Journey Mexico Blog

The largest of the fish species, the whale sharks of the Caribbean are beginning to arrive from their annual migration to the waters just off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Each year, these mammoth sharks migrate from tropical waters around the world to certain feeding spots of which Mexico’s Isla Mujeres and Isla Holbox are two favorites.

Although these giants of the fish kingdom can grow to be over 40 feet in length, they mainly feed on plankton and pose no threat to humans, which makes swimming with whale sharks in their natural habitat a must-do for every true adventurer’s bucket list.

Thousands of whale sharks migrate to Mexico each year. Their distinctive patterns of pale-yellow spots and stripes make them a truly beautiful sight. In fact, they photograph so well, we’ve made them the star of  Our Mexico web-ad dedicated to the nature of Mexico, which can be viewed here. You can also view thew whale sharks of Mexico in action in the video below.

For the opportunity to swim with the whale sharks of Mexico, check out our  Swim With Whale Sharks and Visit Ancient Ruins Trip. One of the highlights of this adventure includes swimming and snorkeling with docile whale sharks (ranging from 10 to 65 feet in length) on a secluded island. After a few days of nature immersion, explore the ancient Mayan ruins at the world renowned Chichen Itza. Your private guide will explain the significance of this archeological site and the achievements of the Maya civilization. You will also have the chance to cool off in a beautiful sinkhole before enjoying a picturesque lunch nearby. Accommodations at the Isla Holbox (a tranquil island 3 hours from Cancun) are in a quaint eco-friendly hotel.

Adventure travel trips and tours in Mexico are one of our specialties at Journey Mexico. For those of you planning adventure vacations this summer, we’ve put together a list of our favorite adventure tours.

From pristine beaches and remote jungles to spectacular mountains, lakes and rivers – these travel adventures get to the heart of this grand destination: Mexico.

1)      Baja Multisport: Sea Kayaking and Hiking Trip

On this adventure trip you’ll visit both the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez coastlines of Baja California, Mexico. Perfect for active travelers, it combines remote hiking and paddling in intact wilderness settings, plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities and visits to local villages.

This trip includes a full day Sea-Kayaking expedition in the Sea of Cortez. Experience the turquoise waters of the protected beaches of the Island of Espiritu Santo.  We will also visit the resident sea lion colony where you can opt to swim and snorkel with these marine mammals.

During our day hike, you will indulge in the seascapes of the rugged Pacific Coast of Southern Baja California. In this hike into the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere reserve you will also experience the beauty of cascading waterfalls in the stunning cactus forests.  A visit to the fishing village of Todos Santos and a day of surfing provides a taste of the old Baja.

2)      Chiapas Adventure Trip – Ziplines, Waterfalls, and Ruins

On this fabulous adventure trip to Chiapas, Mexico, you will zip line through the tree-tops of the jungles and mountains of the region. Take in the magnificent beauty of one of the area’s waterfalls, measuring over 100 feet in height, and swim in the refreshing water from the falls. This journey also includes a visit to the archaeological site of Palenque, an ancient Mayan city known as one of the greatest achievements of ancient man, and to San Cristobal de las Casas, a charming colonial city where you can converse with the indigenous people of San Juan Chamula and Zinacatan, and learn about their colorful ceramics and textiles.

3)      Swim With Whale Sharks and Visit Ancient Ruins Trip

This adventure trip to the Riviera Maya in Mexico, is perfect for wildlife lovers. One of the highlights of this adventure includes swimming and snorkeling with docile whale sharks (ranging from 10 to 65 feet in length) on a secluded island. After a few days of nature immersion, explore the ancient Mayan ruins at the world renowned Chichen Itza. Your private guide will explain the significance of this archeological site and the achievements of the Maya civilization. You will also have the chance to cool off in a beautiful sinkhole before enjoying a picturesque lunch nearby. Accommodations at the Isla Holbox (a tranquil island 3 hours from Cancun) are in a quaint eco-friendly hotel.

4)      Copper Canyon Hiking Trip – Lower Rio Urique Wilderness

The Copper Canyon hiking trip is an expedition style adventure where hikers follow the Urique River as it winds through the Mexican canyon. This tour offers stunning views, trails through narrow slot canyons and a crossing of the magnificent suspension bridge at Vado de la Cueva. You will also visit the native communities and the historic settlements of El Fuerte, Cerocahui, Creel, Chihuahua, and Batopilas.

