The Vidanta Traveler, Volume 2

NEWS & UPDATES FROM YOUR RESORT IN MEXICO

08 VOL . 02

The All-New La Cantina

28 The Norman Signature Golf Course

38

A Perfect Day in Puerto Peñasco

The all-new Ameca Bridge at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta.

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | WHAT'S NEW

SAY I DO IN PARADISE It’s your big day. It has to be perfect. And with Vidanta Weddings overseeing your celebration, it will be.

CONTACT VIDANTA WEDDINGS TO START YOUR PLANNING TODAY.

3

USA 1-877-282-2115 CAN 1-877-797-0658 Events@Vidanta.com

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | WELCOME

+ T A L K T O U S

Let us know what you think about The Vidanta Traveler! Send us your comments and feedback at m a r k e t i n g @ g r u p ov i da n ta . c o m

5

W

elcome to the

beautiful additions as well, including

second issue of

the delight-filled Mercado Gourmet at

The Vidanta Traveler!

Vidanta Los Cabos, the indulgence of the

We’re delighted to

Hydrotherapy Annex at Spatium Vidanta

share all the newest updates and behind-

Riviera Maya, and all the new activities and

the-scenes info from your favorite resort

resort features at Vidanta Puerto Peñasco.

hotels in paradise. The last few months have been an incredibly exciting time for

I encourage you to peruse this latest

us at Vidanta, and we have so many new

issue of The Vidanta Traveler and begin

developments, attractions, and activities

thinking about your next trip to paradise.

for you and your family to explore!

What beautiful destination would you like to explore? What experiences are you keen

We’ve been working hard to enhance your

on trying out yourself? What new resort

vacation experience so that you’ll have an

features are you eagerly anticipating? When

amazing stay filled with relaxation, luxury,

you’re ready, we’re here to make that dream

and pampering, no matter which Vidanta

vacation a reality for you and your family.

destination you visit! In this issue, you can

We can’t wait to welcome you back to

read more about some of the wonderful

your vacation home away from home!

improvements we’ve made recently, including all the new openings at Vidanta

Sincerely,

Nuevo Vallarta, such as the gorgeous and convenient new entrance, the Mexican shopping experience at Mercado México, the lively and authentic eatery La Cantina, and, of course, the brand-new Norman Signature Golf Course. And there’s info about all of our other destinations’

Benny Michaud Director of Hotel Operations

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | CONTENTS

7 contents

What's New

Flavors

Style

08

16 T HE TASTES OF

22 T HE WORK OF

NOW OPEN: LA CANTINA

MERCADO GOURMET

10

SERGIO BUSTAMANTE

NOW PLAYING: THE LAKE SHOW

18

THE NEW MENU AT EPAZOTE

12 T HE NEW ENTRANCE AT NUEVO VALLARTA

Wellness

On the Green

Must Experience

24

28

36 T HE MERCADO MÉXICO

THE WAYS OF CHI KUNG

T HE NORMAN SIGNATURE GOLF COURSE AT NUEVO VALLARTA

25 STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING AT PUERTO PEÑASCO

38 T HE PEACE OF 32 N EW ADDITION:

PUERTO PEÑASCO

AMECA SOCIAL HOUSE

26 T HE HYDROTHERAPY ANNEX AT SPATIUM

42 T HE VIBRANCY OF 34 T HE ARCHITECTURE OF

NEKTAR NIGHTS

THE AMECA BRIDGE

44

LAST CALL

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | WHAT'S NEW

V I VA M E X I C O : N O W O P E N

LA CANTINA In late 2015, dining at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta gained a much-anticipated addition: La Cantina, a casual eatery and sports bar boasting authentic Mexican cuisine and every game you could possibly want to watch.

