Less than a week ago, a powerful group of financial and political leaders representing approximately 80% of global trade convened in Baja California Sur inLos Cabos, Mexicoto discuss the future of international economic stability. President Barack Obama is just one example of the high-profile attendees that gathered at the annual G20 Leader’s Summit amidst the fitting backdrop of a cultural oasis stimulated by a thriving tourist market.
Mexico: First Latin American country to chair the annual Presidency of the G20 Group
The Group of Twenty, better known as G20, brings together members from 19 countries and the European Union for much needed talks about international cooperation, accelerating employment and financial preparedness with structural reforms, and promoting sustainable development across the globe. This year marks the first time that a Latin American country has held the rotating Presidency of the G20 group, and only the second emerging economy to take the reins, following the Presidency of the Republic of Korea hosted in Seoul in 2010.
The G20 originated in December 1999 as a conference of international finance ministers and central bank governors concerned about the overwhelming financial crisis overtaking the world economy, as well as the imbalanced representation of developing countries in international dialogue dedicated to these issues. In November 2008, the current financial crisis spurred former President George W. Bush to leverage the G20 group as a strategic platform to organize a global coordinated response to the economic decline. Since 2008, seven Leader’s Summits have been held in Washington, D.C., London, Pittsburgh, Toronto, Seoul, Cannes and now, Los Cabos, Mexico.
Tourism – A Major Vehicle for Growth
Mexico’s G20 Presidency signals an essential shift in the group’s initiatives, which in the past have centered largely on strengthening financial institutions, implementing better standards for fiscal supervision and pumping more resources into international trade as the best means of jumpstarting the economy. Inspired by a recent meeting of the G20 Tourism Ministers, Mexico’s president Felipe Calderon Hinojosa proposed world tourism as a significant force for driving economic improvement across the globe.
Not only did this issue force the summit’s recognition of tourism as a major “vehicle for job creation, economic growth, and development,” but also led the G20 Leaders to introduce plans to rethink current travel and immigration regulations to better promote job creation and poverty reduction on an international scale.
Los Cabos, Mexico as an Example of Economic Development
As Mexico joins the exclusive list of destinations where the world’s most influential figures have dared to tackle the hurdles of nourishing a global economy, Los Cabos stands out as a shining example of how marketing a country’s inherent cultural qualities can create new opportunities for economic growth. Not to mention, the pleasant climate, a consistent reputation for security and a world class tourism infrastructure provided the means to support an event of this magnitude.
We congratulate Los Cabos for hosting a memorable summit.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 3rd 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.
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.
Part of the allure of a vacation abroad is the promise of something a little more exotic than your area hotels. In fact, some travelers are a little disappointed by the cookie-cutter resorts that line the coastal areas of the more touristy parts of the world. Other than a slight accent and the local landscaping, the food and the accommodations feel so familiar that they might as well have stayed at home.
To satisfy this niche in the travel industry, two completely new boutique hotels are opening their doors in Mexico this coming year to offer their guests something a little different. Here’s a closer look at each one:
Habita’s Eco Hotel Endémico Resguardo Silvestre
Although its urban hotels are nothing short of striking, the Habita Hotel Group has taken a different approach with their newest property. The Eco Hotel Endémico Resguardo Silvestre features 20 stark, modern units situated on a rocky hillside within a 40-acre winery in Baja California.
Each unit, or room, has its own terrace and clay chimenea to warm up a chilly evening. However, this rustic, eco-friendly retreat isn’t without its luxuries. Leave your sleek, minimalistic accommodations by the primitive pathway to tour the grounds. Along the way, you’ll encounter a luxurious pool dramatically cut into the hillside and a gourmet restaurant ran by the Culinary Arts School of Tijuana.
If you’re looking for something different on your annual getaway, you can definitely find it a little more than an hour south of the border! This trip might not be for everyone, but it’s definitely different from home.
Hotel Downtown in Mexico City
Another Grupo Habita property scheduled to open in March 2012, this new hotel will be located in front of the Casino Español in charming Isabel la Católica. In an exceptional repurposing effort, this boutique hotel is a renovated palace originally built in the 17th century. Hotel Downtown will offer 17 boutique rooms and 17 hostel rooms to meet a variety of needs and budgets. Expected to be a favorite for visitors to Mexico City, make your arrangements early to guarantee a room in this historic palace.
