AUGUST 2009
Mexico City Reborn
MEXICO
Mexico City Reborn Ministry of Tourism enacts new plans to show the city’s many attractions. DARIUS CAPPELLI MEXICO TOURISM BOARD
M
exico City boasts an array of attractions shedding its previous reputation. The city is filled with colorful murals, vibrant communities and various five star amenities at a very affordable price. While Mexico City may be the world’s largest urban area, the city possesses a certain warmth and familiarity despite modern developments and high rises. The city’s sixteen delegaciones, or boroughs, are split even further into two hundred and fifty colonias (neighborhoods) providing a wide variety of destinations for any traveler. Mexico City has many historic hotels in the delegacione of Polanco including the Camino Real. The hotel which, featuring a pop-art décor and murals from several famous Mexican artists, this hotel is the preferred lodging of many celebrities, dignitaries and businessmen worldwide. The hotel also has a variety of restaurants and a trendy nightclub called the Moon Bar. The bar is located behind one of the hotel’s eight dining facilities and features an innovative way to serve cocktails. Called “Molecular Cocktails,” these drinks feature dissolving capsules which contain alcohol in typical cocktail drinks. The Moon Bar has live dance music provided by a DJ playing both contemporary dance music and favorites from the 70s and 80s. Being that 85% of the hotel’s guests are businessmen, and typically Mexican, guests should be aware that the majority of people frequenting the hotel’s many drinking establishments are older. However, the people who dine at the hotel’s restaurants are an even split between guests and locals. The hotel has a mural in an open floored café painted by Rufino Tamayo. The café, affectionately named Café Tomayo, features a continental breakfast in the morning with what is widely regarded as his most famous painting as the backdrop. The 95,000 square foot hotel has 712 rooms, of which thirtysix are suites. The rate for a double occupancy room is $330, and there is a corporate discount at $270. Another prestigious hotel in Polanco is the Intercontinental Hotel de Ciudad de Mexico. The hotel is famous for housing an array of politicians and heads of state. Recently, Barack Obama visited and stayed in the presidential suite, which costs $2,000 per night. The other 660 rooms’ prices vary on which floor they are on and which amenities are included. For example, seven of the hotel’s floors are club floors, which, feature a special lounge, which includes various beverages and food. In addition, there is a “Ladies’ Floor” which has special amenities specifically for women. There is a patrolling guard on the floor, women’s publications and more luxurious soaps and shampoos. The hotel has six restaurants, including an impressive wine cellar that can be reserved for private meals. For a different experience, one can stay at the Holiday Inn 2 • AUGUST 2009
Angel of Independence on Reforma, Mexico City’s main street.
located only a block away from the main square of the historic district. The recently renovated rooms are $200 PDO. The hotel boasts a rooftop restaurant that has an afternoon brunch and a stunning view of the main square. Various other amenities are available, like a honeymoon suite with special services. The Marquis Reforma, located on the Paseo de la Reforma, offers luxury accommodations in its 209 rooms and two restaurants. After a deadly earthquake in 1985, the hotel has taken many steps to make the property earthquake proof. The Marquis Reforma has a 1500 square meter spa, which is available for a nominal fee of 15 dollars. The newly renovated lobby is the first over a series of renovations, which will be complete in two years. Mexico City also offers a variety of excursions and sights for travelers. Paseo de la Reforma is a road stretching across the city and provides easy access to Polanco, La Zona Rosa and Centro. The street has a series of Paris-like roundabouts with large statues in the center. It is not uncommon to see people taking wedding and quinciniera - the Mexican equivalent of a sweet 16 - pictures. A series of unique benches, varying from a deck of cards to hands lines the street. The street is also home to numerous cultural events. For example, a world culture fair took place in June where 66 countries showcased their music, food and culture. Flea markets and artistic showcases are also common sights. The colorful, bohemian neighborhood of Coyocan is home CONTINUED ON PAGE
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www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
P R O U D H O S T S O F 2 0 0 9 W O R L D T R AV E L AWA R D S
The prestigious 2009 World Travel Awards arrives to the Mayan Riviera, México. Established in 1993 to acknowledge and celebrate excellence in all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry, the World Travel Awards is recognized as the trademark of quality within the industry. This year’s event is sponsored by Yucatán Holidays, one of the leading promoters of the Yucatán Peninsula, creating unforgettable memories in a land of wonders through sustainable tourism and celebrating Mexican culture. This year the World Travel Awards 2009 are proudly hosted by the Hacienda Tres Ríos. Located in a protected 326-acre pristine nature park situated in the Mayan Riviera, 45 minutes south of Cancún, the Hacienda Tres Ríos is where real luxury comes naturally.
