Mexican Destinations

Best Restaurant in Puerto Vallarta?! My Vote

2012-02-28T11:03:00.001-08:00

We have said it before and it just keeps gettingbetter. Puerto Vallarta is home to some of the best restaurants in theworld. With so many options, it’s hard to narrow in on just one. But, I’verisen to the challenge (I know, poor me) and I’m ready to cast my vote.Barcelona Restaurant, located right downtown on the corner of Matamoros and de Octubre, boasts ahilltop location with panoramic views of the beautiful Bay of Banderas. Mysuggestion: bring a group, bring a camera, order lots of yummy sangria and try everything! Ifyou aren’t familiar with tapas style serving, you can expect small portionsizes of the most savory dishes, with something to excite every palate. Seriously,I have yet to try a dish that I don’t like. You will relish in the food,the drink and your charming company, yet you will find that you cannot help butperiodically lose yourself in the smell of the fresh salt air and peacefultranquility of the ocean.

- Noelle Michaud, Destination Expert

Don’t like Tequila or Guacamole? Me either!

2012-02-13T13:08:00.000-08:00

Everyone gives me a hard time for living in Mexico and notliking tequila or guacamole. I know it’s odd, but I’ll admit that I’ve alwaysbeen a fairly picky eater. I grew up in a “meat & potatoes” household, sofor about the past 20 years I’ve been trying to expand my horizons by tryingdifferent genres of food. Unfortunately, I have a texture issue with somethings and avocados and guacamole fall into that category. As for tequila,well, I think many of us can say we’ve had a bad experience with tequila atsome point in time. When I uttered the words “I’m never drinking tequilaagain,” I meant it.

So, what does one eat if not the fundamentals of a Mexicandiet? The answer: A LOT! There arecountless restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, offering a diverse selection ofcuisine. Here are some of my favorites:

La Cigale: Crossing the threshold of La Cigale, you willbe instantly transported to the streets of Paris. In the short time this FrenchBistro has been open, it has become a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Themenu includes traditional French Onion soup, escargot and ratatouille. The winelist is extensive and the desserts are scrumptious. Tip: You should make a reservation. It’s not a very big place and its popularityguarantees a wait if you don’t have one

Barcelona Tapas: If you are looking for a place to celebrate aspecial occasion, Barcelona Tapas is the spot. This rooftop restaurantoverlooks downtown and the food is spectacular. Spanish tapas are small,appetizer size portions, which is a great way to have a little bit ofeverything on the menu. Some of our favorite selections are baked goat cheese,spicy garlic shrimp, paella, and of course, the sangria. Tips: Plan on dining around dusk so you can watchthe sunset and catch the nightly fireworks around 9pm. Daily lunch promotions are available fromNoon-4pm.

La Posta: Located right in the heart of downtown, alongthe malecon, is La Posta a Restaurante Italiano. La Posta offers a casualatmosphere and one of the best pizzas in town. The homemade ravioli is one ofmy favorites and the risotto is tasty as well. Tip: Pizzas are only 65 pesos onMondays.

View of Daquiri Dick's outdoor patio

Daquiri Dick’s: The award-winning Daquiri Dick’s has been afavorite for 40 years. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, guests can dine onthe outdoor patio or on the beach. The menu can be characterized asMediterranean/Mexican cuisine with an Asian influence. Their roasted red peppersalsa is unbelievably delicious…I could just sit, eat the chips and salsa andskip the main meal! Tip: Daquiri Dick’smakes their own pastries so be sure to stop by for Sunday brunch.

Safety In Puerto Vallarta: Tripadvisor Knows What's Up

2012-01-25T12:35:00.000-08:00

We can say it until we are blue in the face. But,maybe we have a biased opinion. Would you feel more comfortable if youhad another informed source to evaluate the level of safety in Puerto Vallarta? Tripadvisor.com, the “world’s largest travel site" that offersreviews on lodging from Switzerland to Canada, is about as informed as it getswhen it comes to travel and they are talking about Puerto Vallarta's safety. So, now, you don’t have to take our word for it…

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g150793-s206/Puerto-Vallarta:Mexico:Health.And.Safety.html

Puerto Vallart's Boardwalk

2012-01-18T10:00:00.000-08:00

If you’ve ever been to Puerto Vallarta, chances are you’vestrolled along El Malecón. The Malecon meaning jetty in Spanish is the city’sboardwalk and is one of the most popular areas in Puerto Vallarta. Almost amile long and hugging the shoreline, the Malecon is hopping with activityalmost any time of the day or night.

Along the promenade you’ll find restaurants, bars,nightclubs, an array of shops, street performers, local artists selling theirwares and numerous sculptures. There is a large outdoor amphitheater calledLos Arcos (the Arches)where constant entertainment performs, such as the Xiutla folkloric dancers,live music, cultural events and the ever popular clown shows in the evening.

With its recent makeover, the Malecon now offers free publicWi-Fi, plenty of new benches to sit and enjoy the view, an abundance of newpalm trees all adding to the already tropical environment. A large section ofthe Malecon is now closed to vehicular traffic, allowing pedestrians to strollleisurely along the widened esplanade.

Bird's-eye view of El Malecón

If you love to walk and are an art lover, you should checkout the Malecon Sculpture Tour, every Tuesday morning at 9:30am. The tour isfree and lasts about 2 hours. Your tour guide is Gary Thompson of GalleriaPacifico, and the tour meets at the Millenia sculpture on the north end of theMalecon.

For weekend fun, Sunday evening is an especially populartime on the Malecon. Everyone has the day off on Sundays in Mexico, so all ofthe locals are out in their Sunday best. Big band music is available at the plazastarting at 6pm and many of the locals will be dancing along. You are welcometo join!

Activities are not limited to these times! Every night and weekendis like a carnival, because special events are frequenton the Malecon. Be sure to join thefestivities on your next trip to Puerto Vallarta!

For the latest events calendar go to click here.

Puerto Vallarta’s Renaissance

2012-01-13T09:39:00.000-08:00

Puerto Vallarta wants everyone to know that it is the ultimate Mexican destination for vacationers. In the upcoming months it hosting two industryevents, one for travel and one for economics, to showcase recent townrenovations and to highlight what is can offer to.

ThePacific coast resort city of Puerto Vallarta is sprucing itself up as itprepares to host two important events this spring: the Tianguis travel tradefair from March 25 to 28 and the World Economic Forum on Latin America fromApril 16 to 18.

The biggest project is along the city’s waterfront. In November, the malecon,the promenade fronting Banderas Bay, was reopened after reconstruction andrenovation that turned the formerly traffic-filled thoroughfare into apalm-lined, pedestrian-only pathway. At its center is a beachfront amphitheateroverlooking the Pacific. As part of the renovation, the city opened a kioskwith bicycles, kayaks and strollers available for rent. Their use is free forthe first 30 minutes.

To read the entire article, click here.

Mexican Flavors Already in Your Pantry

2011-12-29T09:20:00.000-08:00

Fullof flavor, the sweet and nutty Mexican wedding cookie is easy to make and youprobably have all the ingredients in your pantry. A cousin of the traditional sugarcookie, the Mexican wedding cookie dates back to a Medieval Arab cuisine where sugar was a prominent ingredientin dessert-like foods. When the Moors immigrated into Southern Spain theybrought along their sugary delights. Some centuries later, in the 1600s, theNew World was discovered and the sugar cookie was introduced to today’s Mexico.With time, the Mexican sugar cookie reincarnated into a nutty and sugary treatthat utilized the abundant Pecan nuts, called nuez, native to the New World. Today the Mexican wedding cookie’s simpleingredients make it perfect for any occasion.

Checkout a Mexican wedding cookie recipe below:

Photo taken from www.william-sonoma.com

1 1/2 cups unsalted butter

3/4 cup confectioner’s sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups finely ground pecans
4 1/2 tsps vanilla extract
3 cups sifted all purpose flour
1/3 cup confectioner’s sugar forrolling

1. Preheat oven to 325*

2. Cream butter in a bowl,gradually add confectioner’s sugar and salt. Beat until light and fluffy. Addpecans and vanilla. Blend in flour gradually and mix well.

3. Shape into balls usingabout 1 tsp for each cookie. Place on ungreased cookie sheets and bake for15-20 minutes. Do not brown. Cool slightly, then roll in the extra confectioner’ssugar, roll again when cooled.

Culture, History and Food in Puerto Vallarta

2011-12-21T15:14:00.000-08:00

Whether it’s your first time to Puerto Vallarta or yourtenth, the Vallarta Food Tour is a must! Not only will you experience some of Vallarta’samazing local food, but you will also learn about the culture and history ofPuerto Vallarta.

The tour starts at Mole Rosa, a locally owned restaurantlocated in the Zona Romantica, off of the south end of the Malecon. I never thought I liked mole before, butapparently I was wrong. The owner served up 3 different types of mole: thetraditional mole which tastes a little like chocolate, a green mole that ismade with pumpkin seeds, and their specially, mole rosa, which is a pink moleinfused with red beets. They were all delicious!

From there, we strolled around the Zona Romantico down a well-known street called Basilio Badillo to Roblestaco stand. There are countless taco stands around Vallarta, and it is amazinghow different one can be from the next. A taco is just a taco right? Not the case! You can spend a week hereeating only at taco stands & never have the same meal twice. Robles is oneof the best, serving their taco “dorado” style, basically meaning fried. Theyare a little greasy, but SO tasty.

Enjoying Robles's fried tacos. Yum.

Our third tasting included ceviche at Marisco’s El Guero. Toensure the best quality, the owner of this hidden treasure buys hisseafood fresh daily, dorado (also called mahi-mahi), straight from the BanderasBay. Served on a crisp tostada, it was one of the best ceviches I have evereaten.

Our next delicacy was at Cesar’s Coconut Stand.Family owned for 3 generations, Cesar’s stand serves over 1000 coconuts a weekduring busy season. Serving both coconut juice and coconut meat, this wasclearly a popular spot as there were several drive-up customers in just the fewmoments we were there.

Hot off the presses were fresh tortillas for our fifth stop.La Gloria Tortilla Factory provides tortillas for the majority of the localrestaurants. If you think the tortillas are delicious with your meal, you willlove them freshly made.

After strolling across a couple of swinging bridges andthrough the local flea market into El Centro, my personal favorite stop was LaRevolucion. The history behind this local cantina is fascinating. Evidently,this spot was frequented by Elizabeth Taylor & Richard Burton back in theday. Witnesses say they had some of their best lover’s spats right at the bar. LaRevolucion served up 3 scrumptious soups: black bean, tortilla and Florida Calabasas. This was accompanied bylocal tequila (which you are supposed to SIP, not down in one gulp).

Meandering through El Centro, we stopped by one of the town’sicons, the church of our Lady Guadalupe, and then down the famous Malecon. Conception,one of the local’s favorite vendors, was on the Malecon & offered up arefreshing cup of tuba water - water made from fermented coconut with little pieces of yellow or redapple, chunks of nuts and a little sugar added. This unique combination makesthe water more refreshing than soft drinks or other waters that are preparedwith fruit.

The day ended on a sweet note at La Azteca’s candy store. Anotherfamily owned business, the owner of La Azteca started out as a street vendor. Hiscandied nuts were so popular that he moved into a small store front, and hisbusiness expanded numerous times over 30 years. Owned now by his children,La Azteca now has 9 storefronts and offers a plethora of homemade candytreats.

We all left the tour pleasantly full with an enrichedappreciation for the Mexican way of life. If it’s your first time to PuertoVallarta, the Vallarta Food Tour is the best way to learn about the history ofthe area, experience some incredible local foods & learn your way aroundtown. If you've been to Vallarta before, the Food Tour will show you tuckedaway treasures that you probably haven't yet experienced, adding to the richculture that you already love so much. Don’t miss out!

For more information, www.vallartafoodtours.com.

-Stephanie Watts

What our Destination Experts are saying about Cabo

2011-12-14T15:14:00.000-08:00

Noelle and I spent a few days in Cabo San Lucas recentlyto tour some of our inventory and to learn more about the area so that we canbe TRUE Destination Experts. If you were to ask me today, “What should we dowhile we’re in Cabo?” here are some ready responses for you:

ACOMMODATIONS

Whether you want an all-inclusive hotel, condo or villa, wehave inventory to suit all. One of my favorite hotels was Pueblo Bonito Pacifica. PBPacifica is a tranquil retreat located about 5 minutes outside of downtown CaboSan Lucas, on the Pacific Ocean side of the peninsula. This full serviceproperty has 5 restaurants, 2 pools, an incredible spa and a secluded beach. The rooms are top-notch and with a veryprofessional staff. Our guide, Jesus, met us upon arrival with cool towels anda fresh glass of Jamaica (ha-MY-ka) juice. As we toured the guest rooms, wewere greeted by a welcome message on the bed. We felt very special, butapparently ALL of their guests are treated the same way.

If you’re traveling with a family and need some more space,I’d recommend a condo at the HaciendaBeach Club in downtown Cabo San Lucas. Not only is the location convenient,but the property itself is exceptional. Situated on Medano Beach, HaciendaBeach Club is within walking distance to the marina and downtown. Our topchoice, unit 501-C, is expansive with a gourmet kitchen, sizeable living spaceand terrace with three en-suite bedrooms. The property itself offers 5-star servicesincluding restaurants and room service, a top of the line spa including fitnesscenter, fitness classes and an infinity pool overlooking Land’s End. Unfortunately,we did not have an opportunity to try out the restaurant, but rumor has it,it’s one of the best in town.

Our villa options are plentiful and diverse, ranging insize, location & amenities. It really is hard to pick just one favorite, soI chose three: Villade los Suenos de Pedregal, VillaGran Vista and VillaTurquesa. All of these properties are located in Pedregal, just outside ofdowntown Cabo San Lucas, and overlook the Pacific. Villa de los Suenos dePedregal is a luxurious home offering up to 8 bedrooms. The vaulted ceilingsand elegant furnishings make this home feel grand, yet extremely cozy. VillaGran Vista is a true home away from home, offering comfortable living spaces, agaming room with pool table, media room, office space and 7 en-suite bedrooms. Fiveof the bedrooms could be used as masters, so no need to fight over whom getsthe best room in the house. Villa Turquesa sits on the hilltop with amazingviews of the Pacific. This home has some flexibility to be rented as either a 4or 9 bedroom home. Some fun features of Villa Turquesa include a putting green,theater room, indoor shuffleboard, and kid’s room with bunk beds and a junglegym.

RESTAURANTS

If you’re looking for some good, not too fancy, fun placesto eat, here are a few of my favorites:

Baja Cantina- Located at the marina, the Baja Cantina has areally fun atmosphere. It is definitely a popular spot and always hopping withtourists and locals alike. If you’re looking for a place to watch your favoritesport (it was a must for me to watch the Ravens vs. Steelers game), this is theplace. As for food, I had the pizza andit was delicious! www.bajacantina.com.mx

Sharkey’s- Of the beaten path a little, Sharkey’s is locatedabout 2 blocks from the marina. Looking for some great authentic Mexican food?This is the place. And if you happen to catch a fish while you’re in town,Sharkey’s can prepare it for you. www.sharkystacos.com

Baja Brewing Company- If you’re tired of drinking Corona, headto the Baja Brewing Company. They have 3 locations: at the marina in Cabo SanLucas, in the historic art district in San Jose and rooftop at the Cabo VillasResort on Medano Beach. The beer was greatand you have to try the arrachera burger…yum! www.bajabrewingcompany.com

MUST DO ACTIVITIES

Drinks at The Office- The Office is an icon! Right on MedanoBeach, The Office is great place to hang out day or night. The buckets of beerare CHEAP and the people watching couldn’t be better.

Boat tour of the harbor- We took a tour around sunset forjust about an hour and I’d highly recommend it. Take out a bottle of wine (or2), enjoy the sunset, the skyline and the views of Land’s End.

Spend a day in San Jose- San Jose is the epitome of“quaint.”Get away from the hubbub of Cabo, walk around, do a little shoppingand be sure to stop for a beer at the Baja Brewing Company in the Historic Artdistrict.

These are just a few insider tips, but our knowledge of CaboSan Lucas is comprehensive. So feel free to give us a call and we’d be happyto help you plan your next trip to the Baja Peninsula! To speak with a Destination Expert, call (800) 777-7580 or visit www.mexicandestinations.com toplan your Cabo vacation!

- Stephanie W

Where’s the best place to stay in Cabo and what’s the deal with San José?!

2011-12-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Before Igot the opportunity to really spend time in and around Cabo San Lucas, I had ahard time wrapping my head around the lay of the land. How far is San José from downtown Cabo?Which homes are located on swimmable beaches? Where are said beaches, inrelation to downtown? What’s the difference between homes on the “Pacific side” vs. homes on the“Marina side?” What the heck isthe “Corridor?” Sound familiar?Well, I’m happy to say I finally mastered Cabo’s layout and am here to share mynewly-acquired knowledge. And, yes, it is all that it’s cracked up to be (justin case you were wondering)!

