Tourists visited Mexico in 2008 80 million
Making Mexico the 10th most visited tourist destination in the world— And the #1 favorite destination for North Americans.
The
…don’t be misinformed! The media lives from sensationalism. Get All The Facts! Put negative headlines into perspective and always use your best judgment—No matter where you are — At home or in a foreign country.
by Juan Angel Castillo
20 Entrepreneur Of The Year
Our very own; Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo, gets the Entrepreneur of The Year Award!
26 Fitur
MexicoTRAVELER™ Launches its premiere issue at the Famed Tourism Fair in Madrid, Spain.
36 COVER STORY:
Sofia Milos at the Fairmont MayaKoba!
44 Person Of The Year
Gloria Estefan is selected as the Person Of The Year by the Latin Recording Academy.
48 Alma Awards
The Latino Media Arts Award celebrates another year of Latino Talent in Hollywood.
54 Alex Meneses
Karin Leperi talks to the Beautiful and Talented Alex Meneses on her latest projects.
58 Laura Pausini
Our BajaTRAVELER® Cover Girl talks to Jorge Gamboa about her latest Album.
60 WHO’S WHO IN MEXIC O TOURISM
Movers and Shakers who make Mexico the unique place that we all know and love.
62 Alejandro Moreno Medina
Is the new Deputy Secretary of Mexico Tourism
64 Miguel Torruco M.
Is the President of the National Tourism Confederacy (CNT)
66 Jorge M. Perez is the CEO of the largest Hispanic Owned Business in the U.S.
68 Dr. Hans Backhoff
Motivated by his own love for wine he started Monte Xanic
70 Oscar Constandse
Is the Co-Owner of eco-archaeological park Xcaret
72 Eustaquio T.
de Nicolas Gutiérrez
Is Chairman of the board of HOMEX; now building Villas de Mexico
74 Ernesto Coppel
Is President and Founder of Pueblo Bonito
76 Alejandro C. Yberri
Is the Chief Executive Offcer of CostaBaja Resort & Marina
78 José Ramon Garcia V.
Is Managing Director for Grupo Ultrafemme in Cancun
80 Jorge Goytortua-Bores
Is Vice President of Sales for Mexicana AirLines
82 Peter Yesawich
Is Chairman and CEO of Y Partnership
90 The Guelaguetza
Jim Cline tells us of this Wonderful Celebration in Oaxaca.
92 Dawn of Tulum
Michelle McDermott educates us on the Ruins of Tulum.
96 The Curious Case of San Cristobal de Las Casas
Karin Leperi tells us of this Magnifcent Destination believed to be the heart of the Indigenous Mayan Culture.
48
100 New 7 Wonders Of Nature
Azul Waterfall, Popocatepetl Volcano, Copper Canyon and Sumidero Canyon have all been Nominated as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
102 Pueblos Magicos
Pat Tyson tells us about these magical towns.
106 Yoga
Beth Purcell Simonsen talks about Bikram on Bringing HOT Yoga to Mexico.
110 Villas de Mexico
Launch Party
Dale Rosenstock describes this amazing FIESTA in Cancun.
118 Hotel Of The Year Award
The Fairmont MayaKoba WINS First Place among all the Fairmont Hotels.
MEXICO IS A UNIQUE and diverse country that welcomes the tourist with hospitality and human warmth. Visitors are invited to enjoy a multiple array of colors and favors by way of its sunny beaches, archeological sites, colonial cities, natural scenery and modern urban centers.
It is for this reason that, in Mexico, we have given great emphasis to the touristic routes, which will permit the visitors to better plan their trips and, in this way, get to know our country in all its profundity. This might combine such diverse interests as tequila or coffee bean haciendas, whales and the sea, archeological sites or modern and colonial cities, butterfies and lakes.
For the Secretariat of Tourism it is of major importance to disseminate information and promote the attractive tourism destinations. Foreign
tourism generates jobs and important revenues for the country and its Mexican citizens, because it leads to the expansion of regional growth.
Mexico opens its doors and invites you to enjoy our country by way of this issue of MexicoTRAVELER™ truly a high quality publication. In each one of its articles it demonstrates love for our country, which makes it invaluable for all those interested in discovering new tourist destinations. Welcome to Mexico! h
Lic. Rodolfo Elizondo Torres S ECRETARY OF T OURI SM
Ingrid Hart tells us how this Goddess is responsible for the fertility of the earth, good weather, health and continuity of life.
View photos from the various social events that attracted out attention!
Beth Purcell Simonsen reviews three great books: 101 Beautiful Small Towns in Mexico, Earworms Musical Brain Trainer and Ornamental Plants and Flowers of Tropical Mexico.
Pat Tyson talks with Mario López!
Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo CEO/ Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief
Pat Tyson Executive Editor
Karin Leperi
Associate Executive Editor/ Public Relations
Beth Purcell-Simonsen Senior Editor
Giselle Fernandez-Farrand Fabiola Robinson
Mirna Xibille
Special Correspondent Editors
Mariana Ricalde Assistant to the Editor-in-Chief
Allan Miller Senior Design Director
Kerrie Briggs Design Director
Kathleen Maloney Design
Mariana Ricalde Assistant Design/ Web Design
Monique Jenkins Assistant Design/ Web Design
Jimm Budd
Jeanie Casison
Tere Cedillo
Ingrid Hart
Karin Leperi
Dale Rosenstock Travel Editors
Jessica Rubinstein Editorial Assistant
Rocha & Asociados
Mexico Legal Representation
International Practice Group U.S. Legal Representation TRAVELER PUBLICATIONS
If your business needs to cross the border, International Practice Group can serve as your bridge. With over 25 years of experience in representing both Mexican clients doing business in the United States, and U.S. clients doing business in Mexico, International Practice Group has a unique practice with a unique combination of attorneys from both sides of the border.
Mayté
Rodríguez Cedillo CEO/ Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief
Mario Alberto Rodríguez V.P. Sales & Marketing
Miguel Angel Rodríguez Sales & Marketing
Anna Maria Espsater
Our practice and experience includes:
• Mexican Real Estate: Our firm has extensive experience in all phases of Mexican real estate matters from the sale of individual homes and villas to representing various hotel developers throughout Mexico.
• Cross-Border Corporate Planning and Structuring: We have represented a number U.S. clients establish, sell and dismantle manufacturing operations in Mexico.
• Cross Border Transactions: We have negotiated and drafted a wide array of cross border transactions including licenses, joint ventures, consulting contracts, loans etc. We have the ability to negotiate and document transactions in English and in Spanish.
project planning to setting up their Mexican affiliates or subsidiaries.
• Joint Ventures: Planning, structuring and implementing cross-border joint ventures and related due diligence.
• Labor: We have assisted a number of clients structure their labor agreements and consulting agreements in Mexico
• Corporate: We assist in structuring their cross border operations from the initial
Jorge Gamboa Patron
Michelle McDermott
Mary McGrath
Ramsey Qubein Contributing Editors
Jim Cline
Kevin Ellsworth
Karin Leperi
Daniela Rangel Contributing Photographers
Jim Berger Certified Public Accountant
• Cross-Border Business Litigation: We have represented a number of U.S. and Mexican clients in their cross-border disputes ranging from jury trials to arbitration.
A more detailed description of our practice and practitioners is available on our website:
IPG was founded by Guillermo Marrero; a bi-lingual, bi-cultural attorney who has been involved in U.S.- Mexico transactions since 1990. Mr. Marrero has been practicing law in San Diego since 1981, and before founding IPG in 2002 was a partner and chair of the U.S. Mexico Practice Group for one of San Diego’s oldest and largest firms. International Practice, Group, P.C. 1350 Columbia Street, Suite 500 San Diego, CA 92101
Teri Combs
U.S./Canada Distribution Manager
Francisco Vazquez
Mexico/ Europe/ Asia/ Latin America Distribution Manager
Marianne Martinic FilippoPetralia
Katsuji Sugie Translators
PUBLICATIONS A
(619) 216-8035 e-mail: editor@mexmagazine.com
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ON-LINE: MexicoTravelerOnline.com
MexMagazine.com
MexicoTravelerMagazine.com
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MayteRodriguez.com
IT HAS BEEN QUITE A YEAR SINCE THE INAUGURAL ISSUE of MexicoTRAVELER™ hit the newsstands last January 2008. Since the debut, I have received numerous congratulatory comments about how stunning our magazine is – with the beautiful Jennifer Lopez gracing our cover. On our 2009 cover, we feature Sofa Milos at the sensuous MayaKoba resort on the Mayan Riviera. We also celebrate the dynamic designing team of Pineda Covalin with my dear friend Alex Meneses modeling some of their latest fashions.
Since the debut of MexicoTRAVELER™, we have witnessed history being made on several fronts. First, with the election of Barack Obama as President of the United States, we see the frst black politician rise to the highest offce in the country. Only months prior to the
election, the U.S. economy takes a dive and Wall Street is tarnished by the unprecedented greed and Ponzi scheme of fnancial tycoons like Bernie Madoff. Because the economies of Mexico and the United States are so interdependent; Mexico, too, has been greatly impacted by the fnancial downturn – a downturn that seems to have hit the middle class the hardest.
Times have been tough, nevertheless there are tremendous bargains for travelers who want to explore the depths and breadth of Mexico. Experiences of a lifetime can be had at the luxury resorts in Los Cabos, to royal pampering at the MayaKoba, to the Guelaguetza celebration in Oaxaca or the magical colonial town of San Cristobal, featured in our article, “The Curious Case of San Cristobal de las Casas.” Now is the time for incredible travel deals that mix luxury, exotic, culture, adventure and sports in convenient packages that are most affordable.
There are unbelievable deals in the real estate market as well. For those looking for an affordable retirement home, Mexico has lots to offer, including locales where the purchasing power of your dollar buys more than ever before. Since many “baby boomers” have watched their retirement savings shrink because of the stock market, “value” is the new mantra for those seeking a quality lifestyle. Be sure to check out Mexican value.
One thing is for certain: golf is going stronger than ever. In this issue we celebrate the greats in golf – Gary Player known as the Black Night, Jack Nicklaus as “The Golden Bear,” and Greg Norman as “The Great White Shark.” From the frst Gary Player Signature Course in Mexico at CostaBaja to a roundup of Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman golf courses throughout Mexico, you will fnd it here in the pages of MexicoTRAVELER™
Finally, I would like to thank my wonderful staff, writers, photographers, designers and assistants. You know who you are and this magazine would not be possible without your truly top-notch talents.
And a special thanks to you – the reader and advertiser of MexicoTRAVELER™ - your endorsements and support through these challenging times are heart-warming and comforting. See you in Mexico! h
Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo CEO/ PUBL I SHER/ E DI TOR-I N -C HI EF
Pat Tyson was raised and educated in England, lived for a while in Lausanne, Switzerland to perfect her French and absorb the culture there. In 1956, she arrived in that “toddling town” of Chicago, where she worked for two large advertising agencies. Feeling the pull of the West, she moved frst to San Diego where, at San Diego State, she earned a master’s in telecommunication and flm. For 10 years she taught college journalism; has been the Executive Editor for Traveler Publications since the start; twelve years ago. She also wrote for San Diego Home/Garden for 25 years, then ventured forth to the Gold Country of Northern California. In the tiny town of Rough and Ready she has found to her joy, besides gold mines, a mine of fascinating history!
Beth Purcell Simonsen is a travel and health writer based in San Diego, California. She has traveled extensively in Mexico and visits Baja California whenever possible. She has an advanced degree in Latin American Studies and a ravenous appetite for books on the subject. Consequently, she takes pleasure in authoring the book review section as well as various other Mexico destination and health-related pieces for Traveler Publications since its start 12 years ago.
Dale Rosenstock entered the feld of interior design in Los Angeles soon after her graduation from UCLA, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree. In the 1960’s, Dale married, had two children and lived in New York for several years. She returned to Beverly Hills where she created a line of fne jewelry and subsequently, in 1994, was the recipient of the top award in the $10,000 and over category at the First International Pearl Conference held in Honolulu, Hawaii.
During a period in the mid 1980’s to mid 1990, Dale continued her jewelry business in Palm Springs and she co-hosted a weekly television interview show, “Luncheon at the Ritz,” at the RitzCarlton Hotel in nearby Rancho Mirage that was aired weekly on KESQ-TV, an ABC affliate.
In 1996, Dale created a patented design for an elephant head converted into a chocolate version for the Republican National Convention held in San Diego. Her most recent design venture is the creation of Tanuki Unlimited, Inc.® featuring her patented design hat. Dale welcomes the opportunity to participate and contribute to Mexico TRAVELER™
Karin Leperi is an award-winning writer and photographer with bylines in print, broadcast and internet media. She writes about travel, entertainment, cuisine, culture and the environment, with an emphasis on people and place. An award-winning photographer as well, she sees photography as a powerful way to visually communicate with diverse markets and different people. Leperi savors the mystery and intrigue of the landscape, of nature, and of natural places. In doing so, she embraces color, light, and composition as a way to convey mood and capture the spirit of place. She’s been Associate Executive Editor for Traveler Publications for ten years.
A freelance writer living in Sacramento, California. Her soulful writing style takes readers on a journey as seen through sage-wise eyes. She describes the landscape of her adventures with detail and offers introspective analysis of her surroundings – all with a keen eye toward gentle humor. Her goal in life is to maintain balance in business, family, ftness, relaxation and spiritual fulfllment. Ingrid loves Mexico and is thrilled to be a contributor for Traveler Publications
A native of Sweden, currently based in London, UK, moved to Mexico in her 20s and spent several years exploring the country’s his tory, culture, sights and culinary delights, while improving her Spanish. Since then she’s been returning whenever she gets a chance to fnd out more about her favorite country and she fnds writing for MexicoTRAVELER™, solely dedicated to Mexico, a great inspiration. A freelance travel and food journalist, she has a degree from the University of London in Spanish and Latin America Studies and spends most of her time travelling the world in search of wicked dishes to try and replicate in her London kitchen.
Jimm Budd, a New Yorker who has made his home in Mexico City since 1958, is a former editor of The News (Mexico City) and the Mexican business magazine Espansión; onetime correspondent for Copley News Service, United Press International, The New York Times and Time-Life in Mexico, now an award-winning columnist and travel writer and a member of the American Society of Travel Writers, the Mexican Travel Press Association and the Foreign Correspondents Association of Mexico.
Currently he is a columnist for the Sunday travel section of the Mexico City newspaper Reforma; columnist for the Mexican trade paper Turistampa; regular contributor to several publications within Mexico and most recently is proud to be accredited to MexicoTRAVELER™
Is a freelance journalist and full-time correspondent covering the hotel industry from every corner of the globe. His travels have taken him to 95 countries on six continents, and he has lived in both Madrid and Paris. His work has appeared in Business Traveler magazine and various corporate in-house magazines including both destination pieces and hotel-specifc articles. He’s excited about his contribution to MexicoTRAVELER™ as he is a frequent visitor to Mexico and enjoys the Latin American culture, hospitality and enthusiasm.
Born in San Diego, California and raised in the suburbs of Washington, D.C., Jeanie Casison was on the move starting at an early age when family trips brought her everywhere from the provinces of the Far East to the amusement parks of Florida. After graduating from New York University, Casison was fortunate to fnd a writing job that allowed her to pursue her passion for foreign places and reveling in new experiences. Over the years she has traveled extensively throughout Europe, Asia, North America, South America, the Middle East and the Caribbean to cover destination developments. During a brief stint as senior writer for NYC & Company, the offcial tourism marketing of New York City, Casison worked behind the scenes to bring more visitors to the Big Apple, where she currently resides. Casison considers watching the whales of Cabo, visiting Petra in Jordan, and shopping in Hong Kong and São Paolo, Brazil among her favorite pursuits on her growing list of travel adventures. Jeanie enjoys writing for Traveler Publications as she is a frequent traveler to Mexico.
Is a photojournalist based in Los Angeles. As a contributor to many magazines, books, newspapers and several web sites, her work combines her love of the printed word with her passion for vibrant photography. Mary specializes in travel writing, but also delights in personal interviews, short stories, humor, poetry, feature writing, instructional photography pieces and culinary reviews.
As one of six children, Mary’s passion for the arts stems from her parents who were once professional ballroom dancers. Because of this, the arts were instilled in her from an early age. In addition to her writing and photography endeavors, Mary is also a professional jazz singer and composer. Mary is very excited to join MexicoTRAVELER™, helping to add to her arsenal of international destinations. In addition to Mexico, some of the other areas she’s covered include Bora Bora, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Barbados and many domestic destinations.
Michele McDermott
After graduating from the University of Portsmouth, England in 1991, with a BA Honors Degree in Spanish and Latin American Studies, Michelle went on to pursue her career with British Airways. The highlight of this job? Flying as a courier on board Concorde!
In 1997, she accompanied her husband to Orlando, Florida, where he was contracted to work for Walt Disney Feature Animation. After 5 years, they returned to their native Scotland with their two young sons but continued to make frequent visits to Mexico culminating with the baptism of their eldest son in Merida, Yucatan. After a few years of being back home, the couple were once again lured back to the USA, this time to Phoenix, Arizona and it was here, in the desert, that Michelle fnally picked up a pen and began to write!
Most recently, she has reviewed chic Mexican hotels for British websites i-escape.com and stylebible.com and is a contributing Beauty Writer to Arizona Bride Magazine and shortandsweetnyc.com. Michelle is very excited to have the opportunity to write about her beloved Mexico for MexicoTRAVELER™ and to once again strengthen the ties with her ‘adopted’ homeland.
by Karin Leperi
OUR VERY OWN AND BELOVED
Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo, CEO and Publisher of Traveler Publications, received the coveted “Entrepreneur of the Year” award at the recent 2008 Illuminada Annual Gala. Sponsored by the San Diego County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the award was one of three categories given for Entrepreneur of the Year. The ceremony took place at the Hard Rock Hotel in downtown San Diego.
“I’m extremely honored for having been invited here tonight to receive this award— Entrepreneur of the Year,” said Mayté upon receiving the award. “I thank all those involved in the voting process— and all of you present for supporting my publications and my mission—to impart the best of Mexico and Baja California to the world as both a travel destination and a total experience that celebrates Hispanic culture, heritage, cuisine and life.”
As CEO, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief for the past 12 years of the widely successful BajaTRAVELER® and more recently, the newly launched MexicoTRAVELER™, Mayté has become the premiere ambassador and
Peninsula today. Her publications are admired and read by a global audience of countries and native language speakers that mirror the six translations of destination pieces in her magazines: English, Spanish, German, French, Italian and Japanese.
Last year, Mayté was also honored as one of “Baja’s Successful Women,” an award sponsored by the Governor of Baja California Sur.
She also received an award by the San Diego Press Club for both of her publications where she recieved first place for editorial content and third place in design. She’s also been a winner of the Tijuana San Diego 20/20
“It doesn’t get better than that. However, I fully intend to continue raising the bar of excellence for my readers and advertisers.”
promoter of Baja California and Mexico as a choice destination for executives, businessmen, investors, entertainers and savvy travelers.
“Last year I luanched MexicoTRAVELER™ in Spain; at Fitur, the famed international tourism trade fair and I’m excited to say that it was widely embraced as a new benchmark for quality and excellence for both editorial and photo coverage of my beloved Mexico,” said Mayté. “It doesn’t get better than that. However, I fully intend to continue raising the bar of excellence for my readers and advertisers.” Affectionately dubbed as the “Queen of Baja” because of her vast knowledge, extensive contacts and positive message of all things Hispanic, she is considered to be one of the most influential media women on the Baja
Regional Leaders Award in the past.
And as if this wasn’t enough, this past November, she was selected as “Mujer Internacional del 2008,” (International Woman for 2008) by the Regional Hispanic Institute.