L

a Cantina draws its

enchiladas for classic flavorful

inspiration from the

dishes. Or if you’re feeling bold,

classic Mexican cantina,

venture into the world of more

or bar, which typically boasts

traditional plates, like roasted

traditional décor, an impressive

suckling pig or tlayudas—a

them being prepared daily

selection of tequilas, and a

Mexican tortilla pizza.

by Doña Teo, who brings

delightfully down-to-earth

her family recipe and years

food menu. Our version is no

Just grab a seat—or, rather,

of experience to making over

exception, with a wonderfully

a saddle—at the bar, order

500 corn or flour tortillas a

lively atmosphere, over 10

the elixir of your choosing,

day! There’s also a gorgeous

different flavorful margaritas

and make sure you try any

patio that affords front-row

to pick from, and a large variety

dish that features the famous

seats to The Lake Show, and

of authentic regional dishes

La Cantina tortilla. In the main

often features live music like

to sample. Try the tacos or

dining room, you can watch

the wandering mariachi.

Don’t forget to try this memorable dining experience on your next visit to Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta!

9

+ WHAT L A CANTINA R E S TAU R A N T

+ WHERE B Y G O N G , V I D A N TA N U E V O VA L L A RTA

+ WHEN M O N D AY– S U N D AY, 5 : 3 0 P M –1 A M

+ WHO CHEF HECTOR ILLAN

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | WHAT'S NEW

+ WHAT T H E L A K E S H O W, A D I S P L AY O F M U S I C , L I G H T S , A N D WAT E R

+ WHERE AT T H E L A K E ,

BY GONG AND L A CANTINA, V I D A N TA N U E V O VA L L A RTA

+ WHEN M O N D AY– S U N D AY, E V E RY 3 0 M I N S TA RT I N G AT S U N S ET

11 L I G H T T H E WAY T O A B R I G H T N I G H T

THE LAKE SHOW As dusk approaches and the sun sinks below the horizon, that’s when Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta really comes alive.

I

f you’re looking to add a little magic to your evening, be sure to grab your spot for the spectacular audiovisual display known as The Lake Show. Every half hour, starting at sunset,

you can see this synchronized extravaganza of music, water, and light that’s sure to dazzle your whole family. Whenever you attend The Lake Show, you can expect something new and different to transpire. The team at Vidanta Entertainment set out to design a truly unique and groundbreaking show that combines special effects with a musical fountain experience, creating a magnificent multimedia presentation of dancing water jets and fantastic projections, all set to a dramatic score.

For the best seat in the house, we suggest grabbing a table at either the Gong or La Cantina patio, and watching The Lake Show come to life!

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | WHAT'S NEW

T H E N E W E N T R A N C E AT V I D A N TA N U E V O VA L L A RTA

WELCOME HOME There’s a particular feeling that many of our guests describe upon returning to the Vidanta destinations. It’s a mix of anticipation and complete joy.

I

t’s the feeling of coming

to receive guests with the

The benefits of the new

home. For two years,

signature beauty, warmth,

entrance are many: it’s much

Vidanta has been working

and sophistication of Vidanta.

closer to the airport than the

to create an experience that

The result melds artistry and

old access point, and offers

reflects the sensation of

convenience to create a truly

a more scenic and serene

returning to somewhere filled

wonderful welcoming. The first

approach to the resort; it’s

with so much happiness. We

thing visitors will notice is the

secure, ensuring your hidden

are excited to announce that

new Vidanta sign, broadcasting

paradise provides the seclusion

you can enjoy the end result

the beauty of this paradise to

and privacy you deserve; and

the moment you arrive at

all who drive by. The second

it winds around the site of

Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta.

update of note is the gorgeous

The Park by Cirque du Soleil,

gardens meant to greet guests

meaning you and your family

in a lovely colorful palette.

have a front-row seat to all

The resort’s new entrance was designed by Vidanta Chief

the magic and excitement

Architect Arturo Hernandez

developing as we speak.

13 Make sure you return to Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta soon to check out this amazing new welcoming!

+ WHAT T H E N E W R E S O RT ENTRANCE

+ WHERE V I D A N TA N U E V O VA L L A RTA

+ WHO V I D A N TA C H I E F ARCHITECT A RT U R O HERNANDEZ

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | WHAT'S NEW

Vidanta has been working to create an experience that reflects the sensation of returning to somewhere filled with so much happiness.