Okay, solet’s get started. When you fly into Cabo, you fly into Los CabosInternational airport, which is about 20 minutes inland from thecoast. You have two choices once you enter into the heart of San José:you can continue straight through the roundabout into oldtown San José,or turn right onto the coastal highway to make your way up the coast to CaboSan Lucas. If you choose the former you will enter into San José‘sHotel Row (beautiful hotels and condos that line the SWIMMABLE beach in SJ).This area has a more authentic “Mexican” feel than downtown Cabo, so if you’relooking for that experience, you should stay on Hotel Row (ex. Costa AzulResort or Las Mananitas condominium) or at least make a day trip from Cabo tocheck it out. If you choose to go straight ahead into Cabo you will passthrough the area between San José and downtown Cabo: the “Corridor.”You won’t see many homes because they are hidden on either side of the highway,however, this is where most of the SWIMMABLE beaches are located. You can stayalong the Corridor and be anywhere from 10-30 minutes from downtown Cabo.Beaches are the Corridor‘s main attraction and is a great areafor those looking for quiet and privacy.

Continuingpast the Corridor is downtown Cabo. Downtown is not verylarge, about a 20 min walk from end to end, but it's full of shopping, bars,restaurants, and hotels (Pueblo Bonito Rose & Pueblo Bonito Blanco and the5 star Hacienda Cabo condominiums are just behind the beach and great for acentral location). Medano beach is the place to be if you arelooking for water sports, day drinking or maybe interested in the singlesscene. Also, if you are staying in downtown Cabo, Medano isreally your only option for a SWIMMABLE beach. In addition, it has the bestvantage point for viewing The Arches – unless you take a boatout to see them, which I highly recommend!

Now, ifyou continue along the waterfront (Bay of Cabo San Lucas), you will enter the Marina.This is where the fishing boats, charters and boat slips are located. There arealso several restaurants ranging from Ruth’s Chris to local fare. Most gringosdine here at night and have a few drinks before hitting the clubs (i.e.Giggling Marlin, El Squid Roe – all located just behind the Marina, downtown).The food is good and all restaurants have outdoor seating. Two blocks inlandfrom the Marina is Pedregal; a gated hillcommunity comprised mostly of homes owned by the local gringo population. Thehomes on the lower side of the hill are only a couple of blocks from downtown,making it convenient to walk into town.

Now,here’s where it can get confusing: Pedregal is a hill withhomes located on all sides. It is split up into two areas the “Pacificside” or “Marina side.” If your home is on the westside of the hill, you are on the Pacific side; if your home ison the east side, you are on the Marina side. Homes on the Pacificside have expansive views of the ocean and tend to have light later inthe day. Anything facing the Marina or the east has views ofthe Sea of Cortez. The Pacific Ocean is not swimmable in this area. Should youstay in Pedregal, it’s easiest to catch cabs to and from townunless you choose to rent a car for day excursions. There are a few hotels onthe Pacific side, such as Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach, PuebloBonito Pacifica and the Monte Cristo Estates. They are located just behind Pedregaland offer beautiful beach access (though not swimmable). This location isperfect for weddings, large groups or couples that wish to spend most days bythe pool, enjoying one another’s company. The hotels are all full-service andthe villas have private pools and kitchens, so the need to leave the premisesis minimal. From here, you are about a 15 minute drive to downtown.

So, thatpretty much sums it up, from San José to Cabo, the ins and outs. I hope thatthis was helpful!

- NoelleM

Villa Estrella Mar in Destination Weddings & Honeymoons Magazine

2011-10-13T10:14:00.000-07:00

For an unrivaled visit to Puerto Vallarta, Villa Estrella Mar is the obvious choice. Located in the upscale neighborhood of Conchas Chinas, Villa Estrella Mar is the most luxurious place to rest your head. Besides being the epitome of Mexican style and architecture, the hillside villa overlooks the ocean and white sand of Olas Altas beach. The open, no-glass windows allow the ocean breeze to warm and refresh the entire villa. Also, getting to downtown is only a short stroll away. The villa has six suites, nine bathrooms, a workout room, elevator, fireplace, heated pool, and private terraces.

The experience is comparable to having a hotel and its staff all focused on you. The friendly and professional staff of fourteen --including an English speaking houseman, maid, chef, security, and gardener-- ensures your stay is absolute perfection. The staff is attentive but works without drawing too much attention.

The villa is featured or mentioned regularly in travel magazines, most recently in the Nov-Dec 2011 issue of Destination Weddings & Honeymoons magazine. Its size and space makes it perfect for a wedding, family getaway, or other special occasion.

Some people have made Estrella Mar their yearly winter vacation spot and it’s not hard to understand why. Estrella Mar is one of the most unique places you’ll ever stay in the world. Mexican Destinations creates unforgettable vacation experiences with the romance and magic of Mexico. This starts with providing the finest professionally managed vacation rentals. Our travel experts have an in-depth knowledge of the rental options and , local restaurants, shopping, tours, and other recreation.

Luxury in Colonial Mexico: San Miguel de Allende

2011-10-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

It’s been a little over a year and I’m itching to be back in the mountains of Mexico. At 90+ degrees, it’s no wonder that I’m craving an escape from Salt Lake City to the temperate climate of San Miguel. When you think of Mexico, you probably think of a wintertime escape to the beach. But, that’s not nearly all that this diverse country has to offer. San Miguel, widely known as a refuge for American expats, is a small town in the middle of Mexico, boasting an expansive population of artists and thinkers from around the world. The colonial and peaceful charm of San Miguel proves an ideal environment for inspiration and relaxation alike. It’s for this reason that so many people have chosen to build beautiful homes and retreats within its borders.

Most of my time in town is spent out and about, admiring the enchanting villas that I’m lucky enough to represent as a part of Mexican Destinations. If you get the opportunity, be sure to participate in the Home and Garden tour offered by the historical society. It’s the most curious thing: these cobblestone roads, you will see, are interspersed with quaint antique shops, restaurants, churches. But, between them all, walls with doors: some ordinary doors, some ornate. It’s anyone’s guess what lies beyond. Trust me, it’s worth further exploration. The Home and Garden tours will provide entrance to these otherwise inaccessible properties. Behind these walls, you will find the most unexpected elegance. Often, the doors open to extravagant gardens and some of the most original, luxurious homes that you have ever seen. Though the culture and history of colonial Mexico are preserved, each home has its own unique style and appeal. Additionally, you can actually rent these homes through Mexican Destinations and experience what it’s like to live the fairytale life that lies “behind the walls.”

Other “must do” activities: take an art class- everything from pottery to painting is available. Hit the links- San Miguel offers some of the best golf in Mexico. Go Antiquing and bring some extra luggage for the trip home- you can thank me later. Eat delicious, authentic cuisine at La Posadita. Or, just relax in your own private garden with a good book and a margarita, taking in the peace that is San Miguel de Allende.

2011 Pan American Games

2011-09-29T10:24:00.000-07:00

Need another reason to visit Puerto Vallarta this October? Do you just want something else to add to your activity list while you’re already there? How about the watching part of the 16th Pan American Games live?

The Pan American games are second only in size and stature to the Summer Olympic Games. They are only held every four years and the year prior to the Olympic games. The 46-sport alphabet of events goes from archery to wrestling.

Puerto Vallarta will host the sailing, open water swimming, triathlon, and beach volleyball events. The events are spread across dates from October 16th to the 23rd.

Contact a Destination Expert at Mexican Destinations to book a villa close to the action. Check out Puerto Vallarta's destination information page.

I LOVE Rainy Season!

2011-09-26T10:47:00.000-07:00

You heard me…I love it! Since we moved to Puerto Vallarta almost a year ago, we have heard nothing but how horrible rainy season can be. Of course, this mostly comes from locals who have been here a long time and who thrive on the warm, much less humid, winters here. Don’t get me wrong, the winters here are truly superb. But rainy season may be my favorite time of year. Here’s why:

SUNNY DURING THE DAY, RAINY AT NIGHT- That’s how it happens 99% of the time. It is extremely rare for it to rain all day every day, especially for a few days at a time. Instead, it’s actually blue skies and sunshine during the day. You would never even know that it’s rainy season until late afternoon. That’s when the clouds roll in. Which leads me to…

SUNSETS- In the summer, the sunsets are stunning. The clouds roll in just in time to create a heavenly tropical sky. Picture your favorite sunset postcard photo and that’s what it looks like every day. You are also more likely to see the infamous ‘green flash’ during the rainy season, or so they say.

THUNDERSTORMS- If you like thunderstorms, there is no better place. Once the sun sets and you’re settling in for your evening cocktail, you can catch a spectacular thunderstorm almost every night. You know how you see the lightning, then count the seconds until the thunder? Well, it’s not uncommon for the lightning and thunder to occur simultaneously here. The sound is almost deafening!

SLEEPING IN THE RAIN- When I was a kid, we used to sit in the screened porch at my grandmother’s house, listening to the raindrops hit the tin roof. Maybe I’m just nostalgic, but there’s something about the sound of rain at night. Now, there are a lot of times when the thunderstorms go on into the wee hours, but usually it’s just the rain that continues on through the night. And, MAN, can it rain here!

IT’S SO GREEN- Puerto Vallarta is beautiful all year round, but during rainy season, the colors from the mountainside and the flowers are so vibrant they just pop! The colors are so brilliant that they almost seem fake.

WARM WATER- If you’re like me, and most women are, the ocean is there just to cool off after lying in the sun too long. The only time I go further than just sticking my toes in the water is when I’m hot. In the winter, I don’t get very far because the water is so cold! In the summer, the water is so warm I never want to get out. I could float around and play in the waves for hours.

HAVING THE TOWN TO YOURSELF- Rainy season tends to discourage tourists from visiting this time of year. Clearly, the businesses would love to see the streets full 365 days a year. The truth is it isn’t very busy in the summer, so the beaches, the shops, the restaurants, and the bars are pretty quiet. If you think you like Vallarta during the height of tourist season, just imagine having it all to yourself.

So, the next time you’re considering a trip to a tropical destination like Puerto Vallarta, don’t let the words rainy season dampen your spirits (pun intended). You will be pleasantly surprised.

Posted by Stephanie Watts, Destinations Expert.

Luxury in Colonial Mexico: San Miguel de Allende

2011-09-15T13:44:00.000-07:00

A quick flight from Mexico City to Leon or Queretaro, followed by a 1.5 hour drive through small towns and beautiful countryside, you know that you’ve arrived in heaven when you hit the cobblestone streets of San Miguel de Allende.

It’s been a little over a year and I’m itching to be back in the mountains of Mexico. At 90+ degrees, it’s no wonder that I’m craving an escape from Salt Lake City to the temperate climate of San Miguel. When you think of Mexico, you probably think of a wintertime escape to the beach. But, that’s not nearly all that this diverse country has to offer. San Miguel, widely known as a refuge for American expats, is a small town in the middle of Mexico, boasting an expansive population of artists and thinkers from around the world. The colonial and peaceful charm of San Miguel proves an ideal environment for inspiration and relaxation alike. It’s for this reason that so many people have chosen to build beautiful homes and retreats within its borders.

Most of my time in town is spent out and about, admiring the enchanting villas that I’m lucky enough to represent as a part of Mexican Destinations. If you get the opportunity, be sure to participate in the Home and Garden tour offered by the historical society. It’s the most curious thing: these cobblestone roads, you will see, are interspersed with quaint antique shops, restaurants, churches. But, between them all, walls with doors: some ordinary doors, some ornate. It’s anyone’s guess what lies beyond. Trust me, it’s worth further exploration. The Home and Garden tours will provide entrance to these otherwise inaccessible properties. Behind these walls, you will find the most unexpected elegance. Often, the doors open to extravagant gardens and some of the most original, luxurious homes that you have ever seen. Though the culture and history of colonial Mexico are preserved, each home has its own unique style and appeal. Additionally, you can actually rent these homes through Mexican Destinations and experience what it’s like to live the fairytale life that lies “behind the walls.”

Other “must do” activities: take an art class- everything from pottery to painting is available. Hit the links- San Miguel offers some of the best golf in Mexico. Go Antiquing and bring some extra luggage for the trip home- you can thank me later. Eat delicious, authentic cuisine at La Posadita. Or, just relax in your own private garden with a good book and a margarita, taking in the peace that is San Miguel de Allende.

Falling in Love with Puerto Vallarta

2011-08-03T15:34:00.000-07:00

My first visit to Puerto Vallarta was about 15 years ago. Quite honestly, I don’t remember much about it other than Senor Frog’s and Carlos O’Briens (which is probably why I don’t remember the rest of the trip). It wasn’t until I met my now husband four years ago that I really got to experience Vallarta for the amazing place that it is.

We stayed with my husband’s family friends who own Villa la Casita. Walking in the door of their villa for the first time was a WOW moment. I had never seen anything like it: spectacular views, private infinity pool, all rooms facing the ocean with open windows/walls…true living on the outside. We spent our long weekend there lounging in and by the pool, eating out at some of the local favorites and being tourists. One of my favorite activities was the canopy tours through Los Veranos. I am a little bit scared of heights, but zip lining through the jungle was really exhilarating!

We visited Vallarta one more time the following year, and again, had an amazing time. When we got in engaged in the fall of 2008, we debated about our wedding venue. We were living in Park City, Utah at the time and had each been there most of our lives. We looked at venues around Park City, but nothing really felt like “us.” Then it dawned on us…what about a destination wedding to Puerto Vallarta?

Before long, we had a date set, a Puerto Vallarta wedding planner and catering company contracted and all we needed was a venue. We booked another trip to Mexico so we could tour the possibilities. Our wedding planner, Zac from EM Vallarta, set up several site tours of villas for us to consider. All of them were beautiful, but when we arrived at our last destination, I knew it was the place before we even walked in the door.

Villa Estrella Mar was simply breath-taking. With 6 bedrooms and more than 20,000 square feet, it was large enough to accommodate both of our immediate families. The beach cove in front of the villa was small and fairly private. And best of all, talk about WOW factor upon entering…we knew our guests would be astounded.

Our wedding took place on the beach at Villa Estrella Mar on October 10, 2009. We were joined by 55 of our closest friends and family. Estrella Mar proved to be not only a beautiful spot for our ceremony on the beach, but the perfect place for our reception in the living area. Early October is the end of rainy season, so it was plenty humid. But our guests didn’t mind, especially by the end of the night when we all ended up in the pool…in our wedding clothes.

We spent a few weeks in Vallarta that fall and wondered what it would be like to live in such an incredible place. Little did we know then that we would be spending our first anniversary back on the beach at Estrella Mar…as residents of Puerto Vallarta.

-Stephanie

Surf San Pancho

2011-07-29T09:35:00.000-07:00

Sunny San Pancho may not stand at the forefront of Mexican tourist hotspots, but once you've discovered the charm of this beautiful hideaway, you'll know why visitors continue to pour into the little seaside town. San Pancho is renowned for its incredible surf, which is ideal for serious wave riders and also provides great place for new adventure seekers to splash down. Christina Famiglietti recently highlighted some of the little-known beaches and surf locales that make San Pancho special. Here is some of what she had to say:

If you love to hit the waves, then this town is another great surfing spot in the Riviera Nayarit. Located along popular Banderas Bay on Mexico's Pacific Coast, this small town is more appealing to surfers because unlike other surf spots, San Pancho is still relatively undiscovered. That means no crowds, so you pretty much have the ocean to yourself. Even though it's relatively unknown, it's still easily accessible to tourists - only about a 45-minute drive north of Puerto Vallarta.

Read the entire article here, and be sure to speak to a knowledgeable Destination Expert if you'd like to find out more about planning a surf excursion to San Pancho.

Avoid Money Hassles During Your Visit to Mexico

2011-07-25T09:36:00.000-07:00

While visiting the sunny beaches and historical sites of Mexico, you're thinking about the outstanding food, the beautiful shorelines and which activities you're going to try next. But what do you do when the funding for your fun is stalled? Even a minor hiccup with your bank card can cause major pains and put the brakes on your travel adventures.

Recently Roma Luciw of The Globe and Mail wrote an excellent piece on protecting your travel budget and ensuring you have cash available when you need it. Here are just a few tips to follow to safeguard your spending cash and to make sure you don't have any money woes while abroad:

Always protect your PIN (personal identification number) when you enter it at an ATM or for debit or credit card purchases by covering the PIN pad with your free hand.

Treat your debit and credit cards like cash and protect them in the same way. Always keep your cards and identification with you or lock them in a secure hotel safe. Don’t leave them behind in the hotel room or leave them in the car.

Only bring the cards and personal identification that you’ll need with you for your trip and leave the rest at home.