A train journey on the world famous Chihuahua al Pacifico Mexican railroad offers a panoramic view of the amazing transition between the Sea of Cortez and the canyons of the Sierra Tarahumara.

5)      Mainland Mexico Surf Trip

This surfing adventure trip is 10 days of non-stop surfing combined with luxury accommodations to relax and recharge in the evening. On this trip you will stay in 2 magnificent villas right on the water. You will also go on exciting road trips on private SUVs and take a private fight to some of the region’s best kept secret surfing spots.

An expert guide will be with you providing insider access and a professional photographer will shoot video and photos of the adventure.

6)      Oaxaca Cycling Excursion

This exciting tour lets you experience a bike tour like you never have before. During this cycling excursion you will not only see great bike routes but you will also discover Oaxaca’s amazing culture, food, and natural beauty.

You will visit Teotitlan del Valle, where the world-famous, traditional, woven, wool blankets and rugs come from, as well as other remote villages with XVI century churches, old plazas and vibrant markets and galleries.  On this tour, you will also see Monte Alban – an archeological site from around 500BC.

7)      The Volcano Mountain Climbing Expedition

This adventure tour is 10 days of amazing mountain climbing. Explore two Mexican volcanoes: The Malinche volcano, named after the Indian lover and interpreter for Cortez , and the Iztaccihuatl, the 3^rd largest in Mexico famous for its shape of a sleeping woman.

In addition to exploring the mountaintops, caves, and glaciers of central Mexico, you will also visit the charming towns of Puebla and Cholula outside of Mexico City.

This trip also includes a visit to Teotihucan, a world-famous archeological site, and the Basilica de Guadalupe. This Basilica is the 3rd most important religious center worldwide.

8)      Yucatan  Adventure

This adventure trip on the Riviera Maya takes you through the jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula and brings you to incredible archeological sites designated as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Visit the Mayan ruins of Uxmal, Chichen Itza, Celestun, Ex-balam and Sian Ka’an.

This ecotourism tour includes a visit to a local Maya family where age old traditions are still maintained. It also takes you to Tixkokob where locals still practice the age old tradition of Hammock weaving.

The Riviera Maya, with its turquoise waters and soft powder sand beaches awaits you.

We hope you embark soon on your adventure travel tour and discover the wonders that Mexico has to offer.

The Battle of Puebla on Cinco de Mayo

In 2010, I wrote a post about Cinco de Mayo which caused some controversy in our office as the post, admittedly, downplays the significance of the battle (and Mexican victory) that took place in Puebla on May 5th, 1862.

At the time I was writing that post, most of the research I did showed that the holiday of Cinco de Mayo was largely accepted as an excuse for Americans to sell more beer. This year, however, I read some interesting articles that have led me to conclude that Mexico’s victory at the Battle of Puebla (in which a 4000 troop Mexican army was able to fend off a French army of 8000 men of, arguably, the most well trained army in the world at the time) was much more significant that most people realize, especially for Americans.

Fist, let me acknowledge that, yes, the Mexican forces in Puebla fought valiantly and skillful to mow down a much larger opponent. The victory was inspiring and helped unite the Mexican people in their cause. But, yes, it is also true that the French ultimately regrouped, overtook Puebla, marched on to overtake Mexico City, and installed Maximilian I as emperor who reigned over Mexico for three years. What is not often mentioned, however, is that it took almost two years for the French to regroup and conquer. The events of those 23 months, or more importantly the events that did not happen during those 23 months, are what make the Mexican victory on Cinco de Mayo so important.

To fully understand the significance of the victory, we must broaden our scope a bit and understand that at the time of The Battle of Puebla, the United States was tearing itself apart in the American Civil War.  It is widely believed that the French were very interested in breaking up the American Union and intended to use the territory of central/northern Mexico, pending a victory in Puebla, to aid the Southern Confederacy with supplies and ammunition in their fight for independence from the Northern Union.

The Battle of Gettysburg, often considered the turning point of The American Civil War, was fought July 1-3, 1863, just 14 months after the Mexicans of Puebla beat back the French. Had the French won at Puebla, they would have been able to supply the Southern Confederacy with supplies and possibly men in the months leading up to the Battle of Gettysburg, possibly providing the Confederacy with enough support to have forced a much different outcome in both Gettysburg and the American Civil War in general.

