Mexico to Host G20 & WTTC Summit in 2012

Posted by & filed under Los Cabos & Baja Californias, Media, Mexico Today, News.

#MexicoToday: As we near end to 2011, Mexico’s declared “Year of Tourism”, it is safe to say it is ending on a positive note.  In addition to seeing increasing numbers of tourists arriving to Mexico, a plethora of investments, acknowledgments and awards,  Mexico has also been successful hosts of some large international events including the 2011 Pan-American Games held in Guadalajara and the 2011 Adventure Travel World Summit in Chiapas. To keep the momentum going in 2012, Mexico has been designated the host country for the G20 Summit and also the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) first Regional Summit.

The WTTC, the global authority for tourism,  is made up of the Chairs, Presidents and Chief Executives of the world’s leading private sector Travel & Tourism businesses. These specialists bring knowledge to guide government policy and decision-making, raising awareness of the importance of the industry. The first Regional Summit (including North, Central, South America and the Caribbean) will be hosted in May 2012 in Cancun by the Mexican Ministry of Tourism. It will directly follow the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s T20 Minister’s Meeting that will be taking place in Merida.

David Scowsill, President & CEO of WTTC said:

Mexico is the ideal host for our first regional Summit… Mexico leads the way in recognizing the enormous contribution Travel & Tourism makes to the economy, employment and export income. President Calderón has a strong commitment to tourism which is underlined by the declaration of 2011 as the ‘Year of Tourism’ and by being the first to join WTTC’s and UNWTO’s joint Global Leaders for Tourism Campaign, which highlights the importance of tourism to global growth and development..

Following the 2012 WTTC’s Region Summit in May, Mexico has been selected to host the 5th G-20 Summit. The G20 Summit’s began in 2008 in response to world financial crisis, bringing together the Head of States of world economies to discuss the global financial market and strengthen international cooperation. Chosen as the 2012 chair and host, Mexico believes the forum can better represent developing countries in both vision and policy.  Under the leadership of President Felipe Calderón, Mexico will seek to expand the scope of the G-20’s development focus.  President Felipe Calderón hand selected Los Cabos in Baja California Sur as the official  city to assemble the G20 Summit.   The destination’s first-class hotel and airport infrastructure were noted as two important factors in the decision.

“Los Cabos is extremely proud and honored to be selected as the official host city for the G20 Summit as this is an incredible opportunity for our destination as well as for the country of Mexico,” says Gonzalo Franyutti, President of the Los Cabos Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Los Cabos has the exclusive appeal, a contemporary tourism infrastructure and the safety record required to host an event of this global caliber. As a haven for VIPs throughout the world, Los Cabos is truly the ‘Window to the World’ for Mexico.  We look forward to welcoming the G20 delegates and attendees to our destination.”

We at Journey Mexico look forward to keeping you updated in 2012 on these world class events and more exciting news.

December 2011 Newsletter

Posted by & filed under Newsletters and Promotions, Upcoming Travel.

The December issue of the Journey Mexico Newsletter is out! Our headline story covers the upcoming international events that will be held in Mexico and our hotel promotion this month, Casa Grande & Esperanza,  are both exclusive to Journey Mexico. As always, you will also find the latest hotel & industry updates, fun facts, and latest news from Journey Mexico.

You can view the newsletter in its entirety here >>

Traveling to Mexico in 2012: The Mayan Calendar Challenge!

Posted by & filed under Adventure, Campeche, Cancun, Chiapas, Chichen Itza, Culture, News, Riviera Maya & Tulum, Yucatan.

Chichen Itza Mayan Calendar 2012Don’t be taken in by hyped-up claims that the world is ending in 2012 or that this is what the Mayans predicted thousands of years ago. The media and movie industry have purposely misinterpreted this historical information to attract attention, boost ratings, and scare school children. Once you understand more about this misconception, you’ll be ready to visit charming Mexico to celebrate the beginning of a whole new cycle and take the Mayan Calendar challenge!

The Real Deal on the Mayan Calendar
The Mayans, an ancient civilization that existed in southern Mexico and much of Central America from 250 to 900 A.D., used two different calendars. The first, the Calendar Round, covered a 52-year period, or 18,980 days. At that time, this period represented a single generation or the average lifespan of a typical person of that age. This was the measurement tool that this culture used on an everyday basis.

If the Mayans needed to refer to a date that was more than 52 years in the past or future, they moved to the “Long Count,” the long-term calendar. This measurement tool is based on a numerically predictable algorithm that used a beginning date of 3114 B.C. according to our modern calendar. From there, they calculated forward for 5,126 years for an ending date that just happens to be in 2012 A.D. This gave the Mayans a historical measure that reached over 3,000 years into their past and more than 1,000 years into their future.