If you have a chip card, insert the chip first, rather than swipe it. If the point-of-sale device is not chip-capable, it will prompt you to swipe your card. Avoiding any unnecessary swipe of the card will reduce the potential of the card information being skimmed.

Don’t take a vacation from checking your accounts online. If you have your own laptop, a smart phone or access to a trusted computer, check your bank and credit card transactions and make sure that they match your actual purchases. If there are transactions that you didn’t make, contact your financial institution and report it as soon as possible.

If you want to check your bank or credit card information online while you’re away and don’t have your own computer with you, it is wise to avoid public computers. Consider telephone or mobile banking instead. If you must use a public computer, be sure to clear the cache memory and delete the cookies in the Internet browser before you log off. This will ensure that your account numbers and passwords do not remain accessible to others.

Remember to take your card when the transaction is complete. Some ATMs will pull the card back into the machine if the customer does not take it back within a certain amount of time. This keeps the card from ending up in a criminal’s hands, but depending on where you are, the time and the day of the week, it may be hard to get your card back or a replacement.

To read the complete article from The Globe and Mail, click here.

Ricki's Grill Heats Up Punta Mita

2011-07-20T07:57:00.000-07:00

Punta Mita hotspot Casa Teresa Trattoria Italiana has closed its doors for their annual summer hiatus, but a new laid-back eatery has popped up in its place. Ricki's Grill is serving up a tantalizing selection of summer delights, from fresh seafood and pineapple to barbeque ribs. The Paparazzi Special, which can include steak, spaghetti or baby back ribs, is a highlight of the restaurants, and is not to be missed.

The owners, Nadia and Martin, are known to be one of the most colorful couples in town and their energy and vivacious style is embodied in the establishment's lively atmosphere. But be sure to catch Ricki's soon — this fun eatery is only open through the summer!

Read more about Ricki's here.

2011 Dining Guide from Virtual Vallarta

2011-07-18T07:50:00.000-07:00

Virtual Vallarta recently released their list of best eats in town. This annual collection of great Puerto Vallarta cafés, taquerías, ethnic cuisine and bakeries is selected by the readers of Virtual Vallarta and represents the absolute best the city has to offer. Among great restaurants and eateries, you'll also find the best places for:

Margaritas

Ice cream

Fresh seafood

Inexpensive dining

Outdoor dining

Drinks and cocktails

See the complete list here.

International Travelers Make Up for Flagging US Tourists

2011-07-06T13:00:00.000-07:00

There's an interesting trend arising in travel to Mexico. The rise in negative press regarding border cities has caused a dip in American tourists traveling south, but international travelers have picked up the slack. In order to entice prospective travelers, the Mexico Tourism industry has offered a number of deals and special offers, and a number of foreign travelers have taken notice.

According to recent reports by the Washington Post and San Diego Red, interest for Mexico resort towns and historical sites has risen among a number of European countries, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, and others. Mexican President Felipe Calderón has stated that he would like his country to reach the top five worldwide tourism destinations by 2020 (it is currently number 10).

The reality is that despite a few negative incidents, travel to Mexico is very safe. Read more about this story from Banderas News, and be sure to check out just a few of the great deals offered by Mexican Destinations on our deals page.

Punta Mita is Mexico's Malibu

2011-06-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

Punta Mita was in the spotlight in a recent piece that ran in the Orange County Register. The article highlights how this relaxed tourist destinations grew from a quaint fishing village to become a hotspot for surfers and adventure seekers. Here's just a little of what they had to say about beautiful Punta Mita:

Needing a break from reality, and a relief from the chilly waters in Orange County that were causing near-hypothermia if you didn't put on a full wetsuit, I wanted somewhere warm with a flight close enough to take just a few days away from work. I talked my travel partner Jen into joining the adventure, and we booked our trip to Punta de Mita.

Forget about the bad you've heard about other parts of Mexico.

There are no gun-toting druglords out to get you on this peninsula. There's no swine flu lingering. In all of my travels, this is among the most luxurious places I've ever laid eyes upon.

You can find the complete article here.

Travel Safety in Perspective: USA vs. Mexico

2011-06-08T08:39:00.000-07:00

Tim Liffel's Cheapest Destinations Blog recently gathered some statistics of crime rates in Mexico and the U.S. that give a revealing look at tourism in Mexio. Although this is no large shock to those with an intimate knowledge of the country, traveling in Mexico is much safer than you might expect. A spate of bad press will often highlight homicides in border cities, but doesn't shed much light on crime rates in popular tourist destinations.

For example, the murder rate in the Yucatan is on par with Evansville, Indiana or Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Even Mexico City is relatively safe, with a homicide rate equal to Albuquerque, New Mexico.

See Tim Liffel's complete post by clicking here.

Puerto Vallarta Meets Safety Expectations

2011-05-31T07:24:00.000-07:00

Recently the US investigative and security firm Thomas Dale & Associates issued a comprehenisve report on the safety of Puerto Vallarta, a resort town on the Pacific coast of Mexico. Here's what they had to say:

The international security company visited the destination between April 6 to April 13 to conduct interviews and a through security and safety risk assessment on the ground. It has now published a comprehensive report in relation to all aspects of tourist security in the destination. In it, the firm concludes that Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest tourist destinations for international and national tourists.

Puerto Vallarta has long been a haven for American expatriots and international tourists, and this new study confirms that the town is among the safest places for a tropical getaway.

To read the full report, click here.

2011-05-25T12:54:00.000-07:00

The New York Times travel blog recently posted some great surfers' tips on what to check out while visiting a few of hot spots along Mexico's Pacific coast. Included in this post are some popular hangouts in Sayulita and Punta Mita, as well as some ideas of where to check in if you're looking for surfing lessons.

To check out the complete article, click here.

Bright Spots In Mexico's Desert

2011-05-20T07:12:00.000-07:00

Are the beaches not quite your speed? Maybe you're just looking for something a little different in your tropical retreat. GQ recently did a piece on few Mexican hot spots without the waterfront locale, and San Miguel de Allende was their first recommendation. Here's what they had to say about this bustling haven for artists, expats, and those simply looking for a change of pace for their next Mexican getaway:

Wander through the Mercado de Artesanías, packed with jewelry and artwork instead of tourist-baiting trinkets, or Mercado Ignacio Ramírez, with its mountains of produce, and tacos made with the kind of fresh tortillas you won't find in the States. There are also some outstanding imports, like Ristorante da Andrea, an ace Italian joint hidden in a 300-year-old house on the outskirts of town. San Miguel's most famous landmark is La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel— a pink, whimsical Gothic church. Have a look inside and then take in the striking facade from La Posadita, a nearby rooftop bar that happens to serve the best margaritas in town.

Be sure to check out the full article here.

Why You Should Go to Mexico

2011-05-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

Globetrotter and travel expert Robert Reid just wrote a piece for CNN on why you should consider Mexico for your next vacation getaway. Reid debunks the unsavory rumors about tourists' saftey, and outlines a number of great reasons Mexico still offers an unforgettable travel experience. Most notably, he says, is the people:

A couple years ago, I informally polled various innkeepers and tour operators worldwide to find out who are the world's friendliest travelers. Guess who won. "Mexicans are such a joy to have here," one Bulgarian guesthouse owner e-mailed back. "They make everyone feel happier."

And it's often better in Mexico, where locals show particular gusto in love of life. Once I saw fireworks go off in Mexico City, before sunset, and asked a local why. He was surprised I didn't know. "It's Friday," he explained.

Read the entire CNN piece here, and be sure to check out Reid's travel blog where he highlights eight places in Mexico you really need to experience.

Dancers Take to the Streets of Puerto Vallarta

2011-05-02T15:24:00.000-07:00

The streets of Puerto Vallarta became a stage when a crew of covert dancers surprised locals and tourists with an impromptu dance number. This flash mod, or large-scale choreographed but unannounced dance number, grabbed unsuspecting onlookers attention, and even got them moving. Take a look at the fun as it unfolds in Puerto Vallarta:

Flash Mob Puerto Vallarta by pvrflashmob

San Miguel Designer Featured in Utah Style Magazine

2011-04-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

Recently Holly Howard, designer to homes around the world — including a beautiful villa in San Miguel de Allende, shared her insight into creating warm and inviting spaces with Utah Style Magazine. Holly touches on everything from accessories, furniture, and use of color: "I like color in my home, my dress and the people I spend time with." Take a look at some of her work on Mariposa Mexico Villa in San Miguel:

See the full article here in the spring issue of Utah Style (PDF link) and be sure to check out Mariposa Mexico, a steal at only $279 a night.

Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

2011-04-08T12:14:00.000-07:00

The travel section at U.S. News & World Report has posted a excellent guide of sights, sounds, and experiences you don't want to miss while visiting Puerto Vallarta. Included in the guide are beaches, parks, shopping districts, historical sights, free activities, and much more. Here is just a bit of what they have to say:

Catch a bus or ask a taxi driver to take you to the beautiful Malecón, the boardwalk that runs parallel to Banderas Bay. Then take your time strolling past the unusual statues and intricatesand sculptures found there, stopping for pictures or looking inside one of the art galleries along the way. You'll probably end your walk at Los Arcos or the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe -- two of the most iconic images of the city. If you have more than a day to spare, plan on spending one or two hours at the Botanical Gardens of Vallarta or in the northern seaside town of Bucerías.

Click here to see the complete guide and to get ideas of what to see and do during your stay in Puerto Vallarta.

What You Should Really Worry About When Visiting Mexico

2011-03-02T08:59:00.000-08:00

Often tourists get a little concerned about saftey when traveling to Mexico. Recently Susie Albin-Najera of The Mexico Report wrote a great piece on what will really be on your mind as you travel. Here's a small excerpt:

Here is a list of things you just might have to worry about while you’re visiting Mexico:

You might overeat at the endless Sunday brunch and get heartburn

You might trip and fall on the cobblestone streets

You might get acid indigestion from too much fresh squeezed lemonade

You might get sunburned and have to spend extra money buying aloe vera gel

You might lose your hearing if you are sitting next to a 26-piece mariachi band

You might have a hard time deciding whether to go to the beach or get a massage

You might hit someone with a golf ball because you were blinded by the sun

You might get really tired from having so much fun, that you forget to buy souvenirs for your family back home, and they might get mad

You might fall completely, head-over-heals in love and never want to leave which causes you to be depressed when you have to go to the airport to go back home

Read the entire piece here.

President Calderon's Canopy Tour Excursion

2011-02-21T10:47:00.000-08:00

A local business man shares his experience of welcoming President Calderon of Mexico as part of his quest to support tourism in Mexico in 2011. The president has pledged to show the beauty, diversity and safety offered by established resorts like Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Riviera Nayarit and Los Cabos. While international attention has been focused on sporadic violence along the US border, many hours from the tranquil beauty of Puerto Vallarta, the president´s campaign puts visitor safety at the top of his agenda.

His overnight stay at the hotel resort Velas Vallarta is one in a series of tour stops to show hesitant would be visitors that they have nothing to worry about.

It all happened so fast and was hard to believe that it actually happened. On Saturday afternoon, we had an unexpected visit at Los Veranos Canopy Tour . They were agents from the Mexican government and were here to see if we would be a suitable and safe place for a last minute visit from Felipe Calderon, the current president of Mexico. Their plan was to film a TV special with CBS correspondent Peter Greenburg, the idea being to promote Mexican tourism filming President Calderon, his three children and Peter Greenburg as they flew through the jungle on the zip lines at Los Veranos Canopy. An hour later, another group of agents showed up. This group seemed a bit more serious and intent on getting things set up and secured for the events to follow some 12 hours later.

Meanwhile, all of Puerto Vallarta was curious if not a bit concerned with all the buzz of low flying helicopters, and by low we are talking 20-30 feet over the water buzzing the entire coastline, and an entourage of black cars bearing license plates stamped with the Mexican flag. Obviously, something big was going down, or someone very important was in town.

Early the next morning, armed personnel in uniform and many more clandestine personnel in street clothes arrived at the sleepy pueblo of Los Veranos in trucks, busses, vans, and cars. Well, by now the word was out. President Calderon and his family would be arriving by helicopter in just a couple of hours! They were to land in the school’s soccer field, a short distance from the Los Veranos Canopy Tour.

When they arrived there was quite a bit of last minute organizing. The camera crews needed special harnesses to accommodate their heavy and unwieldy equipment. Trial runs were done in the briefing area to see if the camera and sound crew could fly over the jungle, 400 feet in the air with some cables crossing the river gorge 1,400 feet to the other side. Not a problem. Next, who is going up? Who is staying behind as ground crew? Who will be walking up to get coverage without going on the cables? All this was accomplished along with brief introductions to all the key personnel needed in about 1 hour. This was absolutely amazing.

After another briefing, the one everyone gets when they visit the Canopy which explains safety, braking, hand signals etc. the group is ready for the tour. Felipe Calderon accompanied by his three Children, Peter Greenburg, Jeff Coates Owner of Los Veranos Canopy Tour and an onslaught of videographers, photographers, sound crew, a handful of Los Veranos professional guides, and numerous security personnel. Off they went on the ziplines.

Since time is always a factor with film crews, the first few warm up beginner cables were skipped. The first cable that the family would use was Chile Piquin which is named after a very small, very hot chile pepper as the cable is short but very fast. Judging by their expressions, the public audience were quite surprised and excited to see what was to come.

The next was Black Diamond. Nearly 1,400 feet long, this line is almost 5 football fields and 500 ft high over the river rapids. It is the Canopy’s longest ride. Since it was only their second cable, I was expecting to see some hesitation. Not in the slightest! President Calderon’s kids were eagerly pushing their way to the front to see which of them got to go first. Of course the youngest won the toss and was the first of the children to cross. They were ecstatic.

As we were now getting up to the highest cables on the tour, the sounds of the helicopters grew closer. I noticed something hanging from the helicopter up above. I never was sure if it was a cameraman or just a remote camera but the Film Director John Feist was in communication with them coaching them in so they could film President Calderon and his family zipping over the river 500 feet in the air.

The group continued up the trail to Dos Cojones, or Two Big Ones.The name speaks for itself. This zip line is reportedly 590 feet high and is the highest cable at Los Veranos Canopy. Again no hesitations from anyone except for maybe the film crew who were lugging 30-pound cameras across every zip line. The tour continued with Real Enchilada, Speedy Gonzales, Banana Split. They reached the last cable, Tequila Screamer which lands you in a riverfront palapa bar with select Tequilas and the world Famous Carla’s Mango Tango, a special Mango Margarita.

As the entourage with all its paparazzi regrouped and got a snack in the palapa President Calderon was calling for his photographer as he noticed his son trying to hold Mango an 8 foot albino python. It proved to be too much for a the small child so his brother and sister stepped up to help him hold up the mammoth reptile. Before they left the three kids got a visit to the animal house where the got to go into the monkey cage and hand feed the squirrel monkeys. Apparently this is a normal event for all the visitors who want to partake in such an activity.

After the black motorcade with red white and green plates drove off an army of men clad in camouflage clothes bearing automatic weapons descended out of the jungle from all directions. After a quick head count they were loaded into a military truck and disappeared.

We are honored that they choose Los Veranos Canopy Tour to be a part of Mexico: The Presidential Tour! I overhead Peter Greenberg tell President Calderon that this was the best tour he had been on in a long time!

President Felipe Calderón Hinojosa Visits Puerto Vallarta

2011-02-11T08:11:00.000-08:00

Mexican President Felipe Calderón Hinojosa recently visited Puerto Vallarta to take in the sights and reinforce Mexico’s dedication to its booming tourism industry. During his three days in this tropical resort destination, Hinojosa and his three sons spent time enjoying a canopy tour, among other activities. Read more about Hinojosa’s visit here.

Even Mickey Isn’t Afraid of Mexico

2011-02-04T15:46:00.000-08:00

Maryilyn Newman at the Prudential Vallarta Blog wrote a short piece on Disney cruises to Puerto Vallarta:

I was driving past the Vallarta cruise ship dock yesterday and couldn’t help but notice this gigantic black and white behemoth looming over the street with the name, Disney Wonder, painted on the bow. What a sight. Aha! Mickey isn’t afraid to come to Mexico; why should anyone else?

To see the full post, click here.