The Last Moments of Maximilian I

Instead, the French were forced to focus all of their energy into regrouping and fighting their way to Mexico City while the battle weary Confederacy was defeated in Gettysburg and eventually defeated outright. While France was eventually able to insert Maximilian I as emperor, they missed their window to aid in the weakening of the American Union as the Northern Union defeated the South, paving the way for The United States of America to become a top world power.

When the American Civil War ended, the United States began supplying the Mexicans with weapons and ammunition, aiding them in their fight to rid Mexico of the new foreign regime. Two years later, Mexicans overthrew and, despite pleas from royalty across Europe, executed Maximilian I, liberating themselves from foreign rule and sending a clear message that Mexico would never again tolerate any government imposed by foreign powers. No European power has ever invaded Mexico nor The United States since.

So when Cinco de Mayo roles around again next year, celebrate twice as hard knowing that the events of that day 150 years ago in Puebla, Mexico played a significant role in the shaping of America. Viva México!

At Journey Mexico, we take a responsible approach to tourism. In addition to luxury vacations, we offer the best options for eco-minded travelers interested in discovering the true essence of Mexico. If you’re new to this term, ecotourism has been defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.”

Ecotourism combines sustainable travel, environment conservation and community improvement into a unified approach that follows these principles:

• Minimal impact to the environment or native communities
• Fosters awareness and respect of the environment and diverse cultures
• Creates a positive experience for both native hosts and visiting tourists
• Raises funds for local conservation efforts
• Empowers the local residents and improves their financial welfare
• Increases awareness of the social, political and environmental climate in the host country

If you’re looking for a true adventure that combines fun and education with community involvement, we can help you find it! Here are the top five ecotourism trips operated by Journey Mexico:

Chiapas Adventure Trip – Ziplines, Waterfalls and Ruins
Immerse your entire being in the allure of ancient Mexico! This tour provides an up-close look at the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque as well as the surrounding jungles. Discover the thrill of flying through the canopy on a zipline and swimming at the foot of a majestic, 100-foot waterfall as you traverse this rugged terrain.

Hiking Oaxaca’s Mountains to the Pacific
Over the course of this nine-day trek, you’ll discover remote mountain villages and explore several archeological sites as you bask in the tropical warmth of Mexico’s Southwestern coast. In addition to a very active vacation, you’ll leave this lesser-traveled region with the knowledge that you helped contribute to the progress of the traditional Zapotec communities that populate the Sierra Norte.

The Migration of the Monarch Butterflies Trip
During this tour, you’ll travel to Michoacan to view the fields filled with elegant Monarch Butterflies. Each year, millions of these gentle creatures converge on this single part of Mexico to spend the winter. Your tour guide will tell you more about this miraculous feat, and you’ll also have the chance to explore neighboring Patzcuaro, the legendary “door to heaven.”

Sea Turtles and Whale Watching Adventures
Join the Ocean Revolution to help preserve the delicate ocean ecosystem that lies along the western coast of Mexico. This trip gives you the chance to spot sea turtles and a variety of whales in both the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez as you travel along the coastline of Baja California.

Oaxaca Cycling Excursion
Combine your love of bike riding with your desire for adventure with this tour! Along the way, you’ll travel through a variety of Oaxacan cities, towns and forests to learn more about the interesting culture, delicious cuisine and amazing natural resources of this part of Mexico.

At Journey Mexico, we’re committed to sustainable travel. Whenever possible, we create engaging tours that provide our clients with the trip of a lifetime while minimizing any negative impact that our presence could create. In addition to promoting local prosperity, our eco-tours help increase cultural understanding and cooperation. Join us in preserving the pristine natural areas that make the remotest regions of Mexico truly special! Give us a call today to plan your next adventure.

This article has been translated from Leon-Mexico.com

Volaris Airlines announced the launch of new routes within Mexico, one which will connect Cancun with the Colonial region of Mexico through the airport in León, Guanajuato. The new route will run two times a week and they will be using Airbus A319 and A320 planes with capacities for 144 and 177 passengers, respectively.

The first connection between León-Cancún started March 29 with two weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays. Jesus Almaguer Salazar, the Cancun Director of the Visitors and Conventions Office considered that both flights would allow the influx of tourism to the Bajío region just in time for spring vacations, which opens the door to  potential markets to and from the Mexican-Caribbean and until now was only catered by Magicharters.

