent spirits and sharing humorous stories in remembrance of who they once were. Some of the most entertaining moments involve short poems known as calaveritas, or little skulls, in which funny, satirical verses are written and dedicated to the deceased.

San Miguel de Allende, a municipality in eastern Guanajuato, provides the perfect opportunity to take part in these extraordinary festivities. Tourist traffic is light at this time of year, the weather is mild and visitors have the chance to find souvenirs at an authentic Dia de los Muertos market. As November approaches, families stream in and out of local cemeteries to scrub tombstones, clear away weeds and lay out flowers and candles. In the weeks before the celebration, a special market is set up near the Plaza Civica where everyone shops for decorations amongst stalls of sugar skulls, miniature coffins, skeleton puppets and the familiar skeleton masks and figures, known as calacas. The Calaca Festival takes place November 1-4 this year.

A candlelight vigil lights up the cemetery as cheerful crowds gather to celebrate the dead, listen to mariachi bands, share bottles of tequila and enjoy a picnic with friends and family. All around, children play amidst displays of skeletons in comical scenarios. Calacas are a significant part of Mexican folk art intended to mock death and overcome the pain of loss, depicting skeletons humorously as noble ladies, drunken merrymakers, dancers, brides and many other roles of everyday life.

Exploring San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende has a wealth of cultural attractions you can experience before and after Dia de los Muertos. The stunning city center features beautifully preserved architecture in neoclassical and baroque styles that house cathedrals, galleries and museums. Along vibrant, colorful streets, the local artisan shops offer charming turquoise jewelry and silver crafts. Live events are frequently held in the local parks and travelers can choose from a tempting variety of authentic Mexican and international cuisine from the city’s inviting restaurants. With a range of impressive vacation rentals in the area, visitors will have no trouble finding cozy villas for relaxation when the Day of the Dead celebration is over.

Unique Hotels and Restaurants in Guanajuato – Our Top Picks

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As the Festival Internacional Cervantino 2012 approaches, one of the largest celebrations of the arts worldwide, travelers from across the globe will be arriving in the cultural mecca of Guanajuato, Mexico. With 19 days of festivities running from October 3 to October 21, we wanted to share Journey Mexico’s picks for the top hotels and restaurants in Guanajuato.

Hotels:
1) The restored ruins of a 17th-century hacienda is the home of Camino Real Guanajuato Hotel, a breathtaking historic building recognized as an INAH World Heritage Site. Exquisite details of the original hacienda have been preserved, creating the perfect blend of carved stonework, vaulted architecture and chic modern décor. With rooms overlooking beautiful gardens and onsite pool, gym and business center facilities, guests have plenty of modern comforts for an enjoyable stay.

2) The Quintas Las Acacias was converted from its late 19th-century origins to an elegant boutique hotel, offering 17 rooms and pampered suites that merge classic European style with distinctly Mexican motifs and artisan decor. The hotel’s AAA Four Diamond rating is well-earned with first-rate amenities, unparalleled hospitality and tranquil settings that combine history with luxury. Charming touches like the beautiful cactus garden, soothing outdoor jacuzzi and intimate restaurant offers guests a truly unique experience.

3) The European-inspired boutique hotel Villa Maria Cristina offers the atmosphere of a regal estate. Lofty ceilings, charming courtyards and mosaic tile floors welcome travelers into this aristocratic home, where 13 airy suites are outfitted with elegant French furnishings. Guests can relax in the spa and pool styled after a Roman bathhouse or dine on sophisticated international cuisine. Luxury amenities like car and concierge services, designer toiletries and massage therapy guarantee an unforgettable visit.

 

Restaurants

1) México Lindo y Sabroso
Location: Paseo de la Presa 154, San Jose

For a taste of the country’s signature cuisine, visit Mexico Lindo y Sabroso, a quiet eatery with a cozy veranda for outdoor dining. In a menu with tasty regional cuisine and Yucatecan specialties, each dish is imbued with rich agricultural flavors paired with tender meats, beans and delectable sauces. Dine on the restaurant’s famed Enchilada trio, crispy flautas, green pozole or delicious pork-topped panuchos. With just a short drive from downtown, the restaurant is the perfect stop between festival events.