Hottest Travel Destinations of 2011

2011-01-24T07:49:00.000-08:00

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Catesby Holmes of Travel + Leisure
January 2011

With its colonial architecture and cobblestoned streets, San Miguel de Allende may be a model for historic preservation, but a recent influx of innovative restaurants, art spaces, and hotels is adding a vibrant modern edge to this unesco-protected city. The most telling sign of the city’s evolution? The new Rosewood San Miguel de Allende (doubles from $295), the first international luxury resort, tucked away on four palm-studded acres near the historic center. Hand-carved furniture from Guadalajara decorates the 67 guest rooms, some of which have verandas facing the Gothic-inspired La Parroquia cathedral, while public spaces evoke a hacienda with arcaded walkways and courtyards. Design aficionados will fall for Fábrica La Aurora, a 1902 factory turned art center a 10-minute walk from downtown, with more than two dozen contemporary galleries and boutiques that showcase the region’s best artisans. Stop in at Superficie for colorful tiles made in the nearby town of Dolores Hidalgo, famous for its pottery. At creative Café Rama (lunch for two $17), a bustling downtown lunch spot, try international dishes (Andalusian pulled-pork sandwich) with indigenous ingredients (crunchy jicama). After dark, follow well-heeled locals to the laid-back terrace bar La Azotea (drinks for two $13) and try the signature cactus martini, a tequila-and-vodka concoction blended with Cointreau, lemon, and cranberry.

Mexico Tourism Sees Increase Despite Drug Violence

2010-12-27T09:50:00.000-08:00

Dispite a flair up of crime along boarder cities, tourism to Mexico is on the rise according to this Associated Press article. Costal regions farther south such as the Riviera Maya are still drawing in many visitors from the US and Canada with discounted travel rates and inviting resort communities.

Tourism officials in Mexico and the U.S. say holiday travel to Mexico is up from a year ago as vacationers cash in on low-cost tropical holidays. Tourism revenue is up 7.1 percent in the first 10 months of 2010, compared to the same months of 2009, with visitors spending $9.8 billion, according to the Mexican Tourism Ministry.

To read the entire article, click here.

The Mexico Quandary: Safety or Savings?

2010-12-22T08:07:00.000-08:00

By MICHELLE HIGGINS of The New York Times
Published: December 21, 2010

When Alex Trettin and his wife, Jenn, suggested to family and friends that they take a group vacation to Mexico, the reaction was mixed. About half of the group of 29 immediately signed on for the November trip to the Riviera Maya, south of Cancún, where they would visit Maya ruins, fish and lounge by the pool at an upscale resort for the bargain price of $150 a person a night. The other half hesitated, citing concern about Mexico’s continuing drug war.

“My aunt stated she hoped we didn’t have any issues with the drug cartels,” said Mr. Trettin, a Mexico-travel specialist in Tacoma, Wash., who assured everyone that the beach resort they were going to near Playa del Carmen was far from the violent clashes they had seen on television. Ultimately, they all went, but the concerns that some in the group expressed are indicative of the quandary many travelers face when they consider the safety risks versus the convenience and affordability of a vacation in Mexico.

While most of the drug-related violence has been in the northern border region of Mexico, far from the Maya temples of the Yucatán, the regional cuisine of Oaxaca or the beaches of Baja California Sur, violence has erupted in tourist destinations like Acapulco and the state of Michoacán, home to the famous monarch butterfly sanctuaries. Even Cancún’s safety was questioned earlier this year after eight employees of a strip club there were killed when a group of men threw Molotov cocktails into the building in an area not frequented by tourists.

To combat the perception that violence has been widespread, tourism officials in Mexico have invested $30 million in advertising and social media initiatives to spread the word that much of the country is safe for tourists. “Visitors have the right to be well informed,” said Alfonso Sumano, the regional director for the Mexico Tourism Board for the Americas. Many of the affected areas, he said, “are very far from the destinations tourists visit.”

The latest travel warning, issued by the State Department in September, urged American citizens to defer unnecessary travel specifically to Michoacán and areas along the northern border, including Tamaulipas, and parts of Chihuahua, Durango and Coahuila, where tourists generally don’t go. Yet, ever cautious, it stated, “violence has occurred throughout the country, including in areas frequented by American tourists.” Visitors were encouraged to stay on main roads in daylight hours and to remain in well-known tourist areas.

All of this has made travel to Mexico a hard sell lately, but travel agents say the negative publicity has also made Mexico among the best values out there as resorts lower rates or add free incentives to entice travelers. When asked where agents are recommending travelers go to get the most for their dollar this year, 70 percent said Mexico, according to Travel Leaders, a major network of agents.

“A lot of clients will come here and say, ‘I’ll go anywhere except Mexico,’ ” said Kate Rosevear, owner of a Travel Leaders agency in Plymouth, Mich. “Quite often we’ll be able to talk them back around to it based on the value.”

Some of the deals agents and tourism officials point out include Casa Ticul, a boutique hotel in Playa del Carmen, which is offering 20 percent off rates of $171 a night to travelers who book a January stay by the end of December. Villa del Palmar Cancún, a new all-inclusive resort in Playa Mujeres with a Greg Norman-designed golf course, has rates from $186 a person a night during the holidays and a rate of $142 a person a night after that — up to 60 percent off. And St. Regis Punta Mita is offering butler service, a third night free, a $50 resort credit per room and a glass of Champagne with its Welcome to Paradise deal from $580 a night for stays starting Jan. 11.

Mexican Destinations, the Mexico Villa brand of the rental company VacationRoost, has trained its agents to educate clients who call with safety concerns about how far its villas are from reported violence, and is offering specials of 25 to 50 percent off. One deal is Casa del Sol, a four-bedroom, five-bath property on the Pacific Coast in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, where rates have been slashed to $750 a night, from $1,500, in early January.

The pricing strategy seems to be working. The number of international tourists arriving in Mexico by air from January to October was 8.2 million, according to the latest data from the Mexico Tourist Board. That is an increase of 17.8 percent compared with the same period last year, when Mexico endured a down economy, H1N1 scares and drug violence. Visitors are up 6.4 percent over the same period in 2008, which was considered to be one of the best years for travel to Mexico. The number of American travelers increased by 13.4 percent, compared with the same time period in 2009.

Many resorts say safety is at the top of their guests’ minds. “When our reservations manager receives requests, the first question that is asked is if there has been violence in this area,” said Giorgio Brignone, the proprietor of Costa Careyes, a luxury resort two hours south of Puerto Vallarta, which has added free airport transfers to and from Manzanillo. To put jittery travelers at ease, the company has placed ads in magazines promoting “a different Mexico.” In addition, the company’s Web site highlighted the 24-hour security at the resort.

Part of the problem is that many travelers are unclear about where the violence has occurred and how it might affect their vacation, Mr. Brignone said. “People don’t realize that there are many regions and areas in the country that are not affected by the violence and drug wars,” he said. “It’s like saying I will not go to Dallas, or New York, because there are problems or riots in Los Angeles.”

Still, there are some tourist destinations travelers should steer clear of, at least for now. “I would not encourage my family to visit Acapulco right now,” said Josh Miller, who lives in Mexico City and is the general director for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean for Control Risks, a risk management firm. “While a wonderful place to visit,” he said, “violent confrontations have been spilling over from the military effort against the cartels.” Travelers should also hold off on visits to Michoacán, in central Mexico. The state is a stronghold of La Familia, a drug cartel known for bold ambushes.

Popular resort areas, including Mazatlán, Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa and Cancún’s resort strip are generally safe for travelers, Mr. Miller said, particularly if visitors stay within the resort’s boundaries. “Mexico is a volatile place,” he said. “You have to have your itinerary planned out quite well, consider transportation and stay abreast of latest developments.”

Some travelers who have been to Mexico before are surprised when friends express safety concerns. “Everybody was like, ‘What? You are going to Mexico?’ ” said Tina Youtsey, a dog groomer from Milan, Mich., who went to the Riviera Maya with her teenage daughter last month. “Seriously,” she said, “the drug lords aren’t hanging out at the resort.” Having visited Mexico two times before, she added, “I wasn’t really worried.”

Is it safe to travel to Mexico? Judging from the numbers, many are saying 'Yes'

2010-12-13T09:38:00.000-08:00

By Jayne Clark, USA TODAY

The beach at Tulum, at the southern end of Mexico's Riviera Maya. Visitation to Mexico is up, despite concerns about drug violence. Despite tales of drug violence, visitation to Mexico was up almost 19% over last year, as of September. And with 22.6 million tourists expected by year's end, numbers will about equal the record-breaking totals in 2008. About 80% of visitors are North American.

In fact, slightly more foreigners are vacationing in Mexico now than before the drug wars, which have killed about 30,000 (mostly drug traffickers) in the past four years, The Economist reported in November. Mexico now ranks No. 10 in international arrivals worldwide.

I'm just back from San Miguel de Allende, a gorgeous colonial city in central Mexico (read about it Friday at usatoday.com/travel), where, not surprisingly, more than one conversation during my visit turned toward security concerns.

But not the sort of concerns you might think. The Americans I spoke with there were worried about the bum rap they believe the entire country is getting due to drug violence that , for the most part, is concentrated hundreds of miles away near the U.S. border.

"There is very little crime here, and what there is doesn't affect gringos," said Irina Posner, a retired CBS News employee and one of an estimated 12,000 to 14,000 ex-pats who live full or part-time in San Miguel. " We love this town. We feel safe in this town."

So did I, covering miles of narrow, cobbled walkways solo by day and by night in the 17th-century city. I felt as secure as I do in my own neighborhood, yet some innkeepers say they've had cancellations due to safety concerns.

Americans are notoriously near-sighted when it comes to geographical perspective. It's an issue Mexico's new tourism secretary Gloria Guevara addressed in an on-line seminar sponsored by the trade publication, Travel Weekly, last month. She acknowledged there are places in Mexico that tourists should avoid, specifically Matamoros and Ciudad Juarez on the Texas border. (And frankly, aside from those looking to do a cheap booze run, I'm not sure who would have frequented those border towns even before the drug-cartel bloodbaths).

"But for the rest of the country, you can relax and enjoy yourself," she told the Travel Weekly audience.

Actually, as someone who has traveled all over Mexico, I think I'd also skip Acapulco, which had a spate of nasty drug-related killings in September. But Acapulco many years ago ceased to be an American vacation destination.

Mexico's tourist sweet spot is Cancun, about 1,000 miles from Ciudad Juarez. Aside from an August bar shooting in a working-class neighborhood far removed from the resort zone, there has been no reported drug violence there. Another popular, earthier destination, is the Copper Canyon, which lies more than 200 miles from the border, or about the distance between New York and Baltimore.

"If you were planning a trip to New York, would you cancel it if you heard about challenges in Baltimore?" Guevara asked.

Vacation costs -- mainly hotels -- are down in Mexico. The average tourist spends about 5% less than in 2008, The Economist reports. And a number of forecasters are predicting that discounting in Cancun and south along the Riviera Maya will make that region particularly popular this winter.

The website Travelzoo , for instance, lists a four-night package, with air and all meals and drinks starting at $562 per person, double. It's good for travel Jan. 4-31, but must be booked by Jan. 10.

Another website, Smarter Travel, cites increased air service as likely to boost travel to Mexico. On Dec. 1, Southwest Airlines joined with Mexican carrier Volaris, allowing customers to travel on a single itinerary booked on Southwest. On Dec. 15, Alaska Airlines begins service between San Jose and Guadalajara, and from Sacramento on Dec. 16. On Feb. 10, American Eagle launches daily nonstop service from Dallas to Veracruz and Queretaro. And on Feb. 12, American begins seasonal service between Chicago and Cozumel.

How do you feel about vacationing in Mexico?

Martha Stewart Visits San Miguel de Allende

2010-12-02T07:48:00.000-08:00

Recently Martha Stewart stopped into the beautifully vibrant community of San Miguel de Allende and experienced some of the local flavor. In her three-part blog post she outlines some of her favorite sights. Here is an excerpt:

San Miguel de Allende . . . an exceptionally beautiful colonial city nestled in the central highlands of Mexico. I was so impressed with the magnificent architecture found there and with the wealth of Spanish colonial history. Whenever I travel to new destinations, I like to experience as much of the local flavor, as possible. I try and always make a point of visiting some of the local markets, where you find the true heart and soul of a country.

Read more at:

A Visit to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico (Part One)

Crazy for Tequila in San Miguel de Allende (Part Two)

El Mercado in San Miguel de Allende (Part Three)

Be sure to click through some of the many photos to get a taste of what San Miguel has to offer.

Mexico’s tourism secretary debunks fears and fictions

2010-11-23T11:55:00.000-08:00

By: Kenneth Kiesnoski of Travel Weekly
November 22, 2010

Applying generous doses of fact to combat whatever fictions, fears and misperceptions travelers and the trade might entertain about her country, Mexico’s new secretary of tourism, Gloria Guevara, addressed worries about safety and security south of the border in an exclusive Nov. 18 webinar appearance at TravelWeekly.com.

In the hourlong webinar, titled "Mexico: Perception vs. Reality," Guevara assured her host, Travel Weekly Editor in Chief Arnie Weissmann, and thousands of registered webinar participants that Mexico is a safe tourist destination.

Despite a steady stream of negative coverage in the U.S. news media regarding drug-related gang violence along the border and around Acapulco, she said, Mexico remains a popular, safe and, most importantly, value-rich vacation destination.

"All countries or societies have problems to solve," Guevara said, "but Mexico is one of the top 10 tourist destinations in the world."

Moreover, she said, Mexico is a leading luxury vacation destination. "According to a recent survey conducted by Virtuoso, Mexico came up as the No. 2 country … preferred by their members," Guevara noted. "It is also No. 1 in terms of spas in the world, and three out of 10 Americans report return visits within just 12 months."

Guevara admitted, "There are a few places in Mexico to avoid," but she noted, "It’s easy to do." She specifically cited two towns along the Texas border, Matamoros and Ciudad Juarez; the latter alone accounts for 30% of all drug-related conflict in Mexico.

"But for the rest of the country, you can relax and enjoy yourself," she said. "Our major destinations continue to be world-class, and they can be visited anytime."

Mexico’s major tourism destinations are, for the most part, located hundreds, sometimes thousands, of miles from crime hot spots. Cancun, for instance, is almost 1,000 miles south of Ciudad Juarez, about the distance between New York and Birmingham, Ala. And Copper Canyon, popular for its desert railway trips, lies 206 miles from the border, the distance from New York to Baltimore.

"Let me ask you: If you were planning a trip to New York, would you cancel it if you heard about challenges in Baltimore?" Guevara asked. "Of course not. Copper Canyon is very safe and very nice."

A big jump in visitors

The figures Guevara cited seem to bear out her facts: Some 22.6 million tourists, 80% of them North Americans, are expected to have visited Mexico by the end of 2010. As of September, inbound tourism was up 18.8% year over year compared with 2009 and 6% better than 2008. And, despite the much-publicized failure of Mexicana Airlines earlier this year, air arrivals from the U.S. were up 15% compared with 2009.

The growth in visitors from other countries is even greater. Arrivals from Canada are up almost 22% over 2009 and 32% over 2008, with 1 million air arrivals this year. Italy is up 22%; Germany, 18%; and Brazil, 94%.

"And the Japanese, who are very cautious travelers, are up 27%," Guevara added. "We have seen an important increase in travelers from around the world."

International air carriers are also noting the interest. New flights and increased capacity to Mexico have been added or are in the works from Alaska Airlines, US Airways, American, Virgin America, Air Canada, Westjet, British Airways, Iberia and other carriers.

"Every major airline is increasing capacity to Mexico because the demand is there," Guevara said.

According to a 2009 tourism ministry survey cited by Guevara, Mexico enjoys an overall 97% repeat-visit rate and received a customer satisfaction score of 9.2 out of 10 from 26,000 international visitors polled.

"They love [Mexico’s] hospitality," Guevara said. "They like how they’re treated and they like the service. I believe there’s never been a better time to visit Mexico.

"Why is that? Our vast array of hotel offerings and highly competitive rates ensure that every dollar spent in Mexico delivers more incredible experiences to our guests."

Asked about fatalities due to drug-gang activity, Guevara stressed that "not one American tourist, or tourist of any nationality, has been killed as a result of drug-related violence in Acapulco" or any other Mexican tourism destination.

In fact, Tijuana, the renowned California border town once popular with day trippers but then overrun by drug gangs, has been reclaimed by Mexican authorities and is now "absolutely safe," according to Guevara.

"It’s a great example of how we’ve been able to recover the space," she said.

Tijuana will welcome 250,000 visitors in 2009, an increase of 15,000 over 2008, Guevara said.

Discussing other recent tourism developments, the secretary noted that Unesco has officially designated Mexican cuisine a piece of intangible world cultural heritage; that the country has launched an "ambassadors" program, in which Mexican students aid and advise international travelers at airports and tourist destinations as part of their national service commitment; and the ongoing development of a Mexican tourism hotline for visitors who encounter problems while on vacation.

Fielded questions from attendees

Webinar attendees flooded TravelWeekly.com with more than 200 questions for Guevara during the session, at one point temporarily freezing the server. Guevara did her best to answer as many as possible within the time allotted.

• On responding to negative media: "For the last couple of years, we as the government made the mistake of leaving a gap of information. When you leave a gap, what happens is that it’s filled with bad information. What we’re doing right now is working with a [public relations] agency to put [these] things in context."