If you think about it for a few minutes, common sense will tell you that it’s only a coincidence that the calendar is running out in 2012 A.D. The Mayans didn’t predict the end of the world; they just got tired of crunching the numbers. After all, the world existed long before the calendar started, so why shouldn’t we expect it to last long after the calendar ends? This doomsday theory has no more credibility than any of the countless end-of-the-world claims that have been proven false in the past.

Don’t Let the Doomsday Gang Ruin Your Plans
What could be better than leaving the naysayers and pessimists behind to celebrate the beginning of a whole new cycle in the very place that started all this controversy? The Mayan Long Count Calendar is scheduled to end on December 21 of next year, and Mexico is warm and sunny at that time of the year! To make this trip even more attractive, you can bet that the locals are planning quite a few festivals and fiestas to celebrate their continued existence as well as the upcoming holidays!

How can you resist the chance to snap a souvenir photo to prove you survived the “End of the World” in a beautiful Mexican paradise? Whether you’re partying on the beach or living it up in Mexico City, you’ll be able to tell everyone how you won the Mayan Calendar challenge!

Still doubtful? Well, you’re not alone. On Thursday, Mexico’s archaeology institute  acknowledged that a second reference to the date exists on a carved fragment found at a southern Mexico ruin site.  Here’s a link to the full article!

Has the Adventure Travel World Summit inspired you? Four amazing experiences in Mexico.

Posted by & filed under Adventure, Colonial Cities, News.

Waterfalls In Chiapas MexicoFor 2011, the Adventure Travel World Summit was held in Chiapas, Mexico. Can you think of a better choice to get the adventure-travel movers and shakers ready for another year of excitement? If you’re up for it, here are four of Mexico’s most heart-pounding adventure trips:

Waterfalls, Ruins and Ziplines in Chiapas, Mexico – What More Could You Want?
This adventure trip to Chiapas combines physical excitement with a little mental stimulation! Start off exploring the highs and lows of Gully Canyon Park, an eco-tourism favorite. After you enter the park by boat and pass through the mile-high canyon walls, you’ll have a chance to zip-line through the tree-tops to see it all from a completely different perspective!

That’s just a taste of what this trip includes! Here are a few more highlights:
• Swim at the base of Las Cascadas de Agua Azul.
• Explore ancient Mayan ruins in the midst of the jungle at Palenque.
• Tour the cities of Villa Hermosa and San Cristobal de la Casas.
• View ancient artifacts at the La Venta Park Museum.

Adventure Family Style – A Great Bonding Opportunity!
Explore lovely Baja California Sur with the entire gang this year! This trip will keep everyone so busy that no one will even thing about mentioning the dreaded “B” word. That stands for boring, by the way!

Start off getting to know Todos Santos like a native! Stroll the colonial streets, visit the fishing village and pick out a new masterpiece in the artist’s colony. When you’re ready to explore, go kayaking or hike the sea cliffs to view the coastline from above. Before you leave, don’t forget to visit the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere to experience waterfalls in the midst of a dry desert.

Next, La Paz and Espiritu Santo Island await your arrival! In this tropical paradise, you’ll swim with seal lions and schools of tropical fish, hike the canyons and paddle a kayak through the Sea of Cortes under dramatic volcanic cliffs.

To end your trip, plan your own itinerary in Cabo San Lucas! Choose from a variety of extreme activities suitable for the entire family including whale watching, deep-sea fishing, a desert Hummer tour or simply soaking up the sun on the beach!

Surfs Up in Sunny Mexico!
Surf ‘til you drop on the sun-kissed Pacific coast of Mexico! A surfer’s dream vacation, the luxury accommodations included in this trip put you right in the middle of the action. You’ll split your time between two luxury beach-front villas. This doesn’t mean you’ll sit on the beach waiting for the waves. To reach the secret surfing hot spots, expect to take a few road trips and even a flight to find Mexico’s hidden treasures.

Leave the Beach Behind to Climb a Volcano
Retrace the steps of that famous explorer Cortez as you enjoy your own adventure through the mountainous regions of Mexico. During your 10-day stay, you’ll test your skills on two different rugged volcanoes, a series of mountains and even get a chance to see the glaciers that cover the most extreme areas in this part of central Mexico.

Between climbs, explore the small towns of Puebla and Cholula as well as Mexico City. The contrast between sleepy Mexican villages and one of the biggest cosmopolitan areas of the world will give you a special insight into the Mexico of yesterday and the country of today!

If you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime, book your trip to exciting Mexico today! The beaches, the mountains and everything in between are waiting for you to arrive.
Contact us:
From Mexico or international: +52 (322) 225 9821
Toll free: 1-800-513-1587

 

The Monarch Butterfly Reserves Near Michoacan (Mariposa Monarca)

Posted by & filed under Colonial Cities, Monarch Butterflies, Nature.