Whether you prefer to kick back in the standard luxury of a big-name resort or soak up the local culture in a secluded, private villa or a traditional Mexican hotel, Journey Mexico can make it happen! We can tailor your accommodations and itinerary to meet your individual needs and interests if one of our established tours doesn’t appeal to your sense of adventure. Give us a call today!
Let us help you plan an exotic Mexico vacation today! Tel: +52 (322) 225 9821
Toll Free (from the U.S.): 1-800-513-1587 Fill out our online form>>
#MexicoToday: Over the past ten years, something remarkable has happened just off the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula in Mexico. In 1999, the marine area off the coast of Cabo Pulmo (located on the south-eastern tip of the Baja Peninsula) had been severely depleted of wildlife due to overfishing. But thanks to the efforts of the local communities of Cabo Pulmo, the amount of fish in the region has boomed by more than 460 percent in the past ten years.
Scientists are astonished by how the marine life of Cabo Pulmo has not only recovered from disastrous levels, but has actually reached levels comparable to remote, pristine sites that have never been fished by humans. In fact, no other marine reserve in the world has shown such a turn around in fish population, and this thriving underwater wildlife park is now the most robust marine reserve in the world.
The Cabo Pulmo National Park accredits much of the success to a few local families who have banned together to enforce the parks regulations and policies in regards to fishing and pollution, making Cabo Pulmo a model for other areas depleted by fishing in the Gulf of California and elsewhere. Their efforts have not only brought back the fish but have also increased eco-tourism to the area.
SCUBA diving enthusiasts from around the world have been flocking to the region to witness the coral reefs that are now home to lobsters, octopuses, rays, and small fish. Also swarming the reefs are large parrotfish, groupers, snappers, and even sharks like tiger sharks, bull sharks and black tip reef sharks, who have been found to actually keep coral reefs healthy.
For more information about how you can support the Cabo Pulmo National Park through eco-tourism, contact Journey Mexico.
Each year, Journey Mexico runs several scouting trips throughout different regions of Mexico to find and inspect new hotels and resorts, discover new adventure opportunities, and to create new friendships with locals eager to share the beauty and warmth of Mexican culture with our clients. Team members Zachary Rabinor, Matteo Luthi, and Jennifer Celis have recently returned from a tour of Colonial Mexico, Baja California and the Copper Canyon, and we’re excited to add their findings to our trips to those regions and share their experiences with our clients.
The 17 day Journey Mexico 2010 Colonial Mexico/Baja California/Copper Canyon FAM Trip began in Mexico City where we unwound after their flights at Las Alcobas, the new and elegant boutique hotel strategically located in the hippest and most vibrant section of the city.
Over the next 6 days, we explored Mexico’s Colonial Heartland, a destination for inquisitive and sophisticated travelers, in search of authentic contact with Mexico’s rich and multi-layered history, culture, and people. From the pre-Columbian past through the colonial era and on to modern day integration of the old with the new, the colonial heartland boasts a deep cross section of Mexico’s engaging and colorful history.
On this journey into the heart of Mexico’s independence and revolutionary past we shared an intimate experience with the history and lore of the colonial heartland. We began with unexpected explorations of the highlands of Michoacán where the independence movement intertwines with Purépecha traditions and handicrafts that are coveted worldwide. We delved into pre-Columbian times in Morelia and Pátzcuaro where the friendly locals were glad to share a smile and invite us into their workshops to browse the rich crafts traditions that have continued unchanged for generations. Through out the Heartland, we was welcomed into subtle luxury at exquisite properties such as Villa Montaña Hotel & Spa in Morelia, Casa de la Real Aduana and Casa La Siranda in Patzcuro, Villa Maria Cristina in Guanajuato and Casa de Sierra Nevada in San Miguel de Allende; we also made the most of our time inspecting many other hotels in each destination.
Then it was back to Mexico City and the gorgeous St. Regis Mexico City overlooking one of the city’s most beloved landmarks La Diana Casadora. The following day, we transferred to the Mexico City airport for an internal flight to Los Cabos where we inspected Ventanas al Paraiso, Capella Pedregal, before enjoying a memorable and lavish dinner and evening with the enchanting staff of Esperanza Resort before retiring for the night in our spacious suites.