www. yu c a t a n h o lida ys . c o m www. h a c ie n da t re s r io s . c o m
T R E S R Í O S , R I V I E R A M AYA , M É X I C O
MEXICO MEXICO CITY REBORN
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to the city’s largest ex-pat community and trendy restaurants and cafes line the streets. The neighborhood was where Frida Kahlo lived and her house has been converted to a museum. For roughly four dollars, guests can walk through her villa and see much of her house virtually untouched since her death. The museum has recently acquired much of her art from other galleries and private collections. Surprisingly, the museum has an exceptional gift shop where reproductions of her work as well as other Frida inspired handicrafts are available at modest prices. Just an hour outside of the city, travelers can visit the preAztec ruins of Teotihuacán. While much of the ruins are merely broken down, barely restored walls, two massive pyramids are open to the public to climb. Indigenous peoples dot the ruins selling various Aztec inspired handicrafts and souvenirs. Five minutes outside of the ruins, hungry tourists can eat at La Gruta. An enormous empty cavern was converted into a reception hall for the Mexican president in 1906 and in 1928, La Gruta opened as a public restaurant and has been in continuous operation since. Traditional Mexican fare, such as chili con carne, mole and cactus salad are served at a modest price. Every Saturday, a Mexican dance troupe performs at 3:30 p.m. with traditional ethnic dances from Guadalajara and Durango are performed in costume, as well as one Aztec dance and one Northern Mexican Native dance. The food is authentic, delicious and, like many things in Mexico City, is very affordable. Despite having countless restaurants, bars, landmarks and other attractions, Mexico City has a very low volume of international tourists. The Tourism Ministry of Mexico City attributes this to the city’s reputation as polluted and dangerous. The recent news coverage of swine flu has not helped either. To combat this image, the Mexican Government is taking a variety of innovative techniques to retain and increase its flow of tourists. Starting in July, free health insurance will be provided to all international tourists visiting Mexico City. Also, police escorts are available to any international tourist anywhere in the city at all times. How this system will be maintained though is still a mystery as an extraordinarily low amount of government revenue is devoted to tourism. In addition, the Ministry of Tourism is calling for an eight billion dollar emergency tourism fund in order to combat unforeseeable dilemmas such as the swine flu scare. While 10% of the population works in tourism, only 3% of tax revenue is devoted to the department of tourism. This leaves the Ministry of Tourism very little money to launch international ad campaigns. To increase domestic tourism, the country is issuing debit cards to citizens with a predetermined amount of money which they can pay off up to 60 months after their visit. In 2010, a world tourism fair is being planned to showcase Mexico City as a world-class city. A new “world class aquarium” is being planned as well. Mexico City has world-class 4 • AUGUST 2009
hospitals, and following the trend of many developing countries, is taking further measures to market the city as a destination for medical tourism. Slated to be named as the official airline of Mexico by the end of the year, AeroMexico is working with the government to promote tourism to Mexico City. In October, AeroMexico will be offering the first international flight from New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina. AeroMexico offers nonstop flights from Chicago, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New Orleans (in October), Houston, New York, Phoenix, San Antonio and Seattle.