Her contributions both north and south of the border are consistently focused on all things positive as she nurtures a deep appreciation for Hispanic culture, heritage and art. She’s very content of having influenced Hispanic girls in the pursuit of their dreams. Mayté serves to unite where differences separate and to celebrate diversity where homogenization threatens to turn extraordinary things to the ordinary. In short, she is a rolemodel and leader who leads with her passion and lives life with her heart. h
“I
text by Beth Purcell Simonsen
photos by Jim Cline
“Amaizeing” Agricultural Info:
Sunfowers: Ancient farmers were growing sunfowers in Mexico more than 4,000 years before the Spaniards arrived, according to a team of researchers. Their evidence confrms that farmers began growing sunfowers in Mexico by 2600 B.C. The paper is in response to scientists who still believe that sunfowers were frst domesticated as an agricultural crop in eastern North America and that the Spaniards introduced the sunfower to Mexico from further north.
Maize: There is also new evidence that ancient farmers in Mexico were cultivating an early form of maize, the forerunner of modern corn, about 7,300 years ago–1,200 years earlier than scholars previously thought. Researchers conducted an analysis of sediments in the Gulf Coast of Tabasco, Mexico, and concluded that people were planting crops in the “New World” of the Americas around 5,300 B.C.
Organic coffee: The next time you sip some shade-grown Mexican organic coffee, don’t forget to thank the bats that helped make it possible. Yes, bats!
At Mexican organic coffee plantations, where pesticides are banned, bats and birds work night and day to control insect pests that might otherwise munch the crop. And a new study from University of Michigan researchers shows that during the summer wet season, bats devour more bugs than the birds at Finca Irlanda, a 740-acre organic coffee plantation in Chiapas, Mexico.
Mexico Movie Trivia:
Parts of You Don’t Mess with the Zohan, the story about a Mossad agent Zohan Dvir, who fakes his death so he can re–emerge in New York City as a hair stylist, were flmed in Cabo San Lucas
and La Paz, B.C.S. The movie stars Adam Sandler and John Turturro. Adam Sandler’s character Zohan was loosely based off of a real–life hairstylist named Nezi Arbib in Solana Beach of San Diego, California. Sandler and the flm crew came to the stylist (who was in fact a former Israeli soldier turned stylist) in order for Sandler himself to learn different hairstyling techniques and mannerisms.
In 2005, Disney and Walden brought The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (the frst of the Narnia series that Lewis wrote) to the big screen, it was followed by Prince Caspian, which has several Mexican contributions. Some of these contributions are in the area of computer–generated visual effects, produced at Studio C in Mexico City, under the direction of Guatemalan-born Carlos Arguello. In October, flming began on the next Narnia movie, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, which is nautically-themed. Two-thirds of the movie is to be flmed in Rosarito, B.C., Mexico, in the studio that was constructed for the “Titanic” movie.
Apocalypto, released in late 2006, was flmed entirely in Mexico, primarily in Veracruz and Oaxaca. Due to the unpredictable climate in the rain forest of Mexico, special care was needed to protect the digital cameras. Under extreme heat, they were covered with space blankets to refect the heat. While shooting at a waterfall, the cameras were protected in specially built Hydrofex splash bags. And because of heavy rains in Mexico, the release date had been changed from 4 August 2006 to 8 December 2006.
Many substantial speaking roles in the flm were flled by Mayan people who had never acted before. For instance, the sick little girl who curses the hunting party as they and the captives pass right before entering the city, was played by a seven year old who lived in a village not unlike Jaguar Paw in the movie.
• International Living magazine, a monthly publication founded in 1979 that details the best places in the world to live, retire, travel, and invest, this year named Mexico the best place in the world to retire. This ranking was based on a series of criteria including cost of living, infrastructure, healthcare, safety and stability, real estate, special benefts and immigration perks.
• Mexico now has 29 World Heritage Sites. San Miguel de Allende and the Monarch Butterfies join Mexico’s World Heritage Sites in 2008! The town of San Miguel El Grande and the Sanctuary of Jesús de Nazareno de Atotonilco (San Miguel Allende, Guanajuato) and the Monarch Butterfy Biosphere Reserve (State of Mexico and Michoacán) were named Mexico’s 28th and 29th World Heritage sites by UNESCO during the 32nd annual World Heritage Committee in Canada. Mexico now places third in the world for their amount of World Heritage sites, after Spain and Italy.
• A newly discovered Archaeological Attraction near Acapulco. Just recently, about 50 minutes from Acapulco, a new pre-Hispanic zone has been brought to light: Tehuacalco. Located in Chilpancingo in the southern region of the state of Guerrero, called El Yopitzingo, the archeological site includes the remains of a ball court, residential space and a holy temple.
Believed to be a ceremonial center, the name Tehuacalco has three different meanings in the ancient Nahuatl language: Place of the Stone Box, Place of the Priest’s Houses and Place of the Sacred Water House. Tehuacalco is now open for visitors to explore. h
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MexicoTRAVELER™ officially launches at the FITUR International Tourism Trade Fair by Jeanie Casison
Infuential decision-makers in search of the hottest destinations, hotels and services met in Madrid, Spain, last January ‘08 for the FITUR International Tourism Trade Fair, one of the largest travel industry events in the world. MexicoTRAVELER™ CEO and Publisher Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo couldn’t have asked for a more appropriate venue to launch a new luxury lifestyle magazine dedicated to showcasing the BestOfMexico™. With multi-talented Latin superstar Jennifer Lopez gracing the cover, and comprehensive coverage of various destinations, such as the cultural gems of Mexico City, the resorts of the Riviera Maya and more, the inaugural issue of MexicoTRAVELER™ caught the eye of many at FITUR. “It was amazing to see how well the issue was accepted. Even now, as I’m getting ready to launch the second issue, we had breaking numbers at newsstands for this frst issue,” said Rodríguez. “Our country has so much to offer, there is no doubt that Mexico is loved by everyone all over the world,” she adds.
In its twenty-eighth year, FITUR continues to attract an audience of more than 255,000 travel professionals, nearly 13,500 companies from 170 countries and regions and 8,300 journalists—offering participants an incredible opportunity to generate greater awareness and media exposure on the global stage. MexicoTRAVELER™ had the honor of joining a delegation of high-ranking tourism offcials from Mexico to promote their beloved country during the trade fair.
“FITUR without a doubt is the most important tourism event for any Latin American country. It is also one of the most successful worldwide, as prestigious as those held in London, Berlin and Milan. The magnitude of the fair, as well as its organization and the high quality exhibitors, whom year after year offer all types of services to consumers— positions FITUR as one of the best,” says Miguel Torruco, president of the National Confederation of Tourism.
Other offcials agree that FITUR plays an integral role in helping to reach those individuals who regularly interact with leisure and business
travelers. “FITUR is the link that allows for destinations and the tourism industry as a whole to generate appointments with wholesalers, agencies and others. The goal is to conduct important negotiations and to promote Mexico in a more meaningful way,” says Oscar Fitch, CEO of the Mexico Tourism Board. “This year’s event was truly successful. In Mexico’s pavilion alone, we had the most participation. Agreements among tour operators, airlines and travel agencies took place all for the promotion of tourism in Mexico. We also accomplished training programs in Spain with the goal to extend knowledge of Mexican tourism destinations,” he adds.
“The goal is to conduct important negotiations and to promote Mexico in a more meaningful way.”
– Oscar Fitch CEO OF THE MEXICO TOURISM BOARD
According to Ximena Caraza Campos, director of the Mexico Tourism Board in Spain, FITUR gives attendees a thorough overview of the offerings in Mexico. “The Mexican tourism industry always seeks to strengthen relationships with Spanish tourism professionals and with the representatives from giant companies from all over the world who come to the pavilion to see the splendor of our country,” says Caraza Campos. “I’m proud to see that every year our visitor numbers increase in our pavilion. This is primarily due to the sheer variety of tourism experiences, such as golf, spas, nature, adventure, culture and history that we always promote during FITUR.” h
by Karin Leperi
Banyan Tree Offers Two Award-Winning Properties in Mexico
Award-winning Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts marks its entry into North America with Banyan Tree MayaKoba, located on Mexico’s pristine Riviera Maya. Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués in Acapulco will complement the Mayakoba resort when it opens in June 2009, as Banyan Tree’s second property in the Western Hemisphere. Reservations can be made at BanyanTree.com.
Gary Player Tees Up at His First Golf Course in Mexico
International golf phenomenon Gary Player teed off from what will be the ninth hole of the frst Gary Player Signature Golf Course ever to be built in Mexico. The groundbreaking event for the course was located at the coastal seaside community of CostaBaja Resort & Marina on January 27, 2009. For more information regarding CostaBaja, visit CostaBajaResort.com.
Mexicana Airlines as #1 Airline in Mexico
Mexicana is the frst airline in Mexico and the fourth largest airline in the world. With over 87 years of experience, along with great service and an expansive route network, these are only some of the attributes that have made Mexicana the recipient of the World Travel Award for ten consecutive years. Mexicana has also been widely recognized for its excellent in-fight service offering free meals and beverages including beer and tequila.
More than 6,000 people comprise Mexicana’s team, making it possible to service the Americas - from Canada to Argentina. Currently, Mexicana operates 11 non-stop fights from Los Angeles to different points in Mexico, more than any other carrier, with its most recent addition being a Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta daily nonstop. For more information, check Mexicana.com.
Aeromexico to O ffer Non-Stop Service between Atlanta and Cancun
AeroMexico and its subsidiary, AeroMexico Connect, operate more than 600 daily fights. On March 12, AeroMexico introduced non-stop fights between Atlanta and Cancun. The airline’s distinc-
tive style of service has been recognized with major industry awards, including “Best Airline in Mexico” in 2008 by readers of both Global Traveler and Business Traveler, two of the world’s leading travel magazines. AeroMexico has also been recognized for one of the world’s best on-time fight records, the highest safety and quality standards ratings, outstanding reliability and baggage handling performance, and exceptional value based on its competitive fares and superior service. Additional information is available at AeroMexico.com.
Hotels & Resorts
Continues to Rack-up Awards
Barceló Hotels & Resorts in Mexico recently accumulated several coveted awards. For 2008, Barceló La Jolla de Mismaloya and Barceló Karmina Palace are winners of the AAA Four Diamond Award, while Barceló Maya Beach Resort was awarded the “Cristal Global Award 2007” for being the cleanest and healthiest hotel in the world according to Check Safety First standards. Other awards include Barceló Tucancún Beach and Barceló Huatulco Beach for the “Cristal Regional Award 2007” and Barceló Costa Cancún and Barceló Ixtapa Beach for the Green Globe Benchmark Bronze. This award is for supporting sustainable tourism practices. In December 2009, Barceló Hotels & Resorts will open its new premium resort Barceló Los Cabos with 650 world-class suites and superb facilities and dining in a unique location of San José del Cabo. Barcelo.com
Fairmont MayaKoba on the Riviera Maya offers guests the opportunity to prepare unique recipes with the guidance of the hotel’s Executive Chef, David Andrews. Additionally, those who take cooking lessons will take a tour through the hotel’s main kitchen, where they are familiarized with the highest food and beverage standards that characterize Fairmont Mayakoba’s AAA Four Diamond awardwinning restaurants. Fairmont.com
Luxury Avenue Los Cabos Invites World-Class Shoppers
The new Luxury Avenue Los Cabos was unveiled
in December 2008 and joins the inaugural Cancun location to offer travelers world-renowned brands such as CH Carolina Herrera, Coach, Fendi, Montblanc, Tous, Tiffany & Co., Swarovski and more. Boasting a prime waterfront location at the center of the Cabo San Lucas Marina, Luxury Avenue is quickly becoming an iconic attraction for visitors to Los Cabos. In 2004, Luxury Avenue Cancun debuted as the frst designer boutique mall of its kind. Located in Cancun’s hotel zone and easily accessible from Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen, Luxury Avenue Cancun shoppers are able to shop a variety of top designers in one convenient location. Visit LuxuryAvenue.com.
Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo Receives
Mujer Internacional del 2008 Award
Our very own CEO/Publisher of MexicoTRAVELER™ - Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo – was recently honored by the Regional Hispanic Institute for her outstanding contributions in the Hispanic community. She received “Mujeres del 2008” at their 4th Annual Awards Gala held at the DoubleTree Hotel in San Pedro, California. She also received the coveted “Entrepreneur of the Year” award at the recent 2008 Illuminada Annual Gala. Sponsored by the San Diego County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the award was one of three categories given for Entrepreneur of the Year. The ceremony took place at the Hard Rock Hotel in downtown San Diego. MayteRodriguez.com
A First for Mexico and Valle de Guadalupe: The Banyan Tree Hotel at Monte Xanic
Monte Xanic in conjunction with award-winning Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts is creating a frst for Mexico: the frst wine tourism destination. Scheduled to open in 2010, the hotel will be built hillside with spectacular views of the Monte Xanic vineyard and the Valle de Guadalupe. The Banyan Tree at Monte Xanic will have 42 luxury villas that are designed to perfectly integrate into the surroundings, respecting the environment and utilizing construction and operation techniques that will make it an example to follow for future sustainable tourism projects. Check website for more information at MonteXanic.com. h
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While in the airport awaiting my fight to Acapulco, I purchased a copy of MexicoTRAVELER™. What a fnd–especially since it contained very useful information about my destination! It made for a wonderfully interesting fight. The photography is spectacular and I am now ordering a subscription for myself and several for my kids so that we may enjoy Mexico all the time!
Evelyn Gregory - LOS ANGELES, CA
These days everything seems to be about “Going Green.” Can you let us know what hotels have gone green in Mexico to help us decide where we should stay on our next visit? My wife and I love your magazine and use it as a constant resource. Keep up the great work!
E.W. Madison - SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Love your magazine! I even took it with me on my last trip to Puerto Vallarta, to use it as a reference guide. Would like to see more on the Pacifc Coast of Mexico.
Scott Brandywine - VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA
I just wanted to say thank you for exposing me to the book, “Cashing in on a Second Home in Mexico.” I’ve wanted to buy in Mexico for years and the information in this book has given me the knowledge base and confdence to do so. I would never have come across it if not for your book review section. Keep up the good work.
Lawrence Kingsley - THOUSAND OAKS, CA
I very much enjoyed your article about shopping in San Miguel de Allende. The photos were terrifc; it made me want to visit this historic colonial town more than ever! I will get there someday, and I’ll be sure to visit the stores that Alex Meneses recommended. Thank you!
Shirley Langston - TUCSON, AZ
Wow! That cover of Jennifer Lopez was the ultimate, one of the best covers ever. And I loved the feature story on her. Keep more coming.
Being an avid golfer myself, it was such a delight to read about the fabulous Number One in the sport, Lorena Ochoa, and to learn of her personal preferences–such as places, foods and movies–besides golf! I also loved the profle of my favorite actress, Jennifer Lopez; the photographs of this beauty are simply wonderful. Keep it up!
John Grayson - AUSTIN, TEXAS
Throughout the centuries, nurturing the body has always symbolized power, health and beauty. With this in mind, natura bissé has added a new product to its diamond collection based on the ancient art of gem therapy and the holistic properties of magnet therapy. Diamond magnetic is an exotic formula that includes diamond dust and micronized iron which promote positive energy and a complete sense of well-being. Naturabisse products can be found at the fnest spas across mexico. NaturaBisse.com.mx
The iZap uses VIOlight’s Germicidal Ultra Violet (UV) technology to safely zap away up to 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria on your toothbrush, leaving you free from the threat of germs that cause illness, such as e.coli, botulism and salmonella. The iZap is available at Walgreens and Linens N Things nationwide. VioLight.com
Noctogenist is an overnight treatment which regenerates cells and makes your hair radiant with texture and brightness in the morning. Kerastate products are available in your Kerastate Salons all across Mexico. Kerastate.com.mx
NATURA BISSE
SPF 30+ For sensitive and sunreactive skin, Water resistant, Ultra protection. Naturabisse products can be found at the fnest spas across mexico. NaturaBisse.com.mx
SpaRitual introduces three new 83% USDA Certifed Organic Moisturizing Lotions infused with consciously sourced Organic Essential Oils for Australian Eucaluyptus, Egyptian Geranium and Somalian Frankincense and Instinctual Organic bath salts infused with Madagascan Ginger Oil to whisk you farway while deeply nourishing dull post-summer skin. SpaRitual.com
Chroma Riche was created with the best technology; it not only permits you to keep your desired color but also adds shine thanks to the light present in its product Aqua Ionic. Kerastate products are available in your Kerastate Salons all across Mexico. Kerastase.com.mx
text by Pat Tyson
photos courtesy Casa Mexico
“CASA MEXICO is born from a dream of creating a space where we may spread, share and enjoy the culinary heritage of Mexico, with just prices for those who produce, for those who cook and for those who consume,” is the philosophy of Executive Chef Margarita Carrillo de Salinas. This new restaurant is located in the Zona Rosa of Mexico City.
She also owns the Don Emiliano restaurant in San José del Cabo with her son, Angel Salinas Carrillo, who is General and Wine manager there. Margarita is very proud of the fact that this restaurant received an Award of Excellence 2008 by Wine Expectator. Don Emiliano was also voted “Best Mexican Cuisine in Baja California” for two years running in BajaTRAVELER®
“The new restaurant, Casa Mexico, will specialize in authentic and traditional Mexican family food—good quality, ‘Sunday food‘” Margarita explains. “We will try to use organic ingredients whenever possible-and defnitely regional products from the Chinampas in Xochimilco (which are cultivated in the traditional ancient techniques of the Aztec culture), as well as local products, to follow the principles of the Slow Food movement.”
The Slow Food international organization believes that the food we eat should taste good; that it should be produced in a clean way, which does not harm the environment, animal welfare or our health; and that food producers should receive fair compensation for their work.
Internationally known Chef Margarita has created and promoted delicious Mexican cuisine throughout the world. She is one of 34 chefs included in the book For The Love Of Food by the International Association of Culinary Professionals (IACP), in which her comments and recipes may be found. She shares two of her favorites here. h
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
4 large garlic cloves, peeled and fnely chopped
4 guajillo chiles, cleaned, seeded and cut into thin rings
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 cups sea asparagus (salicornia in Spanish) or green beans
28 medium large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 bacon slices
2 sheets phyllo dough, wrinkled or crimped and baked, to garnish Salt and pepper, to taste
1. In a heavy saucepan place the olive oil; add the garlic and cook over low heat until translucent. Add the chiles and cook for 30 seconds, add the wine, salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Very quickly, sauté the asparagus or green beans in a few drops of olive oil. Set aside.
3. Place the shrimp–one around the other–until they are the size and shape of a steak (7 pieces per steak). Hold them together with a slice of bacon wrapped around and a skewer or toothpick. Brush with a small amount of oil, season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn opaque and change color.
5. To serve: divide the asparagus or green beans between the four heated plates. Place one steak on top of each and glaze with the hot ajillo garlic sauce. Garnish with the crispy phyllo dough.
Sopa Morena - Black Bean Soup Serves Four to Six
2 cups black bean broth (from cooking liquid)
1/3 cup cooked black beans removed, strained, set aside (optional, to add later)
1 large garlic clove, roasted in skin, peeled
1/4 medium white onion, roasted
1 small plum tomato, roasted with skin
salt & freshly ground pepper, to taste
1. Blend or process the bean broth, beans, garlic, onion and tomato until a smooth purée. Pass through a fne sieve; place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it boils.
2. Lower the heat and let simmer about 20 to 30 minutes, until it tastes cooked. Season with salt and pepper. At this point you may add the 1/3 cup cooked beans if desired.
3. Serve hot; garnish with tortillas, avocado, cream, cilantro and cheese.
An exclusive interview at
Sultry and savvy Sofia Milos is an award-winning actress and accomplished model who knows no borders. Born in Switzerland of an Italian father, Greek mother and raised with a French nanny, the multi-lingual Milos currently lives in Los Angeles, films in Toronto and Miami and visits Mexico whenever she can to enjoy personal time away from her hectic schedule.