• On the deadly Nov. 14 blast at the Grand Riviera Princess Hotel in Playa del Carmen: "We haven’t received the final report … so we don’t want to draw any conclusion, [but] we’re sure it’s something that’s not going to happen in any other hotels. This was very sad, and of course we’re very concerned and sad for the travelers affected."

• Hotel certification: "We will be standardizing our [hotel] ratings. We will be certifying every single hotel from whatever stars they have to the maximum number of stars, so that you’ll have a seal that will mean the service from that hotel is guaranteed. We’re deciding right now on what standard we should use."

Under the Spell of San Miguel de Allende

2010-11-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

Ever since American Stirling Dickinson arrived there in 1937, the Mexican town has been a magnet for artists and U.S. expatriates

By Jonathan Kandell
Photographs by Ann Summa
Smithsonian magazine, December 2010

Renowned as an art colony, San Miguel also mounts festivals showcasing indigenous cultures.

In 1937, after several months spent traveling through Mexico, a gangly, 27-year-old Chicago native named Stirling Dickinson, who had been somewhat at loose ends since graduating from Princeton, got off a train in San Miguel de Allende, an arid, down-on-its-luck mountain town 166 miles northwest of Mexico City.

Taken from the ramshackle train station by a horse-drawn cart, he was dropped off at the town's leafy main square, El Jardín. It was dawn, and the trees were erupting with the songs of a thousand birds. At the eastern side of the square stood the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, an outsize, pink-sandstone church with neo-Gothic spires, quite unlike Mexico's traditional domed ecclesiastical buildings. The first rays of the sun glowed over mountain ridges to the east. "There was just enough light for me to see the parish church sticking out of the mist," Dickinson would later recall. "I thought, My God, what a sight! What a place! I said to myself at that moment, I'm going to stay here."

Founded in 1542, the settlement of San Miguel had grown rich from nearby silver mines during centuries of Spanish rule, then fell on hard times as the ore was depleted. By the time Dickinson got there, the War of Independence from Spain (1810-21) and the even bloodier Mexican Revolution (1910-21) had further reduced the town to 7,000 inhabitants—less than a quarter of its population in the mid-1700s. Houses languished in disrepair, with shattered tile roofs and crumbling, faded walls.

Dickinson made his home in a former tannery on San Miguel's higher reaches and soon became a familiar sight, riding around town on a burro. For the next six decades, until his death in 1998, he would lead a renaissance that would transform tiny San Miguel into one of Latin America's most magnetic destinations for artists and expatriates, most of them American, looking for a new venue—or a new life.
"Stirling Dickinson is without doubt the person most responsible for San Miguel de Allende becoming an international art center," says John Virtue, author of Model American Abroad, a biography of Dickinson. Although only an amateur painter himself, Dickinson became co-founder and director of the Escuela Universitaria de Bellas Artes, an art institute that he opened in a former convent only a few months after his arrival.

During World War II, Dickinson served with U.S. Naval Intelligence in Washington and the Office of Strategic Services (forerunner of the CIA) in Italy. Returning to San Miguel after the war, he recruited hundreds of young American veterans to study at Bellas Artes on the G.I. Bill of Rights.

In the postwar years, non-artists and retirees, as well as painters and sculptors, were drawn to the city from its neighbor to the north; today, some 8,000 Americans—one out of ten residents—live there. Eighty percent or so are retirees; the others oversee businesses, from cafés and guesthouses to galleries and clothing stores. Most of these expats—some of whom have Mexican spouses—volunteer at more than 100 nonprofit organizations in San Miguel, including the library and health care clinics.

"This mestizaje—cultural mixing—has profoundly changed and benefited both sides," says Luis Alberto Villarreal, a former mayor of San Miguel who is currently one of two senators from the state of Guanajuato, in which the town is located. "We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Stirling Dickinson for helping this come about and for raising San Miguel's profile in the world." Walking the cobblestone streets flanked by stucco houses painted vivid shades of ocher, paprika and vermilion, one passes lively squares full of street musicians and vendors hawking tacos. In the distance rises the Sierra de Guanajuato. In 2008, San Miguel was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, in large measure because of its intact 17th- and 18th-century center.

While mass murder and kidnapping linked to narcotics gangs have overtaken parts of Mexico, the region around San Miguel has thus far been spared. "The cartels' violence often centers on ports of entry into the U.S. and involves consolidation of contested border areas," says Rusty Payne, spokesman for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency. "San Miguel does not fit these criteria."

Dorothy Birk—today Dotty Vidargas—was among the first of the young Americans to answer Dickinson's call, in 1947. Six decades later, at age 85, she oversees a real estate agency and furnishings store across from an 18th-century church.

Vidargas grew up in Chicago, a block away from Dickinson. She says he had three passions: art, baseball and orchids. At Bellas Artes, she recalls, he formed a baseball team that won 84 games in a row and captured several regional amateur championships in the 1950s. He traveled throughout Mexico and the world to collect wild orchids, breaking three ribs in a fall during a 1960s expedition to southern Mexico's Chiapas highlands. An orchid he discovered there in 1971 was named after him—Encyclia dickinsoniana.

In 1942, in her sophomore year at Wellesley College, Vidargas left academia to enlist in the war effort, eventually serving as a Navy recruiter and, later, as an air controller for the Army Air Forces outside Detroit. After the war, she enrolled at the American Academy, an art institute in Chicago. But in 1947 she decided to spend her G.I. Bill subsidies in San Miguel. "My mother knew Stirling and figured it would be all right for me to go," she says.

She was one of 55 veterans accepted at Bellas Artes that year. More than 6,000 veterans would apply to the school after the January 1948 issue of Life magazine called it a "G.I. Paradise," where "veterans go...to study art, live cheaply and have a good time."

But Vidargas' first impression was well this side of paradise. Arriving by train in the pre-dawn darkness, she checked into a hotel where electricity and running water were sporadic. Many of the surrounding buildings were near ruins. Burros outnumbered cars; the stench of manure and raw sewage was overpowering. "I was cold, miserable and ready to board the next train home," she recalls. But she soon found more comfortable student lodging and began her Bellas Artes course work. Between school terms, she traveled with fellow students and Dickinson throughout Mexico.

She even joined the local bullfighting circuit as a picador, or horseback-mounted lancer. "It was after a few drinks, on a dare," Vidargas recalls. Soon "la gringa loca" ("the crazy Yank"), as she was becoming known, was spending her weekends at dusty bullrings, where her equestrian prowess made her a minor celebrity.
Meanwhile, some members of the town's conservative upper class were outraged by the American students' carousing. The Rev. José Mercadillo, the parish priest, denounced the hiring of nude models for art classes and warned that the Americans were spreading Protestantism—even godless Communism.

In fact, in 1948, Dickinson recruited the celebrated painter David Alfaro Siqueiros, a Communist Party member, to teach at Bellas Artes. There he lashed out at his critics, far exceeded his modest art-class budget and eventually resigned. Siqueiros left behind an unfinished mural depicting the life of local independence leader Ignacio Allende, whose last name had been appended to San Miguel in 1826 to commemorate his heroism in the war. The mural still graces the premises, which today is occupied by a cultural center.

Apparently convinced that Communists had indeed infested Bellas Artes, Walter Thurston, then the U.S. ambassador to Mexico, blocked the school's efforts to gain the accreditation necessary for its students to qualify for G.I. Bill stipends. Most of the veterans returned home; some were deported. Dickinson himself was expelled from Mexico on August 12, 1950, although he was allowed back a week later. "It was the low point in relations between Americans and the locals," recalls Vidargas. "But my situation was different, because I got married."

José Vidargas, a local businessman, who today is 95, had met his future bride at a bowling alley, one of many postwar fads to invade Mexico from the United States. Some of his relatives wondered about his plans to marry a gringa. "Suddenly, I had to become a very proper Mexican wife to be accepted by the good society families," recalls Dorothy. The couple had five children in seven years, and Dorothy still found time to open the first store in San Miguel to sell pasteurized milk; the real estate agency came later. Today, three sons live in San Miguel; a daughter lives in nearby León; one child died in infancy.

By 1951, the various controversies had closed down Bellas Artes, and Dickinson became director of a new art school, the Instituto Allende, which soon became accredited and began granting Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees. Today, the nonprofit school, attended by several hundred students annually, encompasses a fine-arts degree program, a Spanish-language institute and traditional handicraft workshops.

In 1960, Jack Kerouac, the novelist who had catapulted to fame three years earlier with the publication of On the Road, went to San Miguel with pals Allen Ginsburg and Neal Cassady. Ginsburg read his poetry at the Instituto Allende, while Kerouac and Cassady spent most of their time downing tequilas at La Cucaracha, a traditional Mexican cantina that remains popular to this day. The trio remained only a few days, but in 1968, Cassady returned to San Miguel, where he died at age 41 from the effects of alcohol, drugs and exposure.

The plaintive recordings of Pedro Infante, still Mexico's most popular country singer more than a half century after his death, can be heard most mornings at San Miguel's largest traditional food market, the Mercado Ignacio Ramírez. Vendors display varieties of chile, red and green prickly pears, black and green avocados, orange and yellow melons, tropical fruits including mamey, with its pumpkin-hued flesh, and guayaba, whose texture resembles a white peach. Nopales (cactus leaves shorn of spines) are stacked alongside Mexican herbs, including epazote, used to flavor black beans, and dark red achiote seeds, an ingredient in pork and chicken marinades.

"I love the presentation of the food stands," says Donnie Masterton, 41, chef and co-owner of the Restaurant, arguably San Miguel's top culinary establishment. He is shopping at the market for that evening's eclectic menu: a chilled cauliflower soup with lemon grass and shrimp; duck with mole negro (a complex sauce based on chiles and herbs) and handmade tortillas; churros (a pencil-length fried-dough pastry) with dark Mexican chocolate pot-de-crème (a creamy custard). More than half the diners will be residents—Mexican, American and Canadian; the rest will be foreign or Mexican visitors. "It definitely won't be the same food they will get back in New York or Los Angeles," Masterton promises.

A Los Angeles native, Masterton settled in San Miguel six years ago, drawn by its beauty and the opportunity to own his own restaurant. The Restaurant occupies an inner courtyard under a retractable glass roof. "I wanted a seasonal menu with as many locally grown ingredients as possible," says Masterton. To meet his own standards, he purchased a quarter acre inside an organic farm outside San Miguel, where farmers harvest produce grown from seed: Swiss chard, bok choy, mache and arugula. His biggest complaint is the lack of fresh fish. "The quality is inconsistent," says Masterton. "I'm exploring the idea of phoning a fishing boat off the Pacific coast to order the fresh catch of the day."

Cheryl Finnegan came to San Miguel in 2000 from San Francisco, where she had spent 14 years in the marketing department of Levi Strauss, the jeans and casual wear manufacturer. "One day I woke up and asked—Where is my passion? I had no passion," she recalls. "So I just dropped everything—my marriage, job, home, box seats at the opera—and moved down here."

A chance occurrence launched her new career. A decade ago, she was vacationing in the Mexican village of Sayulita, some 35 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast, during the annual December 12 celebration of the Virgin of Guadalupe. (The festival commemorates the day in 1531 when the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared on the outskirts of Mexico City.) As Finnegan strolled the town's central square, a fragment of fireworks hit her in the throat. A local doctor told her she would be permanently scarred. "The wound was shaped in the silhouette of [Our Lady of] Guadalupe, and when I walked around Sayulita, the villagers said it was a sign that I was her chosen one," says Finnegan. "Two weeks later, the wound disappeared without a scar—the doctor couldn't believe it!"

What remained was an obsession with the Virgin of Guadalupe. Finnegan began designing key chains, cameos, rings and belt buckles with the Virgin Mother's image, coated in resin and decorated with crystals. In 2004, paparazzi in the United States photographed pop singer Britney Spears wearing one of Finnegan's belts. "It put me on the map," says Finnegan. Other singers—Tim McGraw and Shakira—have sported Finnegan buckles.

Today she employs ten women to help run her jewelry and clothing accessories firm, housed in a restored 18th-century residence near the town center. Her designs, bearing tags with New Age slogans—"Everybody needs a miracle once in a while"—are sold throughout the United States, Europe and Asia under the name Virgins, Saints & Angels.

Jorge Almada, 37, is the grandson of Plutarco Elías Calles, a revolutionary general who served as president of Mexico in the 1920s. Almada and his French-American wife, Anne-Marie Midy, 38, met in New York City. After traveling across Mexico in search of artisan-made furnishings, the couple settled in San Miguel in 200o and began designing furniture to export to the United States and Europe under the Casamidy brand. "There is great artistry throughout Mexico," says Almada. "But we found San Miguel artisans to be the most open-minded and receptive to designer suggestions."

Refugio Rico García, 64, an ironsmith, is among the artisans employed by the couple. He lives and works in the same house in which he was born. The residence, a warren of rooms and tiny patios verdant with potted plants, scales a steep hillside. Photographs of his grandparents, faded to sepia, greet visitors in the foyer. "My grandfather was a potter—[he produced] pots and also sewage pipes, which used to be made of clay," says García. "He was the one who got me interested in becoming an artisan." (García's sons reject the life of an artisan as too lonely and demanding. The elder boy is a migrant worker in Arizona; the younger is a student.)

García labors up to 14 hours a day. The walls and ceiling of his workshop are blackened from the charcoal fires that fuel his forge. Near the furnace stands a heavy wooden table fitted with an iron plate; here he hammers half-molten metal into various shapes. García produces headboards for beds, chandeliers, and chairs and tables fitted with glass tops for Almada and Midy.

The Hotel Oasis, a restored 18th-century house with four guest rooms, features Casamidy tables and chairs in an interior designed by Hong Kong-born Leslie Tung, a San Miguel decorator, and hotel owner Nancy Hooper. A native New Yorker and former Texas resident, Hooper acquired the property in 2006.

Widowed in the 1990s, Hooper decided to spend a summer in San Miguel with her teenage daughter, Tessa. "I wanted her to feel that life goes on and to give her a sense of new adventure," she says. In 2000, Hooper moved to San Miguel from Texas. She was intrigued by an abandoned house and a spacious room she could see through a window as she walked by. "It just wouldn't leave me alone—I knew I wanted to turn it into a hotel," says Hooper, who had no experience as an innkeeper. "From the beginning, I envisioned an oasis—a place where visitors to San Miguel could get away from the bustling outside."

By the early 1980s, Dickinson had begun to distance himself from the growing number of Americans. "Stirling must have shuddered the day he saw the first tourist bus arrive in San Miguel and disgorge tourists wearing shorts," wrote biographer Virtue. "These were exactly the type of people he railed against in his own travels abroad." In 1983, Dickinson resigned as director of the Instituto Allende, where, during his 32-year tenure, some 40,000 students, mainly Americans, had matriculated. Increasingly involved with the Mexican community, he oversaw a rural library program that donated volumes from San Miguel residents to village schools. He also began to support financially the Patronato Pro Niños—the Pro-Children Foundation—an organization providing free medical service and shoes for impoverished rural youngsters.

On the night of October 27, 1998, the 87-year-old Dickinson was killed in a freak accident. As he prepared to drive away from a Patronato Pro Niños meeting held at a hillside house, he accidentally stepped on the gas pedal instead of the brake. His vehicle plunged down a steep embankment; Dickinson died instantly. More than 400 mourners, including foreigners and Mexicans from the countryside, attended his funeral. He was buried in the foreigners' section of Our Lady of Guadalupe Cemetery, just west of San Miguel's center. Today, a bronze bust of Dickinson stands on a street bearing his name.

The Guadalupe Cemetery attracts huge throngs on November 2, the Day of the Dead, when families of the deceased carry food and other gifts to their relatives' graves. "One brings what the dead liked best in life—liquor, cigarettes, especially a favorite food," says Dehmian Barrales, a local anthropologist. "It's a bit like a birthday party, and the family is saying to the dead: 'Here are your presents; we are here to keep you company.' The idea is to leave the food long enough for its essence to be consumed by the dead; its material form can be eaten by the living."
On a sunny November morning at the Guadalupe Cemetery, crowds shuffled through the white-walled entrance. Graves were festooned with orange cempasúchil blossoms, cut only on the Day of the Dead. Photographs of loved ones were propped against headstones. At one grave, a priest hired by relatives led prayers and psalms. At another, a mariachi band belted out the deceased's favorite Pedro Infante ballads, while relatives feasted on barbecued pork tacos and glasses of tequila that the dead had "left over."

The foreigners' section of the cemetery was empty of visitors, except for a small contingent of Mexicans and elderly Americans who clustered around a memorial fountain dedicated to Dickinson. The fountain, near his burial site, commands a view of the other graves. "He is watching over them," said Jorge Antonio Ramírez, 80, a retired Bellas Artes employee and former Dickinson baseball player, who had brought a cempasúchil bouquet to commemorate his friend. "Just like he always did in life."