In an interview, Salazar highlighted that the tourism from these cities and neighboring states had to travel through Mexico City or Guadalaraja to get to Cancun,  and the new flight routes will produce a reduction in traveling costs that will translate into a larger spending by these tourists  in the areas they are visiting.

Other new routes from Volaris include: Mexico City to Puerto Vallarta, Cancun to Aguascalientes, Guadalajara to Puebla and  Guadalajara to Los Mochis.

When planning your trip to Mexico, don’t forget to research Mexican airline carriers for their international flights. VivaAerobus, Volaris, Interjet, and AeroMexico are continuously expanding beyond their domestic routes.

Playa del Carmen is situated on the south-east coast of Mexico in the state of Quintana Roo in the Yucatan Peninsula. Warm white powdery sand beaches and turquoise crystal clear waters together with the famous Mexican hospitality make this a place like no other!

Playa del Carmen is named for Our Lady of Mount Carmel, who is the patron saint of Cancún.

Playa del Carmen dates back to 300-600 a.d. where it was a stop for travelers during the Mayan civilization. There are plenty of small ruins in and near Playa del Carmen. But just as there is great history in the area, there are great resorts that marry a cultural experience with a luxurious vacation. Here are our Top Picks for Luxury Resorts in Playa Del Carmen.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya

If you’re looking for luxury in a Playa del Carmen resort, you’ve found it in the Grand Velas Riviera Maya. It is one of the newest resorts in the area (opened in 2008) and now considered a premier vacation destination located on the immaculate white sand shore of Playa del Carmen. The Grand Velas is has stylish and graceful accommodations. This resort has over 1,000 feet of exclusive beach and is set over 80 acres of protected jungle. This All Inclusive, Five Diamonds Luxury Resort provides its guests with the uniquely Mexican world-class hospitality.

Luxury accommodations include uniquely exotic garden suites, ocean view suites and ocean front suites, some with private plunge pools.

The Grand Velas is also dedicated to provide a balance between body and soul and offers hydrotherapy, and avant-garde menu of treatments for the health and wellness conscious visitor.

Find out more about the luxurious Grand Velas Riviera Maya.

Mosquito Blue

Mosquito Blue is Playa del Carmen’s most unique hotel and resort. It is the first boutique luxury hotel in the area. This hotel is a where urban hip meets beach resort. The Italian owner, inspired by contemporary European style and tropical colors, created this peaceful oasis with a tropical chic décor mixing modern elegance with casual beach living.

Playa del Carmen’s first boutique luxury hotel. Since 1995, Mosquito Blue has been a trendsetter, offering accommodations that are cosmopolitan, trendy, and stylish, yet comforting, relaxing, and rejuvenating.

The Mosquito Blue offers gourmet dining with a team of Italian chefs that transform traditional Mexican Caribbean ingredients into exquisite Mediterranean Italian cuisine.

Located on 5^th Avenue, Mosquito Blue’s guests are in the heart of the shopping, dining and nightlife of Playa del Carmen.

Mosquito Blue redefines luxury and pampering with special touches that are the hallmark of refined Playa Del Carmen hospitality for this unique Mexico resort.

Find out more about the Mosquito Blue Hotel.

The Viceroy Riviera Maya (Previously The Tides)

The Viceroy Riviera Maya is located on the white sands of Playa del Carmen in a small village called Playa Xcalacoco. The architecture of the resort accentuates its jungle setting.  The Viceroy is a 41-villa luxury resort with a stunning spa, offering guests intimate and serene features both indoors and outdoors.

Travel + Leisure magazine referred to the Viceroy Riviera Maya as “a sexy, eco-conscious hideaway in the jungle”

This luxurious resort is decorated following Mayan aesthetics and utilizes natural materials throughout.

Dinning is also first class at the Viceroy, serving refined Mexican cuisine with international influences.  With its policy of “Dine Anytime, Anywhere” Viceroy’s guests can enjoy it’s restaurants, bars and lounge areas 24 hours a day.

Culinary enthusiasts can also participate in cooking classes held in a traditional outdoor Mayan kitchen with native pit-ovens and a palapa roof.

Guests also may enjoy the many activities in the area including golf, horseback riding, polo lessons, fishing, parasailing, kite surfing, skydiving, bird watching, nature walks, tennis and jungle tours.

Find out more about the luxurious Viceroy Riviera Maya Hotel.