MexicoTRAVELER™ recently invited the beautiful Milos for an exclusive interview at the Fairmont MayaKoba. Surrounded by canals, shoreline and mangrove forests, the 240-acre MayaKoba resort is located in the heart of the Riviera Maya in Mexico. Awarded the prestigious AAA’s Five Diamond Award®, the MayaKoba is a haven of indulgent luxury in the midst of Mayan culture including one of the world’s new seven wonders - Chichén Itzá. The resort includes 401 elegant rooms and 34 beach and lagoon casitas, where guests can pick up their view of sugar-sand beaches or emerald mangroves and jungle. For the golfer, MayaKoba offers the El Cameleón golf course designed by Greg Norman. The course incorporates three distinct landscapes– dense jungle, mangrove forests and sandy stretches of oceanfront vistas and can be changeable much like a chameleon. Hence the challenge. The 2008 and 2009 MayaKoba Classic, the PGA Tour’s frst offcial event in Mexico, was recently hosted here.
“I have worked so hard and feel so blessed to spend time in Mexico,” says Milos with her trademark senuous smile. “From the frst moment I came to the Fairmont MayaKoba, I was completely overwhelmed by the beauty and peacefulness of the moment. It was so beautiful that I didn’t even check into my room but asked if I could walk on the beach and watch the sunset. I then took off my shoes and felt the water and sand on my feet. It was so magical.”
Milos talks about the people of Mexico as being upbeat and passionate, yet nice and courteous. “I recognize these traits and love them since my Greek and Italian heritage have endowed me with a similar passion. It makes life very colorful and worthwhile.”
As for favorite activities at the MayaKoba? “I love sports, spa and massages, especially those that combine Thai and European methods and focus on enhancing body circulation. Such a lovely treat!” It is no wonder that Milos loves the spa treatments at the Fairmont MayaKoba as the Willow Stream Spa offers traditional and unique treatments featuring local herbs, essential oils and extracts. A favorite among
guests is the Cha Chac Rain Ritual–an energetic water pleasure that is as soothing as it is renewing.
Meanwhile, Milos continues to rack up awards for her character roles on screen and television. Her latest honor is receiving the Award of Excellence at the 2008 Banff World Television Festival. The award was for her extensive body of work over a period of time and includes citations of some of her most notable works such as CSI: Miami, Sopranos and The Border. She joins the prestigious company of previous awardees Gordon Pinsent, David Chase (The Sopranos), Gary David Goldberg, Dick Wolf, and Carol Mandelson (CSI Miami).
“Some amazing show creators and producers have given me the opportunity to play great characters like the mafa boss Annalisa Zucca in The Sopranos and Detective Yelina Salas in CSI: Miami. I feel so honored to have my work recognized by such a prestigious award,” adds Milos as she refects on reaching a personal milestone of logging over 200 hours of television episodes.
Milos continues to heat things up north of the border with her role as homeland security special agent Bianca La Garda in The Border. This high-action drama breaks new ground with its focus on Canadian/US border issues inspired by story lines coming direct from today’s headline news. Produced for Canadian Broadcast Corporation (CBC) and recently completed for a second season, Milos co-stars with James McGowan and Graham Abbey.
Currently among the new shows in Canada with it’s third season starting this summer. It is viewed by many as the Canadian equivalent to the award-winning American action drama television series 24. The Border recently won a nomination for best drama series at the Monte Carlo International Film Festival and has sold distribution rights to various countries in Europe and soon in Latin America and the Middle East.
The Border’s executive producer, Peter Raymont, has produced over 100 documentaries and won an Emmy for the documentary Shake Hands with the Devil. Producer Brian Dennis and creative producers David Barlow, Janet McLean and Sarah Dodds are also part of the ground-breaking team of The Border.
“Since Peter (Raymont) is interested in human rights issues, the series symbolically explores moral, ethical and personal boundaries that exist in today’s society. The creative writing team produces appealing and engaging characters so as to explore moral dilemmas and conficts of integrity,” explains Milos. “As such, it is an exploration of many issues such as terrorism, drug smuggling, human organ smuggling and kidnapping. This year we have some amazing episodes on other very hot problems such as “Stop Lossed” soldiers and importing illegal but cancer curing drugs. The show involves the audience by posing issues such as: What type of world do we want to live in? What do we need to do if we want change? And what would one do if faced with the same problem?”
Milos’ other notable flming credits include her role as Columbian detective Yelina Salas in CSI: Miami, for which she returns to her fan’s delight for the Seventh Season premiere, as well as recurring roles in The Sopranos, Curb Your Enthusiasm, ER, Mad About You and Friends as well as other series regular roles in Caroline in the City as Julia Karinzky, in Desire, and The Secrets Lives of Men, or starring in flms like Passionada, The Order and The Ladies Men.
When asked by MexicoTRAVELER™ about her beauty secrets, Milos is quick to point out that beauty starts within. “True beauty is about making choices by creating the person who you want to be and who you want to surround your self with. It’s not about size or color, but rather what you create from inside and how you live and share it with others.”
As part of her self-caring routine, Milos acknowledges that it is necessary to take care of the body. “I try to eat well and keep carbs to a minimum. I don’t drink or smoke, though I do drink lots of water, both fltered and bottled. I also try to sleep 8 hours a night. And though I don’t work out as much as I used to, I love to do pilates and cardio whenever I get a chance.”
If Milos harbors any special beauty secret, it is most likely about the critical role of hydration and the need to alternate products. “I believe it
is important to hydrate the body both inside and out,” she notes. “I like to use natural products when hydrating my skin.
Whether traveling north to Canada for shooting The Border, southeast to Miami to flm CSI: Miami, or south of the border to Mexico to spend quality “me” time, one thing is for certain: Sofa Milos heats things up wherever she goes. h
A
INTERNATIONAL POP MUSIC SUPERSTAR, Gloria Estefan, was honored as the 2008 Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year last November. Chosen for her philanthropic, professional and cultural accomplishments, she received the honor at a star-studded concert and tribute dinner. For three decades Estefan has been a vital force within the music industry with 22 albums and more than 90 million records sold.
In 1975, while still in college, she had an opportunity to sing at a Cuban wedding where the band, the Miami Latin Boys led by keyboardist Emilio Estefan, was performing. A few weeks later, she signed to sing with the band and, in 1978, she and Emilio were married, cementing a personal and musical collaboration that has endured for three decades. Becoming an integral part of the band, she was essential in creating the group’s new sound. Around 1977 the band changed its name to The Miami Sound Machine and scored its frst record contract with Miami-based CBS Discos.
Between 1977 and 1984 they made seven albums in Spanish, gaining a huge Latin American and, in the United States, a large Hispanic fan base. This growing popularity enabled Emilio to persuade the larger CBS International division to release their frst English language LP on Epic Records. The album was Eyes of Innocence; its frst single, Dr. Beat became the group’s frst hit in English.
They went on to release such albums as Primitive Love, which sold more than three million units in the United States alone and produced the hit singles Bad Boy, Words Get In The Way–and Conga–which was a crossover phenomenon that topped the pop, dance, r&b and Latin charts.
The next two albums, Let It Loose (1987) and Cuts Both Ways (1989) were both worldwide chart-topping sensations and produced such hits as Can’t Stay Away From You, Rhythm Is Gonna Get You, Anything For You, 1-2-3, Don’t Wanna Lose You and Get On Your Feet. At this time the composition of the band was changing and so was the name–to Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine. Then tragedy hit in 1990.
While on tour, Estefan’s bus was hit by a tractor-trailer in Pennsylvania; the crash broke her back and left her partially paralyzed;
her husband and son were less seriously injured. She was airlifted to New York where she underwent extensive surgery and her back was stabilized with two titanium rods planted at each side of her spine. The following year was spent recuperating and undergoing agonizing physical therapy.
With incredible strength and will and against all odds, she surprised he world when she announced her recovery and triumphantly appeared on the American Music Awards in 1991, singing with great emotion a new composition, Coming Out Of The Dark, inspired by the previous year’s struggle. This was followed by the album Into The Light and a 17-country tour attended by more than 100 million people.
For three decades Estefan has been a vital force within the music industry with 22 albums and more than 90 million records sold.
Estefan secured her place as one of the best live performers in the world. In 1992 a collection of her most popular songs, Greatest Hits came out.
Then, the following she took a step back to her roots, entering a new stage in her career with the release of the album Mi Tierra (My Land), her frst in Spanish in ten years. which garnered her frst GRAMMY Award. Estefan performed the offcial theme song, Reach, at the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta, which became the frst single from a new English-language album, Destiny. Released in in 2001, Alma Caribeña earned her a GRAMMY Award for Best Traditional Tropical Latin Album and a Latin GRAMMY for Best Short Form Music Video.
Estefan’s most recent musical production, 90 Millas, was produced by her husband, Emilio, who is the main driving force behind
Latin music in the United States. It is a collection of 14 original songs in Spanish that pay tribute to the roots of Cuban music while, at the same time, injecting a modern sensibility to the traditional rhythms. The album also pays homage to the world’s most infuential and respected musicians of the past 50 years, who joined Estefan on the project. Among them are the renowned Carlos Santana; “salsa’s godfather” Johnny Pacheco; trumpet virtuoso Alfredo “Chocolate Armenteros; conga diva Sheila E; actor/musician Andy Garcia and Cachao, considered the creator of the mambo.
“It is so important for me to keep the athentic sounds of Cuban music alive,” says Emilio. “All these great artists changed the Latin music scene and it is an honor to have them all in the album. I think it will expose a new generation to the richness of Cuban music.” A tribute was paid to Estefan in recognition of all her accomplishments.
“The Latin Recording Academy and its Board of Trustees are elated to recognize Gloria as an extraordinary Latina Woman, humanitarian and talented musician, who has made a global impact on music and culture,” says Gabriel Abaroa, President of The Latin Recording Academy. “It has allowed me to get to know her and the reason for her success: hard work, discipline, values, pride, heritage and, of course, musical talent, which have allowed her to become a world renowned personality.”
Estefan is the ninth Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year honoree and is the frst woman to receive the honor. She can also be seen on the large screen in 1999’s Music of the Heart, with Meryl Streep. In 2000 she performed in For Love of Country: The Arturo Sandoval Story with Andy Garcia. As an author, she published her frst book (in English and Spanish) in 2005. A picture book for young readers, The Magically Mysterious Adventures of Noelle the Bulldog was followed by Noelle’s Treasure Tale: A New Magically Mysterious Adventure. Noelle was the name of the family’s bulldog.
However, as well as being an award-winning singer, songwriter and musician, Estefan is also a compassionate philanthropist who established the Gloria Estefan Foundation, which promotes good health, education and cultural development. One of the main benefciaries
“The Latin Recording Academy and its Board of Trustees are elated to recognize Gloria as an extraordinary Latina Woman, humanitarian and talented musician, who has made a global impact on music and culture.”
– Gabriel Abaroa PRES IDENT OF THE L AT IN RECO R DING
DEMY
of this foundation is the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis–the leading research center for spinal cord injuries. Estefan served as chairwoman for a capital campaign that raised more than $40 million to build the Lois Pope Life Center neurological research facility. The foundation also raises funds for other organizations and has donated millions of dollars to a number of charities, including the American Red Cross, UNICEF and the Miami Children’s Hospital Brain Institute.
She was born Gloria Estefan Maria Milagrosa Fajardo in Havana. Her father, José Fajardo, was a personal bodyguard to Cuban president Fulgencio Batista’s wife, and her mother was a kindergarten teacher. The family immigrated to Miami in 1959, following Fidel Castro’s successful overthrow of the Batista government. At an early age, Estefan took up the guitar and singing and later, earned a bachelor of arts from the University of Miami in psychology, with a minor in French. While attending college she worked as a Spanish/French translator at Miami International Airport. Estefan and Emilio have a son, Nyab and a daughter, Emily Marie.
Although her roots are 90 miles away from where she now lives in Miami, Estefan always holds them close to her heart. She has one unfulflled dream–which is to perform a concert in a free Cuba. h
5
The American Latino Media Arts Award, or ALMA Award, is a tribute to some of the most talented Hispanics in music, flm and television. Originally known as the Bravo Awards, it was created in 1995 by the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), as a way to counteract negative stereotyping of Latinos in the entertainment industry.
I was invited to attend the star studded event by my dear friend Alex Meneses—and what an event it was! The adrenalin started to kick in as I was racing up the 405; rushing through traffc and passing the many limos that were heading up to Pasadena. And just as you’d see in a movie scene… I sped up Alex’s driveway, parked my car, had my bag put in the limo and asked the driver to please not look back while I changed into my dress… and looked forward to a magical night!
There were so many highlights that evening I must admit mine was talking to Eduardo Verastegui and seeing that we have the same goal–his in flms and mine through this magazine–that of portraying Mexico as it really is: a great country with an amazing culture and remarkable, caring people.
Shakira is one of my favorite cover girls (BajaTRAVELER® 2007-2008) and seeing her receive the Humanitarian Award for her work in early childhood education was wonderful! Not only is she gorgeous and talented—but she has an amazing heart!!!
To see Placido Domingo brought back delightful memories of when he was a guest on the Johnny Carson show and before the show sang to me a song titled after my name, Maytechu Mia. Eva Longoria was simply brilliant! She looked stunning in all the gowns she wore—I must admit, I lost count after the twelth! What a night! As a Latina, I love to see how we are fnally being recognized as a exceptional culture; having started out in the TV industry back in the early 90s—we truly have evolved!
According to Executive Producer David Chavez, the ALMA Awards are considered unique in the community of entertainment because “They are the only awards for Hispanics on prime time English language television to recognize positive portrayals by the brightest and best talented artists and entertainers.”
NON-BROADCAST AWARDS:
n Outstanding Comedy Special
“George Lopez: America’s Mexican” (HBO) and “Alex Reymundo:
Hick-Spanic Live in Albuquerque” (Showtime)
n Outstanding Made-for TV Documentary
“American Experience: Roberto Clemente” (PBS)
n Outstanding Career Achievement Award
David Wader, Stage Manager
n Special Achievement Award – Outstanding Spanish Language Motion Picture
La Misma Luna
n Outstanding Director of a Television Series
Linda Mendoza, “Betty’s Baby Bump”
Ugly Betty (ABC)
n Outstanding Female Performance in a Comedy Television Series
Judy Reyes - Scrubs (NBC)
n Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series Television Series
Julie Gonzalo Eli Stone (ABC)
n Outstanding Writing for a Television Series
Gloria Calderon Kellett, “How I Met Everyone Else” How I Met Your Mother (CBS)
n Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series
Television Series
Edward James Olmos - Battlestar Galactica (Sci Fi Channel)
n Outstanding Performance of a Latino/A-Led Ensemble in a Television Series
Ugly Betty (ABC)
TELECAST AWARDS:
n Chevy Entertainer of the Year
America Ferrera
NCLR ALMA Humanitarian Award Shakira
n Trailblazer Award
Linda Ronstadt
n Special Achievement in Fashion
Narciso Rodríguez
n Special Achievement Award – Outstanding Director of a Made-for-TV Movie
Kenny Ortega, “High School Musical 2” (Disney Channel)
n Outstanding Performance of a Latino/A-Led Ensemble in a Television Series
Ugly Betty (ABC)
n Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series Television Series
Roselyn Sanchez - Without A Trace (CBS)
n Outstanding Male Performance in a Comedy Television Series
Charlie Sheen - Two and a Half Men (CBS)
n Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series Television Series
Jorge Garcia - Lost (ABC)
As President and CEO of the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the U.S., Janet Murguia is one powerful and infuential lady. She assumed her post in January 2005, after a nationwide search identifed her as the best qualifed person for the position.
“I truly enjoy serving the community and helping to move it forward,” says Murguia. “And opening the door to the American Dream is a personal passion of mine since I have seen the promise of that Dream come true for me and my family.”
Celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year, NCLR’s mission is to improve opportunities for the 45 million Latinos in this country and help open the door to the American Dream.They do this by providing a Latino perspective in policy and program development and by increasing Latino visibility while celebrating their achievements.
MURGUIA GOES TO WASHINGTON
Murguia frst came toWashington over 20 years ago,after graduating from law school at the University of Kansas. She served in a variety of political and policy roles, but by 1999, she went back to Kansas to serve as the Executive Vice Chancellor at Kansas University. However, by 2005, she found herself once again in Washington – this time to advocate for Latinos and to counteract negative and stereotypical images in various media.
CELEBRATING LATINOS – ALMA AWARDS
NCLR served as the Executive Producer for the 2008 ALMA Awards, an annual celebration that recognizes outstanding artistic achievements of Latinos in flm, television and music. In doing so, Murguia has succeeded in bringing the role of NCLR and Latino infuence to the popular media and the American public in general.
“We honored a flm called “La Misma Luna (Under the Same Moon),” which tells the story of a little boy in Mexico who comes to the United States in search of his undocumented immigrant Mother,” Murguia explains. “La Misma Luna” reminds all of us, regardless about how you feel about immigration, that at the end of the day this issue is about real people, about families, about mothers, and about sons and daughters.”
“The story is simple but heartbreaking – the struggle between a mother who will do anything to make a better life for her child and a son who will do anything to be with his mother.
The flm spotlights the heavy price innocent children are paying for our broken immigration system. My hope is that the success of this flm inspires other artists to take up this issue and continue to do the necessary and long-overdue work of telling the Latino story in this country.”
Murguia was born and raised in Kansas City, Kansas; though her dad, spent his youth in Tangancicuaro, in Michoacan, Mexico. This is where he met his wife. “When my parents got married in the early 1950s, they came to the United States hoping for better opportunities for their children, believing in the American Dream,” explains Murguia. “We didn’t have a lot of money growing up, so my siblings and I worked hard at getting an education.”
The hard work paid off as Murguia’s brother, Ramon, graduated from Harvard Law School. “My brother Carlos and sister Mary are the frst brother and sister in U.S. history to serve together as federal judges, and my father and mother came to visit me when I worked in the West Wing of the White House,” Murguia adds with a wink and smile.
Chavez explains that the ALMA Awards are highly prestigious since nominees are recognized by their peers and voted on by members of the Latino community.
America Ferrera was named Chevy Entertainer of the Year, not only for her prominent role in the highly successful television series “Ugly Betty,” but also for her work off-screen as a leader, inspiring young people around the country to participate in the political process. She has successfully used her well-deserved time in the spotlight to make a positive impact on others. She embodies the spirit of the ALMA Awards and NCLR – portraying a positive Latina character on television and displaying the strong diversity of our country.
BeBe Winans, Eden Espinosa, Wynonna Judd, Mariachi los Camperos de Nati Cano and Lucero performed to honor Linda Ronstadt, who received the Trailblazer Award for her contributions to American music, inspiring artists across generations and musical genres.
The Special Achievement in Outstanding Director of a Madefor-TV Movie was presented to Kenny Ortega for “High School Musical 2;” and the Special Achievement in Fashion went to Narciso Rodríguez.
Musical performances included the Cheetah Girls, Jon Secada and Brian McKnight, AB Quintanilla and The Kumbia All-Stars, Lisa Lisa and MARIO, Sergio Mendes and Will I Am. Also, Cheech and Chong performed as a prelude to their 25-year Reunion Tour.
Sometimes referred to as the “Latin American Oscars” in North America, this year’s show was a collaborative effort between executive producers David Chavez, Eva Longoria Parker, NCLR President Janet Murguia and Jeff Margolis. Taped at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, the stellar turnout included Paula Abdul, Jessica Alba, Cheryl Burke, Kate del Castillo, Helio Castroneves, Cristián de la Fuente, Oscar de la Hoya, Placido Domingo, Zac Efron, America Ferrera, Daisy Fuentes, Selena Gomez, Jake & (David) Henrie, Terrance Howard, Mark Indelicato, Kym Johnson, MARIO, Joey Medina, Carlos Mencia, Enrique Murciano, Oscar Nuñez, Edward James Olmos, Kenny Ortega, Ana Ortíz, Danny Pino, Tony Plana, Adam Rodríguez, Roselyn Sanchez, Ryan Seacrest, Jon Secada, Charlie Sheen, Taboo, Ashley Tisdale, Edyta Sliwinska, Sofa Vergara and Will I Am. h
text by Karin Leperi
photos
by
Kevin E llsworth
What do you get when you pair a sexy and sultry actress with the newest fashion statements and vibrant colors of one of the hottest emerging design team in Mexico? A spicy combination of fireworks that radiates with both couture and culture. Alex M eneses–actress, model, producer and philanthropist–recently modeled some of the latest fashions from Pineda Covalin for an exclusive photo shoot for M exicoTRAV ELER ™ in M exico.