3) El Jardin de los Milagros
Location: Calle Alhondiga 80, San Javier

Cultural and contemporary merge expertly at the Garden of Miracles, where Chef Bricio Dominguez crafts flavorful Mexican, Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine designed to offer an incredible sensory experience. The indulgent flavors of fresh seafood ceviche, hearty stew and sopecitos topped with succulent meat and sauces dominant the menu, which re-envisions traditional dishes dating back to pre-Hispanic royalty with innovative modern touches. Nestled beneath a great white sapote tree in a former hacienda, the restaurant’s large windows offer a beautiful garden view while you dine.

4) El Abue
Location: Calle San José 14 at Plaza Baratillo

Don’t overlook El Abue, a hidden treasure at the heart of Guanajuato. The charmingly intimate dining room is perfect for couples and seasoned travelers who enjoy a quiet atmosphere and authentic regional Mexican cuisine. Chiles en nogada, a pork-filled poblano chile topped with toasted walnut cream sauce, is the star of the menu. Delicious tortilla soup and enchiladas in exquisite red Oaxacan mole are local favorites, but you’ll also find fresh salads, Italian pastas and juicy flank steak on this diverse menu.

Best Boutique Hotels in Morelia

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Boutique hotels with impeccable service, dynamic culturally-inspired décor and spectacular grounds are appearing in some of Mexico’s most thriving municipalities. These boutique hotels offer a unique and unforgettable vacation experience that caters to travelers’ every need with luxury amenities. As a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Site admired for its rich colonial architecture, the Michoacan capital of Morelia is the perfect backdrop for a luxury vacation offering the best of hospitality, history, nature and cultural immersion. Don’t wait to book a spot at these top boutique hotels in Morelia.

1) Virrey de Mendoza

The majestic splendor of the Virrey de Mendoza makes this 17th century mansion a luxurious setting ideal for business travelers and romantic getaways. Colonial refinement meets modern comfort in the hotel’s 55 historically-inspired rooms, complete with antique furnishings and stunning balcony views of Morelia’s famed Historic Center. An outdoor dining pavilion offers an enchanting look at the city’s magnificent architecture and thriving nightlife while other comforts are catered to with onsite Wi-F access, an upscale restaurant and bar serving international cuisine and opulent banquet halls for hosting group events.


2) Rancho San Cayetano

At Rancho San Cayetano, five acres of breathtaking countryside provide a rustic paradise for travelers in need of an idyllic retreat. The stunning natural landscape of Morelia sets the tone for this relaxing country which is surrounded by towering greenery and beautiful cliff-side gardens. Quaint décor ranging from exquisite woven tapestries and bedding to stone fireplaces and wooden rocking chairs imbues the hotel’s nine rooms and six cabins with undeniable comfort and charm. The sparkling waters of the Rio San Isidro lie just below and the hotel is located near one of Michoacan’s most remarkable attractions, the forest sanctuary of migratory Monarch butterflies. With a restaurant, pool, spa and specialty tours available on site, guests can explore the hotel grounds or venture out into the local culture. hotel,

 


3) Villa Montana Hotel & Spa

The authentic pink quarry stone buildings of the Villa Montana Hotel lie at the center of lush gardens and elegant sculptures. Couples, business travelers and families will all love the blissful comfort of the hotel’s 36 colonial-inspired rooms, which blend rustic and refined elements like exposed beams, cobblestone walls and neoclassical art. Travelers who want to relax amidst Mexico’s beautiful landscape can enjoy dining, swimming and tennis in tranquil gardens. A library, spa, restaurant and gift shop offer a complete vacation experience, but Villa Montana is also conveniently located 15 minutes away from downtown Morelia for exciting excursions.

4) Los Juaninos

Every stay at Los Juaninos Hotel is a new experience with 30 gorgeously designed rooms that capture unique elements of Spanish colonial architecture and decor. Converted from a 17th century palace, Los Juaninos’s inviting rooms feature rich hues, European-style bathrooms and charming grandeur perfect for luxury seekers and honeymooners. Situated at the heart of Morelia’s Historic Center, hotel guests are treated to impressive views of the Michoacan capital city square. The hotel restaurant La Azotea provides a stunning contrast with a chic contemporary atmosphere and rooftop dining for a perfect view of the nearby cathedral.