15

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | WHAT'S NEW

+ WHAT MERCADO G O U R M ET

+ WHERE GROUND FLOOR OF THE GRAND M AYA N, V I D A N TA LOS CABOS

+ WHEN M O N D AY- S U N D AY, 7:1 5 A M –1 0 : 4 5 P M

17 Savory Snacks

French-inspired rustic bakery

A vast selection of international cheeses

A T O U R I N TA S T E S

MERCADO GOURMET AT V I D A N TA L O S C A B O S

A world of culinary wonders awaits the guests at Vidanta Los Cabos in the new Mercado Gourmet.

S

Charcuterie and other prepared foods

Something Sweet

Beautiful, art-like chocolates

Classic pastries and desserts

ituated next to the lobby in The Grand Mayan, this fresh new

Frozen yogurt in a variety of flavors

food hall is packed with counters

stacked high with culinary delights.

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick

Everything in Between

breakfast, in need of nourishment after an afternoon at the pool, looking for a sweet treat, or getting some snacks for your room, you’ll find nothing but

Find fresh produce and other foods at this grocer

deliciousness at Mercado Gourmet.

For medicines and travel toiletries

Crêperie and café

Wine and spirits shop

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | FLAVORS

N E W M E N U AT

EPAZOTE Named for the minty, savory herb used widely in classic Mexican cooking, Epazote is a foodie’s dream—it offers high-end dining with a flair for creativity, transforming traditional Mexican dishes into modern works of culinary art.

C

hef García has shifted

New Cooking Techniques

and the chiles used for mole

the concept behind

Chef García and his kitchen

are also used as the base

Epazote, updating

team have incorporated new

of a quail confit.

the restaurant’s décor and

methods into the way they

reimagining Epazote’s

prepare and serve their

Chef García also worked

renowned menu. The new

dishes. “The ingredients have

closely with Vidanta

Epazote is an enhancement,

not changed drastically,” Chef

Sommelier Milton Rebolledo

not a complete change in

García adds, “but what has

to design wine and tequila

direction. There are new

changed is how we use these

pairings to bring out the

tastes and experiences, like

ingredients.” The Mexican

nuances of each dish.

mezcal-flavored sauces and

chocolate for mole is now

Rebolledo has expanded

a six-course tasting menu, but

used in a spectacular dessert

Epazote’s impressive wine

the flagship favorites remain,

dish; the queso fresco that

collection to include a

so Epazote’s repeat clientele

once garnished black beans

selection of Mexican wines,

can always enjoy their go-to

is now sweetened and used

because, as he says, “The

dishes, like mole verde robalo

like a dessert; the mezcal

finest Mexican food must

and the delectable ribs.

previously served to guests

be paired with the finest

at the table flavors a sauce;

Mexican wines.”

19 + WHAT E PA Z OT E

+ WHERE THE FIRST FLOOR O F G R A N D LU X X E , V I D A N TA N U E V O VA L L A RTA

+ WHEN M O N D AY– S U N D AY, 5 : 3 0 P M –1 1 P M

- Chef García

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | FLAVORS

MEET CHEF GARCÍA Originally from Guadalajara, Chef Enrique García learned to love the kitchen and fine flavors when, as a small boy, his grandmother told him: “Get in here and learn how a good mole is made!” Cooking alongside his abuela, he learned how to make his famous mole and other Mexican classics. “Here we take traditional Mexican dishes, experiment a little, and improve the presentation with some elegant touches. We turn them into haute cuisine. We like classic dishes with a modern twist and impeccable presentation.”

21 THE NEW TASTING MENU

A MUS E B O UCHE tamale filled with southeastern stewed turkey , served with mole sauce .

F IRS T CO URS E roasted cauliflower ceviche , served with adobo gelee .

S ECO ND CO URS E cotija cheese and toasted tortilla cream soup with goosefoot cakes .

T HIRD CO URS E catch - of - the - day with green mole , served with potatoes and seasonal mexican greens .