One of Mexico’s hottest emerging designers, the Pineda Covalin design team is known for bold statements with a cultural edginess that transforms ancient mystique into modern appeal. Elegant, exotic yet with a sophisticated fair, Pineda Covalin incorporates the rich colors and traditions of Mexican and Latin American culture into fashionable apparel and accessories.
In-demand designs include the famous monarch butterfies that overwinter in the forested mountains of Michoacan and the pyramid Tehuana. The product line includes dresses, fashionable ties, scarves, shawls, handbags, shoes, jewelry and long silk scarves. Founded in 1996 by Cristina Pineda and Ricardo Covalin, the creative team acknowledges that their inspiration and unique designs comes from Mexican culture and historical themes, Prehistoric culture, Mexican traditions, history and nature as well as Mexican painters such as Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, Andriacci, Correa, Heriberto Juarez, Javier Marin and more.
On the recent photo shoot with famed photographer Kevin Ellsworth, Alex modeled Pineda Covalin dresses and accessories. “Everything is very silky, very feminine and very colorful,” says Alex. She adds that
anyone can wear this line because it is classy and the dresses are easy to wear.
“You can tell when a designer likes women,” muses Alex, “as these clothes make you feel sensuous and yet happy. A favorite accessory of mine is a scarf in red and blue – primary colors. It’s beautiful and feels so sensuous against my skin.”
Another of her favorites is a reversible fringed poncho with black velvet on one side and white silk on the other. “I guess it appeals to me because of my roots and my practical nature. This accessory gives me two pieces of clothing with two very different looks and two entirely different feels against the skin,” says Alex. “Yet it packs easily as one into my suitcase.”
Of Mexican and Ukrainian descent, Los Angeles-based Alexandra Estella DeAnna Meneses has racked up over 50 television credits and numerous well-known flm credits to her name. Perhaps best known for her recurring role as Stefania, the “Gelato Girl” on Everybody Loves Raymond, Alex would go on to receive an ALMA Award Nomination as Best Supporting Actress in a Television series. Other guest starring roles include CSI: Miami, Prison Break, Psych, Friends,
Boomtown, Dharma & Greg and as Teresa Morales, a series regular on Dr. Quinn Medicine Women. Her flm credits include 44 Minutes in North Hollywood, The Flintstone’s Viva Rock Vegas, Funny Money and Selena.
Alex recently fnished the production, Fire from Below. Co-starring with Kevin Sorbo, this made-for-television adventure movie is about the chaos and pandemonium that ensue when pure lithium is carelessly combined with water. She also stars as Sophia Venezuela in the new ABC Series, This Might Hurt. Alex just fnished a Paramount Picture called Wrong Turn at Tahoe. It starred Academy Award winner, Cuba Gooding Jr., Harvey Keitel and Miguel Ferrer.
Not content to just act and model, Alex is founder of her own production company (OOLaLa Productions/LADDS Entertainment). As president, she recently wrapped production on a documentary that looks at life inside the polygamist community of Colorado City, Arizona. Just acquired by the Sundance Channel for airing next spring, Damned to Heaven delves into Mormon life and community; specifcally sects connected with the now incarcerated Warren Jeffs.
Alex is also executive producer for Australians Hit Hollywood, a documentary on Australians and New Zealanders involved with the Hollywood entertainment scene. Many A-list entertainers were interviewed for this flm, with surprising insights on their challenges, cultural differences and adaptations. The Australian Consul-General to Los Angeles receently hosted a special screening of the flm at his residence. On the horizon is a romantic comedy about “coming of age” in Chicago. Scheduled for spring of 2009, Alex is very involved as a “hands–on” working producer.
Besides being accomplished and beautiful, Alex is authentic and a joy to be around: She is the type woman that anyone, man or woman, would count lucky to have as a friend. This authenticity and compassion of the heart is also evident in her philanthropy activities which embrace education, children and animals. One of her most recent philanthropic endeavors is the establishment of the Alexandra Meneses Endowed Scholarship at her alma mater in Chicago — Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School. Alex wants to ensure that other young women can experience the benefts of a McAuley education as she did. Along with this endowment, she has established a Teacher’s Fund designed to boost salaries of McAuley’s dedicated teachers and to attract the very best talent. “I want McAuley to be competitive,” explains Alex.
Alex is also a member of the Board for the infuential Los Angeles Children’s Hospital. Other organizations where she serves on the Board include the United Hope for Animals, the Los Angeles Symphony and the Chicago Symphony. She is also a member of The Chicago Historical Society. Whether modeling, acting, directing or volunteering, Alex Meneses makes an impact wherever she goes. h
M exicoTRAV
LAURA PAUSINI, an icon of the song, an extremely talented woman endowed with a unique ability, an incomparable vocal projection and a feeling that shares phrase, theory and prose, shaping them with marvelous melodies. She is an artist who excels in every phase of her life–discovering new facets in the musical arena and infusing it with, in her unique and perfect style, contemporary pop.
MT: What does it mean to you to record after four years?
LAURA: The project, titled Primavera Anticipada (Anticipated Spring), represents for me enormous satisfaction and pleasure. There are fourteen themes that were composed during these years of refection, which represent various phases of my life. In this record, where I include my new compositions, I have wanted to give it a feeling of homogeneity. Primavera Anticipada signifes for me all that is reborn, of a new possibility to admire the change that begins to shine, to fll with colors, to share the happiness–and where that moment of new joy which comes into my life is born.
“thank
you for your kindness and your promotion; having been on the cover of BajaTRAV ELER ® is truly an honor.”
MT: Laura, we would like to know who has been an infuence for you in your musical career?
LAURA: In reality, I have tons of people to thank for their infuence in my musical career, but to mention just a few, the Beatles imparted a signifcant infuence. Since I was very young I would listen to Eros Ramazzotti and even today I still do. For many years I listened to Antonio Carlos Jobim in order to discover other rhythms; I can say that there are many artists I have listened throughout my life, including U2.
MT: We know that an artist of your category has immense sensibility, love of your neighbor and is continually looking for the human beneft, because that is the way you have portrayed yourself throughout the years and in your concerts. What do you feel while on stage with a full house–of youth, middle aged and older people–following along as you’re singing?
LAURA: Last year, while in Italy, I knew that I was the frst woman in my country to face an audience of that magnitude–varied and demanding–and it was truly the most fabulous and incomparable experience I had ever lived. When one faces this number of people and experiences how they are all in tune with one of your songs… one gets flled with Glory. There are no words to express such happiness. That moment of appearing onstage I dedicated my act and my songs to my grandmother, whom I recently lost. I knew she was there, I could feel her among my public; that evening it rained in Italy–surely there were tears shared for my grandmother whom I miss so much.
MT: In this new project, in which you are a producer, who participated with you as your arranger? Do you get involved in these arrangements, or do you let your composers get creative and do it all?
LAURA: Totally do it all? No. I get involved with lyrics and arrangements because I always know what I want and I always want the best for my songs. I’m very fortunate to have the help of great collaborators and incredible musicians such as Pablo Carta, Chezz Ovalli and Dado Parisinni, with whom I always discuss each theme. That’s how, at the end, we accomplish equilibrium in each song, a distinctive sound, until we fnd that which makes us all happy.
MT: In which country have you had an emotional overfow of energy, where you have managed to touch the most profoundly deepest part of your heart?
LAURA: In reality, wherever I sing–be it at a piano bar in any part of the world, or in front onstage at a stadium; I am always very emotional and the applause always touches my heart.
MT: What goes through the mind of Laura Pausini for the future following this great record, which no doubt will reach millions in sales? Will she continue in the same style of music or will she investigate something new?
LAURA: It’s something that’s always in my mind, since I sang with my father as a young girl. There are several styles of music that I like, from bossa nova to jazz, traditional Mexican songs and pop. But for now, I will continue with the style that comes natural for me and, without a doubt, helps me feel happy and fulflled. But until I have the physical
“I love it when my friends all over the world tell me they’ve seen me on the cover of BajaTRAVELER ® –especially those in Italy.”
need to write songs that will help me feel satisfed or take problems away, I must do it in the way that comes out the most inherent. There might come a time when I’ll need to sing simply for the sake of enjoyment, or to simply have fun.
MT: All I can do now is to thank immensely Laura Pausini, this icon of music worldwide and infnite compassion. We wish you the best and may the light of your grandmother and that of your loved ones be always present.
LAURA: I don’t know how to thank you for your kindness and your promotion; having been on the cover of BajaTRAVELER® is truly an honor. I love it when my friends all over the world tell me they’ve seen me on the cover–especially those in Italy. And you, Jorge, are tremendously sweet. Thank you very much! I hope soon I can go to Mexico and meet you in person. h
MexicoTRAVELER™ HAS AGAIN SELECTED a group of dynamic professionals to whom we pay tribute for their efforts toward making Mexico a strong, prosperous society with a solid infrastructure. Although their contributions are as varied as their backgrounds, they have one common purpose--that is to advance the economy, improve the lives of the people, and safeguard the environment of this great country.
The 2009 honorees selected includes a new assistant secretary of tourism who aims to bring to the world Mexico’s natural and cultural treasures; a president of the National Tourism Confederacy, the CEO of the largest Hispanic-owned business in the U.S.; a viticulturist who boldly started the market for premium wines in Mexico; a multi-talented man of who owns a dolphinarium and is expanding into diverse locations; chairman of one of the world’s largest developers in Mexico who has been an accomplished entrepreneur in widely diverse industries; Mexico’s leading independent hotelier and developer of luxurious properties; a CEO and pioneer in top-notch sustainable real estate and tourism development; the managing director of a company whose goal is to bring beauty and luxury to every woman; a top airline executive who feels honored to help travelers discover Mexico and the CEO of a marketing company who eases the way for visitors to enjoy major tourist destinations.
MexicoTRAVELER™ salutes all of these remarkable people for their achievements and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors.
“Moon
ith a keen eye on the present and a solid vision for the future, Alejandro Moreno Medina knows that Mexico must keep abreast of travel trends if the country is to lead the curve for travel and tourism. That is why, while he was Secretary of Tourism for Baja California, he was tapped for service to Mexico. His impressive background has well prepared him for this honored position.
From 1973 to 1978, Moreno attended the Superior Technical Training Center at the University, Tijuana, earning a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. For the next five years, he taught international business administration at the same university from which he graduated.
From 1990 to 1995, Moreno was general director of the state of Baja California and of the state for the cities of Tijuana and Tecate, and served as private secretary to Governor Ernesto Ruffo Appel. In the tourism industry he was a counselor, Vice President and President of the Convention & Visitor’ Bureau in Tijuana during the years from 1996 to 2001. Moreno was then invited by former governor Eugenio Elorduy to form part of his team as Secretary of Tourism for the state of B.C. from 2001 to 2007.
On April 1, 2008, Rodolfo Elizondo, Secretary of Mexico Tourism, invited Moreno as Deputy Secretary of Mexico Tourism and President Felipe Calderon appointed him. Together, they have a plan and a vision to keep Mexico’s travel and tourism sector vibrant and fresh.
“The invitation of Mexico’s Federal Secretary of Tourism came to me during a complex part of my life, which I had to consider very seriously,” he states. ”In essence I would return with an intense knowledge of the vision of the Federal Secretary which, for six years I would not only share but, in many senses transform into a guide and be able to duplicate in my own state of B.C. To work for Mexico is, without a doubt, a 180-degree turn in relation to working for my state.”
“The promotion of Mexico is an enormous responsibility,” explains Moreno. “But within that challenge we find exciting new opportunities and markets that include China, Russia and India--and these discoveries will share the cultural and natural treasures of Mexico.” Nevertheless, to be successful it is first necessary to understand the needs of these new markets and to have products and services that respond to those needs.
“Today, we understand the new trends,“ asserts Moreno. “Up until
now, Mexico has positioned itself as a destination of ‘sun and beach.’ However, today it is time that we show the world the other face of Mexico--the ‘moon and culture,” asserts Moreno. And that is precisely what Mexico is doing.
“The large majority of economic resources that the Federal Secretary of Tourism invests in our country today are oriented toward cultural and nature tourism,” Moreno notes. “After all, a country as rich as Mexico has untapped potential for travelers looking for cultural experiences beyond the traditional sand and sun. With its large diversity in archeological sites (of which there are more than 1,000), with nine cities that were named ‘World Heritage’ cities by UNESCO, and 35 “Magical Towns” and natural sites, new tourism products are strengthened and developed.” These small Pueblos Magicos is a denomination that the Federal Ministry of Tourism awards those towns that have preserved their originality since they were founded.
“Our long-term goal that we are focusing on is simply this: to integrate and develop new tourism products around culture and nature,” emphasizes Moreno. “To this end, we are devising a methodology to measure the value of our tourism investment and the success of these initiatives involving our people, our economy and our environment.”
Moreno was born in Mexico City in 1955 into a family of five siblings–three brothers and two sisters. His father began life in Merida, Yucatan and his mother in Mexico City. A year later, he moved with his family to Baja California where he spent his childhood and youth, enjoying the pristine beauty of the peninsula. Later, he met his wife, Mercedes, and enjoys the delight of having twin daughters, Sophia Mercedes and Nathalia, who are now 24 years old. He is also the grandfather of Ana Sophia, a constant joy and source of pleasure, “the most intense light in my life,” he declares.
Both life and his profession have taken Moreno from Mexico City, to Baja California and Tijuana and places in between. In the process, his love for Mexico and her people deepens every day. He is proud to be part of a team that is bringing the natural and cultural treasures of Mexico to the world.
“Mexico is a mosaic of cultures and natural beauty,” he exclaims with pride. “Furthermore, Mexico is full of warm people and full of magical charm. Mexico is truly an extraordinary country that should be experienced.” h
s President of the National Tourism Confederacy (CNT), which represents the highest echelons of the tourist industry in Mexico, Miguel Torruco Marqués has carved out a remarkable career in what he terms “The Fascinating World of Tourism.”
MWhile still a student at the Mexican School of Tourism he began his chosen career as a bellboy at the Paseo Hotel in Mexico City. It was here that he became convinced the tourism industry would be the key to his country’s economic development; his foresight led him to move in this direction. He gained a bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, writing his dissertation “La Asociación Mexicana de Hoteles y Moteles como herramienta fundamental para la consolidation del sector” (The Mexican Hotels and Motels Association as Fundamental for Sector Consolidation).
At Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, Torruco studied Hotel Management, and specialized in Tourism Marketing at the Inter American Center of Tourism Training (CICATUR), an entity of the Organization of American States (OAS). Later, as the Development and Training Assistant Manager at the airport service and operation authority of the Mexican federal government (ASA), he coordinated service excellence activities for 5,000 employees of the fifty-eight airport terminals in the Mexican Republic, and he was also the first graduate of tourism in Mexico to hold a general direction in the Federal Ministry of Tourism.
Teaching tourism also bears his distinctive mark; he was professor and deputy dean at the Mexican School of Tourism. Shortly after that, at age 25, he founded his own educational institution–the Pan American School of Hotel Management (EPH), which would later become the University of Tourism and Management Sciences (UTCA). As dean of this institution, he was a pioneer in Latin America creating, among other achievements, valid officially-recognized bachelor’s degrees, postgraduate studies in Hotel Management and Master degree.
The strength of Torruco’s leadership was evident in his creating the Tourism Graduates Association and the Mexican Association of Private Academic Institutions of Tourism. In 1991 he founded the Pan American Confederacy of Schools of Hotel Management, Gastronomy and Tourism (CONPEHT) over which he presided from 1991 until 1994. This confederacy represents the most prestigious educational institutions of 26 countries, from Canada to Argentina–and includes Spain.
In his present position as President of the National Tourism Confederation, he is also a member of the expert group belonging to the OMT (WTO), member of the Tourism Executive Commission, member of the Consulting Tourism Council and member of the Executive Board of the Tourism Promotion Council of Mexico.
An author of seven books and five studies on tourism, Torruco has lectured in fifty-four countries and has received numerous acknowledgements throughout his professional career. He has also been awarded the medal Lucas de Palacio for hotelier merit, the medal of Panamericano tourism merit, and gained recognition of the World Tourism Organization and various state governments.
“My greatest professional satisfaction is having been national president of the Mexican Association of Hotels and Motels for four years, 2000 through 2004, during which period the organization was consolidated and unified, increasing the number of affiliate associations throughout the country from 60 to 101,” Torruco explains. He took the organization to higher levels when he created and presided over the Latin American Confederacy of Hotel and Restaurant Associations (FLAHR).
Born in 1951 to parents Miguel Torruco Castellanos and María Elena Marqués Rangel in Mexico City, he grew up with his sister Marisela Torruco Marqués. And now, with a family of his own, Torruco lives in Mexico City with his wife and three children. When his busy schedule allows, he enjoys canoeing, rafting, expeditions into the jungle and activities related to nature. Asked what he sees in Mexico’s future he sees advancement.
“Until we achieve a national political agreement with the consensus of all political parties and approval of genuine structural reforms of state, Mexico will continue advancing–but to an uncertain fate,” he comments. “However, I am confident our representatives in Congress and President Felipe Calderón Hinojosa will take this great step and bring to future generations a country more prosperous, just–and fully developed.
“The nations that better preserve their environment and their historic and cultural identity will be the ones that will fully participate in the extraordinary economic success of the tourism of the future,” he says in summarizing his philosophy. And what of his aspirations for the future? “Reaching 90 years of age, giving lectures on my experiences in this exciting world of tourism!” he humorously concludes. h
Named one of the top twenty-five most influential Hispanics in the United States by Time Magazine in August 2005, Jorge M. Perez is the founder, Chairman and CEO of The Related Group. The company is America’s leading developer of luxury, multifamily real estate and sophisticated metropolitan living.
tinues to sell and outpace all other developments in Puerto Vallarta. I think that in this difficult time, people will look very closely at the developers they are buying from. We have an incredible track record of completed projects – and our design, quality and locations are unique.”
Since its inception more than a quarter of a century ago, The Related Group, the largest Hispanic-owned business in the United States, has built and/or managed more than 60,000 apartments and condominiums. While the group is best known for its luxury high-rise developments and visionary mixed-use urban centers, Perez made his first impact on South Florida’s affordable housing market. In the late 1970s, he started out building in neighborhoods such as Miami’s Little Havana and Homestead, when his attention to detail and commitment to creating quality living environments distinguished him within the market place.
Often being the first developer to enter emerging or undiscovered neighborhoods, Pérez has been at the forefront of South Florida’s urban evolution. Among the Related Group’s most recognized properties are Portofino Tower, Murano at Portofino and Murano Grande on South Beach. This trio of luxury high-rises helped define a hot, new emerging neighborhood south of fifth on South Beach. The Courtyards and The Tower Condominium at CityPlace West Palm Beach have added a dynamic residential element to the shopping and entertainment in the heart of this city.
And, in Miami, he helped lead the new downtown urbanism movement, developing One Miami on one of the last pieces of waterfront land at the intersection of the Miami River and Biscayne Bay. Perez is also part of the transformation of Sunny Isles from a sleepy seaside town into a chic waterfront address with the four luxurious Ocean condos and the three Trump Towers, as well as the newest luxury oceanfront condominium, Trump Hollywood.
In June 2007, venturing into the international real estate market, Perez launched the first Related International project, Icon Vallarta, in Puerto Vallarta. Its incredible sell-out success has paved the way for other projects both inside and outside Mexico. Related International will invest more than $1 billion in Mexico alone, with plans to erect upscale condos and hotels in other tourist locations.