Hacienda Tres Rios

Also one of the newest resorts in Playa del Carmen, Hacienda Tres Rios is at the forefront of sustainable tourism. The beachfront resort is all-inclusive luxury. It is nestled in a 326-acre nature park and provides 273 luxury suites.

Hacienda Tres Rios is an eco-tourism destination and offers the authentic adventure of the Riviera Maya.

Outside the plush suites of the hotel, the natural environment unfolds amidst acres of rivers, an estuary, ten cenotes (fresh water springs) and a tranquil sandy beach.

The resort also offers two pools, nearby equestrian center and a private yacht club. It’s SPA offers the unique temazcal bath experience. Guests can also participate in guided eco-park tours, snorkeling, and three rivers for swimming, kayaking, and birdwatching. The never-ending activities at Hacienda Tres Ríos create the ultimate vacation experience, no matter age or interests.

More information can be found here about the luxurious Hacienda Tres Rios Hotel.

photo via mexperience.com

Easter in Mexico is a two-week holiday consisting of Semana Santa (The Holy Week, beginning on Palm Sunday and ending Easter Saturday) and Pascua (Starting with Easter Sunday and ending the following Saturday). Semana Santa is undoubtedly the most important holiday in Mexican culture. Schools and often businesses in Mexico close during these two weeks and many Mexican families go on holiday during Semana Santa and Pascua.

Across the country, Mexicans celebrate the last days of Christ during Holy Week with elaborate and much anticipated processions, ceremonies, and rituals. Most of the larger Semana Santa celebrations include a dramatic reenactment of the capture, the trial, and the crucifixion of Jesus. To be a part of these productions is a great honor and the actors are known for delivering inspiring and moving performances. Different regions of Mexico are known for practicing unique traditions during Semana Santa such as acts of physical torture, public displays of political/social ridicule, and displays of resolutions and commitment.

photo via mexperience.com

In some of the more devout regions of Mexico like Taxco, the reenactments include penitentes – men and women who show their penitence and prove their faith by inflicting physical pain on their bodies by whipping themselves or carrying large religious objects on their backs. This is an ancient tradition that dates back to the middle ages and was introduced to Mexico by the Spanish more than 500 years ago. During the reenactments, the actor playing Jesus usually wears a real crown of thorns and carries a massive cross weighing hundreds of pounds over great distances to the scene of crucifixion. Actors prepare both physically and mentally for months before hand with the support of their families and communities.

"Burning of the Judases"

In towns like San Miguel de Allende, another Spanish-influenced tradition is celebrated during the Holy Week called “The Burning (or Firing) of the Judases.” In Spain, carpenters would make wooden dolls representing Judas, which would be hung and burned in town squares to punish Judas for betraying Christ. During the Holy Inquisition, when the Spanish were burning people at the stake for heresy, Mexicans protested by making dolls and dressing them like Spanish inquisitors and burning them instead of Judas. This evolved into the current tradition where giant Judases made from paper mache are dressed and painted to resemble political and public figures not currently in favor of the public. The dolls are then hung and blown up with fireworks, scattering limbs in the street for children to collect as souvenirs. Famous Mexican artists like Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo were strong proponents of the value of art in political commentary and quickly adopted the tradition of creating Judases.

Other traditions focus on different ways to show your dedication and appreciation of Jesus’s sacrifice. In Iztapalapa, people called Nazarenes parade the streets before the procession of Christ, marching in promise to fulfill a manda, or religious promise, as payment for a granted favor from God. In many regions of Mexico, people show their devotion by visiting twelve different churches in a single day – one church for each apostle. In more remote regions like the Copper Canyon, local cultures mix christian celebration with ancient native rituals, paying homage to both their Spanish and Indian heritage.

Once the sacrifice is made and Jesus rises from the dead, Pascua begins and the second week of the Easter celebration carries on with a brighter tone, reflecting the resurrection, the start of Spring, and the promise of new beginnings. Many Mexican families travel to beach destinations like Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta during these Easter celebrations to enjoy the coast as they pay tribute.

Traveling to Mexico for Semana Santa and Pascua is an unforgettable experience, but can be tricky to plan logistically – especially last minute as the traditional areas of celebration and most beach destinations are usually booked in advance. Contact Journey Mexico for assistance with planning travel to Mexico for Semana Santa.

Considering a spring vacation in Mexico? Here’s five of our top luxury destinations and accompanying hotels in Mexico for the discerning traveler.