Mexico, visitmexico.com
MEXICO, MINNEAPOLIS CELEBRATE SISTERHOOD WITH CUERNAVACA AT MOSAIC FESTIVAL OF ARTS The Mexican Consulate in Saint Paul and the Mexico Tourism Board recognized a sister-city bonding between Cuernavaca and Minneapolis at the opening of a summer-long, sixth annual Minneapolis MOSAIC Festival June 6. A relationship formalized last September helps both cities connect and share economically, environmentally, and culturally. Cuernavaca is the capital of the state of Morelos, to which significant Mexican numbers in Minneapolis are tied. The MOSAIC Festival opening night showcased the Chamber Ballet of Morelos, renowned for its participations at various international cultural festivals. As part of the festival, the Consulate General of Mexico in Saint Paul and the Mexico Tourism Board held a Rufino Tamayo exhibition at The Katherine E. Nash Gallery in the University of Minnesota’s West Bank Arts Quarter. Mexican painter Rufino Tamayo, often referred to as leader of the Mexican Renaissance, is an Oaxacan native. Oaxaca, one of Mexico’s 29 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is comprised of the historic town of Oaxaca and nearby archeological site Monte Alban. The Minneapolis MOSAIC Festival is a unique setting for Morelos to share with Minneapolis the state’s heritage reflecting the colors of Mexico through authentic details like the archeological site of Xochicalco—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the town of Tepoztlan, one of Mexico’s Magical Towns. Morelos also connects with Minneapolis by sharing high environmental standards applied to its parks, like Parque Nacional Lagunas de Zempoala (National Park of Zempoala Lakes). Since 2002, the Twin Cities Area has been closely connecting with Mexico through the sister-city relationship between Saint Paul and the city of Manzanillo, located in the state of Colima and famous for its international fishing competitions. Through this union, the city of Saint Paul has donated bulletproof vests to the police force of Manzanillo and also provided monetary aid for victims of the 2003 earthquake in Colima. Mexico Tourism Board (MTB), www.visitmexico.com, www.mexico-update.com; Minneapolis MOSAIC Festival, www.minneapolismosaic.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
MEXICO SINGLE PARENT RATE PROMOTION THIS SUMMER AT ALL-INCLUSIVE VELAS RESORTS IN MEXICO
Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort Riviera Nayarit
From now through September 30th, the luxury all-inclusive Velas Resorts at three top Mexican beach destinations are waiving the single-supplement fee for single parents traveling with their children. Another first for the group, two children including teens up to 16 stay and eat free when occupying the room with the parent at the resorts in Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit and the Riviera Maya. All-inclusive rates range from $165 per night at Velas Vallarta Suite Resort to $300 per night at the Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resorts in the Riviera Maya and Riviera Nayarit. The Velas Resorts’ all-inclusive rates include suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a choice of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, kids’ club, evening entertainment, activities for adults and children, taxes and gratuities, and more. Spa treatments at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit are also part of the promotion. The single parent rate is valid through September 30, 2009. Minimum night and other restrictions apply depending on the resort. All resorts feature a complimentary kids club for children four to 12 with activities ranging from Spanish lessons and beading in the style of the Huichol Indians to making piñatas and decorating cupcakes. Kids also can enjoy water sports including sea kayaks, water polo and snorkeling and spa treatments. Evenings bring quality entertainment, perfect for family bonding which can include Mexican folkloric night with live music and native arts and crafts and magic and clown shows. While the children are enjoying the kids club, adults can enjoy top spa facilities, with two of the resorts’ spas having Leading Spa of the World designation. Velas Resorts, 888-210-9591, www.velasresorts.com
VOLARIS KICKS OFF U.S. OPERATIONS WITH NEW ROUTES Volaris, serving 21 markets in Mexico having transported over eight million customers, has committed to begin flying into the United States with a daily fight to Los Angeles International Airport from Toluca and from Guadalajara with two daily flights. These flights also connect to Hermosillo and Cancun. Daily flights are scheduled as follows: Los Angeles to Toluca departs 2:05 p.m. and arrives 7:45 p.m.; Toluca to Los Angeles departs 11:45 a.m., 6 • AUGUST 2009