“This year, should conditions improve, we are planning to launch another project in Zihuatanejo, with a high-end luxury hotel and residential developments,” explains Perez. Additionally Related is working on projects for the future in Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas and Playa del Carmen.
“Mexico continues to be a very attractive market – even in these times,” comments Perez. “We know the Mexican and foreign buyers are eager to buy into developments such as Icon Vallarta. Related con-
Beyond Mexico, he is researching other great Latin American destinations, such as Panama, Argentina, Uruguay and the Caribbean.
The passion Perez possesses for vibrant urban centers is reflected in his community involvement in the arts and cultural affairs. An avid collector of Latin American art, he serves of the Board of Directors of Miami Art Museum, and is spearheading the capital campaign for its new Museum Park location in Miami’s Bicentennial Park. He also serves as a vice-chair on the Miami-Dade Cultural Affairs Council, is a director of the Miami Film Festival and is on the Board of the Miami Downtown Development Authority.
Perez is a member of the University of Miami’s Board of Trustees; the university’s new Jorge M. Perez Architecture Center, designed by Leon Krier, made its debut in the fall of 2005. Similarly, the Miami Wellness Center has been named after Perez and his wife, Darlene. He has received many awards for his professional and philanthropic achievements from numerous associations and publications.
Most recently, he was awarded the Icon in Real Estate Award of Excellence at MIPIM in Cannes, France--the only American developer ever to have been honored with such a prestigious award. Furthermore, in June of 2007, he received the National Building Museum Award in Washington, D.C. for his contribution to design and architecture and was recently feted in London, receiving the International Property award for Icon Brickell. Perez published his first business bestseller, Power House Principles; The Billionaire Blueprint For Real Estate Success.
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Cuban parents, he graduated from C.W. Post College summa cum laude; and received a Masters Degree in Urban Planning with highest honors from the University of Michigan. In 2008, he was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from C.W. Post, Long Island University and received the 2008 Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Michigan. Besides his professional activities he finds time to appreciate life.
“For relaxation, I like to play tennis, read, enjoy fine dining, movies, watching sports and spending time with my family,” he says. Perez is married and has four children and measures success “in the happiness of my family and friends.” And what of Related’s plans for the future?
“We are also being called in by banks and other developers to help them bring to the finish line projects that are stuck at some point of the development process,” he replies. “It’s a year of opportunities for us.” h
hen the Spanish discovered the New World, they brought with them their love for wine and, inevitably, wherever they settled viniculture became a vital enterprise. Motivated by his own love for wine, Dr. Hans Backhoff became a prominent part of that endeavor when he started his organization, Monte Xanic Winery, in the Guadalupe Valley of Baja Mexico. The winery began operations in 1988, the year of its first harvest.
“Just before we started the business we had the challenge of choosing a name,” he explains. “We decided on Xanic, because it is a Mexican name.” The name comes from the Cora Indians from Nayarit; its delightfully poetic meaning is “the first flower that blooms after the first rain.”
It is the Mediterranean climate here that maintains the temperature and humidity to ideal levels for cultivating grapes. The warm summers, mild winters, sunny days and cool nights, combined with the high quality of both water and soil, make this region the perfect location for producing quality grapes.
“We selected a Mexican name for the winery because we think that wines are part of the land and the people who made them,” states Backhoff. “We mainly produce wines from grapes that originated in Bordeaux; any wine made from more than two types of grapes is a Bordeaux blend. We have two wines like that: Cabernet-Merlot of Monte Xanic and the star, a wine called Gran Ricardo in honor of one of my partners who has passed away.” In the whites, the winery produces Chardonnay, a sauvignon named Viña Kristel (which is the name of Backhoff’s youngest daughter) and a Chenin Blanc.
“Being able to start the market of the premium wines in Mexico has been most satisfying,” was his reply to the question of what he felt was his most fulfilling triumph. In the process his wines have brought him many prizes in international and national competitions, such as gold, silver, bronze and best-of-class awards and medals.
“I’d like to mention that the project of Monte Xanic winery was archived, thanks to my partners, the Hojel, Hagsater and Castro families,” Backhoff points out.
“I have also been honored by the Mexican government for help-
ing in the economic development of the region,” he says with pride. His plans for the future include beginning the $4.5 million construction of the third stage of the winery. “And to start a $35 million luxury hotel at the winery, we are in a joint venture with the Singapore Banyan Tree chain,” he adds.
A “local boy,” Backhoff was born in 1946 in Ensenada. His father, of German ancestry, was born in Nicaragua and his mother comes from Mexico City. On the path to his present situation, his extensive education carried him far afield. From 1965 to 1970 he studied at the Tecnológico de Monterrey, earning a bachelor’s degree in Food Science. He earned a diploma in Meat Science from the College of Distributive Trades in London, England, 1971 to 1972; he holds a doctorate in Food Science from the University of Nottingham, England, 1972 to 1976; and a diploma in Administration at Centro Investigación Dosencia Economica (CIDE), Mexico City, which he attended from 1976 to 1977.
Married for 37 years to Leticia Guerrero, he resides in Ensenada, but spends most of his time in the Guadalupe Valley. His talented family, which includes two daughters and one son, are Karla, an architect, who has both bachelor’s and master’s degrees of science; Hans, an oenologist, with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in science and an MBA; and Kristel, who is attending university studying International Tourism and has the honor of having one of the wines named for her. Is Backhoff able to take time from his busy schedule to relax?
Yes, occasionally he will find time for recreation, enjoying fishing, hunting, playing golf, listening to music and reading. We asked how he thinks his friends and colleagues regard him.
“As a fine friend, good father and a proficient worker,” he surmises. He explains that he measures success as happiness–with love being part of that. “If you are happy you are successful in life.” He also expresses a deep affection for his country.
“Mexico is a great country, I love its people, our freedom and all the natural beauties,” Backhoff says with feeling. “It is full of resources with a big potential–but also has many problems, such as the lack of education and poverty. I hope that by education we can overcome these problems. h
urly, white-bearded, Oscar Constandse, co-owner of eco-archaeological park Xcaret and natural aquarium Xelha in Quintana Roo, looks more like a jovial, affable Ernest Hemmingway, than a successful Mexican businessman. His impact on tourism and infrastructure in the state he’s made his home, however, has been no less than amazing.
Born and brought up in Mexico City, he completed his degree in civil engineering at Mexico’s most prestigious university, UNAM in 1961. That same year, as luck would have it, Constandse was offered the opportunity to work with a well-known engineer in Tabasco, José Luis Villafuente and jumped at the chance. “Villafuente was my frst great mentor,” he says, “and I felt it was an extraordinary opportunity. The six months I was due to spend with him turned into three years.”
Returning to Mexico City after his formative years in Villahermosa at 25, Constandse’s life was an endless cycle of working and partying. “I had the kind of life you can only keep up at that age and every day seemed to have at least 36 hours,” he says with a laugh. At this point Constandse was joined by lifetime associate, Marcos Constandse, his brother, setting up their frst construction company, Mezcalapa, together with two other partners. Nine years later, they had completed more than 1,000 construction jobs, despite a rocky start. “We were working 15hour days, traveling right across the republic,” Constandse comments.
Nonetheless there was one Mexican state that Constandse failed to visit during all these years of journeying to and fro – Quintana Roo. Finally in 1971 he made it; “Missing my boat to Cozumel, I was forced to return to Akumal, a place whose beauty fascinated me,” Constandse says. Upon his return to Mexico City, he simply couldn’t let go of its mental image and getting in touch with Akumal’s landowner, he asked if he could rent a bungalow there the following Christmas.
“I had dinner with Señor Pablo Bush, the owner, and he suggested we develop Akumal together. I decided to accept, even if it meant leaving behind all the creature comforts of Mexico City for a room in Akumal without water or electricity, but with abundant beauty and a future goal that could lead anywhere.” So smitten was Constandse with the place, that he swiftly moved down to Akumal and the rest, as they say, is history. Leaving the Mexico City businesses to his two brothers, Carlos and Marcos, Constandse took up the new challenge of putting this part
of Quintana Roo on the map.
After taking the plunge, many years of successful ventures across the state followed, in collaboration with old friends, as well as his two brothers. Together they formed Grupo Xcaret, the company managing the Eco parks Xcaret, Xelha and Via Delphi – the three jewels in the Constandse crown. Grupo Xcaret also manages various dolphin aquariums throughout Mexico. “I believe my best quality as a businessman has been to surround myself with people more intelligent, better prepared, more hard-working, more organized, more ambitious and more creative than myself,” he confesses, “and in many cases you could even put some of those adjectives together.”
Despite all the hard work, Constandse does fnd time for leisure on occasion and keeps ft by playing tennis with his wife Vilma on a daily basis. He also loves skiing, but doesn’t quite do it as often as he’d like. “I’m semi-retired from skiing,” he jokes, “as my wife can’t stand the cold.” Moreover, a love of the sea strongly infuenced his choice of moving to this part of Mexico and setting up subsequent ventures.
It was after his good friend Julián Bernal invited him to dive in the Bahamas that Constandse frst tried the moving experience of swimming with dolphins. Truly inspired, he returned to Mexico with plans to set up something similar there and after persuading an excellent trainer, Alejandro Gómez Rubio, to join the venture, all they needed was a good location. Luckily this coincided with the setting up of Xcaret and they decided to locate the frst dolphinarium there, later expanding to other locations.
Although he has many achievements to be proud of, Constandse is humbly the frst to admit frustrations and failings over the years. His companies have provided jobs for some 15,000 families in the area, but there are still things to be done and new challenges to explore. “I lament the disorganization and sometimes lack of professionalism displayed by authorities in terms of the development of the coast,” he admits. Being the kind of man he is, his ambitions include constructing both a beautiful garden and a beautiful hotel, but what is the most striking is his desire “to carry on living the way I’m living, with my wife, kids, brothers and my mom Vina whom I adore and certainly my great childhood friends whom are still with me.” For a man with so many irons in the fre, this could be the hardest dream of all to fulfll. h
s chairman of the board of homex, one of the largest home building companies in the world, Eustaquio Tomás de Nicolás Gutiérrez is responsible for strategic planning, new business development and land acquisition. He oversees the company’s main operations, focusing on land acquisition and developing new geographical markets.
HOMEX, the fastest growing and leading developer of housing in Mexico in the past two years, is engaged in the development, construction and sale of entry-level, middle-income and upper-income housing. It is one of the most geographically diversifed in the country; as of December 31, 2007, the company had 98 developments under construction in 33 cities located in 21 Mexican states. With a vision of “Building Successful Communities, it is recognized as a “Socially Responsible Company: and as a “Great Place to Work.”
Before co-founding the company in 1989, de Nicolás founded and managed DENIVE, a clothing manufacturing company. He has also served as regional chairman and regional vice chairman of the Mexican Federation of Industrial Housing Promoters, or PROVIVAC (Federación Nacional de Promotores Industriales de la Vivienda). He was also a member of the regional advisory board of fnancial institutions such as BBVA Bancomer and HSBC (formerly BITAL).
Born in Culiacán, Sinaloa, in 1961, to Eustaquio de Nicolás Vera and Josefna Gutiérrez Pando, he was raised with siblings Ana Luz, José Ignacio, Gerardo and Julián de Nicolás Gutiérrez. At the Universidad Panamerica he earned a degree in Industrial Engineering. With his wife and two daughters he presently resides in Culiacán, Sinaloa. MexicoTRAVELER asked him how he thinks his friends and business associates would describe him.
“That I am an honest person who makes friends easily – and that I have a good instinct for business,” he surmises. His most satisfying triumphs are to have been “an accomplished entrepreneur in different industries, such as clothing and home building.” And what of his plans and aspirations for the future?
“Ten years ago, HOMEX’s management team planned our future,” de Nicolás responds. “Today, we are one of the 50 most important “organizations” doing business in the Top 10 development economies in the world. Our challenge is to gain access to new markets and create value to our customers and shareholders.” His main motivation is to provide quality homes to his clients, he says.
The company is also fully committed to its expansion in new markets such as India. During the second quarter of 2008, the Company formed HOMEX India as a joint venture with Daksh Builders and Developers Pvt. Ltd. HOMEX India intends to establish its frst pilot project of low to middle income housing in northern India later this year. The
HOMEX, the fastest growing and leading developer of housing in Mexico in the past two years, is engaged in the development, construction and sale of entry-level, middle-income and upper-income housing.
company has advanced $1.4 million (U.S.) under the agreement and expects to spend approximately $3 million (U.S.) in connection with this joint venture during the remainder of 2008. We asked de Nicolás how he would measure success.
“Success is something you build every day, by staying true to your word and actions,” he responds. What he loves most about Mexico is “our people, our culture. Every day we work hard to build a great country; as long as we keep our promises and do as we say, we can achieve anything.” h
nything is possible if you dream. After all, the sky is the limit to what you can do. And because Ernesto Coppel believed in his dreams and dreamed big, he can now look back and see how far he has come from his earlier days when he had nothing. “I was broke,” says Coppel. “I was 14 months behind in my rent.” But because the landlord was his Aunt, he didn’t get thrown out and in the process discovered his talents in selling real estate.
Originally from Mazatlan, Coppel came to Cabo because he was running out of property to sell in Mazatlan. The natural beauty of the area combined with tremendous real estate bargains in land and the potential for development were reasons he decided to stay. However, he still fondly remembers that one of his proudest moments was, “…when I fnished my frst hotel in Mazatlan (Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan) in 1987, from almost nothing.”
Today, Coppel is a self-made millionaire and Mexico’s leading independent hotelier. He is President and Founder of Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts & Spas, a collection of luxurious properties in Mexico. Four are in Cabo San Lucas and include Pueblo Bonito Pacifca, Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Resort & Spa, Pueblo Bonito Rose, and Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos. Mazatlan is home to two–Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan and Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay while Puerto Vallarta has the fve-star Pueblo Bonito Punta Mita and Samba Vallarta, an all-inclusive resort.
In addition to his mini empire, Coppel recently teamed up with Jack Nicklaus of Nicklaus Golf to build two Signature Golf Courses in Quivira. They are expected to rank among the best in North America and will feature more oceanside holes than any other Baja development. The course will take advantage of the natural terrain consisting of canyons, sand dunes, and spectacular ocean views. Expected completion date is by summer 2009.
Quivira, located in Los Cabos, is a premier luxury residential resort community and a $1.5 billion investment development that is already home to The Pueblo Bonito Pacifca, an internationally-acclaimed, award-winning holistic spa and oceanfront retreat. Its name is inspired by one of the seven legendary lost cities of gold and the 16th and 17th
century explorers who dedicated their lives to that quest and the search for legendary hidden treasures. Today, the hidden treasures have been found at Quivira –a close-knit community of residents and guests that value exclusivity, luxury, and world-class amenities.
Coppel has gone on to receive innumerable awards, personally and for his resorts. His achievements were nationally recognized by travel and tourism leaders and his professional peers, when in 2004, Mexico’s President Vicente Fox honored Coppel as “Entrepreneur of the Year” for Tourism and for his work with Pueblo Bonito properties. In particular, it was noted how Ernesto Coppel and Pueblo Bonito Hotels & Resorts have provided many communities that surround
Coppel is a self-made millionaire and Mexico’s leading independent hotelier. He is President and Founder of Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts & Spas, a collection of luxurious properties in Mexico.
his properties with roads, schools, housing, bus transportation, and jobs. His focus is on improving environmental development while minimizing the impact on ecosystems. In 2005, Coppel went on to win “Businessman of the Year.”
The resorts have also won extensive awards, for beauty and preservation of the environment, dining excellence, and overall guest satisfaction. Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Resort & Spa was recently named to Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List 2008 and earned additional recognition as Best Hotel in Food in the Americas.
Coppel is known for his principles of excellence, quality, and commitment to service. “It has been my life’s work to provide the very fnest experiences, services and amenities,” he says with a smile. “This is a dream I feel I have made come true through my many world-class resorts in Mexico.” h
erving as the chief executive offcer of CostaBaja Resort in La Paz, Alejandro C. Yberri III is surrounded in magical paradise. But, it’s the kind of paradise that has inspired him in his more than 30-year career in the tourism and real estate industries to consistently evolve and grow the organizations with which he works.
AHis professional background touches nearly every corner of the travel spectrum from airlines to real estate and involvement in committees with organizations like the Marketing Advisory Board for the National Tourism Council of Mexico. Yberri is a proud graduate of the Instituto Tecnologico de Monterrey, and he earned his Master’s degree in Tourism from The Scottish Business School at Strathclyde University in Glasgow, Scotland.
He began his career in tourism real estate projects with such successful developments as San Carlos in Guaymas, Sonora and Las Hadas in Manzanillo. He also served as vice president of advertising, promotion and public relations for FONATUR, the Mexican Trust Fund for Tourism Development. He then honed a 17 year-long tenure in the hotel and resort industry where he served as the regional vice president of operations for Mexico and the chief operating offce of the holding company Presidente Hotels, which owned the properties.
Yberri then ventured into the dynamic airline industry when he served as the chief marketing offcer for Aeromexico, the largest airline in the country, where he directed all marketing, sales and passenger service activities overseeing over more than $1.5 billion dollar in sales. During this time, he was an integral part of the re-designing of airport operations for the airline many of which are refected in Mexico City’s new terminal building.
Perhaps the pinnacle of his career lies in the success of the merging of the Prudential Real Estate Investors (PREI) and Grupo Concord development frms allowing CostaBaja to become one of the most environmentally conscious and carefully masterplanned communities in the country. This merging deal secures the resort’s spot in one of the lifestyle travel industry’s latest trends as properties shift towards a green operation.
“CostaBaja benefts tremendously through the association with PREI, which brings to the project a wealth of worldwide experience and credibility,” notes Yberri.
His leadership at CostaBaja began in 2006 when Manuel Arango, Chairman of Grupo Concord, entrusted Yberri to embrace his vision and oversee the development of a 550-acre masterplanned community. This all took place when the property consisted only of a marina, a 120-room hotel, a retail area and a handful of residences. Yberri took
charge and immediately put together a masterplan that boasts a Beach Club (already opened), an upgraded resort hotel complete with infnity pools, a full service deluxe spa (opening soon), villas, townhomes and residences and the Gary Player Signature championship golf course. This is Player’s frst course in Mexico and promises to be a stunner. The course will feature panoramic views of The Sea of Cortez and an innovative design that incorporates the unique desert-by-the sea landscape to offer a challenging experience to golfers from all over the world. Opening in summer 2010, Yberri believes this course, together with the access to The Sea of Cortez, will be the centerpieces that will draw Mexican and international investors to purchase a home in this already magnifcent community. “The golf course is being designed by Gary Player, an international renowned advocate of environmental protection, to ensure the preservation of the delicate ecosystem of this beautiful region, while blending seamlessly with the CostaBaja development”, Yberri notes.
“My years in the hospitality industry have prepared me for my role at CostaBaja,” said Yberri. “We try to relieve any worries or concerns for those buying a second home here. Our home owners services offce is very similar to a concierge who handles our clients’ various needs, of course this effort is supported by a very qualifed professionals from development to services, operations, sales and marketing and administration such as the management team we have in place in CostaBaja.”
Throughout the construction of this masterplanned community, Yberri has been careful to minimize impact on the area’s valuable natural resources, His environmental consciousness is in keeping with that of the developers for whom he works. “Our chairman Manuel Arango led the effort to purchase Espíritu Santo Island in the Sea of Cortez— now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and donate it back to the government, ensuring the island would be preserved and protected.” Yberri proudly believes that it is their “obligation and responsibility with the community of La Paz and their customers to protect and care for the environment.”
Alejandro Yberri is certainly a noble player in the Mexican tourism arena for his dedication to creating world-class destinations that are sensitive to environmental concerns. He has been the recipient of numerous honors including being named the Resort Marketer of the Year for Westin Hotels and Resorts, but he is most proud of his family: wife Cristina and three daughters Paloma, Ana Sofa, and Maria Jose.