Jonathan Kandell lives in New York City. Photographer Ann Summa is based in San Miguel de Allende and Los Angeles.

On a Dark Desert Highway...

2010-11-17T07:35:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder what inspired the Eagles for their famous hit song Hotel California? Most people think they are singing about a hotel somewhere in California, right? Well they are if you mean Baja California, in Mexico's famous Baja Peninsula. Recently I rented a lovely villa in Baja, just outside Cabo San Lucas and retraced the steps (and at least some of the activities) The Eagles sing about in their song.

Only fifteen minutes from the airport, we arrive at our beautiful villa, Casa Bella. We are stunned by the gorgeous views right from the living room. We push the sliding glass doors into the walls and our living room gracefully extends right into the pool area, complete with a built in Jacuzzi, negative edge pool and a fire pit in the middle of a circular seating area—all of this on a cliff overlooking the beautiful Sea of Cortez. We sit back to take in the view, and are thrilled to see several whales breaching and blowing spouts of water into the air. (The Sea of Cortez and Baja are also big winter vacation spots for whales—who knew!)

Our villa comes equipped with a terrific chef and concierge who cater to our every need. We haven't even unpacked our bags when we are offered the first round of margaritas and fresh chips, salsa and guacamole. This isn't store-bought salsa and guacamole by the way. This is the kind that was sitting on the counter as fresh tomatoes, onions, avocados and jalapenos 30 minutes ago! You can taste the difference. We later enjoy a terrific dinner prepared with equally fresh ingredients.

The next day, our concierge arranged a Surf-Safari to the small town of Todos Santos and neighboring beach of Cerritos. We are picked up at the villa by three enthusiastic guides and surf instructors who tell us all about Baja and the sights as we drive to the beach. At Cerritos, we find an expansive white beach several miles wide with beautiful peeling surf rolling right to left. Just as importantly for us beginners, the beach has no rocks or reefs, just soft sand, waste deep water and a smooth rolling wave break that is perfect for learning. Our guides give us a lesson on the beach and then it’s out into the surf. We quickly catch some small waves and make spectacles of ourselves falling all over the place. An hour later we are starting to get it and our guides seem as excited as we are with the progress.

After surfing, we take the ten minute ride into the small town of Todos Santos. A spring-fed oasis in the middle of a desert—this was the "shimmering light" Don Henley sings about at the end of the "dark desert highway." We pull into the sleepy town and, as if on cue, hear the famous "mission bell" and there she is, The Hotel California! A small hotel with only 11 rooms, it is clearly famous for the experiences The Eagles must have had inside. We pile into the hotel's quaint courtyard and enjoy a tasty lunch. A few hours and several potent margaritas later we are starting to understand the lyrics, "You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave"—who would want to?

Fortunately, our trusty surf guides rescue us before round five and return us to our villa. It was a terrific day in a beautiful part of the world.

If you are looking for a different type of vacation try renting a catered villa in Mexico! Having the staff allows you to enjoy the luxuries of a beautiful home in an exotic location without the need to cook or clean. They also know the area well and can arrange the perfect set of excursions and activities to make your vacation a memorable one. To plan your perfect villa vacation, visit VacationRoost.com, or call 1-888-33ROOST.

Enjoying your Golden Years in Puerto Vallarta

2010-11-11T14:48:00.000-08:00

Simply Puerto Vallarta has issued a second video in their grassroots effort to publicize the charms of this sanctuary south of the border. They speak with Polly and Hubert Vicars about their choice to retire to this colorful seaside village. The Vicars discuss the perks and challenges they encountered, and what ultimately led them to choose to spend their retirement in Puerto Vallarta.

Locals and Small-Business Owners Tout Puerto Vallarta’s Charms

2010-11-05T10:11:00.000-07:00

Simply Puerto Vallarta is a grassroots multimedia campaign started to give prospective visitors a look into Puerto Vallarta’s magnetic charm. “Mexico's reputation seems to run to the extremes,” says Laura Gelezunas, creator and videographer for Simply Puerto Vallarta. “The good news keeps coming but it is not making the splash it should.” Gelezunas hopes to give tourists and those looking to relocate a clearer picture of what the destination has to offer. These videos will feature testimonials from shop owners, restaurateurs and locals. See the first installment below.

Mexico 200th Anniversary Video Tribute

2010-08-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

In celebration of Mexico's 200 Year Anniversary, enjoy this montage highlighting all that makes Mexico a one of a kind and magical destination.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DsuVXWWN8q0

San Miguel de Allende - Paradise Mexican Style!

2010-08-17T14:50:00.000-07:00

San Miguel de Allende - Paradise Mexican Style!
By Sandi Durell

The historical City in the State of Guanajuato, Mexico, San Miguel de Allende, (www.internetsanmiguel.com/gethere.html ) is a small colorful town sitting in the mountains at an altitude of 6400 feet. The quaint little City of culture was founded in 1542 by a Spanish Franciscan missionary, Fray Juan de San Miguel. It is referred to, by many, as a ‘magical place.’

It was in the 18th Century that the heroes of the independence movement were born. Ignacio de Allende y Unzaga, a revolutionary, born on January 21, 1769, joined forces with Father Don Miguel Hidalgo leading the famous Cry of Independence speech in September 1810 and the resulting insurgency. But Spain was too strong and the patriots were defeated. Both Hidalgo and Allende, along with others, were executed, their heads hung in cages outside a Guanajuato granary. On March 8, 1826, in recognition of Allende’s heroism, the state government changed the name of the town to San Miguel de Allende.

In 1926 SMA was declared a National Monument, preserving the historical aspects of the town which is why the town is free of traffic lights today. With the opening of the Instituto Allende Art School in the late 1930’s, the foreign population began to grow and today retired Americans and Canadians make up much of the expat community, numbering between 2000-4000, depending upon season. I couldn’t wait to experience the magic and spent an extended period of stay during the winter months where the weather is spring-like most of the time.

San Miguel is a physical daily exercise in itself with its hilly cobble-stoned streets, narrow sidewalks and winding side streets. Every turn is a discovery of interesting little shops, boutiques, jewelers and artisans¸ art galleries and restaurants. The streets are very clean as the morning routine for shop-keepers is to sweep and wash the stone pavements. It is rare to see a piece of paper strewn on the streets. Crossing the street is unique, unlike New York City where I live, as traffic comes to a halt to allow pedestrians the right of way. There are no traffic lights in SMA. All the near traffic misses as automobiles pull up to corners, sometimes with only inches to spare as they turn and move about, does quicken the heartbeat.

Walking down and around the winding streets, one wonders what could be behind some of the large old wooden Hacienda doors and I was afforded the opportunity to find out on several occasions. Each time my surprise was broadened by the spectacular gardens, fountains and beautiful homes within; many with three living levels, high 14 foot ceilings, skylights and roof top gardens. True architectural wonders. The town is alive with the creativity of artists, writers, theatre people and musicians and includes a large population of Gringo public service groups who work tirelessly to benefit many Mexican charities. The weekly “Bible,” the newspaper Atencion (written in Spanish and English), lists every conceivable activity and happening. One would need an excessive number of hours or a clone in order to participate in everything. The central focus of all cultural activities is the Biblioteca, where concerts, movies, lectures and theatre abound and where the intelligencia usually hang out engaged in serious discussions on all topics.

Depending on one’s lifestyle, choices are innumerable when it comes to accommodations: hotels, B &B’s, apartments, villas, condos, and private homes….all available for rent. To be in the heart of it all, one would probably prefer the area known as “El Centro” where most everything is within walking distance. And if it’s not, then a taxi ride can be had for 25 pesos (a little more than $2.00) to any location within the main city of San Miguel. There’s also a bus available for 5 pesos.

“The Jardin” is the central meeting place in town, around which are many restaurants, stores and local street hawkers. At the Jardin in the Plaza Principal stands the beautiful 18th Century Parroquia (Church), constructed of rose colored quarry stone. The Church bells ring each morning beginning at 6:30 a.m. and if per chance you didn’t hear them, a repeat performance follows at 7:00 a.m.

The Jardin is the place where everyone congregates (especially on weekends) to exchange information about who’s doing what, where, when and with whom, and anything new and happening. It’s also a place to sit, read, make new friends and people watch. It’s Peyton Place Mexican style! On any weekend evening there are three or four different kinds of musical groups playing and singing, people dancing in the streets, lovers holding hands and embracing while swaying to the romantic sounds of the Mariachi bands.

If you crave lots of activities, you can brush up on your Spanish at one of the many Spanish schools; play Bridge at the San Miguel Bridge Club at the Hotel Real d’Minas.( www.hotelesrealdeminas.com.mx/ ) attend gallery art show openings that include cocktails and meeting new friends.

Aside from art classes offered at Bellas Artes (www.experience-san-miguel-de-allende.com/bellas-artes-el-nigromante.html ) and the Instituto de Allende,(www.instituto-allende.edu.mx/ ) many of the galleries hold classes in drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry making. I decided it was time to explore my inner artist (if I had one) and this was my golden opportunity. I signed on for Expressionist Life Drawing. My teacher was artist, Henry Vermillion, who has a gallery in town and is also an actor, director and set designer. The norm in SMA is the wearing of multi-creative hats! Guess what? I discovered I actually had a little talent.

Lest I forget, there are also cooking schools, yoga classes, zumba classes…you name it and it probably is happening in San Miguel. Even Arthur Murray has opened a studio with classes in Latin and Ballroom instruction!

My other activity of choice was tennis, which I’ve played for many years. Lo and behold, there were several tennis facilities available and I wound up at Weber’s red clay tennis courts where I hooked up with some other players and we enjoyed games and each other’s company several times a week. Playing at 6400 ft. above sea level with pressurized tennis balls surely added a new spin to the game, creating interesting challenges.

A plethora of restaurants fill the tiny streets. Aside from the obvious Mexican cuisine, ethnic foods prevail at every turn featuring Italian, Asian, French, American with outdoor dining in magical gardens of flowers, plants and fountains while the sounds of guitar or piano and romantic songs in Espanol and English enhance the flavors. And, needless to say, there’s also a Starbucks.

There’s good jazz and occasionally Doc Severinsen comes to town. There are several hot spots for music and dancing.

As for theatre, three Brits called “The Literary Cabaret”, have been stopping in SMA for the past 16 years offering up their brand of satirical humor of clever skits, poetry and songs featuring anything from Shakespeare to naughty Noel Coward and rock n’ roll.

The Teatro Santa Ana at the Biblioteca serves as a movie hall and also has a full season of theatrical productions with a roster of local talent from the SMA theatre community. St. Paul’s Church is a place for concert music with its ProMusica Series, bringing wonderful classical concerts to San Miguel. There is also opera¸ folk and flamenco.

The Play Readers are part of the theatre scene performing at St. Paul’s Church where rotating directors choose plays that are read on book by a cast of actors, accessorized with some scenery and costuming. I spent a highlight evening at the Biblioteca watching an award winning documentary “In a Dream.” The story is about Philadelphia mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar and his wife Julia. In the bohemian South Philly neighborhood, 50,000 square feet of concrete have been covered with tile and mirrors, all created by Zagar who shares his torture, torment and unusual lifestyle and family with audiences around the world. Their younger son filmed Isaiah and Julia’s day to day love story, subsequent betrayals, an older son’s drug problems, all captured and documented for the thousands who have viewed this remarkable film. The story can cause great discomfort at times, but that’s what makes great art. Isn’t it? The realities were enhanced when Isaiah and Julia appeared on stage post film showing, submitting themselves to audience questions and participating in a cocktail reception afterwards. It is a not-to-be missed film should one have the opportunity.

Speaking of films, there is a place called The Market Café where, approximately 15 years ago, a Frenchman named Daniel Sirdey cleverly started showing foreign and classic films. It happens in a small room that seats around 22 people who watch the films on a large screen, seated in large comfortable chairs. The price of 60 pesos also included a drink of choice (wine, beer, margaritas) and a bag of popcorn. What a deal!

I had a one time experience attending the small bullring in SMA where a famous Portugese rejoneadore (a bullfighter on horseback) namely, Pablo Hermosa de Mendoza, renowned for his skill, grace, genius and beautiful horses, was appearing. I was told he appears once every 3 years and I knew I had to have the experience. Rejoneo means using a lance and is the oldest form of bullfighting, an activity for the nobility - the Arabs in North Africa and later the Moorish in Spain. Matadors, using capes and swords, became prominent in the early 19th century.

A general admission ticket entitled me to a seat above the first four rows of reserved seats on a concrete slab. As the ring filled and excitement mounted, so did the cigarette and cigar smoke along with the cries of hawkers selling chips and hot sauce, beer, tequila and margaritas. People were jammed together, some on cushions others on the hard concrete. Three ladies sitting nearby shared some tequila, cap by cap, brought in a vitamin bottle passed between then.

Bullfighting is a gory business and not for the faint of heart. The poor bull doesn’t have a chance. But it is traditional pomp and circumstance and part of a cultural harmony. After seeing three animals slaughtered, I’d had enough while the crowd continued to yell “oh lay.”
SMA is the kind of town where total strangers stop and talk on the streets as everyone is anxious to get to know others, especially if you’re a newcomer.
In case you haven’t heard, SMA attracts many ladies from the States seeking beauty ala plastic surgery and such, at a third of the cost or less. There are a few fine surgeons (trained in the best USA hospitals) but do your research and get recommendations.

Don’t miss a visit to the historic Fabrica Aurora, an old cotton mill, (www.fabricalaaurora.com/welcome.html ) on the outskirts of town turned into gallery and studio space, where home furnishings, jewelry and antiques are plentiful. There are multi shops and spaces to visit, along with two delightful cafes when you get hungry.
Day trips and overnights are plentiful. I spent a wonderful day in the City of Guanajuato (it means the mountain place of frogs), a charming European style City and the capital of the State. It is a multi-colored, twisting cobblestoned wonder with a subterranean through which to drive and where visits to the Diego Rivera Museum and the Museum of Mummies can be highly enlightening. It houses the prestigious University of Guanajuato, considered Mexico’s finest school for music and theater. A ride on the finicular to the very top (about 6600 ft.) is a must for 360 degree views of this beautiful and colorful City which, in 1988, was declared a World Heritage Zone by UNESCO.

San Miguel is a favorite with retirees on fixed incomes as it provides a wonderful lifestyle at approximately one-half or less the cost of living in the States. It’s not for everyone as walking and getting around can be challenging to many. Most of the locals speak English which is a plus for those who know little to no Spanish. The bottom line, however, is that if one is active, somewhat rugged with a sense of adventure and loves a cultured, artistic environment….this is the place for you.

Here’s a quote I’ve heard repeated many times: “people go to Florida to die, but they come to San Miguel to live.” And, yes, I’m going back. Hasta luego amigos!

AARP The Magazine Travels the Globe to Reveal the Top 5 Best Places to Retire Abroad

2010-07-26T10:10:00.000-07:00

AARP The Magazine Travels the Globe to Reveal the Top 5 Best Places to Retire Abroad

WASHINGTON (July 26, 2010) – Experts in celebrating the next chapter in life, AARP The Magazine traveled the globe to discover the ultimate retirement destinations abroad. Factoring climate, expat community, cost of living, housing, health care, access to the U.S. and culture and leisure, AARP The Magazine reveals the top five locales in its September/October issue (www.aarp.org/magazine), available in homes and online today. See what regions in Mexico, France, Panama, Portugal and Italy have to offer—castles, palm trees, rain forests, grilled lobster—in their unique and unparalleled retirement experiences.

