Tag Archives: Yucatan

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.

Top Adventure Travel Trips in Mexico

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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.

 

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

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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!

Top Travel Destinations Worldwide for 2012 Include Mexico’s Tulum, Chichen Itza and Chiapas

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CNN Travel recently asked the top travel experts from Orbitz, Lonely Planet, Smarter Travel and Altour for their picks for 2012. With all the recent publicity about the impending end of the Mayan calendar, it should come as no surprise that this part of Mexico, including Tulum, Chichen Itza, and Chiapas, tops the Top Travel Destinations in the World for 2012!

If you’d like to soak up the sun on an unforgettable trip to the Maya World, here are a few examples of what you might experience during your stay:

Chichen Itza – One of the New Seven Wonders of the World!
No trip to the Maya would be complete without touring the most famous ruins in Mexico. Let Journey Mexico show you the way to a private entrance where our expert guide can lead you directly to the most interesting features of this ancient city. After a leisurely lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the ancient temples of Coba, a relatively new discovery with more than 6,500 unexplored structures.

Edzna and Uxmal – Plus a Tequila Tasting!
On a different day, experience the magic of the ceremonial sites and religious temples of Edzna. Nestled within the jungle, this set of ruins houses the Platform of the Knives, the Big House and the Gran Acropolis. Once you’re done, enjoy a traditional Mexican meal before reaching Uxmal, one of the best examples of Puuc architecture in the world. As you roam through the temples, your guide will explain the intricacies of the ancient society that once called this city home. Finish off your day with some of the best Tequila in the world as you learn more about one of Mexico’s most important products.

The Biosphere Reserve of Celestun
Leave the ruins behind and discover a part of Mexico that’s full of life! This protected area contains one of the nation’s largest wetland areas. Among other wildlife, you’ll get a chance to see one of the largest colonies of charming Pink Flamingos. Afterwards, enjoy your midday meal in the shade at one of the local beachfront restaurants.

Enjoy the Riviera Maya!
Spend a day or two in luxury before or after your tour of the ruins! Relax by the pool, snorkel in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, shop for souvenirs and sample the local cuisine. No matter how you decide to spend your time in the Riviera Maya, this will give you a complete picture of the pleasures this part of Mexico has to offer!

Of course, these are just a few examples of how Mexico earned a top spot on CNN Travel’s list of top destinations for 2012. If you’d like to learn more about what you can see and do in Mexico in the coming year, contact Journey Mexico for more information.

Southern Mexico: Days 10 & 11

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Hacienda Uayamon

Day ten was a day of luxury. Waking up at the gorgeous Hacienda Uayamon, we had breakfast and then relaxed by the pool, which was surrounded by the ruins of one of the buildings on the property. In the height of its prosperity, the Yucatan Peninsula made a fortune in the creation and sales of a certain type of rope. When synthetic replacements came along, the area fell into ruin, leaving many of the haciendas (basically plantations) abandoned. Today, Starwood has restored several of these haciendas into the most fabulous, private, and luxurious hotels you could imagine. After leaving Uayamon, we were fortunate enough to stay in another hacienda property, Hacienda Santa Rosa, the following night!

The pool at Uayamon

After breakfast at Santa Rosa, we set out for an expertly guided exploration of the archeological site Uxmal, which many consider to be one of the finest examples of classic Mayan architecture. We were lucky to have a perfectly sunny afternoon at Uxmal, allowing us to get some surreal photos from the site.

Pyramid at Uxmal

From Uxmal, we traveled to Merida, the capital city of the Yucatan. Upon arrival, we visited the Governor’s Palace, where our Journey Mexico guide Alex explained the significance of the giant and moving murals that line its halls. Each mural plays a part in the history of Mexico, and several of the depictions of what the Spanish did to the natives were tough to view.

Spanish torture mural

From the palace, we visited Merida’s most extravagant street, which is lined with massive mansions built in the style of the French. On this street, we visited the super-chic boutique hotel Rosas y Xocolate. If you have a girlfriend or wife who likes pink and chocolate, trust me, she would die to stay here.

Rosas & Xocolate

Moving on from Merida, we journeyed to the magical town of Izamal, the “Yellow City,” where we visited the convent where the Spanish Bishop Diego de Landa Calderon burned many of the Mayan codices and images, effectively erasing much of Mayan history.