 

If you are a traveler who enjoys both luxury and comfort, but value the unique and different you will love staying in these boutique hotels. These cozy hotels are designed to offer visitors the best experience Morelia has to offer.  For more boutique hotels featured on our site, read our blogs tagged under boutique hotels.

The Monarch Butterfly Migration: Amazing Nature Travel to Mexico

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For several weeks each year, the oyamel fir trees of Michoacan, Mexico, are transformed into a breathtaking backdrop for one of the most amazing natural phenomena in the world. As late October nears, millions of monarch butterfies suddenly descend upon the branches of Mexico’s spectacular forest reserve to rest amongst the evergreen needles.

To nearby observers, the forest appears to be enveloped by the gentle flitting of delicate reddish orange wings lined with black veins and white speckles. These majestic travelers are Monarch butterflies, an insect colony that must progress through a cycle of multiple generations of offspring before reaching its winter destination along the Mexican coast.

Migration of the Monarch Butterflies Trip

The arrival of the Monarch butterfly is a celebrated event for both locals and foreign visitors who are eager to witness the final stretch of a 5000-mile journey from North America. Journey Mexico welcomes travelers to share in this unforgettable moment with an exciting trip that takes you along the trails of the El Rosario reserve, an enchanting Monarch butterfly sanctuary where these beautiful creatures hibernate and lay thousands of eggs upon special milkweed leaves.

Led by an expert guide, you will travel into a towering grove of fir trees for an up-close look at the Monarch butterflies in their winter habitat. Our highly knowledgeable guides explain the unique cycle of migration Monarch butterflies undergo every year to ensure their survival, a journey that requires several generations of Monarchs to complete. The first three generations of Monarchs travel only a portion of the distance northward, eventually laying the eggs that will form a new colony just before they die out.

On this enlightening trip, visitors experience the final stages of migration as the fourth generation settles in the hibernation grounds. The temperate climate of Michoacan offers safety from moisture and cold, cover from predators and plentiful growth of milkweed. Fourth generation Monarchs, known as the Methuselah generation, have an extended life cycle up to seven or eight months, allowing them to make the journey south from late summer to early autumn and emerge for the mating process as spring arrives.

Enjoy the Natural Treasures of Michoacan, Mexico

The Monarch barely weighs one gram, and yet, its role as a pollinator has a profound effect on the eco-system. Your time amongst the Monarchs continues with a visit to another major sanctuary ground, the Sierra Chincua Reserve. Surrounded by clusters of exquisite Monarch butterflies, visitors get a firsthand glimpse at the epic life cycle of this insect civilization. Yet, no JourneyMexico excursion is complete without adventuring into the surrounding towns and municipalities.

The Michoacan region boasts a magnificent natural landscape, as well as astonishing historical landmarks. Travelers are sure to be captivated by the charming countryside, lush green valleys and sparkling lakes of the Patzcuaro, Tzintzuntzan, Ihuatzio and Cucuchuco areas. These towns still stand as thriving cultural centers where visitors can admire the fascinating crafts of skilled artisans and experience the magic of festivals that have been celebrated for generations. Close by are the archeological sites of ancient city squares that preserve a living history of Michoacan.

From the beautifully gripping drama of nature to the monuments of an evolving civilization, this once-in-a-lifetime trip offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself deep in the culture and splendor of Mexico.

Can’t make it to Mexico? SK Films “Flight of the Butterflies” will be premiering soon in a city near you!

 

Celebrating Fiestas Patrias in Mexico City: An Unforgettable Trip to Mexico

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Travelers who enjoy immersing themselves in exciting, colorful cultural events will be thrilled by Mexico’s Fiestas Patrias. Taking place on September 15 and 16 every year, the Fiestas Patrias celebrate Mexico’s independence. The people of Mexico enjoy gathering with family and friends for parties and get-togethers in the days leading up to these important holidays.

Mexico City. Journey Mexico Image.

 

Immerse Yourself in Mexican Culture

Contrary to popular belief outside of Mexico, Cinco de Mayo isn’t the day on which the Mexican people celebrate their independence. While May 5 commemorates an important battle victory, the real independence day occurs on September 16. This patriotic holiday is celebrated throughout Mexico with parades, parties and public gatherings.