His passion for improving and preserving local heritage and surroundings guarantees that future generations will continue to enjoy the fruits of his labor. h
eing raised in a business environment, I always wanted to develop better skills in management, marketing and fnance to help grow the business,” declares José Ramón (Pepe Jr.) Garcia Villarreal, Managing Director of Grupo Ultrafemme in Cancun, a unique company that offers quality service and an extensive collection of world-famous brands in a luxurious environment.
Jfering its clients the very latest in products and techniques--skin treatments in particular. Thus, the Ultrafemme Skin Lounges are established offer that magic in a number of its stores.
Its stores are located in major the malls of Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen and Los Cabos. Ultrafemme features perfumes, skin treatment and cosmetics; Ultrajewels offers brand name timepieces, jewelry and gifts. Cancun is a destination where it is now possible to shop in the most exclusive renowned brand boutiques all under the same roof. Luxury Avenue Boutique Mall offers a lavish shopping experience, reminiscent of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, or New York’s famous Fifth and Madison Avenues.
Born December 19, 1973, in Cancun, Garcia graduated with degree in Gemology from the Gemological Institute of America, New York He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Babson College, Wellesley, Massachusetts, majoring cum laude in Marketing/Management, with a concentration in French Language and Culture. He has also served as a consultant director to both Empresarial and Bancomer in Cancun. Meanwhile, Garcia has never ceased to devote his talents to working in and expanding the family business.
Utrafemme was founded December 13, 1975, by Elena Villarreal and José Garcia, parents of Garcia Jr. They never lost sight of their vision--to create a space, which offered an extensive amount of prestigious worldwide-known brands, in a luxurious atmosphere. Today, that vision is a reality not only with Ultrafemme--their frst creation, but also in Ultrajewels--a mall for jewelry, and Luxury Avenue--a luxurious mall. Garcia, who resides in Cancun, has managed to carry on fulflling the dreams of his parents as the company has expanded.
The company feels that the Ultrafemme woman does not want to lie about her age, she just wants people to think she is younger than she really is. She doesn’t want them to admire her; she just wants to bewitch the most diffcult critic of all--the mirror! She knows that she sometimes needs the help of magic. The leading chain of high end cosmetics stores in Southeast Mexico and Los Cabos, owes much of its success to staying a step ahead of the others in the industry in of-
Sea Jewels, the Ultrafemme Group’s division specializing in the production, distribution and sale of its unique brand of destination fragrances, has embarked on a campaign of support for one of Mexico’s most important environmental preservations: the Sian Ka’an Biosphere. A portion of the sale of every Sea Jewels product sold this year will be donated to the non-governmental non-proft organization responsible for overseeing the Biosphere. The donation is specifcally designated for the protection and preservation of the immense coral reef that lies just off the coast of the Mexican Caribbean.
Located in major malls of Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen and Los Cabos, the company‘s mission is to accomplish the goal that their clients will enjoy a memorable, positive experience with each sale. Its vision is to be recognized as a leader within Mexico in the operation of brands and luxury commerce. With both Ultrafemme and Ultrajewels, both have managed to keep the prices between 10-to-40 percent below retail prices in the United States. This is due to the fact that Cancun is a duty free destination for imported goods such as Montblanc, Tiffany & Co, Chopard, David Yurman, Roberto Coin, Christofe, Lalique, Lladro and Baccarat.
“Our Luxury Avenue Cancun Mall, with 6,000 of the most luxurious brands in the world under one sophisticated refned environment” is what Garcia considers his most satisfying triumph to date. And what are his plans and aspirations for the future?
“The completion of our Luxury Avenue Los Cabos project in Cabo San Lucas,” is his enthusiastic reply. “We are very proud to be complementing the tourism sectors in Cancun and, in the near future, we will have a strong presence in Baja Sur California.” Garcia strongly believes in and supports the tourist industry in Mexico.
“It is one of Mexico’s strongest resources,” he states. “Grupo Ultrafemme has always worked actively to support and strengthen Mexico as a country with tourist destinations which offer noteworthy luxury shopping that compare to the best shopping destinations around the world.” h
orge Goytortua-Bores loves to promote Mexico—an essential quality to embrace if you happen to be Vice President of Sales for the number one airline in Mexico, Mexicana Airlines. “The market for travel to Mexico is brilliant and without limits,” said the 40-year-old executive. “We have a unique destination. There is great culture and traditions, archeological zones, a colonial history, beautiful beaches, and environmental treasures. The future of Mexico is bright and I am honored to help travelers discover our country.”
Jteammate. Working for Mexicana, especially in this capacity is a magnifcent experience. Plus, Mexico has given so much to me, that I am grateful to give something back.”
Born in 1968 in Guadalajara, Jorge said he had a happy childhood, but came from humble beginnings. “We didn’t have a big house, or take fancy vacations, but nothing was missing. The values I learned from my mother and father, who are still alive, were based on love, not material gains. The best present they gave me was a college education.”
In college at the Universidad del valle de Atemajac in Guadalajara, Jorge became student body president, and formed a student association. He got a frst taste of his future profession when the association organized a tourism convention for the university. It was so successful that the university alumni still use him as a role model—a mentor of sort for others to follow.
Jorge began his career at Mexicana Airlines in 1992 as a passenger service agent at Guadalajara’s airport. A high achiever since the beginning, he became the youngest supervisor and also the youngest manager—both gains involving competitive felds with qualifed people, a real challenge for this highly driven individual. In spring of this year, he was appointed to his current position, Vice President of Sales for the airline which covers all of the United States and Canada.
Mexicana has been in business since 1921—that’s 88 years. It is the frst airline established in Mexico and the world’s fourth oldest airline operating under the same name. From its frst days, through the beginnings of the jet era, and into the present, Mexicana has a well-deserved reputation for technical excellence and as an aviation innovator. More than 6,000 people comprise Mexicana’s team, making it possible to service the Americas. From Canada to Argentina and the recently inaugurated fights to London and Madrid, Mexicana covers a vast array of routes. Currently, Mexicana serves 11 destinations in Mexico from Los Angeles, more than any other carrier, with its most recent addition being a Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta daily nonstop.
“Business is demanding, we live in hard times,” said Jorge. “I credit my success to caring about people—treating them with integrity and respect. Everyday is a challenge to be a better person and a better
What is the greatest gift that Mexicana Airlines gave him? “My wife Ana Laura,” said Jorge. “That is how we met, through work.” Two children and fourteen years of marriage later, Jorge’s professional challenge is to look for new markets and implement sales strategies—all of which require dedication. His position involves a lot of travel and networking with people, but for Jorge, it’s an honor. “Mexicana Airlines is a solid company. They care about people. Our company is a long-term employer that works together as a family.”
Experience, technology and great customer service are a few attributes that have made Mexicana the prestigious World Travel Award recipient for ten consecutive years. Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards are considered the only international awards that recognize standards of excellence in the tourism services offered by the world travel industry. Mexicana has been widely recognized for its excellent in-fight service offering free meals and beverages including beer and tequila. “Nobody knows Mexico like Mexicana” is the company slogan. Recently Mexicana launched MexicanaGo, the new loyalty frequent fyer program that offers greater benefts that any other program in the industry. This past March, Mexicana luanched MexicanaLink, the new regional carrier of the group which serves domestic markets in Mexico out of Guadalajara and Monterrey as a hub. In 2008, Mexicana transported 11.7 million passengers; over one million more passengers than its closest competitor, consolidating its reputation as Mexico’s number one airline. In the coming months, Mexicana will join the oneworld global alliance.
Jorge embraces the opportunity to represent the distinguished airline in sales and public relations, but also tries to balance work with his personal life. How does Jorge enjoy his private time? “I spend it with my family. I am a hard worker and am on the road so much. When I am home, I dedicate myself one hundred percent to my family. We enjoy movies and going to the park.”
What is his favorite place in Mexico? “Oaxaca. When I was stationed there I gained twenty fve pounds—that’s how good the food is. But I also love my home state of Jalisco. My roots are there. Every time I go back, the people are so warm and loving to me. The feeling of goodwill and gratitude remain to this day.” h
Pou’re starting to make your travel plans. You’ve narrowed down your search. The media bombards you, and now, TV, newspaper, Internet and magazines ads all beg for your attention. Where are you going to go? Vacation travel often brings to mind dreams of lands afar, pristine beaches, culture, relaxation and fun. But what makes you select that optimum travel destination? Is it advertising? Word of mouth? Good PR?
In actuality, it’s all of these factors, leading up to that decision to pick up the phone, or click that link and make a reservation. And Peter Yesawich of Ypartnership is often the brain behind many of your travel decisions. His is an interesting story.
With three degrees from Cornell, one of which includes a doctorate in applied psychology, Peter is also a graduate of the Advanced Management Program at Yale. While attending graduate school, he became the Director of Research for a company specializing in marketing travel services. They conducted a survey on why so few Americans were visiting Central and South America. The frm soon gained marketing assignments from the governments of Venezuela and Chile as a result of these fndings, and Peter eventually joined the frm on a full-time basis.
In 1983, he began Robinson, Yesawich & Pepperdine an integrated marketing communications company that provides marketing services that help travel destinations become top of mind. The name of the agency changed to Yesawich, Pepperdine & Brown in 1996, and to Ypartnership in 2007.
As chairman and CEO of the company, Peter is a frequent commentator on trends in the travel sector, quoted in such publications as The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Time, Newsweek, and many other formidable publications such as ours. He’s also been listed in Who’s Who in America, and has won many awards affliated in the travel industry. Clearly, he knows his stuff.
Although there is tremendous competition in marketing the travel sector, Ypartnership is acknowledged as the leading source of insight into the emerging market trends of travel. The frm is also widely recognized for its strategic thinking and breakthrough creativity. All members of their management team come from some aspect of service marketing, mainly in the travel business.
With over 150 employees operating out of seven offces worldwide, the services at Ypartnership entail a comprehensive combination of direct marketing, strategic alliances, creative and interactive
services that ensure that their clients get maximum exposure for their investment dollar.
As we all know from personal experience, the travel business has changed quite a bit in recent years. Although magazines such as MexicoTRAVELER are wonderful resources–the Internet has also grown a lot, with consumers gathering background information on destinations before deciding on where they want to travel.
“Two-thirds of all active travelers now use the internet to plan their travel experiences, and six out of ten now regularly book online,” Peter remarks. “The result is that more consumers have become enlightened “shoppers” and less brand loyal.”
But Peter still believes in the importance of travel agents.
“Roughly one third of all active travelers still use the services of travel agents, especially those who are older and more affuent. In fact, this fgure is actually on the rise. Travelers now place a higher value on the time they would have to invest in planning a trip to make sure things go well, and that they have access to the best prices, than they do the service fee they would pay an agent to insure they get exactly what they want. Hence, they increasingly see the service provided by agents as one that delivers excellent value.” he adds.
And oddly enough, although some sources say that domestic travel has been gaining in popularity due to the rising costs of gas and the weak dollar, “many international destinations are even more popular than ever, as revealed in our 2008 National Travel Monitor,” Peter asserts. “Those that are less popular tend to be more expensive and/or hard to get to.”
And that bodes well for Mexico, the world’s eighth-most visited destination. Peter works directly with the Mexico Tourism Board, a coveted assignment with a budget worth over $40 million dollars. But this task also refects a passion for the country that is near and dear to his heart. He’s seen just about every major tourist destination in the country, and his affection for Mexico is so high, that he and his wife are currently building a home in the colonial section of Merida, the capital city of the state of Yucatan.
“All the major beach destinations are hot right now, and soon the central colonial cities will be as well,” he adds.
Whether it’s relaxation, history, commerce or culture, Mexico is sure to remain a popular choice for North Americans because of its accessibility and affordability thanks to Peter Yesawich, putting the “Yes” in your travel plans to Mexico. h
Player added, “Now that I’m old I can say it – Mexico has beautiful women, great food and wonderful people.”
CostaBaja Resort & Marina
text and photos by Karin Leperi and Mayté Rodríguez Cedillo
MENTION GOLF and chances are that Gary Player comes to mind as one of the most accomplished professionals in the sport. Also known as the Man-in-Black or the Black Knight, his legendary golfng prowess and quest for perfection are known around the world, including his native South Africa. He runs in a circle of other golfng greats: Some of his best friends are Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Lee Trevino.
Gary Player was recently in La Paz for the debut of CostaBaja, the frst Gary Player Signature Golf Course in Mexico and MexicoTRAVELER™ was there. The event took place last January and it was truly amazing! Garys’ wonderful personality brought many smiles to those present. The course, a 6,800 yard, par 72, began construction in January 2009 and is scheduled to open for full play in the summer of 2010. Player’s business company “Gary Player Design” is known for its attention to detail and for its commitment to preserving and protecting the ecosystem and natural environment. This is totally consistent with CostaBaja’s goal to harmonize with the natural topography and surrounding environment. (CostaBaja was recently awarded the Certifcate of Tourist Environmental Quality for its green practices – Mexico’s most prestigious environmental care award.)
Located in La Paz, the capital city of Baja California Sur, golfng vistas embrace some of the most stunning scenery on the Baja Peninsula. An electric combination of coastal desert and the sparkling Sea of Cortez provide golfng afcionados with the ultimate visual candy as they accept the challenges of an 18-hole Signature world-class golf course.
Alejandro C. Yberri, Managing Director of CostaBaja Resort & Marina, welcomed Player with open arms and of course, a strong dose of legendary Mexican hospitality and sunshine. “The team at CostaBaja Resort & Marina is honored to welcome Gary Player and his design team to La Paz…” said Yberri. “We are thrilled to have partnered with Gary Player, who is not only a legend in the game and the international ambassador of golf, but a seasoned course designer with more than 300 courses, all across the globe, completed to date. We feel very honored that CostaBaja is his frst course in Mexico.”
CostaBaja Resort & Marina is a 550-acre resort community with spaciously designed residences that include a bundle of onsite amenities. From a private 250-slip double-basin marina to a surrounding Marina Village with requisite fne-dining, casual munching, and retail shops, it is hard to surpass the ambiance of CostaBaja. Other amenities include a 120-room hotel, ftness center, private Beach Club and available charter services.
Player was warmly welcomed to Baja California Sur with accolades beftting of the dignitary that he is. “I am truly excited to be doing my frst design project in Mexico at CostaBaja Resort & Marina,” remarked Player. “La Paz is gaining wonderful momentum as a tourist destination and the golf course to be built at this stunning site on the Sea of Cortez will do nothing but contribute to that. I look forward to experiencing the well-known Mexican hospitality during my visits to CostaBaja.” Player added, “Now that I’m old I can say it – Mexico has beautiful women, great food and wonderful people.”
CostaBaja is being developed by Grupo Concord in partnership with PREI, the real estate investment management business of Prudential Financial Inc. (NYSE:PRU). Phase I of the development has already been completed and its casual luxury is being enjoyed by owners. Phase II has commenced with the construction of two new neighborhoods boasting water and golf views. VistaMar and Las Colinas start at the mid $400,000’s and go for just less than $2 million.
A two-hour direct fight from Los Angeles or two-hour drive from Los Cabos, La Paz is the gateway to accessible luxury surrounded by the authentic charm of “Old-World Mexico.” La Paz also offers an assortment of some of the best adventure-tourism in Mexico along with an abundance of water-based sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling and sport fshing.
With a professional golfng career spanning more than fve decades, Player has racked up a stack of achievements and awards unparalleled in golfng history. He is ranked by Golf Digest, Golf and Asian Golf magazines as one of the Top 10 All-Time Greatest Golfers Ever. Winning 163 tournaments, he is also one of only fve golfers to have won all four of golf’s modern Majors. Referred to as a Career Grand Slam, he shares this feat with Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods.
Other lifetime achievements include:
• Over $14 million in combined worldwide earnings;
• Victories in 27 consecutive years, ten years more than the second best;
• The World’s Most Traveled Athlete with over 13 million air miles;
• Oldest player to make the cut at the Open Championship (age 59 in 1995);
• Oldest player to make the cut at the Masters (age 62 in 1998);
• Holds the records for most consecutive cuts made at the Masters with 23
Player feels his success is as much a part and outcome of the way he chooses to live. Based on his insights from a lifetime of learning, he offers readers below, his personal version of the Ten Commandments:
1. Change is the price of survival.
2. Everything in business is negotiable, except quality.
3. A promise made is a debt incurred.
4. For all we take in life we must pay.
5. Persistence and common sense are more important than intelligence.
6. The fox fears not the man who boasts by night but the man who rises early in the morning.
7. Accept the advice of the man who loves you, though you like it not at present.
8. Trust instinct to the end, though you cannot render any reason.
9. The heights of great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden fight, but that while their companions slept were toiling upward in the night.
10. There is no substitute for personal contact. h
1. El Camaleón Golf Course at the MayaKoba Resort, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo
This chameleon-like course features 18-holes that can be quite changeable in their nature due to three distinct landscapes. An indigenous and environmentally inspired design, El Camaleón incorporates an ancient underground cavern and is the only course in the Riviera Maya sporting two holes abutting the Caribbean Sea.
2. Playa Mujeres Golf Club, Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo
Recognized as one of the top courses in Mexico, Playa Mujeres has 36-holes of ecologically friendly golf with magnifcent views of the Caribbean. First Latin American course certifed by Executive Women’s Golf Association as “Women Friendly.”
3. Puerto Los Cabos, San José del Cabo, B.C.S.
This championship layout leverages tremendous changes in elevation to showcase panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
4. Litibu, Nayarit
SCHEDULED TO OPEN IN 2009
5. Mayan Resorts, San José del Cabo, B.C.S. CURRENTLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION
6. Bay View Grand / La Costa Resort, Ensenada, B.C. UNDER CONSTRUCTION
7. Playa Mujeres (2), Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo
PLANNED
8. Emerald Estates, Mazatlan, Sinaloa PLANNED
9. Punta Tiburón, Alvarado, Veracruz PLANNED
10. Norman Course at Rancho San Lucas, Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S. PLANNED
For the latest updates on Greg Norman Design Golf Courses in Mexico, check out www.gngcd.com
text by Karin Leperi & Mayté R odríguez Cedillo photos by Great White Shark E nterprises
ALWAYS A MAN TO SEEK CHALLENGES, Greg Norman–also known as The Great White Shark–looked longingly south for his frst golf course in Mexico. So he dreamed it, came to Mexico–and built it–knowing the pros would come. And in 2007, come they did. The PGA Tour held its frst offcial event in Mexico and because of its resounding success, the PGA decided to come back again in February 2008.
Known as El Camaleón, the 18-hole resort course opened in 2006 and is located in MayaKoba; 35 miles south of Cancun in the Riviera Maya, state of Quintana Roo. The course incorporates three distinct landscapes–dense jungle, mangrove forests and sandy stretches of oceanfront vistas. The course can be changeable much like a chameleon. Hence the challenge.
Norman established Greg Norman Golf Course Design in 1987, capitalizing on his expertise and 25-year golfng career as a touring professional. With headquarters in Jupiter, Florida and sister facilities in Sydney, Australia, Norman has designed and opened 63 courses worldwide, with another 56 in the pipeline. Of these, three are open for play in Mexico with another seven in the planning or construction phase.
When asked about the future of golf in Mexico, Norman is excited about his presence and prospects. “Mexico epitomizes what the future of the game of golf is all about,” says Norman. “Golfers are visiting emerging markets such as Mexico where the concentration and variety of quality courses means more rounds with less travel time in between.”
And it is because of the amazing beauty and topographical variety of golf courses in Mexico that makes it such an alluring destination for many golfers and visitors. Since design elements are an integral part of this successful appeal, MexicoTRAVELER™ asked Norman what factors he uses in designing his golf courses in Mexico.
“Golf course design is not simply taking a piece of land and altering the landscape to ft a plan that you have in mind,” explains Norman. “In today’s world, dealing with any kind of development takes a lot of patience and a commitment to leaving the site in better environmental shape than you found it. We meet our objectives by not thinking about a routing or layout until I have had an opportunity to walk the virgin piece of land. We never try and ft a golf course onto land that will not allow for it. Each piece of earth is unique, and therefore, each design is as well. We never go to a
site with a preconceived notion of what the property should become.”