F O URT H CO URS E chicken breast au jus with mezcal , seasonal mushrooms , roasted cauliflower , and apple - fennel purée .

F IF T H CO URS E braised short rib , served with refried beans , queso fresco , and crispy fried plantains .

S IXT H CO URS E mexican chocolate mousse with roasted almond ice cream . served with coffee .

DON’T FORGET THE WINE Every course of Epazote’s tasting menu comes with a wine pairing, thoughtfully selected to complement the flavors and spirit of the dish.

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | WHAT'S NEW

+ WHAT THE SCULPTURES OF S E R G I O B U S TA M A N T E

+ WHERE THE GARDENS OF S PAT I U M , V I D A N TA R I V I E R A M AYA

23 T H E FA N C I F U L W O R L D O F

SERGIO BUSTAMANTE For many, Vidanta Riviera Maya is a truly magical place straight from the pages of their favorite fairytale.

I

n fact, to assume that

their unique finishes to add

the resort is home to some

to his pieces’ otherworldly feel.

fantastical creatures is not

exactly far-fetched. Next

When it comes to themes,

time you enter a rainbow-hued

Bustamante often focuses on

garden or secluded alcove,

the intersection of nature and

you might just encounter the

humanity, creating figures that

magnificent presence of a

combine animals, the sun, or the

mystical creature—one of the

moon with human features. The

charming creations by artist

results are transcendental works

Sergio Bustamante.

imbued with a wonderful sense of surrealism. Vidanta Riviera

A beloved Mexican sculptor,

Maya is lucky to showcase two

Bustamante hails from

of his pieces, a beautiful lion

Guadalajara, where he’s been

and cat that can be found hiding

producing imaginative works for

around Spatium. We also have

many years. Though he studied

some of his work available for

architecture in college, he quickly

purchase at Jade Boutique in

decided his passion lay with the

Riviera Maya and Mercado México

fine arts after graduation. He

in Nuevo Vallarta. Make sure you

started creating surreal works in

look for these wonderful creatures,

papier mâché, then switched to

and perhaps take one of your

wood and bronze, using

own home!

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | WELLNESS

T H E A RT O F S E PA R ATE H E AV E N A N D E A RTH

DRAW IN G THE BOW

P R E SS I N G U P TO TH E H E AV E N S

CHI KUNG There’s a new fitness class in town at Vidanta Riviera Maya and vacationers from all over are falling for its reinvigorating and refreshing effects. Chi Kung is an ancient Chinese system for harnessing life energies, or chi, into healing.

The practice uses repetitions of slow, disciplined movements in tandem with natural breathing to encourage mindfulness of your

W I S E OW L G A ZE S B AC K

body and spirit.

The expert instructors at Vidanta Riviera Maya teach the combination

+ WHAT

of postures and breathing exercises at the beach every Tuesday and

C H I KU N G C L A S S E S

+ WHERE THE BE ACH,

Thursday, where guests of all fitness levels are encouraged to TO U C H I N G TH E TO E S

try their hand—or limbs, rather— at the exercise. And should they

V I D A N TA

become fans, the benefits of

R I V I E R A M AYA

regular practice are many! It’s said that Chi Kung can help alleviate diabetes, back pain, chronic liver

+ WHEN T U E S D AY S A N D T H U R S D AY S , 9 :1 0 –1 0:1 0 A M

diseases, insomnia, chronic fatigue SWAY TH E HEAD A N D S H A KE TH E TA I L

syndrome, and many more. Open yourself to the energy and healing power of this dynamic exercise during your next stay.

25 P O S E D F O R R E L A X AT I O N

STANDUP PA D D L E B OA R D I N G

Looking for a new way to enjoy the water on your vacation?

Guests at Vidanta Puerto

Peñasco can now try out standup paddle boarding, a service

offered by local beach activities company Ecofun. Born out of the surf culture of Hawaii, this sport allows guests to paddle around the sea while providing a full-body workout that challenges both in strength and balance. And then there are the gorgeous views of the beach and open water that this activity affords!