Leaving Los Cabos, we traveled to the “Pueblo Mágico” of Todos Santos where we had lunch at the Hotel California, inspected the Todos Santos Inn and then arrived to the newly opened Guaycura Boutique Hotel, which is now without a doubt the best hotel in this lovely town. Our gracious hosts invited us to a rooftop cocktail at the newly finished lounge and prepared an exquisite dinner; we all enjoyed an amazing night’s rest. Shooting across the peninsula to La Paz, we took a boat ride to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Espiritu Santo Island to explore the unfathomable turquoise water and myriad bays, and snorkel with sea lions in the Sea of Cortez, which Jacques Cousteau called, “The World’s Aquarium.”
From La Paz, we boarded in a 13 seater Cessna Caravan 208 to Los Mochis in Sinaloa state where we stayed for the night in the Hotel Santa Anita. The following day after exploring the bustling markets full of everything from beef to boots and cowboy hats to ostrich skin boots, we on to the colonial gateway of the Copper Canyon and newly named “Pueblo Magico” of El Fuerte to inspect the Hotel el Fuerte, and the newest hotel and certainly the most elegant, the Hotel Torres del Fuerte. Inspection work was followed with some fun on an El Fuerto River float trip and a visit to some petro glyphs of the area before an inspection and check in to the historic Posada del Hidalgo where we spent the night after dinner and some dancing with Zorro (native of El Fuerte)!
From El Fuerte, we boarded the world famous Chihuahua al Pacifico 1st Class train and began our adventure through dozens of tunnels and over the countless bridges of the Sierra Madre Mountains. The first stop was at the Posada Barrancas Mirador for breathtaking views and a site inspection. The group continued on to Creel stopping at the best look out points in the area including Piedra Volada & Mriador la Escalera, where they will be opening a cable car and a series of adventurous zip lines with a projected opening of the end of the year.
Next, the group explored the Valley of the Mushrooms and Monks as well as the Arareko Mission and Lake followed by a visit to a local crafts cooperative and a sight inspection of the Quinta Mision Hotel and The Lodge at Creel. On Sept. 15th, we took a switchback ride through the mountains to the timeless, wild-west, canyon bottom pueblo of Batopilas where we celebrated El Grito, the kick off to Meixco’s Bicentennial celebration of independence.
The following day, we explored the impressive “Lost Cathedral of Satevo” and took an aerial tour of Copper Canyon via a small, private plane; arriving to the cozy and rustically charming Sierra Lodge, we ventured of on a hike to the Cusarare Waterfall before relaxing with a roaring fire, one of the best meals of the trip and some lovely music in the peaceful pine forests of the High Sierra of the Tarahumara. Awaking in the peaceful lodge, we headed across the high plains to the capital city of Chihuahua for inspections at the new boutique hotel Casa San Felipe Real, the Hotel Soberano, and the Hotel San Francisco.
The Colonial Mexico/Baja California/Copper Canyon FAM trip was a huge success, and Journey Mexico would like to thank all of our partners who made the trip so memorable. Below is a brief description of the hotels that we stayed in during the trip:
The St. Regis Mexico City – A commanding presence within the city’s center, The St. Regis Mexico City is ensconced in the sleek, 31-story Torre Libertad. It overlooks the Paseo de la Reforma in the heart of one of the city’s most exciting zones.
Esperanza an Auberge Resort – At the end of a continent lies this tranquil Cabo resort retreat, where the body is healed, the soul is revived, the senses are awakened, and the spirit soars to new heights. In the finest Auberge tradition, Esperanza hotel offers accommodations that deliver the utmost in comfort, style, and atmosphere.
Guaycura Boutique Hotel & Spa – The Guaycura experience combines a totally personalized quality service with an astonishing architectural design, exquisite décor, and unique art work. Our location is privileged; we offer the best view in town toward the verdant palm trees of a colorful oasis and the sea beyond it. The Guaycura Hotel has a special style and personality that blend with its variety of facilities and services.
Posada de las Flores La Paz – A place reserved for those people who are always looking for the best. An exclusive ambiance which blends the comfort of this era with the luxury and tradition of an Antique Mexican House. Every detail has been carefully chosen with the basic elements of the Colonial – Mexican decoration. It is an excellent example of a boutique hotel.
El Angel Azul – El Angel Azul is a La Paz landmark with more than 140 years of history and is considered by the INAH as an historic monument. This B&B-Hotel is quietly secluded in central downtown La Paz, in short walking distance to the waterfront, restaurants, shops, and museums.
Hotel Santa Anita – When visiting los Mochis, don’t stay just anywhere. Santa Anita is a modern hotel with 110 air conditioned & cable TV/Internet rooms and suites, known for its comfort and elegance. The Santa Anita Hotel offers the quiet and awesome splendor of the Copper Canyon Mountain Hideaways.