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in Mexican culture than attending one of the longest-running festivals in this friendly country! The San Marcos National Fair 2012 is scheduled to run from April 20th to May 13th in charming Aguascalientes. During this time, you can get to know the locals, sample the best Mexican food you’ve ever tasted, buy some local arts and crafts to take back home, listen to great music by a wide variety of artists and so much more!

The San Marcos National Fair is the best time to visit Aguascalientes. Held in honor of St. Mark, the patron saint of this charming city, this festival has delighted locals and tourists since 1828. Around the globe, La Feria de San Marcos, better known as the “Fair of Mexico,” has a well-earned reputation as the highlight of any spring visit to this sunny nation. While you’re at the fair, don’t miss the following feature attractions:

• Traditional Charreadas and Skirmishes
• Livestock Expo and Thrill rides
• Typical Fair Food and Traditional Mexican Cuisine
• Local Arts and Crafts
• The Colonial-Designed Buildings at The Casino
• A Variety of Shows Including Plays, Musicals and Concerts

During your stay, don’t miss some of the other attractions that Aguascalientes is famous for. The Garden of San Marcos is a peaceful retreat that offers a welcome break from the more bustling areas of the city while La Isla de San Marcos is the best place to view the impromptu art exhibits that line the sidewalks of this cultural complex.

Quinta Real, Aguascalientes

To meet the needs of the thousands of tourists that descend on the San Marcos National Fair, Aguascalientes has an international airport with daily flights and several luxury hotels. If you need help booking your flights, picking the perfect place to stay or scheduling an exciting adventure, give us a call! At Journey Mexico, we have the inside scoop on all the best things to do and see in Aguascalientes and in the rest of Mexico! Take advantage of one of our Mexico Culture Travel Tours or allow one of our travel agents to create a customized experience just for you.

Spring is a great time to travel, and Mexico is closer than you think. Although temperatures are excellent throughout the year, spring is exceptional in most destinations. Here are 5 top luxury Mexico vacations for this spring:

Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas, located in Baja California, is famous for whale watching, sea kayaking and coastal hiking. For the most luxurious accommodations, we recommend Hotel Las Ventanas, a 5-star venue in Cabo San Lucas. This upscale resort is all about pampering! Relax in front of your suite’s terra cotta fireplace, renew your soul in our world-class spa or savor the gourmet cuisine in one of the on-site eateries. The Hotel Las Ventanas is a Mexican paradise nestled between the ocean and the desert.

Riviera Maya
Located on the historic Yucatan Peninsula, you can experience the best of the old and new when you stay at the Hotel Rosewood Mayakoba on the Riviera Maya. Surrounded by the lush jungle with white Caribbean beaches at your doorstep, this luxury resort is the perfect mixture of natural beauty and sophisticated refinement. Here are a few things you can do during your stay:

• View the ancient Mayan ruins including Edzna, Chichen Itza and Coba.
• Float the peaceful waters at Celestun, an innovative eco-reserve.
• Explore Valladolid, a beautiful colonial town.
• Bask in the glory of the Mexican sun and cool off in the bright-turquoise Caribbean waters!

Mexico City
One of the largest and most industrious cities in the world, Mexico City offers the perfect mix of modern sophistication and old-world tradition. During your stay, you’ll discover some of the finest dining and shopping in the world as well a variety of cultural sites like the Catedral Metropolitana, Palacio Nacional and Teotihuacan. If you’re looking for a great place to stay, we recommend the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico. In addition to a luxurious room and world-class service, this hotel has a spectacular view of Mexico City’s Historic Centre!

Puebla

If your mouth waters at the thought of authentic Mexican cuisine, Puebla is the perfect destination for your next trip south of the border!  In addition to sampling the local fare, you can learn to make some of these dishes by taking the Mexican Cooking Course at Meson Sacristia.  If you’re planning a visit to this 2012 internationally recognized destination, we recommend the Hotel La Purificadora. This boutique hotel, once a water-purification plant, was renovated by legendary Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta.

Guanajuato
Visit the heart of Mexico to learn more about this country’s past. Discover the colonial architecture, learn more about famous Mexican artists and view one of the world’s biggest silver mines. While you’re visiting Guanajuato, stay at the Quinta Las Acacias, an exclusive, four-diamond hotel with just 17 opulent rooms. The décor is a mixture of classic European styles mixed with traditional Mexican craftsmanship.

These top luxury Mexico vacations are considered safe for travel by the US Department of State, so come and enjoy!