Monarch Butterflies in Michoacan (Mariposa Monarca)It’s hard to believe that the dramatic orange-and-black monarch butterflies that flit around your garden make an epic journey each year. Before you even notice a change in the weather, these majestic creatures instinctually start their trek south to sunny Mexico. For many, this is a 2000-mile trip! To provide a safe haven for these annual guests, this country has set aside over 200 square miles of protected land to serve as butterfly reserves.

To witness this spectacle, plan to visit the Michoacan region between November and March. Each year, the majority of the butterfly reserves open their gates from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during these months to allow the public to get a closer look at the billions of monarch butterflies nestled in the native oyamel fir trees. Near the end of February, the Festival Cultural de la Mariposa Monarca celebrates the peak of butterfly season. Although this week is a great time to experience this phenomenon, it is also the most crowded time to visit.

The two most popular butterfly reserves in Michoacan are El Rosario Reserve and the Sierra Chincua Reserve, but many smaller venues are also open to the public. If you’re visiting Mexico City, a day trip is all that’s needed to enjoy these butterfly reserves. Angangueo, a nearby village, also offers overnight accommodations if you’re staying farther afield or would like to spend more than a single day in the butterfly fields. Most visitors drive to the reserves or take a tour bus. The buses only go as far as Angangueo, but you can easily hire a driver to take you to the field of your choice.

If you’d like to learn more about the monarch butterfly and its annual migration, here are few interesting facts you may not know:

  • Temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit can paralyze the monarch butterfly.
  • During the migration, these butterflies can be clocked at up to 30 mph but average 12 mph.
  • The monarch butterfly can soar up to two miles above the ground.
  • Monarch butterflies have a small amount of a magnetic substance in their tiny bodies. Some think this acts as an internal compass to lead them to their winter grounds.
  • When the monarch is on the move, it can cover 80 miles each day.

This winter, head south to picturesque Mexico to escape the winter weather just like the monarch butterfly! While you’re there, make it a point to visit these heavenly insects in their vacation home. Contact Journey Mexico today to plan your journey:

From Mexico or international: +52 (322) 225 9821
Toll free: 1-800-513-1587

Lonely Planet Names Puebla One of the Top 10 Places to Visit for 2012

Posted by & filed under Colonial Cities, Culture, Mexico Today, News, Puebla.

#MexicoToday: Every year, Lonley Planet publishes a ‘Best in Travel’ guide and ranks the top 10 countries, regions and cities to visit for the coming year. For 2012 Readers’ Choice,  Puebla, Mexico was named among one top 10 cities to visit.

Drawing on the knowledge, passion and miles travelled by Lonely Planet’s staff, authors and online community, they present a year’s worth of travel inspiration to take travelers of the ordinary and into some unforgettable experiences. Hot off the press, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2012 had one difference in their decision process this year– they wanted to hear what the travelers of the world think will be 2012’s hottest destinations.  After hundreds of nominations for cities and countries and regions,  we are proud to see that Puebla, Mexico made the Top 10, alongside destinations such as Barcelona, Iceland, Rio de Janeiro, Istanbul and Bangkok.

Puebla, a charming colonial city with a UNESCO acknowledged Historic City center,  was recently reported one of the the Top 5 Safest Place to Travel in Mexico in the San Francisco Chronicle. It is a city known for it’s twin volcanoes, site of the Cinco de Mayo battle, great poblano gastronomy,  historic buildings and a wealth of archaeological sites. Combine this with it’s on-going  festivals and traditions, it is no wonder that Puebla draws in plenty of tourists each year to merit it’s Top 10 status among some of the grandest cities in the world.

Not convinced yet? Check out the website All About Puebla as it further examines all the attention Puebla has been getting lately, including recognition from National Geographic and The New York Times  who picked Puebla as one of its 45 places to go in 2012.

Start browsing our Puebla itineraries here and start planning your trip to one of 2012’s must visit cities.

November 2011 Newsletter

Posted by & filed under Newsletters and Promotions.

The November issue of the Journey Mexico Newsletter is out! Our headline story jumps the bandwagon of others boasting of adventure opportunities in Mexico after the ATWS event. Hotel promotions include Capella Pedregal, Maroma Resort & Casa Sierra Nevada and as always, you will also find the latest hotel & industry updates, fun facts, and latest news from Journey Mexico.

You can view the newsletter in its entirety here >>

 

Celebrate the Feast of Guadalupe in Mexico This December

Posted by & filed under Colonial Cities, Culture, Holidays, Fairs & Festivals.

Feast of Guadalupe in Mexico CityJust before Christmas each year, religious pilgrims and tourists alike descend on the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City to catch a glimpse of the image of La Virgen Morena. Although the Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe is intended to be a religious holiday, the party goes on throughout the night with dancing, parades, and fireworks. This day is also celebrated in many other cities throughout the country; if you travel to Mexico this December, you won’t have to look very far to find a fun-filled fiesta on the 12th of December!