Posada del Hidalgo – Posada del Hidalgo is a beautiful colonial mansion. This attractive structure was built in 1890 by Don Rafael Almada, a wealthy and influential “alcalde” (mayor) who spent five years and 100,000 gold pesos on its construction. The “Casa Vieja” section has 12 beautiful rooms with thorough modern amenities in the colonial design, surrounding tropical garden and a beautiful ramada. The newer style rooms face the spacious and breathtaking garden, typical of the old tropical colonial houses.
Hotel Mirador – The Mirador Hotel is located near the highest point of the Copper Canyon. It holds unique distinction that all rooms have a private balcony overlooking the canyon featuring awe-inspiring scenery from the rim of the Canyon. This hotel is surrounded by pine trees and appears to be “etched out” of the natural rock itself; each of its 48 rooms and suites has a private terrace where you can enjoy one of the finest views of the Copper Canyon.
Best Western Lodge at Creel – Formerly the Pension Creel, this fully renovated and modernized lodge gives you rustic charm and relaxing comfort in the frontier logging town turned burgeoning tourist hub of the Copper Canyon Creel. With 15 years of service, the Best Western Lodge at Creel is the only international chain in the Copper Canyon.
Real de Minas - The Riverside Lodge is a fascinating 100 year old hacienda that has been modernized. Situated in the heart of Batopilas, it is an island of tranquility with multiple Riverside Lodge courtyards overflowing with bougainvilleas and rooms filled with antiques. Located near the town’s plaza, this hotel has 8 rooms with private baths, and a handsome courtyard.
Sierra Lodge – Right on the Continental Divide, at 7,600 feet, nestled against the side of a small pine-scented valley with a stream rushing by the front door, is the beautiful 22 room Sierra Lodge – a rustic jewel built of rich-toned varnished logs. Located just about 25 minutes outside of Creel, the lodge is in the heart of some of the most beautiful Copper Canyon country we’ve traveled!
Quality Inn Hotel San Francisco- Located in the heart of Chihuahua´s downtown area (right next to our beautiful Cathedral), our hotel is literally surrounded by Chihuahua´s most important historical, financial and commercial area with convenient access to business community.
Villa Montana – Rising over Santa Maria hill, Villa Montana is located in an uptown area only 15 minutes from Morelia Historic Center. Its 36 luxury secluded villa-style suites, colonial designed with antiques, feature stunning views and gracious gardens and patios – a truly remarkable experience.
Casa de la Real Aduana – This small luxury boutique hotel is located in the heart of Colonial Patzcuaro. This stylish hotel is housed in a 16th century manor that has been designated a historical landmark, close to Patzcuaro’s celebrated lake, surrounded by Purhepecha Indian villages, pre-Hispanic pyramids and Colonial convents.
La Siranda Casa Hotel – This traditional colonial house in the heart of Patzcuaro’s historic center was recently transformed into a beautiful “Casa-Hotel” with five suites and breathtaking exteriors. It combines tradition, refinement, and tranquility with a sense of exclusivity, and its origin dates back to the 18th century when it was built as part of what were orchards of the Convent of Santa Catalina of Siena.
Villa Maria Cristina- Fine taste pervades this hotel with impeccable attention to detail, offering the cozy and stylish atmosphere of an aristocratic home. Its 13 spacious suites with wooden floors and marble bathrooms are decorated with French furniture, creating an atmosphere of elegant intimacy.
Casa de Sierra Nevada – This luxury boutique hotel and cooking school in the heart of historic San Miguel de Allende caters to the most discriminating world traveler. Its charming suites offer the ultimate Mexican experience, and its cooking school, Sazon, offers the finest instruction in traditional Mexican cooking!
Las Alcobas Mexico City- an aesthetic marvel designed by renowned power duo Yabu Pushelberg in the fashionable Polanco district of Mexico City – warmly welcomes an international business and leisure clientele. Our upscale property provides premier in-room spa amenities and personalized services to our guests, ensuring that your stay at our Mexico City hotel is not just comfortable but artfully enthralling.
We just received a batch of photos from the wine country of Valle de Guadalupe in Baja California via The Baja Wine Country Guide. The Valley of Guadalupe has been producing world-class wine for some time and is now beginning to receive the international attention it deserves. Many of the wineries in photographs are visited on our Valley of Guadalupe Wine and Cheese Tour.
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