“When I design a course, my goal is to create something that both challenges and accommodates all skill levels, and that’s not an easy task. I believe anyone can build the hardest golf course in the world, but it’s something entirely different to design a course where players remember all 18 holes. That’s what great design is all about,” notes Norman. “The course has to test everyone–male, female, high handicapper or professional–but provide an enjoyable experience to everyone as well.”
A successful golf course design should be aesthetically pleasing, challenging and yet playable. It also incorporates natural landscaping with a strategic integration of grasses, stonework, sand, vegetation and water. Some have taken an additional step in trying to make things “green” by incorporating special environmental features.
For Norman, that means that each project must be a collaborative effort between the designer, the developers and the environmentalists. “If you have a unifed relationship from the beginning, you will ultimately have success at the end. With each and every course that we design, my goal is to leave the property in better environmental condition than we found it. Honestly, I believe golf courses can be a great gift back to Mother Nature. My design team is always conscious of environmentally sensitive areas, and we focus on using the greatest number of existing features a site has to offer.”
“We hope our courses present the country as both a domestic and international golf destination that is quickly establishing itself as one of the best in the world. Mexico has such terrain differences between elevations and topographical challenges that allow us to create something very unique to each site.”
Since Norman is personally involved in every step of his golf course design process, he fnds that he is spending more time in Mexico. “As my golf course design and event management businesses evolve in Mexico, I am exposed to more and more of the country, its culture and its people, and my respect and appreciation continues to grow. I take great pride working in emerging markets and I believe golf and tourism will certainly experience a positive trend in the next few years.” h
1. Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol, Los Cabos, B.C.S.
JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, RESORT
2. Palmilla at the One & Only Palmilla, Los Cabos, B.C.S. (27) JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, RESORT
3. El Dorado, Los Cabos, B.C.S.
JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, PRIVATE
4. Vista Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, RESORT
5. Punta Mita at the Four Seasons, Punta de Mita, Nayarit
JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, RESORT
6. Canadas de Sante Fe, Mexico City
(9) NICKLAUS DESIGN, PRIVATE
7. Country Club Bosques, Mexico City
(9) NICKLAUS DESIGN, PRIVATE
8. Cozumel Country Club, Cozumel, Quintana Roo
NICKLAUS DESIGN, FEATURING STEVE NICKLAUS, RESORT
9. Laguna del Mar, Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
(9) JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, PRIVATE
10. Moon Palace
(27) JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, PRIVATE
11. Mayan Palace Cancun, Cancun, Quintana Roo
(PAR 3) NICKLAUS DESIGN, RESORT
12. Tres Marias, Morelia, Michoacan
JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, PRIVATE
13. The Peninsula at the Mayan Palace, Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
JACK NICKLAUS & JACK NICKLAUS II CO-DESIGN, SEMI-PRIVATE
14. La Loma, San Luis, Potosi
JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, PRIVATE
15. Asturiano Golf Club, Cuautla, Mexico NICKLAUS DESIGN, PRIVATE
16. Club Campestre, San José del Cabo, B.C.S. NICKLAUS DESIGN, SEMI-PRIVATE
17. El Río Habitat, Guadalajara, Jalisco
JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, PRIVATE
18. Yucatán Country Club –Jaguar Golf Course, Merida, Yucatán NICKLAUS NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, SEMI-PRIVATE
19. Bosques Real (9), Mexico City NICKLAUS DESIGN - GARY NICKLAUS, PRIVATE
20. Puerto Los Cabos–Punta Gorda, San José del Cabo, B.C.S. (9 HOLES COMPLETED)
JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, SEMI-PRIVATE
21. Riviera Cancun, Cancun, Quintana Roo
JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE, RESORT
22. Punta Mita II, Punta de Mita, Nayarit
JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE COURSE – OPEN IN 2009
For the latest on Jack Nicklaus golf courses, be sure to check out www.nicklaus.com.
text by Karin Leperi and Mayté R odríguez Cedillo photos by Jim Mandeville / Nicklaus D esign
IF YOU DREAM OF GOLFING ON SCENIC, challenging courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, then look to Mexico for choices galore. With 22 Nicklaus Design courses open for play in Mexico now, and another 12 courses under construction or under development, there are a variety of choices and courses. From Palmilla on the Pacifc Coast to Riviera Cancun on the Gulf Coast, one can play a different Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course every day of the week during a three-week vacation.
MexicoTRAVELER™ recently caught up with Jack Nicklaus to ask questions about his priority considerations when planning and designing golf courses in Mexico. “There are a number of factors we consider when we enter into a design agreement with a client,” says Nicklaus. “From my perspective, I am, of course, greatly interested in the quality of the site, and the existing topography, features, or personality it immediately brings to the project. What clientele will play the golf course? Is it private, resort or public access? What’s the market and who’s the competition? Also important is air lift—how easy is it to get there from either major cities within the country or from the U.S., if that is their market?—and even the population of the nearest city or cities. There are other issues regarding the site, such as construction feasibility and the availability of water that become very important. We also look at the experience and history of the developer, and the funding capabilities of that developer. This is a long-term relationship, so it is important to engage an owner or developer who you will enjoy doing business with, and we have been fortunate to have a long list of wonderful clients with whom we have worked.”
With the current emphasis on the environment, we asked Nicklaus about whether he incorporates “environmentally friendly” features and processes into his golf course design. “Absolutely!” replies Nicklaus without a moment’s hesitation. “I don’t think enough credit is given to our industry for our efforts to not only protect the environment, but enhance it. It is simply part of our design approach, and not something we go around touting or patting ourselves on the back for. Whether it is the selection of grasses that are more resilient and salt water-tolerant that help reduce the amount of irrigation needed, or the introduction of totally organic fertilizers and pesticides, our golf courses take
every step possible to embrace the environment and to be ecologically responsible.“
“People assume that we are often at odds with environmental agencies, and that is the furthest thing from the truth. We work very closely and very well with all these agencies. Even when we go into a country that is relatively new to golf course development and thus might not have restrictions or challenges in place, we apply environmental standards that are often used in the United States. We think that is simply best practices, and it helps set a standard for development and construction in that country.”
As for signature features that distinguish his courses from others, Nicklaus says, “To be honest, I hope there are none. I would not want someone to step on the frst tee, look down the fairway, and say, ‘Oh, I see Jack Nicklaus designed this golf course.’ I always strive for excellence in my designs, but I try to avoid using design features that might be tagged as distinctive ‘trademarks’ or ‘stamps.’ If the natural attributes of a hole suggest it, I might use a strategy similar to what I have
“I really couldn’t be happier with the way things have panned out in Mexico.”
employed elsewhere, but I will make it unique in appearance. Given all the elements that go into each course, there are many ways to change the look of a hole, such as bringing water into play, by varying the size of the bunkers or the greens, by changing the width of the fairways or by adding features such as trees or mounds or dunes.”
“We have been fortunate to design some wonderful golf courses in Mexico, and one of the chief reasons for that is that it’s such a beautiful country, with lots of ruggedness but also lots of softness. And just as important, we’ve formed a lot of close relationships down there that have grown over the years and will only continue to strengthen in the coming years. I really couldn’t be happier with the way things have panned out in Mexico.” h
THE EXCITEMENT BEGAN soon after I arrived in Oaxaca, as I sat at an outdoor table at a restaurant on the Zocalo. While waiting for my plate of chicken mole I heard the sounds of music and, as it approached, I could hear people cheering. Suddenly a band came around the corner and there were the dancers–the women’s brightly colored skirts twirling in a blur of color and the men waving their sombreros; excited bystanders cheered them on. Grabbing my camera I began taking photographs. The growing crowd lining the sidewalks cheered louder as, one after another, the groups passed by.
Just as everything was calming down, another group approached. The crowd became louder than ever and everyone pushed to get closer to see the dancers. Why the added commotion? A spectator explained excitedly, “it’s the Pineapple Girls!” – the stars of the festival. They came from Tuxtepec in the Papaloapan region–twenty attractive young women dressed in the beautiful dresses of their region, all dancing in unison holding pineapples; they certainly were the crowd favorites. Sixteen groups, one for each distinct indigenous group from the seven regions of Oaxaca, wind through the streets of the city, stopping continuously to dance to the music from their region. They all fnish in a blaze of color, music and dance in the Zocalo.
My visit to Oaxaca was to experience the famous yearly Guelaguetza Dance Festival. With its colonial architecture, bustling markets, colorful arts and crafts, its beautiful plazas with vibrant sidewalk cafes boasting delicious Oaxacan cuisine, Oaxaca is a great destination for travelers year round. But for two weeks every year, the city explodes with the color and excitement of the folklore Guelaguetza festival, said to be the largest in the Americas.
“Guelaguetza” originates from a word in the Zapotec language; its meaning is the act of contributing to a community celebration. Like many Latin American festivals, the Guelaguetza evolved from a mix of indigenous and colonial infuences. The festival, as it is celebrated today, is a combination of pre-Hispanic celebrations of the corn goddess, Centeotl, and the Catholic feast day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which falls on July 16th.
The city of Oaxaca celebrates the Fiestas del Lunes del Cerro (Festival of the Mondays on the Hill) during the month of July. But the highlight of the festivities occurs on the two Mondays when the Guelaguetza dance performances take place. Dances range from solemn to joyful expressions of local culture, as thousands cheer them on. At the end of their dance performance, each delegation presents its own Guelaguetza to the audience by throwing small fruit, hats and even coconuts and pineapples. The audience has to stay alert to catch the gifts and to avoid getting hit by the offerings! Since colonial times, the Guelaguetza festival has been celebrated on the Cerro del Fortin in Oaxaca (Fortin Hill).
“Guelaguetza” originates from a word in the Zapotec language; its meaning is the act of contributing to a community celebration.
Throughout the week are numerous activities and shows, such as gastronomic and handicraft exhibitions, art shows, a Mezcal fair, concerts and other cultural events. It was hard to decide which to attend, as it seemed everywhere there were celebrations of music and dance in the streets, many of them unannounced. On many evenings the activities culminated in freworks over the city. During the day I wandered through the streets downtown, always fnding something interesting. In
the markets were some of the famous local crafts of Oaxaca–the black pottery from San Bartolo Coyotepoec, rugs from Teotitlan del Valle, “alebrijes,” the small animal fgures carved from copal wood painted with psychedelic colors, from villages such as Arrazola and San Martin Tilcajate and much more.
Smaller Guelaguetzas are also performed in several surrounding villages such as Mitla, famous for its ancient Zapotec temples with unique mosaic patterns carved in stone. Much of the mescal in the region is produced near here, with many shops selling numerous brands. On the way was the weaving village of Teotitlan del Valle, where the fnest rugs in Mexico are produced. We visited two different homes where entire families are involved in producing the natural dyes and weaving the beautiful rugs.
On my fnal day, I visited the largest and most impressive of the Zapotec sites, the ancient capitol of Monte Alban, one of the most notable ancient sites in Mexico.
Its construction began in about 500 B.C. and reached its peak from 300-to-700 A.D, when the hill and the surrounding area was home to about 25,000 inhabitants. What a great way to end my trip–after all of the exhilaration of the festival–sitting in silence on the steps of an ancient Zapotec temple, watching the sun setting into the clouds on the horizon.
The Guelaguetza takes place on the two Mondays following July 16th, except in years when Monday falls on July 18th, the anniversary of Benito Juarez’ death. Guelaguetza then occurs on July 25th and August 1st. There are two shows on each Monday – at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., both of which last over three hours. Advance tickets are available through Ticketmaster in Mexico (www.ticketmaster.com.mx). h
From its perch high atop a cliff, overlooking the warm azure waters of the caribbean ocean, the ruins of tulum stand proudly, watching and waiting.
ThrOuGhOuT The LAnD of the Maya, Tulum was the frst city to witness the dawn. The ancient name ‘Zama’ meaning ‘Dawn’ was bestowed upon the city perhaps as a reference to its unique coastal location.
el Castillo, the tallest building on the site, was a prominent landmark for sailors and merchants. As trading routes developed, Tulum controlled maritime commerce from the state of Quintana Roo all the way to Honduras, highlighting its role as an important trading post with not only the remainder of the Yucatan but also with Central Mexico and Central America. from jade and obsidian and jaguar skins, to salt from the north coast of the Yucatan, the Maya traded in both exotic and basic supplies. As a result of this growth in trade, they were infuential in the fow of ideas and innovation culminating in the fourishing of their society during the 14th century.
The Pre-hispanic Maya were a sophisticated race of warriors, astronomers, mathematicians, architects and artists. They succeeded in developing one of the greatest cultures of Meso-America which culminated in the invention of two calenders: a 260 day calendar and a 365 day calendar, which when combined, produced a period of 52 years. They used the glyph system of writing on stone and conveyed the workings of their daily life through murals and pottery carvings.
The frst mention of the city of Tulum was in “Itinerario de L’Armata” when Juan de Grijalva’s expedition of 1518 set sail from Cuba along the coast of the Yucatan. Juan Díaz, Grijalva’s chaplain, upon seeing Tulum for the frst time, described it as“ a town or village so large, that Seville could not be better or larger.” he went on to describe ‘el Castillo’ as a very tall tower painted in the colors of red, white and blue with a fre on top of the temple. from this tiny slither of information, we can deduce that Tulum was indeed inhabited up until the time of the Spanish Inquisition.
The month of July, 1562, proved to be a catastrophic time for the Maya. Bishop Diego de Landa, who was in charge of bringing Catholicism to the Yucatan, learned that the converted natives had reverted to their original beliefs. he subsequently ordered an inquisition, followed by an ‘acto de fe’ - the burning of all Mayan books. As a result of his actions, much of the evidence of their history, literature and traditions were destroyed. Today, there are in existence only three Pre-Columbian texts and a fragment of a 4th, the most famous being the Dresden Codex.
There are no further references to the ruins until the visit by John L. Stephens and his companion, frederick Catherwood in 1842. They offcially named the abandoned site ‘Tulum’ in reference to the thick wall, which surrounds three sides of the site, the fourth side remaining open to the sea.
During the Maya uprising in The War of the Castes (1847-1901) Tulum was once again inhabited by rebels seeking protection behind its walls. In 1938, Miguel Angel hernandez began the important work of restoration and investigation of the ruins.
Tulum is now in the hands of The national Institute of Anthropology
and history who are continuing the investigation and maintenance of this profoundly important Mayan archaeological site.
The most outstanding building, ‘el Castillo’ served both as a watchtower and a lighthouse, guiding large canoes safely into the bay. Within the temple the sculpture of the Descending God or ‘Diving God,’ a fgure sculpted head down, appears as a symbol of worship. The current building appears to be the result of different stages of additional construction. The doorway to the temple has columns decorated in the shape of rattlesnakes and is now roped off to the public.
Another building thought to have great social and religious signifcance is the ‘Temple of frescoes.’ It was built in three levels to symbolize the three realms of the Mayan universe and was used as an observatory to track the movements of the sun. Inside, 13th century frescoes depict the rain god, Chaac and Ixchell, the goddess of healing, childbirth, divination and weaving.
Other structures include Templo del Díos del Viento [Temple of the God of the Wind] built on a unique round base and the Kukulcan Group which is named after the feathered serpent–a very important symbol in Meso-American culture.
With a total of 60 well preserved buildings, this ‘City of the Dawn’ holds the keys to the turbulent and glorious past of the Maya. As archaeologists and anthropologists work to uncover the secrets within, we can only wonder about the daily lives of the people who once worked and lived there. h
Sources: The Cities of Ancient Mexico [revised edition] by Jeremy A. Sabloff, athenapub .com, sacred-destinations.com, playa-info.com and locogringo.com.
text and photos by Ingrid Hart
The ArOMA Of AMBer-InfuSeD InCenSe flls the thick jungle air. It’s after midnight as the Mayan procession of medicine men, rowers and maidens pass by. The high priest’s face is painted to look like a skeleton—an ominous black on white. Adding to his attire is a regal feather head dress and a commanding leopard skin covering most of his body. The rowers don white loin cloths and high ponytails that expose tender body parts. The maidens dress in bright orange cotton caftans made of burlap fabric that swishes on the ground as they walk. These pilgrims, over one hundred and twenty of them, come from the villages of Polé and Xaman-ha along the coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula, an hour south of Cancun. They are here on the Sacred Mayan Journey to worship Ix Chel, the goddess of fertility and abundance.
The Sacred Mayan Journey, now in its second year is a mystical and oftentimes theatrical re-creation of the ancient pilgrimage.
Throughout the night there will be rituals, ceremonies, music, and dance. In the morning the strongest of the group will row ffteen miles across the Caribbean Sea to the island of Cozumel. In unison, the haunting procession chants a simple prayer in a supernatural voice: Ix Chel: the mission and work are waiting for us. Ix Chel: nobody can hide your truth from us.
The Sacred Mayan Journey, now in its second year is a mystical and oftentimes theatrical re-creation of the ancient pilgrimage. This his-
torical and cultural legacy of Mayan past was lost after the Spaniards invaded and conquered Mexico nearly fve hundred years ago. The journey’s sponsors include the eco-archeological park Xcaret, the marketing collaborative riviera Maya and the island of Cozumel. According to State of Quintana roo Tourism Secretary Carlos Joaquin Gonzalez, “We want to diversify the tourism base from beach lovers to include people who are interested in culture and archeology. We hope to innovate and initiate new projects that will showcase our best assets. The Sacred Mayan Journey is helping to rescue a lost culture.”
The heart of the journey resides in the worship of Ix Chel, the ancient Mayan goddess responsible for fertility of the earth, good weather, health and continuity of life. The story is told that pilgrims would petition the goddess to bestow upon them her blessings and favor them with a year of abundance. Sounds easy, right? here’s where the “journey” part of the adventure begins. The challenge is that Ix Chel’s stronghold is on the island of Cozumel, a ffteen-mile canoe traverse from Polé, the site of present-day Xcaret, where the quest begins. The journey was a dangerous, mystical undertaking for these ancient navigators, whose trade networks were one of the crowning glories of the Yucatan culture. At the crossing were rough seas, leaky crafts, and bad luck – qualities that could terminate a life in short order. In the Mayan post-classic period, life vests were not an option.
Once the paddlers were successful crossing the Channel of Cozumel along the Caribbean Sea to Ix Chel’s sanctuary, they had to endure a three-hour walk to the island’s center at San Gervasio. Bearing of-
ferings of corn, squash and cacao beans to honor the goddess, these pilgrims would then consult an oracle to channel Ix Chel’s wisdom on their behalf. The goddess provided insight for the year on her area of expertise. If all went well, omens of good fortune would be bestowed upon these courageous pilgrims.
Before crossing in their wooden canoes made from the Pich tree back to the mainland, the pilgrims would receive a special blessing for a safe journey by el halach uinik – a wise man. Again the paddlers took to the dangerous sea. upon their return to Xamanhá, the site of present-day Playa del Carmen, they were greeted by eager villagers, wanting insight into their future. Dances of joy were held celebrating the transmission of their goddess Ix Chel’s message.
“exist in the moment” is the island of Cozumel’s motto. True to heart, present-day rowers recreating the Sacred Mayan Journey leave the island as the sun rises over the tranquil waters of eco-archeological park Chankanaab. They have one goal in mind, paddle across the 15-mile waters to reach the other side. These present day rowers are escorted by enthusiastic boaters and a coast guard vessel, each one keeping the spirit of the journey alive.
On a white sandy beach at the end of the journey is wind-swept Playa del Carmen. The Caribbean Sea, turquoise and aquamarine, is churning with strength and ferocity on this alternating sunny and cloudy afternoon. A thousand enthusiastic natives and tourists await the arrival of remaining rowers. This recreation looks like a hollywood movie set. In costume are one of the four mysterious medicine men, clad in full red body paint with a necklace of feathers and shells. Topping his ensemble is an imposing three-foot wide horizontal gourd headdress. he skulks along the beach like he’s ready to tear out the heart of whoever looks at him sideways. As he whistles into an ancient fute the sound carries in the wind sending chills into the rapturous crowd.
