Villa Estrella Mar in Destination Weddings & Honeymoons Magazine

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

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.