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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