The Story Behind the Festival
In 1532, Juan Diego, an Aztec who had converted to Catholicism, witnessed a vision of the Virgin Mary who instructed him to tell the local bishop to build a church on the site of an old pagan temple. Bishop Juan de Zumárraga met with Diego but wanted a sign as proof that the story was true. On December 12th, Diego decided to ask the priest to give the last rites to his dying uncle. Before he could leave, the vision returned promising both a return to health for the ailing uncle and a sign to convince the bishop.Mary sent Diego to Tepeyac Hill to pick roses and place them in his tilma, an outer-garment. Although it was winter, he did as instructed and brought the flowers back to the bishop. When he unwrapped his tilma, it was imprinted with the image of the Virgin Mary. This very item is still displayed in the shrine to Guadalupe at the Basilica. To commemorate this day, thousands of people travel to Mexico each year on December 12th to pay tribute to La Virgen Morena and party in the square in front of the Basilica. In 2002, Juan Diego was officially recognized as a saint in his own right for participating in this miracle.
What to Expect
If you make it to the Basilica, expect to come together with thousands of other visitors as the walls of the 46,000-square-foot atrium seem to swell with the faithful. Even if you’re not religious, your heart will be touched by the spirituality and sense of community that this event creates. After the evening mass is complete, the skies will fill with the light from thousands of fireworks. Enjoy the music and dance the night away because everyone is Mexican on this special night!Although the Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe is also celebrated in several American cities, there’s nothing like being at the Basilica on this day.

Let us plan a private journey with your closest friends and experience the colonial cities of central Mexico and the Feast of Guadalupe. Call us at 1-800-513-1587, or from Mexico, +52 (322) 225 9821.

 

Mexico Launches Social Magazine

Posted by & filed under Media, Mexico Today.

#MexicoToday: As you all know, Journey Mexico prides itself in it’s vast knowledge of Mexico. We know the authentic experiences and unique encounters you can find in all 31 states of Mexico & the capital, Distrito Federal. We’ve blogged accounts of some of our trips and always keep you updated on all the positive happening in Mexico. Thanks to your support, we are able to spread our passion about Mexico and now it’s your turn to share yours! 

Mexico Today, an initiative of Marca País – Imagen de México recently launched its Social Magazine on Facebook, which archives tons of stories, posts, and videos of Mexico. Now is your opportunity to share your Mexico passion and submit Mexico stories- either personal or links found on the internet- for the chance to win $500. Here’s the info:

“The newly launched Mexico Today Social Magazine on Facebook profiles stories and submissions from leading Mexico bloggers and influencers, including the 24 Mexico Today Ambassadors.

This innovative tactic pushes the envelope of what is possible on Facebook, leveraging community participation from fans to produce a dynamic and evolving, socially-curated online publication. The intent is to create a grassroots movement by allowing submissions from those who are interested in Mexico’s culture, the Mexican economy, Mexico’s environment and more.

Help shape the conversation about today’s Mexico. The Magazine accepts not only short links, but also longer blog posts. Submit your content today to enter a chance to win a $500 gift card.”

We at Journey Mexico encourage you to check out the Soical Magazine on Facebook and start supporting the positive Mexico movement!

Journey Yucatan

Posted by & filed under Campeche, Cancun, Chiapas, Chichen Itza, Riviera Maya & Tulum, Things We're Proud Of, Yucatan.

After months of anticipation, we are proud to announce the launch of Journey Yucatan, a branch of Journey Mexico specializing in the Yucatan Peninsula.

In response to an increasing number of travelers looking for unique travel experiences in Mexico’s Southeast including the Cancun, the Riviera Maya, Costa Maya, the Yucatan Peninsula, Campeche, and Chiapas, Journey Yucatan focuses on custom private tours, destination management services, and luxury transportation designed to get beyond the hustle and bustle of the typical tourist destinations. Picture the magical silence of an exclusive visit to ancient ruins outside of regular tourist hours. Imagine the thrill of a private expedition into the underground rivers and caves of the region. Envision the luxury of a helicopter, private aircraft, catamaran or luxury yacht tour of the natural and cultural wonders of the Yucatan complete with catered lunches and champagne toasts. Let our expert Cancun-based team create an authentic experience for you and your clients in this magical region.

At Journey Yucatan, we pride ourselves in our unbending commitment to seamless service and spirit of authentic adventure as you’ve come to expect with Journey Mexico. The Journey Yucatan brand combines the finest properties, private villas, expert guides and unique transportation services including luxury vehicles, charter planes, yachts and helicopters; with over 20 years of on the ground experience exploring the peninsula, we take great pride in sharing the unique and unexpected travel experiences that this magical region offers. We are a guide-owned and operated company with over 20 years of experience on the ground. Our logistics and site knowledge are unmatched and our safety and operational standards are uncompromising. We take special pride in our expertise in the lesser visited areas of the Republic. We are a company built on a deep mission of service that spans from the sales process to the seamless service on the ground that builds repeat customers.