arriving 1:30 p.m. Los Angeles to Guadalajara departs 0:30 a.m. and arrives 5:40 a.m., also departing 2:50 p.m. for arrival at 8 p.m.; Guadalajara to Los Angeles departs 11:30 a.m. and arrives 12:45 p.m. and also departs 9:30 p.m. to arrive at 10:45 p.m. Enrique Beltranena, Volaris Managing Director, states, “Los Angeles represents one of the most attractive U.S. destinations for Mexicans traveling for business or leisure purposes, or to visit family and friends. We are certain that now that our outstanding service, the on-time guarantees, and affordable prices have opened up for this destination, we will be favored by our clients.” Volaris, www.volaris.com.mx
MEXICO’S VELAS RESORTS LAUNCH TRAVEL AGENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM, DEDICATED WEBSITE Velas Incentive Program (VIP), rewarding agents with cash and a dedicated website, was just launched by Mexico’s four luxury allinclusive Velas Resorts. Travel agents in the U.S. and Canada now have a dedicated website for booking the resorts in Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Maya and Riviera Nayarit. The website offers a one-stop shop for agents to make reservations; sign up for the Velas Incentive Program (VIP) bonus commission program; download brochures, images or video; request a site inspection; obtain online support, and learn about the latest Velas Resorts promotions. Resorts include Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, Casa Velas Hotel Boutique and Velas Vallarta Suite Resort & Convention Center. A toll-free reservations telephone number was also created just for agents. “To demonstrate how we value our travel partners, Velas Resorts created this exclusive website to offer a more personalized service, help track commissions and make the reservation process easier,” said Ana Gon-Ryan, Vice President Sales and Marketing, Tour and Travel in the U.S. and Canada of Velas Resorts. “This is also an initiative to support our valuable partnership with the major wholesalers and tour operators as the incentive will be granted for all bookings agents make through them,” added Gon-Ryan. Examples of the Velas Incentive Program (VIP) include a $75 bonus for each reservation with a minimum three-night stay at the two Grand Velas Resorts and a $50 bonus for each reservation with a minimum three-night stay at Casa Velas Hotel Boutique or Velas Vallarta Suite Resort. Agents also receive an extra $250 bonus after the 10th booking of a three-night minimum stay at any of the Velas Resorts and an extra $50 for registering with Velas Resorts and booking before December 15, 2009. To be eligible for this program, travel agents must have a travel industry certification and must be a registered agent for Velas Resorts. Velas Resorts has earned numerous prestigious international awards for its services and facilities, among them Conde Nast’s “Most Excellent Spa Hotel,” AAA’s Five Diamond Award, and the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences’ 5 Star Diamond Award. Velas Resorts, 888-210-9590, www.velasresorts.com/travelagent www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
MEXICO SULTRY SUMMER SAVINGS AT HACIENDA SAN ANGEL, PUERTO VALLARTA
championship Vista Vallarta or Marina Vallarta golf courses and unlimited use of hydrotherapy treatments (Whirlpool, herbal steam sauna, crystal steam room, eucalyptus inhalation, and Swiss shower) at the world-class Spa Casa Velas complete the package. The Presidential Suite sleeps a maximum of eight guests. Upgrades are based on availability. Casa Velas Hotel Boutique, 866-529-8813, www.hotelcasavelas.com
EXPEDIA RANKS RIU HOTELS & RESORTS TOP SELLING CHAIN IN MEXICO Throughout summer 2009 the acclaimed Hacienda San Angel, a 20-suite Mexican boutique hotel located in Puerto Vallarta, is offering a three-night package starting at $829.50. The Sultry Summer Savings package includes: 30-percent discount on all room categories (off already low summer rates); three nights accommodation; welcome cocktails and in-room tequila amenity; dinner for two in Hacienda’s romantic, open-air, terracetop restaurant; private margarita-making class with the Hacienda’s acclaimed mixologist; and complimentary deluxe continental breakfast daily. The award-winning Hacienda San Angel provides stylish, luxurious accommodations on the fabled Mexican Riviera, where the Sierra Madre Mountains form a backdrop for the waters of Banderas Bay. Some suites have views of the crowned spire of the Guadalupe Cathedral, Puerto Vallarta’s signature landmark. The package is available for reservations made through September 30, 2009; taxes and gratuities are not included. Hacienda San Angel, 877-815-6594, reservations@haciendasanangel, www.haciendasanangel.com
