Tag Archives: riviera maya

New Luxury Hotel in Cancun: Nizuc Resort & Spa

The award-winning hotel chain, Las Brisas Hotel Collection, has announced the launching of their new, luxury hotel in the Cancun/Riviera Maya– Nizuc Resort & Spa. Opening its doors in March 2013, Nizuc Resort & Spa combines discreet exclusivity with the allure of the Mayan culture.

luxury hotel nizuc 2

The resort is located at the gateway of the Riviera Maya, at the southern point of Cancun’s hotel zone on Blvd. Kukulkan, known as Punta Nizuc. The 29 acre property that faces the white sands of the Caribbean Sea is settled within a paradise of protected mangroves and lush local foliage. Beyond that, it borders a 22 acre ecological reserve that is open for guests to explore via accompanied walks into Mother Nature’s serenity and silence.

While Nizuc’s prime location makes it a convenient starting point for accessing all of the Yucatan’s natural wonders, archaeological sites and attractions; the true wonder can be found at the resort itselfm with 274 exceptional suites, extraordinary amenities and outstanding culinary selections.

Highlights of Nizuc Resort & Spa include personalized attention and butler service, superb healing spa treatments, five swimming pools (two adult-only), three distinct accommodation areas each offering its own unique atmosphere, and  6 world-class restaurants of gastronomic delicacies head by Executive Chef, Vincet Wallez. The resort treats their guests with what they call “Endless Indulgence™ service culture” – ‘delivering highly personalized service imbued with discretion and warmth, showing each one of their guests what it is like to have a Mexican Spirit and a Mayan Soul.’

luxury hotel nizuc

Louis Daniel, NIZUC Resort & Spa’s General Manager, says “We are introducing a new level of refinement at NIZUC to be shared with only the most discerning guests. Diligent preparation for the hotel opening includes meticulous staff selection to provide culinary excellence and impeccable butler-class service. Our exceptional interior design and amenities exude luxury and creates the uniquely serene atmosphere and attitude which defines the culture of the resort.”

For more information, contact a travel planner at Journey Mexico or see Nizuc’s fact sheet.

Luxury Vacations in the Riviera Maya

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!

 

Top Adventure Travel Trips in Mexico

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 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.

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.

 

Playa del Carmen Resorts – Our top picks for 2012

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

Grand Velas Riviera Maya Luxury HotelIf 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 Luxuious HotelMosquito 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 5th 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 (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.

5 Top Luxury Mexico Vacations for Spring 2012

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
Hotel Las Ventanas Luxury Cabo HotelCabo 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
Riviera Maya Luxury Mexico VacationLocated 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
Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico Luxury HotelOne 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

Puebla Luxury Mexico VacationIf 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
Quinta Las Acacias Luxury HotelVisit 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!

Looking for a Luxury Hotel in Playa del Carmen? Introducing Viceroy Riviera Maya.

Can’t decide between the seductive privacy of a luxury villa and the opulence of a full-service resort? If you stay at the secluded Viceroy Riviera Maya (formerly The Tides Riviera Maya) just outside the tiny town of Playa del Carmen in Quintana Roo, Mexico, you can have the best of both worlds. This resort refuge awaits with a luxurious spa, seven miles of white-sand beaches and award-winning cuisine.

Your Own Spacious Villa
This luxurious retreat is made up of 41 individual villas. Each space features over 1,000 square feet of privacy in addition to your own plunge pool and private patio. With a contemporary-classic décor that is the epitome of simple elegance, you’ll never want to leave the comfort of the Viceroy. Each villa is positioned to take full advantage of the beautiful surroundings with views of the ocean or the tropical gardens.

The Luxurious Maya Spa
For a little well-deserved pampering, visit the Maya Spa at the Viceroy Riviera Maya. This full-service wellness center offers a complete menu of holistic treatments based on natural marine ingredients and aromatic herbs from the local countryside. Whether you indulge in a traditional spa treatment like a massage or facial, partake in an exercise session at the waterfront yoga studio or spend time in the Maya Temazcal steam cave, you’ll emerge looking and feeling better than you ever imagined.

Award-Winning Cuisine
If you’re dining on-site, you won’t be disappointed by the award-winning fare served at La Marea. The chef specializes in Mexican, Mayan and Mediterranean dishes, but the kitchen is prepared to create special dishes upon request. Enjoy the “Mayaterrean Cuisine” in the island-inspired ambiance of the La Marea dining room or have your meals delivered to your villa, the beach or poolside. For more casual fare or a little variety, try the Library Lounge or the Coral Grill and Bar.

Never a Dull Moment
A week of pure indulgence is the definition of a perfect vacation for many, but others prefer a more active experience. The Viceroy Riviera Maya satisfies these needs, as well. Whether you’ve always dreamed of exploring the ancient Mayan ruins, diving a local cenote or spending a day on the water angling for a trophy sailfish, the concierge can make all the arrangements. On-site activities include SCUBA diving, horseback riding, swimming and more.

Considering a trip to the Riviera Maya? At Journey Mexico, we can make the arrangements for stays in the Riviera Maya at the Viceroy or at any other luxury location in this exciting region. Give us a call today to get started!

Underwater Sculpture Park in Cancun

Photo via Jason deCaires Taylor

Artist and environmentalist, Jason deCaires Taylor, has entered the final stages of an incredible project designed to alleviate pressure on the natural reefs of Cancun, Mexico by attracting both marine wildlife and human tourists to a currently barren area of sea-floor, which will soon become a natural reef of cement sculptures.

In early 2011, over 400 sculptures made from a special cement neutral in PH and made to foster coral growth will be lowered into the shallow waters off the coast of Cancun. A handful of test sculptures have already been submerged and have shown incredible rates of growth from colorful algae, coral, and other marine-life.

Below is a video interview from Travel + Life Magazine with Taylor about the project. For more information about the underwater sculpture park, visit Jason deCaires Taylor’s website and the Wandering Educators site. You can also find another video here.