Matteo Luthi, Journey Mexico’s Director of Operations and newly appointed General Manager of the Journey Yucatan Office, together with the Cancun-based, Journey Yucatan team are available to create the most spectacular, creative, and memorable ways to spend your holidays. Their local knowledge is extensive and they take great pleasure in sharing exclusive insights with our important guests.

Feel free to get in touch with any of our staff for an insider’s view into the exceptional experiences that await you in the Yucatan Peninsula.
Email Matteo or come visit us at our new office location:
SM 57, m 3, Lote 1, local 102
Cancun, Q. Roo
Mexico C.P. 67500

Mexico Tourism: Facts & Statistics 2011

Posted by & filed under Health and Safety, News.

The following information information comes directly from The Mexico Tourism Board in 2011. 

To see the most updated, please go to: Updated Mexico Facts & Statistics

mexico-map
  • Mexico continues to be a destination of choice for many people around the world and is currently Ranked 10th globally in international visitor arrivals
  • Mexico remains the most visited country by Americans
  • In August 2011 Mexico saw an increased number of visitors from 145 countries around the world (year on year).
    Brazil (59.5%)         Russia (55%)         Ecuador (29.6%)        Australia (22.6%)
    Argentina (21%)     UK(19.6%)             Korea (18.9%)            Chile (15.9%)
    Peru (15.1%)           China (14.2%)       Italy (13.1%)               Japan (10.6%)
    Canada (9.2%)        Colombia (8.7%)
  • From January through July 2011 year on year, 11,440,000 international tourists traveled to Mexico, a 3.3 percent increase year on year. At this rate, Mexico expects to receive a record number of international foreign visitors in 2011, trumping our previous high of 22.4 million achieved in 2010.
  • May 2010 vs May 2011 (year on year statistics) – International air arrivals increased from the following countries: Brazil – 42.4 percent, Russia – 30.5 percent, China – 24 percent, Korea – 18.5 percent,Australia – 16.7 percent, Canada – 15.8 percent, United Kingdom – 15.8 percent
  • Year on year from January to May 2011, hotel occupancy rates increased by 2.3%.
  • April 2010 vs. April 2011 (year on year statistics)
    International Visitors Tourism Spend increased by 3.0%
    International Visitor Arrivals increased by 8.1%
  • According to SECTUR, tourism investment in Mexico for Q1 of 2011 is up 127%.
  • Approximately USD$1.5 billion will be spent on new hotel developments in Mexico.
    (Four new hotels in Queretaro, Los Cabos, Huatulco, and Mayakoba built by US chains.)
  • Over the first quarter of 2011 various European, American, Canada and Latin American carriers all noted makeable increases in the number of passengers carried into key Mexican hubs including:
    European Carriers:  British Airways (122.2%), France XL (150%), Lufthansa (22.7%), KLM (12.8%
    American Carriers: Delta (79.4%), United Airlines (51.5%)
    Latin American Carriers: Avianca (131%), Taca (77.7%), LAN (45.3%), Cup (37.2%), Cubana (27.9%)
    Canadian Carriers: Sunwing (98.7%), West Jet (43%), Air Canada (17.5%), Air Tranast (15.3%)

While there are current security and safety concerns, it is important that travelers get to know the “untold” story of Mexico.

  • There are many exciting developments happening in Mexico each and every day. Across various categories from tour operators, airlines, resorts, cruise lines and attractions, the first three months of 2011 has been proven to be a time of growth and continued prosperity.
  • There could not be a better time to visit Mexico.   Mexican tourism destinations have lower crime rates than many other prominent tourist destinations.
  • Travelocity ranked Cancun #3 and Puerto Vallarta #8 in its top ten summer family destinations for 2011.
  • Cancun was ranked the number one international destination on the Orbitz Insider Index Summer Travel report.
  • According to a June 2011, Conde Nast Traveler poll, Mexico has 19 of the top 250 spas, globally.
  • Mexico has a total of 18 AAA Five Diamond Awards, including two new lodgings and one new restaurant in January 2011. This is a further testament to Mexico’s longstanding reputation as a travel destination offering top-quality, unique and best-in-class resorts and hotels. The La Blanc Spa Resort in Cancún and Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort Riviera Maya join 12 other Mexican hotels to have already earned this distinction, giving Mexico a total of fourteen AAA Five Diamond Awards.
  • Riviera Maya, Mexico and two Mexican hotel properties have been recognized with a top travel destination award from Travel Weekly.   Also, several Mexico hotels were selected by Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2011, Travel + Leisure World’s Best Hotels 2011 and Loreto, Mexico made The New York Times list of 41 Places to Go in 2011.
  • Mexico by the Numbers – in 2010 – there were 22 million tourists; 50 million-border crossings and 6 million cruise passengers that visited Mexico.
  • Mexico is the top destination for overseas American tourists, registering a market share of 14.7 percent in 2010, according to US Commerce Department figures. This share is historic and represents the highest recorded since 2005.
  • Mexico is a leader in sustainable tourism. The Mayakoba Resort on Mexico’s Riviera Maya was awarded with the prestigious Ulysses Award from the United Nations World Tourism Organization in 2011. In the ‘Innovation in Enterprises’ division, Mayakoba garnered the award for ‘Responsible Tourism Development’. Also in 2011, the Mayakoba Resort received recognition from the Rainforest Alliance for achievements in sustainable tourism.