+ WHAT S TA N D - U P PA D D L E BOARDING

+ WHERE T H E B E A C H AT M AYA N PA L A C E , V I D A N TA P U E RT O PEÑASCO

+ WHEN M O N D AY- S U N D AY 9 AM-5 PM

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | WHAT'S NEW

+ WHAT THE BRAND-NEW FA C I L I T I E S O F T H E H Y D R OT H E R A P Y A N N E X

+ WHERE S PAT I U M , V I D A N TA R I V I E R A M AYA

+ WHEN M O N D AY- S U N D AY, 8 AM–9 PM

T H E H Y D R O T H E R A P Y A N N E X AT

SPATIUM There is the utter relaxation and pampering of a day spent at the spa, and then there is the complete indulgence and feeling of head-to-toe renewal afforded by the Hydrotherapy Annex, now open at Spatium in Vidanta Riviera Maya.

27 The Hydrotherapy Experience Arrive Your visit begins with your personal Spa Butler bringing you to the changing room. Your Spa Butler will be your guide throughout the session.

Foot Bath – 7 min Help stimulate muscle regeneration by walking through the water jets of the foot bath.

Sauna – 10 min Continue unwinding and release the toxins from your body in the sauna.

T

his beautiful facility,

filled with positive energy that

which opened last

you can feel the moment you

Soak up the steam, which helps

fall, offers guests

step through its doors. In order

remove impurities from your skin.

Steam Room – 10 min

a completely new experience

to create an environment that

to precede their spa treatment;

exudes tranquility, the designers

Ice Fountain – 5 min

this session harnesses ancient

and architects at Vidanta looked

Energize your body and

healing and beauty customs

to Eastern architecture, such as

from all over the world and

Buddhist temples and Japanese

combines them with the innate

rock gardens, and the nature

relaxation qualities of nature.

already surrounding the resort.

Warm up after the cold

The result is a session filled

Natural woods, regional stones,

freeze with another visit to

with luxury and peace, meant

and clay tiles contrast with steel

the steam room.

to perfectly prepare your

support structures in a space

body and mind for your

that seamlessly blends indoors

spa treatment.

with outdoors. The idea is to transport guests at the spa to

improve your circulation with the ice fountain.

Steam Room – 10 min

Jacuzzi – 10 min Enjoy the massaging jets of the Jacuzzi.

In the Details

an ancient-feeling place, one

Soaking Tub – 3 min

Spatium at Riviera Maya

that allows them to leave their

Reflect on how relaxed your

is a haven of healing and

stresses behind and revert to

body feels as you soak in

relaxation, a restful place

their purest selves.

this tub.

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | WHAT'S NEW

28 | The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 – On the Green

It all starts with a trip across the longest golf suspension bridge in the world (for more on the Ameca Bridge, see page 34) which stretches from bank to bank across the beautiful ravine. As you make the trip, you know you’re on the precipice of a singular experience that you will be recalling for years to come. And that’s before you even tee off.

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | ON THE GREEN

+ WHAT

T

hough it’s the second

get the ball close to the hole. It’s

course at Vidanta

a beautiful layout...with teeth!”

Nuevo Vallarta, the

Norman Signature Golf Course

The course features Paspalum

is certainly not secondary to

fairways, which allow the ball

the Nicklaus Design Golf Course.

to stand like it’s sitting on a tee,

Instead, the new course offers

making it more playable for the

+ HOLES

a completely different type

high handicap golfer. This grass

18

of play to golfers, full of new

also gives advanced players the

challenges and new triumphs

opportunity to curve the ball

to be experienced. We asked

back to the pin. And Norman

Tom Stickney, the Director of

gave the course his trademark

the Vidanta Golf Academies in

generous fairways, making it

Nuevo Vallarta, to describe this

easier to get the ball into play.

beautiful course: “It’s definitely

But don’t get too confident!

built for the avid golfer, and

The shots get more and more

it’s a course that will test every

difficult as you get closer to

club in your bag!” says Stickney.

the green.