The Fiestas Patrias events actually begin on the evening on September 15. High-ranking government officials and many individuals throughout Mexico re-enact an event called the Grito de Dolores. This call to independence was issued by Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Catholic priest who called the people to revolt and claim their independence.

Travelers who are interested in experiencing Mexican culture from the inside out will enjoy attending public events and festivities during Fiestas Patrias. The majority of citizens celebrate whole heartedly during this time. Thanks to beautiful fall temperatures, it is truly a perfect time for visitors to dive into Mexican culture.

 

Enjoy Fiestas Patrias in Beautiful Mexico City

There is no better city in which to celebrate the Fiestas Patrias than the nation’s capitol, Mexico City. A private tour of this charming, historic city offers the perfect way to familiarize one’s self with Mexican history and culture. The site of the Aztec capital in the 14th century, Mexico City became the capitol of New Spain in the 16th century after conquistadors conquered the Aztec empire.

Fiestas Patrias Mexico City

Today, visitors to Mexico City can take in archaeological sites dating from both pre-Columbian and Colonial eras. Some of the most important public areas used by both the Aztec and Spaniards have been transformed into modern-day gathering places and performing arts centers. A wide array of cathedrals, government buildings and theaters will delight travelers with discriminating tastes. 

Mexico City is widely regarded as one of the most labyrinthine cities in the world. While it is certainly possible for visitors to wander from fascinating site to fascinating site, travelers who take a guided tour will have a better opportunity to truly understand the city’s rich cultural and political history. A guided tour offers a wonderful way for visitors to see and understand the distinct communities that make up Mexico City.

Visitors who want to experience the best of Mexican culture while visiting the nation’s capitol are well-served by visiting during the Fiestas Patrias. Visitors will be able to enjoy these vibrant, exciting festivities while visiting some of the most important historical sites in Mexico. The charm of Mexico City will not be lost on visitors who are looking for a truly immersive cultural experience.

Luxury Vacations in the Riviera Maya

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Maroma Resort and SpaAt Journey Mexico, we recommend the Maroma Resort and Spa on the Riviera Maya to our clients when they express a desire to get away from it all in order to unwind and recharge. Although this modern paradise is nestled within one of most beautiful areas of the world, it’s actually one of the Yucatan’s hidden treasures where you can leave your cares behind without compromising any of life’s little pleasures. Sound like paradise? Well, we think it comes pretty close! Here’s some more information to help you decide if a stay at the Maroma is right for you:

The Rooms and Grounds
The Maroma Resort and Spa sits on a spacious 25-acre nature preserve that’s part sandy beach and part rustic jungle. Located at the tip of the Yucatan right in the middle of the tropical Caribbean, the weather is great throughout the year with temperatures that vary between 77 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit on any given day. 

The staff has tamed the jungle near the main portion of the resort to create lovely tropical gardens filled with butterflies and native parrots. If you enjoy taking in the beach more than lounging by the pool, you’ll certainly notice the coral reef just off the shore that’s perfect for snorkeling.

Every room and suite is a study in Caribbean elegance. Designed to make the most of the exotic natural surroundings, each living area reaches out to provide you with stunning views. The Maroma provides accommodations that range from deluxe rooms to expansive suites to a full luxury villa with four bedrooms.

The Luxurious Amenities
The Kinan Spa is the heartbeat of the Maroma. Translating to “the healing power of the sun” in Mayan, this wellness center focuses on nourishing your soul and body through a combination of treatments, educational sessions and spiritual direction including:
• Kinan Mud Bar and Temazcal Steam Bath
• Botox, Fillers and Lipo-Dissolve
• Yoga, Tai Chi and Meditation

And, Never Miss a Single Gourmet Meal!
If you believe the best part of any vacation is the food, you won’t be disappointed with the Maroma! This resort has four different bars and restaurants on site as well as room service that’s to-die for. If you’re trying to keep your spending under control, don’t forget to sign up for the Maroma Dining Plan. For a set fee, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at any of the on-site restaurants or through room service.

At Journey Mexico, we know all the best places to stay on the Riviera Maya and throughout the entire country. Give us a call today to plan the trip of a lifetime!