To see the most updated, please go to: Updated Mexico Facts & Statistics

 

 

 

November Food Festivals of Mexico

Posted by & filed under Culture, Holidays, Fairs & Festivals, News, Puerto Vallarta & Punta Mita, Riviera Maya & Tulum.

November brings two of Mexico’s most cherished food festivals: The International Gourmet Festival in Puerto Vallarta (Nov. 10-20th) and the Taste of Playa in the Riviera Maya (Nov. 20th).

The International Gourmet Festival in Puerto Vallarta is a ten-day, annual event that has been attracting thousands of people from around the world every year since 1995. Founded by master chefs Thierry Blouet, Heinz Reize and Roland Menetrey, the International Gourmet Festival gives food enthusiasts an incredible opportunity to sample cuisine, taste wines from around the world, and watch cooking demonstrations in the finest restaurants of Puerto Vallarta.

The video below gives a nice overview of previous years’ events, and more. The full schedule and pricing for 2011’s Gourmet Festival in Puerto Vallarta can be found here. Be sure to contact one of our expert planners to build a trip around this world-renowned event!

 

True culinary fanatics can leave the Gourmet Festival a day or two early and hop over to the gorgeous Riviera Maya to savor the flavors of Taste of Playa. Only in its second year, this international event is quickly gaining recognition as reason to visit the Riviera Maya. Last year’s event attracted over 3,200 attendees eager to sample the best of what local chefs from over 25 of the area’s restaurants had to offer. For more information about the even, visit the Taste of Playa’s website and to book a trip for the event, contact one of Journey Mexico’s expert trip planners.

Archaeologists Find Aztec Ritual Platform In Mexico City

Posted by & filed under Colonial Cities, Culture, Media, Mexico City, Mexico Today, News.

#MexicoToday: Under the hustle and bustle of modern Mexico City lie the ruins of the pre-Hispanic Aztec capital, once known as Tenochtitlán.  The center of this ancient capital was the Templo Mayor, which archeologists discovered in the mid 1900s and excavated in the seventies under the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral. Still a site for active digs, archeologists have recently discovered an Aztec ceremonial platform while doing remodeling work around the Templo Mayor in the centro historico, one of downtown Mexico City’s main attractions.

This newly discovered ceremonial platform is speculated to have been built around AD 1469 and is decorated with carvings of serpent heads, important in determining what the platform was used for.  A critical piece in a challenging puzzle for historians, this platform could represent a cremation site for Aztec rulers.  To date, archeologists have never found any royal Aztec tombs in their excavations of the ancient capital.  Researchers have been on a five-year quest to unearth remains of Aztec emperors around the Templo Mayor basing their digs on old historical accounts of cremation ceremonies written by Roman Catholic priests who accompanied the Spanish conquest in 1521. The records suggest that the Aztec rulers were cremated at the foot of the Templo Mayor and this platform may be part of the same structure.  Archeologists around the world agree that the discovery of a royal tomb would be a major break through in understanding Aztec kingship, burial and the structure of the empire.

The blend of pre-Hispanic and modern cultures in Mexico City and the continual discovery of ancient history in this metropolitan capital make the city a unique destination for the savvy traveler.  While this new platform will continue to be excavated until possibly May 2012,  the Templo Mayor and it’s adjacent museum in the Historic Center of Mexico City (included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list), remain open to the public. If you are interested in visiting Mexico City or other archaeological sites, contact Journey Mexico.

 

Early Human Footprints Found in Chihuahua

Posted by & filed under Culture, Media, Mexico Today, News.

#MexicoToday: Mexico has received a lot of attention over the years for discoveries that trace back  thousands of years ago: ancient tombs, Mayan palaces, pre-Hispanic carvings, and now human footprints. Found in northern Mexico’s Sierra Tarahuamara in Chihuahua, officials said these footprints could have been left by some of the original humans who inhabited Mexico and even the continent.