N O R M A N S I G N AT U R E GOLF COURSE

“

+ PAR 72

+ GREENS PA S PA LU M ­— Tom Stickney

+ FAIRWAYS PA S PA LU M

+ WHERE

“Greg Norman has built a course that gets harder the closer you

BOOK YOUR TEE TIME

get to the green, yet gives you

AT 1-866-231-4423.

a lot of shot-making options to

V I D A N TA N U E V O VA L L A RTA

+ WHEN FIRST TEE TIME I S 7: 3 0 A M

If you’re planning a visit to Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta, make sure you reserve your spot on this beautiful course soon!

31 It’s a course that will test every club in your bag! ­— Tom Stickney

Tom Stickney Named one of the Top 100 Teachers

by Golf Magazine

As the Director of the Vidanta Golf Academies, Tom Stickney isn’t just customizing and leading lessons, clinics, and game schools. He’s also personally training every member of the Vidanta Golf Academies and the Vidanta Golf properties team to ensure consistency and maximum expertise throughout the whole staff.

It may be a tall order, but Stickney is up to the job.

“It has always been a dream of mine to give back to the younger teachers who are learning their craft, as well as helping the experienced teachers to know more about the “new school” of golf instruction, which includes the state-of the-art technology you see on the PGA Tour.”

On top of all that, Tom Stickney is here to help you, too! You can book one-on-one instruction with him at the Vidanta Golf Academies in Nuevo Vallarta.

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | ON THE GREEN

AMECA SOCIAL HOUSE With its two beautiful courses, the Vidanta Golf Academies, and now an amazing new 19th hole, Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta is a golfer’s paradise.

G

olfers now have a wonderful new attraction to

celebrate—and celebrate at —when visiting this gorgeous destination: Ameca Social House. guests. If there’s a game or match Located in the first floor of

you simply can’t bear to miss,

the Grand Luxxe Residence

you can bet the Ameca Social

Tower, this great new restaurant

House will be showing it on one

offers a sophisticated, yet casual

of their many high-definition TVs

environment for players to

situated throughout the bar area.

partake in a bite before or after

With a sizable menu offering a

a round. And their famously

refined take on pub fare, it’s a

expansive collection of fine

great destination for any meal,

whiskeys—with over 24 whiskeys

breakfast, lunch, or dinner! And

to choose from and 8 bourbons

its patio offers truly breathtaking

—makes it the perfect spot to

views of the Ameca River, the

toast to an excellent day on the

newly built Ameca Bridge, and

green. Even if you’re not a golfer,

the lush surrounding mangroves

this restaurant is a must-visit for

and mountains.

33

+ WHAT AMECA SOCIAL HOUSE, OUR 19TH HOLE

+ WHERE G R A N D LU X X E RESIDENCE TOWER, V I D A N TA N U E V O VA L L A RTA

ABOUT THE DÉCOR The design and décor of the Ameca Social House is meant to put the emphasis on its two neighbors, the Norman Signature Golf Course and the Ameca Bridge. Everything from the logo—an “A” resembling the silhouette of the bridge—to the architecture—large windows and minimal design elements as not to distract from the stunning scenery outdoors—reflect these two elements. The Social House also boasts an expansive and luxurious patio, perfect for enjoying cool brews while overlooking the course.

+ WHEN M O N D AY- S U N D AY, 6 A M –1 0 P M

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | ON THE GREEN

G R E AT H E I G H T S : N O W O P E N

THE AMECA BRIDGE As any visitor to Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta can attest, the resort boasts astounding architecture around every turn.

But nothing compares to the drama of our most recent addition: the Ameca Bridge.

W

hen the team at Vidanta

The bridge is only about 6-feet wide,

Golf began planning the

allowing only one golf cart to pass at

development of their

a time. But the view is simply stunning

next golf course, they knew—in true

and perfectly showcases the dusky

Vidanta fashion—that it had to create

peaks of the Sierra Madre Mountains,

a truly unforgettable experience. So

the lush river gully, and where the

not only did they get one of the best

river terminates in the expansive

course designers in the world to create

Banderas Bay.

it, they also decided to build the world’s longest golf suspension bridge in order

For inspiration, the architects at

to get to it.