AUTOMATIC UPGRADE NOW AT PUERTO VALLARTA’S CASA VELAS HOTEL BOUTIQUE Four guests now receive an automatic upgrade to a four-bedroom Presidential Suite for the minimum all-inclusive rate of $290 per person per night at Puerto Vallarta’s adults-only all-inclusive Casa Velas Hotel Boutique, a member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World. The rate is based on a minimum stay of four nights and a minimum of four guests is required. Special golf and spa features are also included. The offer is valid now through December 20, 2009. All-inclusive features include accommodations, gourmet a la carte dining at the hotel’s Emiliano restaurant and Private Beach Club or nearby Velas Vallarta’s La Ribera Steakhouse and Andrea restaurants, premium international liquors, and in-suite room service. The use of all facilities at both Casa Velas and its sister property, Velas Vallarta; complimentary shuttle service to Private Beach Club and Velas Vallarta, and all taxes and gratuities are also included. In addition, four rounds of golf per suite per stay at the Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
For the second consecutive year, the online travel company Expedia, Inc. has ranked Riu Hotels & Resorts as number one among chain hotels in Mexico by number of room nights booked in 2008. In addition to the Top Chain award, the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas was named top producer for Los Cabos. “Mexico has always been a top destination for travelers and the results of Expedia’s research shows that Riu is a favorite resort for people traveling to Mexico. That is a very important honor and we are grateful to Expedia for their partnership,” stated Mr. Luis Riu, CEO of Riu Hotels & Resorts. “This ranking as a top-producer illustrates our commitment to Mexico and to our guests. With its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, lovely people and rich history, Mexico is an amazing destination. The deals being offered now make Mexico even more irresistible and the time to go is now, because such low prices will not last long.” RIU opened its 15th resort in Mexico, Riu Emerald Bay in Mazatlan in May this year. Mexico is home to 15 Riu resorts, offering a total of 8,098 rooms. All RIU resorts in Mexico are all-inclusive with signature RIU amenities and services including, 24-hour food and beverage service, in-room liquor dispenser and mini-fridge with refreshments, gyms, children’s club, casual and fine dining restaurants, sports bars and more. RIU Hotels & Resorts, www.riu.com AUGUST 2009 •
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MEXICO JACQUELINE ARZOZ NAMED UNDERSECRETARY OF TOURISM PLANNING IN MEXICO Mexico’s Minister of Tourism Rodolfo Elizondo-Torres has named Jacqueline Arzoz as Undersecretary of Tourism Planning for the Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR) after being appointed to the position by President Felipe Calderon. Elizondo presented Arzoz to members of the Federal Ministry of Tourism at a June ceremony where he noted that the JACQUELINE ARZOZ incorporation of her position will strengthen the strategic planning efforts for the tourism sector in Mexico. Previously, Arzoz headed the Economic Analysis Unit for the Ministry of Health, and she also served as a political and social advisor for the Presidency. During Calderon’s campaign she worked on public policy proposals and assisted during the transition for the president. Arzoz was a research coordinator for the Interamerican Center for Studies of Social Security, a researcher for the Mexican Foundation of Health, and a research specialist for the finance program of health in the public health school at Harvard. Arzoz has a doctorate in public policy and business from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. She also holds a Master’s in Economics and an MBA from Boston University. Her bachelor’s degree in economics was received from the Technological Autonomous Institute of Mexico (ITAM). Mexico Tourism Board (MTB), www.mexico-update.com, www.visitmexico.com
COZUMEL SWEETENS SUMMER TRAVEL WITH HOT DEALS Cozumel makes it easy for even those on a tight budget to afford a few days at a world-renowned tropical oasis this summer. “Cozumel is ready to welcome summer visitors to our island by offering great deals for travelers,” said Raul Marrufo, director of the Cozumel Promotion Board. “These offers present a wonderful opportunity for new visitors to discover Cozumel as well a chance for our long-time friends to rediscover the island.” Here’s what Cozumel is offering: At the Coral Princess Hotel & Resort, guests who travel now through December 17 can stay in a deluxe room for just $146 ppdo. The package includes a daily American breakfast, entrance to the Playa Mia Beach Club, free stay for two children under 12 years old and $10 food and beverage credit per person. El Cozumeleno Resort’s all-inclusive packages start at $84 per person per night with kids free. The resort is also offering discounts at the Cozumel Country Club and Golf Course. $79 covers green fees, 18 holes, shared cart, Nike rental clubs, two sleeves 8 • AUGUST 2009