According to the National Anthropology and History Institute (INAH), the five human footprints, which were discovered by locals hiking in the mountain chain, could be between 4,500 and 23,000 years old.  To date, the oldest human remains in the Americas on record are 11,600 years old; these too were found in Mexico, in a cenote (sinkhole) in Quintana Roo.  Scientists are hoping to authenticate these human steps found in Chihuahua as even older than these remains.  The INAH, currently undergoing a project called “Early Man in Mexico”, believe that this discovery could be extremely significant as these footprints are not only the earliest on record in Chihuahua but also are potentially from the first human beings to settle the whole continent.

Following this finding, the INAH began a detailed investigation of the area which uncovered traces of other primitive shelters and campsites. Near the original site, just outside of Creel in Ahuatos Valley, they also uncovered five caves, three of them with several layers of paintings. The cave paintings originated over three different periods of time, pre-ceramic, pre-Hispanic and colonial which leads our experts to believe that humans were present in the area from times dating all the way back to the Ice Age, over 12,000 years ago!

Mexico has repeatedly proven to be a never ending source of exciting archeological discovery.  This discovery comes just months after a new Mayan Palace was discovered in Chiapas and  two sculptures of Mayan Warriors  discovered at Toniná.  The opportunities for archeological enthusiasts abound and Mexico remains a world class destination for travel into the ancient past.

 

October 2011 Newsletter

Posted by & filed under Campeche, Cancun, Chiapas, Newsletters and Promotions, Riviera Maya & Tulum, Yucatan.

OCTOBER 2011 NEWSLETTER
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After months of anticipation, we are proud to announce the launch of Journey Yucatan, a branch of Journey Mexico specializing in the Yucatan Peninsula. In response to an increasing number of travelers looking for unique travel experiences in Mexico’s Southeast including the Cancun, the Riviera Maya, Campeche, and Chiapas, Journey Yucatan focuses on custom private tours, destination management services, and luxury transportation designed to get beyond the hustle and bustle of the typical tourist destinations. The Cancun-based Journey Yucatan team are available to create the most spectacular, creative, and memorable ways to spend your holidays. Their local knowledge is extensive and they take great pleasure in sharing exclusive insights with our important guests.

We are proud to announce that for the second consecutive year, Travel + Leisure magazine has chosen Journey Mexico Founder and President, Zachary Rabinor, as a member of their coveted A-List: World’s Top Tour Operators.

 

 

 

Best of the Blog This Month

New Archaeological Discoveries Mexico has been uncovering new discoveries that trace back thousands of years ago: ancient tombs, Mayan palaces, pre-Hispanic carvings, early human footprints and Aztec temples.

Share YOUR Mexico Experience Mexico Today launched its Social Magazine on Facebook and brings you the opportunity to share your Mexico stories for the chance to win $500.

Mexico at the Forefront of Sustainable Tourism Mexico has piled up their “green” awards to make it a recognized world leader in sustainable tourism development. The most fascinating story yet comes from the rehabilitation of Cabo Pulmo, a marine preserve.

 

Journey Mexico: On The Road and In The News

October 31 – November 4: Journey Mexico will participate in PURE Life Experiences Trade Event in Morocco. Find us at #A18

November 7-10: Journey Mexico will participate in World Travel Market in London, at #LA100

November 14-16: Visiting clients in Chicago

November 17-19: Signature Travel Network Sales Meeting and Trade Show #240

 

New Mayan Secrets Expected to Increase 2012 Travel to Mexico

Posted by & filed under Culture, News.

New documentary to unveil ancient secrets of the maya

#MexicoToday: Ever since modern man learned that the Mayan calendar seems to stop on Dec. 21st, 2012, there has been great anticipation for any types of “truths” next year will bring. Now, less than 15 months from the end of the last noted Mayan cycle, the promise of new Mayan secrets to be revealed before the fateful date have 2012 excitement more energetically-charged than ever.

According to Reuters, Raul Julia-Levy (son of famous actor Raul Julia) has been granted permission by the Mexican government to produce a documentary called Revelations of the Maya 2012 and Beyond that will reveal “shocking” information about the ancient culture, their understanding of the universe, and their knowledge of catastrophes yet to come.

Apparently, Julia-Levy learned of some of these ancient secrets from former Mexican president Vicente Fox (who happens to be a family friend of Julia-Levy) and has spent four years trying to convince the current administration to grant him permission to make this documentary. Mexico’s current president, Felipe Calderón has finally granted Julia-Levy permission to make his film but under two conditions: The documentary must be released before Dec. 21st, 2012 and the original screening must take place in Mexico.