Vidanta and engineers at Ecoprojects looked to the Golden Gate Bridge,

The Ameca Bridge is the access point

perhaps the most iconic bridge in the

to the new Norman Signature Golf

world. The Ameca Bridge displays the

Course and Nicklaus Design Golf

same elegant slope to its supports,

Course at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta. That

though boasts a more natural hue

means that every round you play there

of mahogany brown than its famous

begins with a trip across the 560-foot-

orange forbearer. And in the evening,

long bridge, which extends from one

it’s illuminated with LED reflectors,

bank of the Ameca River to the next.

making for quite the sight!

35

+ WHAT THE AMECA BRIDGE, A SUSPENSION BRIDGE S PA N N I N G T H E A M E C A RIVER

+ WHERE N O R M A N S I G N AT U R E GOLF COURSE, V I D A N TA N U E V O VA L L A RTA

+ LENGTH 5 6 0 F E ET L O N G

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | MUST EXPERIENCE

T R A D I T I O NA L F L AV O R S , T R A D I T I O N A L F L A I R

MERCADO MÉXICO La Plaza is known to visitors at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta as a shopping mecca in paradise.

T

he three-floor shopping

the perfect place to peruse for

and bueñelos—Mexican fried

haven of food, gifts,

souvenirs, with its wide range of

pastries—or have a refreshing

and designer clothes

ceramics, jewelry, weavings, and

sip of an agua fresca. Many of

that is La Plaza just got even

huichol—a type of beaded crafts.

these decadent delights are sold

better. Anyone looking to see

The gallery grants visitors the

from Vidanta carritos, which are

and explore Mexican art, goods,

opportunity to check out a diverse

modeled after the traditional

or cuisine need not look any

variety of works by artists from all

street food carts found in almost

further than Mercado México

over the country. From traditional-

any of Mexico’s cities.

to find exactly what they seek.

style sculptures to gorgeous landscapes to more modern and avant garde pieces, the gallery is a celebration of Mexico’s many different sides, all rendered with passion and skill.

Hungry? No visit to Mercado México is complete without delighting in some of its many treats. Food stalls and carts Perched on the third floor of

abound here, tempting passersby

La Plaza, just down from Azur,

with a bevvy of edible offerings.

Mercado México is a bustling

Start with the tacos al pastor for

bazaar filled with authentic

an authentic take on the Puebla-

flavors, sights, and sounds.

born classic. Or snack on tamales,

This indoor/outdoor market is

Mexican candies, esquites, churros

No visit to Mercado México is complete without delighting in some of its many treats.

+ WHAT M E R C A D O M É X I C O, A MEXICAN BAZAAR A N D G A L L E RY

+ WHERE 3RD FLOOR OF L A P L A Z A , V I D A N TA N U E V O VA L L A RTA

+ WHEN M O N D AY- S U N D AY, 7 :1 5 A M –1 0 : 4 5 P M

A Perfect Day at

PUERTO PEÑASCO Every Vidanta destination offers a different sort of paradise. Each has its own unique sights to see, flavors to taste, and adventures to explore, making each resort a new experience in vacationing. But there is only one Vidanta resort where you can golf on one of the most distinctive courses in the world, learn about the mysteries of the night sky in a setting made for stargazing, discover the ancient roots of the region in a historic biosphere reserve, and bask in the remote haven of relaxation that is a desert oasis. There’s only one Vidanta Puerto Peñasco.

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | MUST EXPERIENCE

PUERTO PEÑASCO Vidanta Puerto Peñasco offers a unique paradise, full of exotic landscapes, singular experiences, and breathtaking sights.

Welcome to an extraordinary vacation.