of golf balls and warm-up basket of range balls. Fontán Cozumel’s rates now start at $40 per person per night/children under 12 free. The package features a continental breakfast, a beginner diving class and a fourth night free with three nights The five-star Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa offers rates that start at $211 plus tax. Resort credits include $50 credit for onsite food and beverages, $25 credit for Mandara Spa and $25 credit at Scuba Du. Some restrictions apply. The island of Cozumel, named “The Land of the Swallows” by the Maya who inhabited it more than 2,000 years ago, is located in the state of Quintana Roo, east of the Yucatan Peninsula. Situated along the largest reef network in the Western Hemisphere, it has first-class diving and snorkeling. Cozumel has also established itself as a prime golf, honeymoon and family vacation destination. Cozumel, www.islacozumel.com.mx; Coral Princess Hotel & Resort, www.coralprincess.com; El Cozumeleno Resort, www.elcozumeleno.com, Fontán Cozumel, www.fontancozumel.com, Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa, www.cozumel.intercontinental.com
MEXICO’S PRESIDENT FELIPE CALDERON INAUGURATES GRAND VELAS ALL SUITES & SPA RESORT The President of the Republic of Mexico, Mr. Felipe Calderón Hinojosa, led the recent inauguration ceremony for the Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort Riviera Maya, an exclusive resort of 490 extremely luxurious and private suites, in the Mexican Caribbean. Accompanied by the Federal Secretary of Tourism, Mr. Rodolfo Elizondo Torres; the State Governor, Mr. Félix González Canto; the Municipal Solidarity President, C. Román Quian Alcocer; and the President of the Board of Directors, Mr. Eduardo Vela Ruiz, the President cut the ribbon and unveiled the inaugural plaque for the 250-million-dollar investment property. The President recognized the effort and entrepreneurial spirit of the group of Mexican investors in building their fourth Mexican resort, and their continued contribution to the development of extremely luxurious tourism offerings in Mexico as well as the creation of more employment—1,500 direct and 8,000 indirect jobs benefiting the economy and social development of the area of the Mexican Caribbean. With the opening of the new property, Grupo Velas offers a total accommodation of 1,170 highly luxurious suites distributed over four hotels: the Velas Vallarta Suites Resort & Convention Center and Casa Velas Hotel Boutique, both located in Puerto Vallarta, the Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort Riviera Nayarit and now the Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort Riviera Maya. Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort, www.grandvelas.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
MEXICO PRESIDENT FELIPE CALDERÓN VISITS BANYAN TREE MAYAKOBA
President Calderón’s visit to the resort of Mayakoba demonstrates the confidence of the Mexican government in the tourism sector. Having suffered setbacks a few months ago, the opening of the first Banyan Tree resort in North America—a brand associated with ultimate luxury travel—is significant for the entire country. This occasion is also significant for Mayakoba, a resort that’s unique in the world. Known as the “Venice of Mexico,” Mayakoba covers over 1,500 acres and now has three luxury hotel brands— Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts—which are linked by six miles of winding freshwater lagoons. In keeping with Mayan culture, Mayakoba has shown respect for the environment from its earliest planning stages, to showcase the best the country has to offer. Mayakoba, www.mayakoba.com; Banyan Tree Mayakoba, www.banyantree.com/mayakoba/index.html
FAMILY PLAN, CULINARY DELIGHTS AT CEIBA DEL MAR IN MEXICO With Ceiba del Mar’s Rest and Relax–4th Night Free offer, guests can indulge in the luxurious amenities and various activities the award-winning Mexican resort provides without breaking the budget. Some of the many amenities include: five days/four nights in selected luxury ocean view accommodations with the fourth night complimentary; two kids up to 12 years of age stay free per room with parents, two 50-minute relaxing messages per suite per stay; a 10-percent discount on treatments in Wellness Aromatherapy Spa; complimentary use of The Spa Humid Areas: sauna, indoor, heated Jacuzzi, steam room and gym; yoga, Pilates and AquaFit classes and complimentary use of water and land equipment. The Resort is also offering an All-Inclusive Luxury Gourmet Plan that features a la carte meals, snacks and premium beverages in restaurants and bars (room service and mini-bar not included). Rates start at $399 per night, and even more savings are available with visits planned from Sunday to Wednesday with rates that start at $299. Up to two kids under 12 eat and stay free when sharing a room with parents. The Luxury Gourmet Plan special is already offered at a 40-percent discount—and those who plan a stay of four or more nights extra earn a $200 spa credit. Ceiba Del Mar Beach & Spa Resort, www.ceibadelmar.com/ english/luxury-gourmet-plan.htm, www.ceibadelmar.com 10 • AUGUST 2009