The Monastery at Izamal

From Izamal, we traveled to our final destination of the day, the Lodge at Chichen Itza, which is a hotel literally a stone’s throw away from the archeological site. It was originally built to house the first archeologists from Harvard University to excavate the site. Stay tuned for a report on what we saw tomorrow!

Go to Day 12 >>

Itinerary Questions: Two Weeks in Yucatan

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Welcome to the first webisode of our new series, Ask Journey Mexico, where we will be fielding questions about all things Mexico including, food, cultures, adventure, safety, geography, logistics, lodging, luxury, and more!

Today’s question was taken from the Lonely Planet forum, Thorn Tree. If you have any questions about travel in Mexico or Mexico in general, please email them to ask@journeymexico.com.

Mexico 2nd Stop on Red Bull Cliff Diving Tour

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Cliff Diver in Yucatan at Red Bull World Series

Photo - Ray Demski / Red Bull

Yucatan, Mexico was the site of the second stop on Red Bull’s 2010 Cliff Diving World Series. If you haven’t seen or heard anything about this Red Bull Series, check it out at their website. Red Bull has definitely succeeded in making the sport of high diving more exciting by adding exotic locations. The event in Yucatan was held at the Ik Kil Cenote, which is often visited on Journey Mexico trips to the Yucatan.

Cenotes are natural wells that are exposed after surface limestone above the wells collapse. These natural pools are prevalent in the Yucatan Peninsula and some other regions of Central America. Some ancient Mayan cultures used cenotes as part of sacrificial rituals. Today, cenotes offer picturesque locations to cool off, go for a swim, or have lunch while vacationing in Mexico. Below is a video from the Red Bull Cliff Diving event at the Ik Kil cenote in Yucatan.

The Whale Sharks are Here!

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Swimming with Whale SharksEach summer, thousands of Whale Sharks (the world’s largest fish) migrate through the waters surrounding Isla Mujeres, a Caribbean Island off the cost of Cancun, Mexico. Although Whale Sharks can grow to be over 60 feet in length, they pose no threat to humans whatsoever, which creates an incredible opportunity for humans to interact with these massive creatures. Diving into the blue waters of the Caribbean to swim with Whale Sharks is a thrilling experience, which, those who have done it will tell you, simply can’t be described with words.

To celebrate the beautiful Whale Sharks, the exhilarating bond between the fish and Isla Mujeres, and to promote eco and responsible tourism of the region, a festival is held annually on the island. This year’s events are scheduled for July 16-18 and will include trips to swim with the Whale Sharks, traditional dances performed by locals of the region, guest speakers, and opportunities to explore the ancient Mayan Ruins nearby.

Visit our Whale Sharks Experience Page for more information about these incredible fish and to view sample itineraries of trips built around swimming with the Whale Sharks, visiting ancient Mayan archeological sites, and experiencing the culture of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Journey Mexico at Mexico Pyramid Chichen Itza

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Journey Mexico at Uxmal

Pyramid at Uxmal

Journey Mexico President, Zach Rabinor; Director of Operations, Matteo Luthi; and Manager of Travel Planning, Gerardo Tovar recently returned from a FAM trip in Yucatan and brought back with them lots of great video. Here is a little clip from one of the most important archeological sites of Mayan culture, Chichen-Itzal, which is one of the highlights of our Archeological Mayan Journey trip.

In the beginning of the clip, Zach is speaking with Teresa Perez of TeresaPerezTours, (Brasil), Maita Barrenechea of Mai10 (Argentina), and Adamarie King of Connoiseur’s Travel (Mexico) about the incredible sites of archeological and cultural importance that Mexico has to offer. Throughout the clip, you’ll see expert guide Alejandro “Alex” Ricalde illuminating the tour with his expansive knowledge of the site.

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Journey Mexico President Private Cenote Jump

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When you’re the president of an adventure company, you’ve got to represent. Here’s our founder and prez depth charging a private cenote deep in the interior of the Yucatan peninsula.

Cenotes like this one are commonplace in our trips to Yucatan and make great places to beat the Mexican heat.