7:15am

8am

12pm

1:30pm

Tee Time at Nicklaus Design Golf Course

Breakfast at Bakal A wonderful day calls for a wonderful start. Stop by Bakal for freshly squeezed

Tour of El Pinacate Biosphere Reserve

juices, sun-ripened tropical

The morning excursion

Lunch at Balché

fruit, a made-to-order

to this UNESCO historic

Named one of the

omelette, and stunning

site is well worth it for

After a morning of adventure, celebrate

sea views.

the breathtaking views

with a cerveza and

fascinating golf courses

of massive lava craters.

light bite at this

in the world,” this course

beachside eatery.

is known for its dramatic

“20 best and most

scenery and challenging play for any golfer.

41 puerto penasco

4pm

6:30pm

Dinner at Ola Mulata Stand-Up Paddle Boarding

After a busy day, a

After a round well played,

you refuel with local

get out on the water and try out this popular sport for yourself (see page 25 for more).

delicious meal will let delicacies while recounting the day’s adventures.

7:30pm

8:30pm

Stargazing Relax around the Fire Pit

Conclude the evening by taking in the majesty of the expansive sky

Unwind at one of the

during a stargazing

resort’s fire pits and take

session at one of the

in the complete serenity

resort telescopes.

of your surroundings.

Ask our Joy Squad for more information.

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | MUST EXPERIENCE

THE LIVE MUSIC OF

NEKTAR NIGHTS When in the jungle of the Yucatan, do as the locals do: go out for food, music, and dancing!

J

ust outside the Cirque du

you’ve arrived someplace full

This hip eatery really comes

Soleil Theater at Vidanta

of wonder and magic. Here, the

to life once the performance

Riviera Maya sits Nektar,

jungle surrounds you, and as

of JOYÀ lets out for the night.

the lively indoor-outdoor grill

you wind past the JOYÀ box

That’s when Red Shoes takes

and lounge. Though it’s a

office, you see the distinctive

the stage at the lounge. And

popular spot for theatergoers

curves and petals of the Cirque

that’s when the fun begins!

to grab a drink and an appetizer

Outfitted in retro-style dresses,

before seeing JOYÀ, a night at

matching black wigs, and their

Nektar is a thrill in its own right!

trademark ruby footwear, a trio of female musicians give their

With a menu that highlights

own whimsical renditions of

the best of local cuisine and a

pop songs, mostly of the last

cocktail list filled with vivacious

20 years. Their instrumentation

takes on classic drinks, Nektar

is stripped down and rhythm

stands as one of the area’s most

heavy, and their personality

exotic establishments. Guests

soars as they perform their

at Vidanta Riviera Maya can

eccentric versions of one

access it by taking the transport

du Soleil Theater rising in the

familiar song after another.

from the resort to the Cirque

background. Continue along the

Don’t be surprised if you find

du Soleil Theater. Once you get

pathway and you’ll find Nektar.

yourself singing along right

off your electric cart, you know

until last call.

43

+ WHAT THE LIVE MUSIC O F N E K TA R N I G H T S

+ WHERE AT N E K TA R B Y T H E CIRQUE DU SOLEIL T H E AT E R , V I D A N TA R I V I E R A M AYA

+ WHEN T U E S D AY– S AT U R D AY, LIVE MUSIC BEGINS AF TER JOYÀ C O N C LU D E S

Don't miss JOYÀ by Cirque du Soleil!

Now playing at the Cirque du Soleil Theater located by Nektar.

The Vidanta Traveler Issue 2 | MUST EXPERIENCE

LAST CALL

MANGO

MARGARITA ON THE ROCKS

45

It’s time to toast to vacation and complete relaxation! It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip to paradise.

And what better way to start than with a drink full of vibrant tropical flavors? Mix one up and plan your next getaway!

2 oz

Siete Leguas Tequila Blanco

1 oz

Triple sec

.5 oz

Lime juice

2 oz

Fresh mango purée

Pour all ingredients into a shaker.

Add ice and shake well. Strain into a glass with ice. Garnish with lime wheel and maraschino cherry.

Salud!

PRESORTED STANDARD MAIL U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

HOUSTON, TX PERMIT NO.7004

COM E E X P LO RE A L L T H E WO N DE R F U L EXP ERI EN C ES T H AT V I DANTA H AS TO O FFE R.

1-800-292-9446

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