1. MEXICO—Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is the undisputed number one destination for American retirees. With its rich Indian and Spanish culture, lavish beaches and affordable real-estate, Puerto Vallarta offers the low-cost, laid back lifestyle retirees seek to find in a community.
Some Reasons we love it:
* Climate: Winters—sunny, pleasantly warm; summers—rainy, humid hot
* Expat Community: Estimated at 50,000 American retirees
* Access to the U.S.: Excellent

2. FRANCE—Languedoc-Roussillon
Once remote, the Languedoc-Roussillon region is now just three hours from the bright lights and bustling energy of Paris via high-speed train. The area is steeped in history and art. Languedoc-Roussillon is also a destination for the outdoor crowd with picturesque hills and beach along its Mediterranean seashore.
Some Reasons we love it:
* Climate: Mediterranean—hot and dry summers; cool winters
* Cost of Living: Not cheap, but a comfortably frugal life can be had for $30,000 a year
* Heath Care: Excellent. French health care has been named the best in the world by the World Health Organization

3. PANAMA—Boquete
Panama is a smart choice for retirees who want it all. Not only does it feature attractive retiree destinations, Panama also offers an unbeatable package of retiree benefits and discounts. Boquete has a unique range of back-home amenities, from a golf course to high-end gated communities.
Some Reasons we love it:
* Expat Community: An estimated several thousand
* Housing Costs: A small house goes for $175,000; in a gated community, $250,000 and up. Rentals: about $600 a month for a two bedroom house
* Culture and Leisure: Rainforest hiking, river rafting, bird watching and coffee plantation tours keep Panama a bustling location for leisure

4. PORTUGAL—Cascais
Many wonder why Portugal has long been overlooked by American retirees. A plentitude of golf, beaches, resorts and trendy café life makes Portugal one of Europe’s most pleasant surprises for retirees.
Some Reasons we love it:
* Cost of Living: A comfortable life can be had on $25,000 a year
* Health Care: Good. Nearby hospitals include the well-regarded British Hospital in Lisbon
* Access to the U.S.: Excellent. Direct flights to-and-from the U.S. fly out of Lisbon

5. ITALY—Le Marche
Le Marche, bordering the Adriatic, is beautiful region with vineyards, snow-capped mountains and beaches a plenty. It also prides itself on the best fish dishes in the country and is trendy enough to have snagged Dustin Hoffman as a tourism spokesperson!
Some Reasons we love it:
* Climate: Mostly sunny
* Expat Community: Relatively few; an international mix
* Culture and Leisure: An incomparable mix of open-air opera festivals, Renaissance painting and architecture, wine tasting and nature reserves

AARP The Magazine Travels the Globe to Reveal the Top 5 Best Places to Retire Abroad

2010-07-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

36 Hours in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

2010-01-03T12:46:00.000-08:00

New York Times - December 27, 2009
36 Hours in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
By ROCKY CASALE
Published: December 27, 2009

With its breezy blue skies and baroque architecture, San Miguel de Allende has been a tropical haven for expatriates and retirees since the 1930s. The recent housing boom drew an even larger flock of snowbirds (mostly American) to this city in central Mexico, and with it came a new perch for post-hippie boutiques, vegan organic cafes and uneven art galleries. Old-timers started grousing about its Disneyfication. Luckily, the colonial town — which dates back to the 16th century and still bears traces of Spanish, Creole and Native American cultures — was designated a Unesco World Heritage site in 2008. While San Miguel doesn’t need any more attention, the designation helps ensure that the town’s candy-colored haciendas, romantic cobblestone lanes and rose-tinted turrets are around to survive another housing bubble.

Friday
4 p.m.1) MOSS AND MARIACHI
Get a sense of San Miguel’s understated colonial grandeur with a stroll along the palm-lined paths of Parque Juárez, a sun-dappled garden with pocked stone pillars and archways and fountains tarnished with mildew or overrun with moss. Hushed streets and lush trees occupy this part of town — as well as artists and writers, like Michael Cristofer, the playwright and filmmaker, who owns a Spanish colonial home insulated by beautiful gardens. If you return to the park after dark, there’s a good chance you’ll catch an impromptu concert of one-man banjo bands and mariachi singers.

7 p.m.2) DINE AND DANCE
The city’s food scene is less riveting than one would expect from a melting pot of Mexican and expat cultures, but one exception is Tio Lucas Restaurant & Bar (Calle Mesones 103; 52-415-152-4996). The steakhouse extends to a crowded patio for outside dining under strings of warmly lighted star-shaped lanterns. Toothsome steaks, strong margaritas and warmed beet root and goat cheese salads mixed tableside by the chef are what attract return customers. Dinner for two with drinks is about 600 pesos, or about $48 at 12.45 pesos to the dollar. The restaurant is decorated with Mexican crafts and stenciled cutouts of dancing skeletons. Tio Lucas doubles as a jazz joint, with nightly performances at 9 p.m.

10 p.m.3) MITTE IN MEXICO
Night life in San Miguel tends to fall along two lines: you either scream over piercing club tracks or you don’t. On Calle Umaran, girls in flouncy skirts stand outside seedy sports bars teasing tousled-haired boys. Steps away, Mexican women sit in the bosky El Jardín with grandchildren on their laps listening to mariachi bands or watching fireworks bloom overhead. The mellow alternative nearby is Berlin Bar and Cafe (Calle Umaran 19; 52-415-154-9432). Run by expatriates from Germany, this chill and trendy bar draws a silver fox set who stop by for its strong drinks and artsy crowd. Couples chat and listen to jazz in candlelit nooks near a bar decorated with huge paintings of artists and intellectuals from Weimar Berlin and other periods in Germany’s history.

Saturday
9 a.m.4) DESAYUNO TO GO
People stand in line for coffee at La Ventana Café Orgánico de Chiapas (Diez de Sollano y Dávalos 11; 52-415 154-7728) for a good reason. It’s not just because the organic coffee is dark and rich and the pastries fresh and flaky, but because you can’t actually go inside: La Ventana is a takeout window on the side of a faded yellow hacienda. Order an espresso and a warm croissant for 59 pesos. Take your breakfast two blocks down the road to El Jardín and sit on a bench beneath the lollypop-shaped laurel trees, where you’ll have a moment without the crowds to appreciate streaks of early-morning sunlight on La Parroquia church.

11:30 a.m.5) FEW GOOD FINDS
Souvenir shops selling Day of the Dead skeleton dolls are everywhere, which means shopping here can quickly become dull. For quirkier finds, walk east away from the center of town to Mixta (Calle Pila Seca 16A, Centro; 52-415-152-7343), a new shop that sells fine silver bangles and earrings, homemade cards and aprons stitched by local women. Farther north is Fábrica La Aurora (Calzada de la Aurora, Colonia Aurora; 52-415-152-1012; www.fabricalaaurora.com), a former turn-of-the-century textile mill turned into a design and art center. One highlight is Galería Manuel Chacon, which carries contemporary art.

1:30 p.m.6) BURRITOVILLE
When Rodrigo Pak Sautto wasn’t in upstate New York selling burritos out of an aluminum camper outside Bard College, he was building his business in San Miguel making yogurt smoothies and granola at his now popular Café Media Naranja (Calle Hidalgo 83). Housed in a tiny shoebox of a cafe, it attracts crunchy Anglos and earthy vegans who stop in for organic coffees and a quick lunch of vegetarian burritos and curried lentil soup (37 to 90 pesos) and to surf its free Wi-Fi.

4 p.m.7) CRAFTY CURIOSITIES
Down a narrow alley behind the city’s main fruit and vegetable market is the Mercado de Artesanias (between Calle Colegio and Calle Loreto), a vibrant mash of artists’ stalls where you’ll find everything from flossy fringed piñatas and punched-tin lanterns dangling overhead to baskets of cobalt blue glass beads and silver necklaces. Its offerings are more authentic than the trinkets and curios sold in the historic district, and possibly half the price.

8 p.m.8) WORLD SPICES
Follow the well-heeled expats to the flagstone courtyard at The Restaurant (Sollano 16, Centro; 52-415-154-7862; www.therestaurantsanmiguel.com), an elegant and candlelit restaurant that serves international comfort dishes using organic ingredients from local ranchers, growers and dairy farmers. Donnie Masterton, the chef, changes the menu frequently. Recent dishes included a miso-marinated and broiled Pacific salmon with soy, ginger green beans, and grilled pork chops with white bean and cherry tomato ragout (each 200 pesos).

10:30 p.m.9) LUCKY GAUCHOS
For a festive nightcap, make your way to Limrick (Calle Umaran 2), a busy bar in a soaring hacienda that takes its design cue from an Irish pub. Mexicans and Americans of every ilk, from the landed elite to the louche locals, chat in cozy booths, throw darts and watch soccer on the television. If the night still feels young, head to La Cucaracha (Calle Zacateros 22; 52-415-152-0196), an after-hours bar decorated with faded pinup posters and yellowing maps of the area. The crowd might include D-list actors in hiding and old gauchos parked permanently at the bar.

Sunday
10 a.m.10) HOT BATH
Near the outskirts of San Miguel, underground hot springs percolate to the surface and form pools. A five-minute cab ride out of town takes you to La Gruta (six miles outside San Miguel), a slightly shabby water park and picnic spot favored by locals. Two small mineral hot springs and a grotto are bordered by stone retaining walls, palm trees, wildflowers and sprays of bougainvillea.

1 p.m.11) CACTOPHILE’S PARADISE
Bird-watchers, outdoorsmen and city slickers will all appreciate the brambly valleys of El Charco del Ingenio Botanical Garden (El Charco del Ingenio; 52-415-154-8838; www.elcharco.org.mx), a 167-acre ecological reserve spanning cactus-lined canyons and spring-fed pools. A 40-peso fee gives you access to easy hiking trails festooned with giant agaves and nopal cactus where egrets and swallows roost and peck at spiny fruits. The greenhouse, which resembles a small airplane hangar, shelters hundreds of rare and endangered plants. It’s the kind of place locals come to take in the natural surrounding beauty, perhaps when things feel a little too Disney.

THE BASICS
The nearest commercial airports are Querétaro (about 45 miles away) and León-Guanajuato (about 70 miles). A recent Web search found a Continental Airlines flight from Newark to Querétaro, with a stopover in Houston, starting at about $550 for travel next month. The sometimes cheaper alternative is to fly into Mexico City, which offers more flights, and make the four-hour drive.

This article has been revised to reflect the following correction:
Correction: January 10, 2010 The 36 Hours column on Dec. 27, about San Miguel de Allende, misspelled the surname of a playwright and filmmaker and referred incorrectly to his house near Parque Juárez. He is Michael Cristofer, not Cristopher, and he owns the house in that neighborhood, he does not rent it.

Destination Wedding in Puerto Vallarta with Mexican Destinations

2009-08-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

Weddings are popular in Puerto Vallarta, and for good reason. A town that knows how to entertain tourists and groups, you will find the utmost service and attention to detail from a wide variety of hotels, resorts and luxury villas. With a mixture of mountains, ocean and cobblestone streets, Puerto Vallarta is like no other Mexican destination. Couples can avail themselves of secluded beaches, romantic restaurants, sunset cruises, hot air ballon rides, lively nightlife (for those who want it), shopping and day trips or the freedom of doing nothing at all. Regardless, it all adds up to the perfect blend of ingredients for an incredibly memorable romantic holiday.

Contact Mexican Destinations and let us help you with your unique destination wedding.

Exclusive Destination: Punta Mita

2009-08-12T15:52:00.001-07:00

Punta Mita is located on Mexico's Pacific Coast, about 30 minutes northwest of the international airport in Puerto Vallarta, one of Mexico's premier vacation destinations. Punta Mita is easily accessible by air and is just a few hours from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Dallas and other major cities in the United States.

Situated at the northern tip of Banderas Bay, Mexico's deepest natural bay, and bordered by the rugged Sierra Madre Mountains to the east. The Punta Mita peninsula is surrounded on three sides by white, coral-sand beaches and crystalline waters. The land features a rich bio-diversity that includes numerous species of tropical fauna and flora while the warm waters teem with tropical fish, turtles, and other aquatic life.

Punta Mita is also home to the luxurious Four Seasons Resort, including the 18 hole Jack Nicklaus championship golf course, restaurants and spa.

With Mexican Destinations, pick your perfect Punta Mita vacation rental.

Getting to Puerto Vallarta

2009-08-09T15:52:00.000-07:00

Find out how you can get to Puerto Vallarta

By Air - You can fly to Puerto Vallarta from the United States and and other points in Mexico including Guadalajara, La Paz, Leon and Mexico City.Puerto Vallarta's international airport is extremely well-served by a range of airlines. Flying is the most sensible way to get to Puerto Vallarta, unless you are on a budget, and don't mind the wait (and want to see the sights along the way).

By Car - The road journey to Puerto Vallarta from inland Mexico (e.g. Guadalajara, Mexico City, Chihuahua, et al) is mountainous and winding. The easiest route in and out of Puerto Vallarta is by using Highway 200 -- the coast road -- although if you plan to go inland to Guadalajara or Mexico City, then this road will take you well out of the way you really want to go. Expect it to take longer than you anticipate if you've only looked at non-topographical road map. Traveling out of Puerto Vallarta by road north to Punta de Mita, or south to Costalegre and Manzanillo is straightforward: the roads are good and the terrain is easy to negotiate in a car.

By Bus - You can travel to Puerto Vallarta on a luxury bus from Mexico City - but note that the trip will take around 14 hours. From Guadalajara, the journey time is about 6-7 hours. Puerto Vallarta is flanked by large mountains, so the roads in and out of the area are steep, winding, and take time to negotiate.

Before you leave, make sure to take full advantage of our luxury villa vacation rentals.

Discover Marilu III in Puerto Vallarta

2009-07-12T14:42:00.000-07:00

Casa Marilu III is a spectacular, 5,000 square foot contemporary, Mediterranean style villa situated 10 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta. Located on the water’s edge, the villa is located between the Presidente Intercontinental Hotel and La Jolla de Mismaloya resort and Spa and overlooks the famous Los Arcos rock formation. The interior incorporates dramatic open spaces, skylights, interior gardens and a sensuous blending of vivid local colors and textures.

To the north you can see the lovely city lights and, to the south, the rocky coast lined with sandy beaches and emerald hills.The sweeping ocean views from the bedrooms, bathrooms, terraces, dining room, living room and kitchen are spectacular. Visit Mexican Destinations for more Luxury Villa Rentals in Mexico.

With Mexican Destinations find alternatives to Mexico's tourist meccas

2009-06-20T13:05:00.000-07:00

Puerto Vallarta, as resort areas go, is amply endowed with scenic beauty, cultural attractions and historical charm; away from the northern tourist zone, it even retains some of its tropical languor. It's a big city, though, and you're just one of 3 million visitors a year.

Alternative: San Pancho, about 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, is still more fishing village and mango processing town than tourist destination, but it has a smattering of beautiful villa rentals, a growing number of fine restaurants, and an idyllic beach where men cast their lines from shore, competing with flocks of resident pelicans. It's a quieter version of Sayulita, 10 minutes to the north — which would have gotten the nod on this list a couple of years ago, before the condos started going up and the main street got choked with traffic.

Find the perfect Mexican vacation rental with Mexican Destinations.

Mexican Destinations - Exclusive Luxury Rental: Villa Esplendora

2009-06-13T15:02:00.000-07:00

This luxury vacation Villa rental features three oceanfront master suites with private Jacuzzis, and two beautifully-appointed garden bedrooms, adjacent to the unique bamboo gardens and waterfalls, each with a private bath. The grand staircase leads to the main salon, where the living room, dining room, kitchen and circular island bar are united for ease of entertaining. This area conveniently leads out to the fabulous terrace that features a beautiful infinity pool, 10 person Jacuzzi, dining palapa and outdoor cooking area with rotisserie and wet bar. Spend your evenings on the terrace, listening to the sound of the ocean, amidst the splendor of cascading fountains and the warm glow of the gas-lit fire pits.

To complete your stay, Villa Esplendora comes with a staff of 4, including a cook, houseman, maid and gardener. The cook will prepare 2 meals a day, breakfast and either lunch or dinner, Monday - Saturday.

See more from our unique Puerto Vallarta luxury rental collection on Mexican Destinations.

Puerto Vallarta Luxury Home Rental: Villa Hacienda de los Santos

2009-05-13T15:06:00.000-07:00

This spectacular new luxury rental in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico boasts a state-of-the-art infinity swimming pool and over 8,000 square feet of living space in this villa near Puerto Vallarta . Striking antiques and hand-painted murals grace every room. Located on a cliff at the top of Real de Conchas Chinas, the panoramic ocean, city and mountain views are unrivaled and will take your breath away.

If you are looking for the very best in accommodations, Hacienda de los Santos is for you. The stunning architecture reflects the traditions of Old Mexico, while affording guests every possible modern convenience and amenity. You'll be pampered in this custom-designed and meticulously built home. It contains extensive cantera columns and railings, bold arches, matte tikul flooring, vaulted bóveda veilings and cupolas throughout the entire home.

Discover more about the Hacienda de los Santos or other Mexico luxury house rentals with Mexican Destinations.

2009-05-01T10:20:00.000-07:00

Vallarta Living- May 2009

Linda Ellerbee (born August 15, 1944) is an American journalist who is most known for several jobs at NBC News, including Washington (DC) correspondent, host of the Nickelodeon network's Nick News, and reporter and co-anchor of NBC News Overnight, which was recognized by the jurors of the duPont Columbia Awards as "possibly the best written and most intelligent news program ever."[1]
One Journalist's View
By Linda Ellerbee

Sometimes I've been called a maverick because I don't always agree with my colleagues, but then, only dead fish swim with the stream all the time. The stream here is Mexico. You would have to be living on another planet to avoid hearing how dangerous Mexico has become, and, yes, it's true drug wars have escalated violence in Mexico , causing collateral damage, a phrase I hate. Collateral damage is a cheap way of saying that innocent people, some of them tourists, have been robbed, hurt or killed.

But that's not the whole story. Neither is this. This is my story.