According to Julia-Levy, “This is very important for humanity, not just for Mexico. This information has been protected for 80 years, and now it’s important for people to understand the series of events that are coming and the consequences for all of us… the Mexican government is preparing to tell humanity and the world things that are critical for us, for the way we live, for the way we’ve been handling the planet.” Other than that, Julia-Levy has been ordered to keep quiet about the secret insights of the Maya until the release of the documentary.

The Mexican government has estimated that some 52 million travelers will visit Mexico by the end of next year to learn about the ancient Maya. Specialist travel companies like Journey Mexico have been offering trips such as their Chiapas Mundo Maya adventure, where travelers have the chance to experience the ancient culture of the Maya first-hand by visiting ancient archeological sites with expert guides as well as by spending time with members of the modern-day Mayan civilization – many of whom still speak the ancient language of their ancestors.

In regards to Revelations of the Maya 2012 and Beyond, the Mexican government has travel experts and Mayan enthusiasts alike eager with anticipation. Luis Augusto Garcia Rosado, tourism minister for the Mexican state of Campeche, recently noted, “The Mayans used to construct one pyramid over another. In the site at Calakmul, workers for INAH have discovered rooms inside the pyramid that have never been seen or explored before, and we’re letting this documentary film there, to see what has been discovered inside the pyramid.”

While what exactly will be revealed through this documentary remains a mystery (for now), what’s certain is that the first to know will be in Mexico next fall.

 

 

The Magical Neighborhoods of Mexico City

Posted by & filed under Colonial Cities, Media, Mexico City, Mexico Today, News.

#MexicoToday: In the beginning of the year, we reported the Government investment of 330 million pesos in the the Barrios Magicos (Magical Neighborhoods) program in Mexico City. An initiative led by the Secretary of Tourism of the Federal District, the Barriós Magico Turisticos de la Ciudad de Mexico program proposed to showcase the most culturally rich spaces of Mexico City area to increase tourism.

After months of revision of many neighborhoods, a total of 21 have met the standards and requirements to be certified as a Magical Neighborhood.  The requirements were modeled after the national ‘Magic Towns’ program, having to meet the criteria of either holding some wealth of historic, architectural, cultural, gastronomic, or folkloric image to spark interest in visitors.  It also mandated that access roads to these neighborhoods must adhere to standards of security and cleanliness, while also controlling any unappealing activity so the area remains attractive. The designated budget for these 21 neighborhoods would help provide in maintaining the standards

The 21 Magical Neighborhoods that made the list are: Coyoacán, Roma-Condesa, Xochimilco, San Ángel, San Agustín de las Cuevas, Santa María La Ribera, Zona Rosa, Garibaldi, Villa de Guadalupe, Mixcoac, Tacubaya, Santa María Magdalena Atlitic, Azcapotzalco, La Merced, Mixquic, Cuajimalpa, San Pedro Atocpan, Culhuacán, Tacuba, Santa Julia and Pueblo de Ixtacalco.

Though the 21 neighborhoods blend to make up the entire urban area, they each conserve a distinguishable identity and environment, creating small pockets of culture and tradition sprinkled throughout Mexico City.  Particular points of history, quaint restaurants, hidden museums, flourishing plazas, and beautiful chapels add particular charm to these neighborhoods, connecting normal daily lifestyle with remembrances of the past. Some of the attractions in these neighborhoods have already been internationally recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites, such as the Luis Barragán House and Studio in Tacubaya and also the zone of Xochimilco that have canals that are a reminder of the pre-Hispanic Aztecs. Other sites of interest that are already well-known include the house of renowned artists, Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, in Coyoacán and also one of the most visited churches in the world, La Basílica de Guadalupe in the neighborhood of Villa de Guadalupe. But as the program points out, the neighborhoods don’t necessarily have to have a specific point of interest to qualify as a Barrio Magico; it could simply be the ambiance and character of an area that earns it Magic Neighborhood status, as is the case  in Roma-Condesa, one of the trendiest and most artsy neighborhoods in Mexico.

As interest in travel to Mexico continues to rise, Mexico hopes to designate more Magical Neighborhoods over the next three years. Government and residents plan to continue to work together to conserve these areas and offer better options of culture, recreation, hospitality, and gastronomy to their visitors.

Journey Mexico’s Zachary Rabinor on the 2011 Travel + Leisure A-List

Posted by & filed under News, Things We're Proud Of, Travel + Leisure.

Journey Mexico in 2011 Travel + Leisure A-list

We are proud to announce that for the second consecutive year, Travel + Leisure magazine has chosen Journey Mexico founder and president Zachary Rabinor as a member of their coveted A-List: Word’s Top Travel Agents.

Each year, Travel + Leisure evaluates thousands of travel specialists around the world then hand-picks the best of the best to be a part of their A-List. The 2011 A-List was published in the September Issue of Travel + Leisure, which recently hit newsstands worldwide. Be sure to grab a copy and check out Zach’s feature be found on page 110!