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MEXICO FAMS Ixtapan Spa Hotel and Golf Resort, Ixtapan de la Sal, Mexico, is offering an agent FAM with a 50-percent discount October 11, 2009, for four or seven nights. Prices are four nights/seven nights ppdo $485.10 and $548.10, and four nights/seven nights single $740.25 and $875.70. Prices include: lodging, meals, bottled water, organic spa treatments (massages, facials, mani-pedi, loofah, fango, reflexology, hair/nail treatments), golf and tennis lessons, fitness and yoga classes, taxes and gratuities, plus two seminars— Using the Internet to Increase Group Spa Business and How to Be an Effective Group Leader. The cost is fully refundable with the first group of ten or more clients booked. There are additional terms and conditions. Agents may contact Ixtapan’s U.S. office and Rosie Davila, group specialist. Ixtapan Spa Hotel and Golf Resort, Ixtapan de la Sal Mexico. 800-IXTAPAN (498-2726), ixtapan@spamexico.com, www.spamexico.com
Hotel Flamingo, a boutique hotel located in downtown Cozumel is offering travel agents and their companion a FAM rate of 50 percent off published room rates for travel until November 20, 2009. Full breakfast each morning is included in the FAM rate along with 50 percent off a trip to explore the Mayan Ruin, Chichecn Itaza.A 12-percent nightly room tax and gratuities are not included. Hotel Flamingo, 800-806-1601, info@hotelflamingo.com, www.hotelflamingo.com
The Inn at Loreto Bay in Baja Sur, Mexico, is currently offering special fares for travel agents’ visits to familiarize themselves with the property. A rate of $52 plus tax has been activated for the remainder of 2009 (Dec 22–Jan 4 blackout). Loreto Bay is an untouched natural paradise nestled between the rugged Sierra de la Giganta mountains and the secluded Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
shores of the Sea of Cortez. Spectacular fishing and diving is available in the clear waters of Baja, inhabited by over 880 species of reef-dwelling and migratory fish. There’s much to explore on the surrounding islands, and also fascinating historic culture in the town of Loreto, established in 1697 as Baja California’s first settlement. The Inn at Loreto Bay, 877-522-9466, www.loretobay.com
The NH Krystal Hotels in Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Ixtapa have established a special rate for travel agents to familiarize them with their stunning hotels in Mexico. A rate of just $59 is granted for both the European Plan—per single/double room per night plus taxes; and All-Inclusive, per person per night. The NH Riviera Cancun offers a rate of $75 ppdo for the AllInclusive Plan. These rates are valid until December 21, 2009. Agents must present their IATA card. NH Krystal Cancún, www.nhcancun@nh-hotels.com; NH Krystal Ixtapa, www.nhixtapa@nh-hotels.com; NH Krystal Puerto Vallarta, www.nhpuertovallarta@nh-hotels.com; NH Riviera Cancun, www.nhrivieracancun@nh-hotels.com
Special travel agent rates are offered to bring agents to Sandos Hotels & Resorts to experience the luxurious offerings presented to clients by the deluxe chain. Sandos Hotels and Resorts’ 2009 FAM rates for agents have been established from $45 per person per day. This is a remarkable value that allows agents to enjoy the spacious Sandos facilities with their remarkable amenities, coupled with the charm of a Mexican coastal vacation in a setting of stunning natural resources. Sandos Hotels & Resorts, 866-856-1925, www.sandoshotels.com
Valentin Imperial Maya sits on a halfmile-long stretch of white sand beach of Playa Del Secreto (The Secret Beach) in the Riviera Maya. This all-inclusive, adultsonly resort gives direct access to the beach, while it’s just minutes from the vibrant culture of Cancun and the world famous Mayan archaeological sites such as Tulúm, Cobá, and Chichen Itzá. Special FAM rates are offered to travel agents: $70 through December 22, 2009. These rates are on request and upon availability. Valentin Imperial Maya, 800-232-8316, info@valentinmaya.com, www.valentinmaya.com AUGUST 2009 •
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The magic of Mexico remains the same. The sweeping vistas and majestic mountains. The ancient
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history and cultural treasures. A landscape as warm and inviting as its people. All the things your clients love about Mexico remain. Invite them to rediscover the magic once again. Go to VisitMexico.com for more information.