I'm a journalist who lives in New York City , but has spent considerable time in Mexico , specifically Puerto Vallarta , for the last four years. I'm in Vallarta now. And despite what I'm getting from the U.S. media, the 24-hour news networks in particular, I feel as safe here as I do at home in New York , possibly safer. I walk the streets of my Vallarta neighborhood alone day or night. And I don't live in a gated community, or any other All-Gringo neighborhood. I live in Mexico .. Among Mexicans. I go where I want (which does not happen to include bars where prostitution and drugs are the basic products), and take no more precautions than I would at home in New York ; which is to say I don't wave money around, I don't act the Ugly American, I do keep my eyes open, I'm aware of my surroundings, and I try not to behave like a fool.

I've not always been successful at that last one. One evening a friend left the house I was renting in Vallarta at that time, and, unbeknownst to me, did not slam the automatically-locking door on her way out. Sure enough, less than an hour later a stranger did come into my house. A burglar? Robber? Kidnapper? Killer? Drug lord?

No, it was a local police officer, the "beat cop" for our neighborhood, who, on seeing my unlatched door, entered to make sure
everything (including me) was okay. He insisted on walking with me around the house, opening closets, looking behind doors and, yes, even under beds, to be certain no one else had wandered in, and that nothing was missing. He was polite, smart and kind, but before he left, he lectured me on having not checked to see that my friend had locked the door behind her. In other words, he told me to use my common sense. Do bad things happen here? Of course they do. Bad things happen everywhere, but the murder rate here is much lower than, say, New Orleans , and if there are bars on many of the ground floor windows of houses here, well, the same is true where I live, in Greenwich Village, which is considered a swell neighborhood - house prices start at about $4 million (including the bars on the ground floor windows). There are good reasons thousands of people from the United States are moving to Mexico every month, and it's not just the lower cost of living, a hefty tax break and less snow to shovel.. Mexico is a beautiful country, a special place. The climate varies, but is plentifully mild, the culture is ancient and revered, the young are loved unconditionally, the old are respected, and I have yet to hear anyone mention Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan, or Madonna's attempt to adopt a second African child, even though, with such a late start, she cannot possibly begin to keep up with Anglelina Jolie.
And then there are the people. Generalization is risky, but- in general - Mexicans are warm, friendly, generous and welcoming. If you
smile at them, they smile back. If you greet a passing stranger on the street, they greet you back. If you try to speak even a little Spanish, they tend to treat you as though you were fluent. Or at least not an idiot. I have had taxi drivers track me down after leaving my wallet or cell phone in their cab. I have had someone run out of a store to catch me because I have overpaid by twenty cents. I have been introduced to and come to love a people who celebrate a day dedicated to the dead as a recognition of the cycles of birth and death and birth - and the 15th birthday of a girl, an important rite in becoming a woman - with the same joy.
Too much of the noise you're hearing about how dangerous it is to come to Mexico is just that - noise. But the media love noise, and too many journalists currently making it don't live here. Some have never even been here. They just like to be photographed at night, standing near a spotlighted border crossing, pointing across the line to some imaginary country from hell. It looks good on TV.

Another thing. The U.S. media tend to lump all of Mexico into one big bad bowl. Talking about drug violence in Mexico without naming a state or city where this is taking place is rather like looking at the horror of Katrina and saying, "Damn. Did you know the U.S. is under water?" or reporting on the shootings at Columbine or the bombing of the Federal building in Oklahoma City by saying that kids all over the U.S. are shooting their classmates and all the grownups are blowing up buildings. The recent rise in violence in Mexico has mostly occurred in a few states, and especially along the border. It is real, but it does not describe an entire country.

It would be nice if we could put what's going on in Mexico in perspective, geographically and emotionally. It would be nice if we could remember that, as has been noted more than once, these drug wars wouldn't be going on if people in the United States didn't want the drugs, or if other people in the United States weren't selling Mexican drug lords the guns. Most of all, it would be nice if more people in the United States actually came to this part of America (Mexico is also America , you will recall) to see for themselves what a fine place Mexico really is, and how good a vacation (or a life) here can be.

So come on down and get to know your southern neighbors. I think you'll like it here. Especially the people.

Golfing in Puerto Vallarta

2009-04-05T18:15:00.000-07:00

Feel like golfing while staying in one of Mexican Destinations' luxury villas? Here is all the information you need about golf courses around Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta is an increasingly popular golf destination; five courses have opened in the past 4 years, bringing the total in the region to nine. The Joe Finger-designed private course at the Marina Vallarta Golf Club (tel. 322/221-0073) is an 18-hole, par-74 course that winds through the Marina Vallarta peninsula and affords ocean views. It's for members only, but most luxury hotels in Puerto Vallarta have memberships for their guests. Club rentals, lessons, and special packages are available.

North of town in the state of Nayarit, about 16km (10 miles) beyond Puerto Vallarta, is the 18-hole, par-72 Los Flamingos Club de Golf. It features beautiful jungle vegetation and has just undergone a renovation and upgrade of the course. It's open from 7am to 5pm daily, with a snack bar (but no restaurant) and full pro shop. The greens fee is $95 and includes the use of a golf cart; hiring a caddy costs $12 plus tip, and club rental is $27 to $44. A free shuttle runs from downtown Puerto Vallarta; call for pickup times and locations.

The breathtaking Jack Nicklaus Signature course at the Four Seasons Punta Mita has eight oceanfront holes and an ocean view from every hole. Its hallmark is the optional Hole 3B, the "Tail of the Whale," with a long drive to a green on a natural island -- the only natural-island green in the Americas. It requires an amphibious cart to take you over when the tide is high, and there's an alternate hole for when the ocean or tides are not accommodating. It's open only to guests of the Four Seasons resort or to members of other golf clubs with a letter of introduction from their pro. Selected other area hotels also have guest privileges -- ask your concierge. Greens fees for nonguests are $260, including cart, with (Calloway) club rentals for $60. Lessons are also available.

A second Jack Nicklaus course is at the Vista Vallarta Golf Club (tel. 322/290-0030), along with one designed by Tom Weiskopf. These courses were the site of the 2002 PGA World Cup Golf Championships. It's in the foothills of the Sierra Madre, behind the bullring in Puerto Vallarta. A round costs $167 per person, including cart.

The Robert von Hagge-designed El Tigre course at Paradise Village in Nuevo Vallarta, opened in March 2002. The 7,239-yard course is on a relatively flat piece of land, but the design incorporates challenging bunkers, undulating fairways, and water features on several holes. El Tigre also offers lessons and has an expansive clubhouse. This seems to be the favored course of local pros. Greens fees are $185 a round, or $85 if you play after 2pm.

Start organizing your golf vacation in Puerto Vallarta with Mexican Destinations.

Mexican Destinations Exclusive: Villa Marea Alta

2009-03-03T12:08:00.000-08:00

Plan your next getaway or fiesta in this colorful and spacious Puerto Vallarta Villa. Villa Marea Alta's 6000 square foot interior combines comfort with optimum efficiency and exquisite taste in design.

The villa is filled with beautiful antiques, regional handcrafts and artwork that, together, create a sophisticated, yet relaxed atmosphere. The exterior is beautifully landscaped and offers ocean views. Guests enjoy the infinity pool, stone fountains and outdoor fireplace.Music fills the villa when you take advantage of the complete sound system; or, you may just want to listen to the ocean breezes.

Your rental includes the service of the villa chef who will prepare any two meals a day for you, daily maid service and an English-speaking houseman who will take care of all your needs. This may be rented as a 3 or 4 bedroom.

Find out more about the Villa Marea Alta and other Puerto Vallarta Rental Houses.

Mexican Destinations: Villa Estrella Mar

2009-02-16T17:30:00.000-08:00

The finest Puerto Vallarta villa rental, Estrella Mar has been featured in Veranda Magazine as well as several other publications. This one-of-a-kind oceanfront home offers six spacious suites, nine bathrooms, an exercise room, a large heated pool and a dedicated staff of fourteen.

The residence is distinctive in many ways, but one of its most unexpected features is the absence of glass in the windows. You can leave everything open to the ocean breezes and the view. Interior spaces include polished tile floors, textured wall surfaces, sturdy cotton fabrics and an abundance of wicker. During the day, the view dominates. But, at night, soft lighting warms the interiors like a welcoming abrazo-embrace and Villa Estrella Mar truly becomes a star of the sea.

The attentive staff includes a villa chef, an English speaking houseman, daily maid service and 24 hour security.

Find out more about the Villa Estrella Mar and other luxury villa rentals in Puerto Vallarta.

Mexican Destinations: Puerto Vallarta Walking Tours

2008-11-11T16:15:00.000-08:00

Puerto Vallarta's cobblestone streets are a pleasure to explore; they're full of tiny shops, rows of windows edged with curling wrought iron, and vistas of red-tile roofs and the sea. Start with a walk up and down the malecón.

Among the sights you shouldn't miss is the municipal building on the main square (next to the tourism office), which has a large Manuel Lepe mural inside in its stairwell. Nearby, right up Independencia, sits the picturesque Parish of Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe church, Hidalgo 370 (tel. 322/222-1326), topped with a curious crown held in place by angels -- a replica of the one worn by Empress Carlota during her brief time in Mexico as Emperor Maximilian's wife. On its steps, women sell religious mementos; across the narrow street, stalls sell native herbs for curing common ailments. Services in English are held each Saturday at 5pm, and Sunday at 10am. Regular hours are Monday through Saturday from 7:30am to 8:30pm, Sunday from 6:30am to 8:30pm. Note that entrance is restricted to those properly attired -- no shorts or sleeveless shirts allowed. Three blocks south of the church, head east on Libertad, lined with small shops and pretty upper windows, to the municipal market by the river. (It's the Río Cuale Mercado, but I recently overheard a tourist ask for the "real quality" market!) After exploring the market, cross the bridge to the island in the river; sometimes a painter is at work on its banks. Walk down the center of the island toward the sea, and you'll come to the tiny Museo Río Cuale (no phone; Mon-Sat 10am-4pm; free admission), which has a small but impressive permanent exhibit of pre-Columbian figurines.

Retrace your steps to the market and Libertad, and follow Calle Miramar to the brightly colored steps up to Zaragoza. Midway is a magnificent view over rooftops to the sea, plus a cute cafe, Graffiti (no phone), where you can break for a cappuccino and a snack. Up Zaragoza to the right 1 block is the famous pink arched bridge that once connected Richard Burton's and Elizabeth Taylor's houses. In this area, known as "Gringo Gulch," many Americans have houses.

Find out more about Puerto Vallarta Vacations and luxury villa rentals.

Mexican Destinations: Villa Amapas

2008-10-05T19:22:00.000-07:00

Villa Amapas is a luxury beach estate and house for rent in Puerto Vallarta - lower Conchas Chinas. Enter through antique Mexican doors to the private elevator and step into one of the most spectacular beach properties in Puerto Vallarta. The villa has over 7,000 square feet on four levels and features a spacious master suite with its own terrace, three large guest suites with ensuite baths, a commercial gourmet kitchen, outdoor bar and dining areas and a magnificent heated infinity pool overlooking the beach.

The refreshing pool and nearby sheltering palapa are surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation for complete privacy. The spacious upper terrace is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset or lounge away the afternoon in the shade of the pergola.

Find the perfect house for rent in Puerto Vallarta with Mexican Destinations.

Looking for the Best Place in the World to Retire? Puerto Vallarta

2008-09-05T10:15:00.000-07:00

During the past 15 years, International Living magazine has calculated its Annual Global Retirement Index; a resource intended to assist retirees and future retirees in evaluating and comparing the world's most popular retirement destinations.

The number one ranked country in the world for retirement; MEXICO! Aside from the fact that Mexico is extremely convenient to the US and Canada, that Mexico's Senior Citizens´ Benefits Program offers up to 50% discounts on many services to retirees over the age of 60, that the Mexican government has enacted many new laws encouraging foreign investment, Mexico has become an incredible place to enjoy retirement, offering the quality of life that North Americans are accustomed to with numerous extra benefits.

The most desirable retirement locations from north to south along the Pacific Ocean are La Paz and Todos Santos in Baja, Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa / Zihuatanejo, and Puerto Escondido.
it's no wonder why so many retirees have migrated to Puerto Vallarta. This beautiful tourist resort area has become home to thousands of North Americans that have traveled the world, could afford to live anywhere on the planet, and have chosen Vallarta as their winter, if not full time, retirement destination.

Located at the same latitude as Hawaii, Puerto Vallarta has a perfect climate with an average daily temperature of 73°F from November through May with virtually no chance of rain. With a population of approximately 350,000 inhabitants, Vallarta now has a new and growing infrastructure including roads, water treatment plants and distribution systems, power plants and distribution grid, airport, maritime terminal, hospitals, university, etc.

High speed internet, satellite TV, VOIP telecommunications, and US newspapers and magazines are all available in Vallarta. Most of the mega-stores found in the US and Canada have come to Vallarta including Sam's Club, Wal-Mart, Costco, Home Depot, Office Depot, Staples, and of course, every fast food chain restaurant imaginable! Vallarta now has seven world class golf courses with three more either in the planning stage or currently under construction. There are hundreds of tennis courts, world class deep sea fishing, and every other activity available that you would expect in a city of this size. There are numerous new cinemas, theaters, and hundreds of fine restaurants.

Let us help you make your retirement a reality with long-term luxury rentals and real-estate in Puerto Vallarta.

Mexican Destinations Presents: Casa San Sebastian

2008-08-11T18:15:00.000-07:00

Nestled majestically amidst cliff-side boulders in a sheltered pacific cove on Puerto Vallarta's exclusive south shore of Mismaloya is the spectacular Casa San Sebastian. Guests enjoy its dramatic jungle setting while being only ten minutes from Puerto Vallarta.Casa San Sebastian is the most exquisite and talked about luxury villas and exclusive resort Mexico villa rental on Puerto Vallarta's Exclusive south shore. This spectacular 8,000 sq. ft. villa was designed for pure pleasure and comfort.

The Architect, Alberto Alvarez, a local award winning University of Guadalajara graduate. He adopted the Pacific Coast style with grace and ease and added his own particular creative touch, resulting in a dramatic and spectacular residence. Comfort and luxury were always on our minds. The villa provides a happy, relaxed, leisurely setting, a place to recharge, to revitalize.

Find more Exclusive Mexico Rentals on Mexican Destinations.

Mexico in the Media – The Wall Street Journal June 2006

2006-06-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

Off the Beaten Track / San Miguel de Allende
By Amy Chozick

Reporter Amy Chozick on where to eat, shop and drink good tequila in this colonial town in central Mexico.

Where to stay: Most of San Miguel's exquisite private homes, from quaint Mexican villas to sprawling Spanish-style mansions, are available for rent (about $3,000 a week for a four-bedroom residence; visit www.mexicandestinations.com ). The Casa de Sierra Nevada hotel has 17 rooms, some with balconies with city vistas (around $257 a night; Hospicio 35; Tel: 800-701-1561, www.casadesierranevada.com ).

Where to eat: During the hot late-afternoon hours, duck into the La Fragua for a leisurely lunch of tacos and fresh guacamole. Mariachis take requests. The old-fashioned bar features over 60 rare, top-shelf tequilas (Cuna de Allende No. 3, 52-415-152-1144). Housed in an old chapel, La Capilla offers international cuisine (think baked brie and risotto) as well as some special Mexican ingredients like huitlacoche, a sweet mushroom that grows on corn (52-415-152-0698; Cuna de Allende No. 10; www.la-capilla.com ).

What to do: Immerse yourself in San Miguel's eclectic artist community by taking a class at the Instituto Allende or one of the town's other schools. Painting, sculpture and photography classes are available year-round ( www.instituto-allende.edu.mx ; or Classes Unlimited; Mesones 57; 52-415-154-5366; www.classesunlimited.com ). Get a peek behind San Miguel's imposing Moorish walls by taking a house and garden tour. The town has some of Mexico's most gorgeous residences, but you'd never know it from the outside. (Sunday tours depart at noon from the Biblioteca Publico. Insurgentes, between Hidalgo and Relox; $15 a person.)

What to buy: From pre-Colonial to postmodern, San Miguel is known for its Mexican art and design. Interior designers and art connoisseurs from all over the U.S. come to the Fabrica La Aurora Design Center, an old factory converted into a massive collection of high-end interior design, art, antique and jewelry stores (Calzada de la Aurora; Mon.-Sat. 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Sun. 11:00-3:00 p.m.; 52-415-154-8583; www.lagaleriaaurora.com ). Be sure to venture to the back of the complex to visit decor store Finca Home (52-415-154-8323; www.fincahome.com ). For delightful, inexpensive Mexican folk art, pop into the centrally located El Nuevo Mundo (San Francisco No. 17; 52-415-152-3627).

(Copyright (c) 2006, Dow Jones & Company, Inc.)