As each boat load of exhausted and exhilarated rowers arrives on the shore, they are greeted with an explosion of applause and some good ole’ whoopin’ and hollerin.’ Among the 26-foot canoes, each with a crew of four to six rowers are a group of women who have trained for three months in anticipation of the event. Two are sisters,
the others—friends. After a successful crossing to the other side, rower Betty Sandoval said that the group was singing and praying to Ix Chel. “We have great respect for the original Mayans. They were brave and powerful,” said the 37-year-old Cozumel native. “We were trying to talk my sister into having a baby. Ix Chel is the goddess of fertility—we almost got her to agree.”
The drama continues as six long-haired maidens in foor-length orange-red dresses, arms outstretched in meditative prayer await the remaining rowers. nearly thirty native men and women all wear white, with faces painted to refect the time when the Mayan culture was rich with the promise of an everlasting existence. Today, these proud descendents of the Mayans are reliving the fantasia, the dream.
It’s easy to fall under the spell of enchantment at the archeologically rich riviera Maya. It is home to the ruins of Tulum, one of the bestpreserved coastal Pre-Columbian Mayan sites. The series of ancient buildings sit on a cliff, overlooking the Caribbean Sea. There is also the hidden city of Coba, temples, and ceremonial sites—all a living testament to the Maya civilization, one of the grandest in world history. The ancient Maya occupied a vast geographic area in Central and South America from around 2000 BC until 1500 AD. The reason for its collapse is still shrouded in mystery.
Today, the region is a thriving tourist destination with a range of attractions from beach activities such as snorkeling, scuba and swimming to adventure sports like hiking, horseback riding and of course golf and tennis. five-star hotels along with fne dining options make the riviera Maya an appealing destination for visitors seeking a combination of cultural enlightenment, exploration and some down time to simply relax by the beach.
So on your next visit to the riviera Maya, if you happen to see a group of paddlers at sea dressed in native costume be certain to send along some good wishes. You never know when the goddess Ix Chel will offer her blessing and grant you a year of abundance. After all, her spirit is still alive in the hearts and minds of the Mayan people. If the success of the second Sacred Mayan Journey is any indication of what’s to come, it will be a great year indeed. h
ChIAPAS IS A LAnD BrIMMInG WITh LATIn CuLTure, traditional Mayan heritage and tremendously diverse natural beauty; yet many Americans have never even heard of it. And within this geographicallyclose yet culturally-distant Mexican state, lies a place so steeped with colonial charm and architectural beauty, that the sheer mention of it evokes a sense of wonderment and magic by those who dare speak its name. It only adds to the puzzlement how adventurous european travelers have discovered this hidden jewel while American tourists tend to be scarce. This rare jewel is San Cristobal de las Casas.
San Cristobal is named after a 16th century Spanish priest who ardently defended the rights of the indigenous community and went on to become the frst bishop of Chiapas. Today, this vibrant town continues to weave its spell on those who choose to go off the beaten path and experience the melting pot of everything that “was” and “is” in this magical place caught between the annals of time.
even Mexico’s Secretariat of Tourism (SeCTur) is savvy to the charms of San Cristobal for in conjunction with other federal and state agencies, they named it a “Pueblo Mágico” in 2003. The “Magical Villages Program” is an initiative designed to promote a series of towns around the country that offers visitors a “magical” experience by reason of their natural beauty, cultural riches, or historical relevance.
Located at over 7,000 feet in the central highlands of Chiapas, San Cristobal de las Casas is considered by many to be the heart of the indigenous Mayan culture; the economic hub where traditional ethnic groups converge to engage in timeless barter and trade. It is also a crossroads where traditional practices cross paths with modern conveniences, sometimes resulting in bizarre outcomes such as the imbibing of Coca-Cola by indigenous peoples so as to belch evil spirits from the body.
nevertheless, for all its contradictions, tolerance prevails. In San Cristobal, the contrasts between cultural heritage and modern progress are pliable, somehow softened through a quirky accommodation that pervades the melting pot populace of differing religious beliefs, political views, languages and dialects.
I fnd myself in this charming colonial city because I am curious about the culture and the proud and tenacious spirit of the indigenous Mayan people. Preferring to not travel solo, I join a photo cultural tour lead by Jim Cline of Jim Cline Photography (JimCline.com). An award-winning photographer, Cline specializes in documenting disappearing cultures of developing nations. It is because of his extensive travels throughout Latin America, along with his compassionate and caring personality, that he has developed a rapport with the locals, thus enabling our small
group to shoot priceless photographs that would have been impossible to get left to our own endeavors.
I take a deep breath of crisp pine-scented mountain air as we traipse the narrow sidewalks and cobble—stoned streets of San Cristobal. We are headed toward our frst photo shoot at the Cathedral —an 18th century baroque masterpiece, recently restored to its original color and glory. This is the hub of all cultural activities and takes on a somewhat festive atmosphere with strolling vendors selling pink cotton candy to bystanders.
Along the way I notice how the myriad white stucco walls and redtiled roofs impart an idyllic character—a gossamer-like quality to this magical place. for a moment things seem surreal - as if I am walking a page in a long-lost history book of a forgotten time and place. However, I seem a step out of time with my surroundings, as if time were reversed. It is a curious case—this San Cristobal.
Over the next couple of days, I realize that one thing is for certain: San Cristobal has much to offer both traveler and photographer. Things to do include:
• Sampling the diverse cuisine;
• Checking out the constant carnival of activity at the Cathedral and the Centro;
• Shopping for great handicrafts on the grounds of Santa Domingo church;
• Visiting indigenous villages in the surrounding mountainside;
Since San Cristobal is home to many diverse cultures, it makes sense that the culinary scene offers an exquisite array of choices as well as unique blending of foods and recipes—Indian and Spanish in particular. My favorites have a squash blossom theme: a velvety squash blossom soup and tacos with squash blossom and “queso fresco”—a nonaged, creamy and mild white cheese that varies in taste by locale.
The local drink—a hard liquor made from cane and sometimes served in a pineapple—seems omnipresent. Called posh, it comes in a variety of favors and is used traditionally for healing and partying. however, some of the local talk as well as prominent billboards suggest that many of the men overly indulge, leading to episodic violence directed toward the women folk.
San Cristobal is a treasure trove for those seeking unique handicrafts and products refective of the local people and economy. from beauti-
fully embroidered Mayan tapestries, textiles, and blouses to fne fligree jade and amber jewelry, the choices are many. Local pottery makers and iron forgers offer one-of-a-kind items for collectors as well as inexpensive trinkets. Be assured that there are price points for all pocketbooks. expect to pay in pesos; even the stores prefer cash to credit.
Starting at the Cathedral or town square, I encounter lovely Mayan girls and women peddling shawls, blankets, and colorfully braided wrist ties - particularly popular with teens. fellow photographer and friend, Mihail Milea, quickly becomes a favorite with the girls as he empties his pockets while purchasing gifts for family and friends. And because the prices are so ridiculously reasonable, he doesn’t even bargain, though they do let him take their photo. I later asked what was most memorable about San Cristobal, to which he said, “When I think about San Cristobal I see the little Indian girls dressed like the rainbow selling handicrafts in front of the church.” (Later in the trip he was compelled to buy additional luggage for all the blankets, shawls, and tablecloths he purchased.)
next, I head to Santa Domingo several blocks away, for an afternoon shoot, but not before shopping the stores for local jade and amber. I hear that the jade mines are about an hour north of the city and
produce some fne pieces for jewelry. San Cristobal is also noted for its amber, which is actually fossilized resin originating from pine trees. Transparent lumps range in color from yellow to red, and were once used by the ancient Mayans in trade. I fnd a nice fligree amber ring at Joy Piedra escondida, a large store specializing in amber and jade jewelry. Since I am running low on coins, the convenience of charging my purchase is greatly appreciated.
I arrive at the former convent of Santa Domingo, right next to the Santa Domingo Church. This is the place to buy high quality embroideries and traditional textiles from groups of Tzotzil and Tzeltal “craftspeople” who operate the cooperative store. expect the ultimate quality as prices are higher than what you can buy from street stalls and vendors. Open from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 2pm and 4 to 6pm; they do accept credit cards.
Tale of Two Mayan Towns: San Juan Chamula and San Lorenzo Zinacantan
To truly appreciate the duality of culture and the juxtaposition of indigenous animistic beliefs with Catholicism, one must visit the outlying towns of San Juan Chamula and San Lorenzo Zinacantan. here are two different takes—two different lifestyles on how indigenous people reconcile their tradition with the modern world.
San Juan Chamula is considered the most authentic traditional Mayan town in Chiapas and enjoys a unique autonomous status within Mexico. Chamulas have their own police force as no outside police or military are allowed in the village. here the people cling to traditional ways and eschew contemporary Catholicism: religion is a quirky blend of pre-conquest Maya customs, Spanish Catholic traditions, and pragmatic innovations. The church foor is covered with green pine boughs and fallen pine needles, with interspersed candles temporarily waxed to the foor while Chamula families kneel and chant rituals in their native tongue. Smoke from burning copal resin hangs thick in the air while they drink ceremonial cups of Posh and expel evil spirits from the body by drinking and burping Coca-Cola. Raw eggs are broken and an occasional chicken is sacrifced to ward off the evil eye. Cameras are forbidden inside the church as is the taking of photos.
San Lorenzo Zinacantan, once the capital of the Tzotzil Maya world, means “land of bats.” The Zinacantan women are easily recognized with their electric indigo blue and purple woven blouses. A more open society, they embrace Catholicism and are more likely to send female children to school. Besides selling textiles and showcasing their weaving skills, the town is engaged in a fourishing fower industry. Be sure to try some of the hot homemade tortillas at the many homes that sell textiles and embroidery. Though there is no charge for the food, a tip is appreciated.
Journeys may begin in San Cristobal, but they never really end there: it has something to do with the spirit of the place. There is an infnite, visceral quality that makes this a unique travel experience in time, one that will remain with you long after your journey is done. San Cristobal will challenge your senses while it grabs your heart. There is defnitely something curious about San Cristobal. h
PrOuDLY eArnInG A PLACe as one of the new 7 Wonders of the World in July 2007, the archaeological center of Chichén Itza—located in the Mexican State of Yucatan, was selected from a list of 21 fnalists. Approximately 100 millions people around the globe cast their ballots by phone and Internet.
“The selection of Chichén Itza is recognition of the extremely vast and ancient historical and cultural heritage of Mexico, of which very few countries in the world can boast,” said francisco Lopez Mena, former CeO of the Mexican Tourism Board. And now, created by the new 7 Wonders foundation, the new 7 Wonders of nature aims to reveal and showcase all the natural beauty our planet has to offer—many of which are still undiscovered.
Some of nature’s most magnifcent natural sites that have been on the earth for years are to be found in Mexico, awaiting discovery by thrilled travelers from around the world. nominating some of these natural treasures to be listed in the new 7 Wonders of nature would bring Mexico to the forefront for those in search of nature‘s marvels. four of the sites nominated include Azul Waterfall, Popocatepetl Volcano, Copper Canyon and Sumidero Canyon. however, unless Offcial Supporting Committees (OSCs) are formed for them, they will have no chance to be one of the new 7 Wonders of nature. It would be a great plus for Mexico to be a part of this; for example, two of those sites mentioned above are: Agua Azul Waterfall and Barrancas del Cobre.
Agua Azul Waterfall lies South of the town of Palenque, in the state of Chiapas—and declared a national park in 1980. The area boasts profuse vegetation and its impressive waterfalls are formed by the water fow of the Tulija river. here you fnd an abundance of fora and fauna in a natural habitat full of mahogany, cedar and sapodilla trees, as well as birds, insects and small mammals. Its lovely blue waters are a result of erosion; water fowing past the rocks causes small particles of lime containing magnesium salts and other chlorides to break off and dissolve.
Known as Barrancas del Cobre, Mexico’s Copper Canyon is one of the largest and deepest canyons in the world. The Copper Canyon may be experienced by means of the Chihuahua-Pacifco train, commonly referred to as ChePe, which crosses the Sierra Tarahumara of Chihuahua, the Sierra de Creel, and a mountain range that lies 7,920 feet above sea level before arriving at Los Mochis, in the state of Sinaloa. This Canyon is known to be four times as large as the Grand Canyon in the united States and consists of six distinct canyons.
The frst new 7 Wonders campaign that chose the new 7 Wonders of the World in 2007, is now asking for nominations for new 7 Wonders of nature and suggests forming an OSC for seeing your favorite site included in the race before December. On December 31, 2008, the top 77 nominees, chosen by worldwide popular voting, will be the group
Some of nature’s most magnificent natural sites, which have been on the earth for years, can be found in Mexico just awaiting discovery by thrilled travelers from around the world.
from which 21 finalists will be chosen by the new 7 Wonders Panel of experts, under the presidency of Professor federico Mayor, former Director General of uneSCO. To be included, follow the simple instructions on the new7Wonders website at new7wonders.com/en/nature/ nomination/osc/. Or contact Tia B. Viering: tia@n7w.com. Phone: +32473-77 57 53 or +49-99-480 887 19. h
text by Pat Tyson photos courtesy Mexico Tourism Board
ThAnKS TO The Tourism Secretariat’s (Sectur) Pueblos Magicos (Magical Towns) Program, visitors to Mexico may choose from a treasure trove of such towns scattered throughout the country’s heartland. The program helps increase tourism to towns located near large cities or other tourist sites that are reasonably accessible via roads and of particular historic or religious value.
The government’s investment in infrastructure results in visitorfriendly destinations that retain the authentic charm of Mexico’s small towns. It encourages tourists, who might be hesitant to venture beyond the tried-and-true destinations, to discover the architectural and cultural charisma of the restored urban areas. following, we have selected 10 of the 23 towns chosen as Pueblos Magicos.
Circled by pine-covered mountains, Tlalpujahua is a 90-square mile piece of paradise in eastern Michoacan State. Small white houses with red tile roofs peek from amid the lush vegetation. It has evolved from its mining origins into a destination renowned for its beautiful handicrafts, such as pottery, basket weaving and feather work. however Tlalpujahua’s most popular export by far is its glass globe Christmas Tree decorations. Produced by the town’s local glass factories, they are considered the best on the American continent and provide a great source of revenue for the town. factory tours are available to visitors between february and november.
One of the major mining centers of northwestern Mexico during the fnal decades of the 19th century, Cosala is situated approximately 100 miles from Mazatlan. With beautiful buildings from the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries, there is perhaps no better city in Sinaloa to enjoy on foot than Cosala. Architectural highlights include the 18th century church honoring Santa ursula, the town hall, the Virgin of Guadalupe chapel and the Luis Perez Mesa Passage—an exquisite colonial corner.
Located 60 miles from Toluca and 90 miles from Mexico City, Valle de Bravo is a charming mountain village adorned with cobblestone streets, white stucco colonial houses, wrought iron balconies and red-tiled roofs. Visitors here may enjoy many activities, from sailing and skiing in the lake formed by the Miguel Aleman dam, to hang-gliding off the top of Cerro de la Cruz Mountain. history buff’s will enjoy exploring the Prehispanic ruins at La Peña, just northeast of town, while nature lovers will revel in the beauty of the el Salto and Velo de la novia waterfalls.
San Cristobal de las Casas, 2003 (Chiapas) founded in 1528, the city is a haven for history lovers. Its strong indigenous infuence is refected in the beautiful textile, leather and ceramic handicrafts created by local artisans. A visit to the marketplace
will demonstrate precisely how closely the various cultures; languages, ethnicities and beliefs are intertwined. Visitors will also enjoy the mixture of baroque and neoclassical architecture refected in the churches, museums and cafes. The town’s most important celebration takes place in April, where San Cristobal has celebrated the Spring and Peace festival since the mid-19th century with cultural and sporting events.
Patzcuaro, 2002 (Michoacan)
Located 31 miles north from Morelia, Patzcuaro is easily accessible by bus and boasts a beautiful lake bearing the same name. Decorated with pines, sacred frs and oaks, the fertile land enjoys a temperate climate. Patzcuaro has a strong indigenous origin, and the language of the
Purepecha people is evident in the marketplace. Visitors will fnd it diffcult to settle on just one souvenir—given that the variety of handicrafts here is legendary and features objects made from corn paste, embroidered and woven good’s, ceramics, silverwork and wooden furniture.
Tepoztlan, 2002 (Morelos)
Tepotzlan is located northeast of Cuernavaca, just 45 miles south of Mexico City. This charming village is known for its beautiful landscape and rich history. One of the town’s main attractions is the former franciscan Convent of the nativity, built at the end of the 16th century and declared a uneSCO World heritage Site in 1994. When visiting the ex-convent, be sure to stop by the Carlos Pellicer Museum of PreHispanic art.
renowned for its rich abundance of silver, this mining town is located 100 miles southwest of Mexico City and is easily accessible via the Cuernavaca airport. Taxco is lodged at the foot of La Bermeja Mountain of the Sierra Madre range, providing visitors with landscape that complements the 500-year history. This is evident in the town’s colonial Spanish architecture featuring overhanging grilled balconies and red
tiled roofs. Visit Taxco in June to experience the national Silver fair, an event that brings together international silversmiths, miners and dealers and includes many cultural activities. This is the town in which silver history and culture are intertwined.
Only 44 miles separate the white of Merida with the yellows of Izamal. All of the town’s houses are painted yellow—a modern reminder of the ancient cult to the sun of Izamal’s native peoples. The remnants of the indigenous populations are also evident in the archeological remains upon which the town is built. On December 8, the celebrations for the Virgin of Izamal begin, featuring processions, dancing and fairs. With Merida and Cancun both having international airports, Izamal is easily accessible to north American tourists—and defnitely worth a visit.
Dolores hidalgo became the cradle of Mexico’s independence from Spain on September 16, 1810, when father Miguel hidalgo rang the parish church bells and urged his parishioners to overthrow the vice regal government in the Grito de Dolores (Cry of Dolores). Today, the town commemorates this event with a 10-day celebration that starts on September 6 and culminates with the famous Grito on Independence Day. When visiting Dolores hidalgo, be sure to indulge in the ice cream found in the main square. Visitors can choose from a wide array of exotic favors, from shrimp, cheese and beer to corn, avocado and mole sauce.
The government’s investment in infrastructure results in visitor-friendly destinations that retain the authentic charm of Mexico’s small towns.
Located in a valley surrounded by hills and forests four hours from the bustle of Mexico City, visitors welcome the tranquility of San Miguel de Allende. This charming colonial town has attracted a large community of American expatriates who enjoy the World heritage Site’s beautiful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and an emerging cosmopolitan feeling. In September, San Miguel dresses bouquets of fowers as it prepares for the festivities to honor its patron saint. The celebration begins on September 29, and includes the Xuchil procession which features elaborate displays of fowers, traditional dancers and the Sanmiguelada–the town’s running of the bulls.
While the primary focus of Pueblos Magicos is to develop cultural tourism, other segments, such as eco tourism, adventure tourism and rural tourism also fall under the parogram‘s canopy. As the towns develop the products offered in the different segments, sustainable tourism is cultivated. h
The POPuLArITY Of YOGA is growing worldwide, and Mexico is no exception. Yoga is gaining practitioners in Mexico every day, and is also an increasingly popular spot for international yoga retreats. Big names in yoga are choosing Mexico as their destination for one-, two-, three-, or even nine-week retreats and trainings.
It’s no wonder, considering Mexico’s natural beauty and endless coastline, and the receptivity of the Mexican people.
“Mexican heritage and philosophy make the practice of yoga a phenomenon that is rapidly growing. Mexicans are constantly striving for a healthier way of life and at the same time for a more harmonious existence. This can be found in the practice of hatha yoga” states ulises Calatayud, the founder of the frst Bikram yoga studio in Mexico.
Bikram yoga, for those of you who’ve not heard of it, is the original “hot yoga,” created by Indian-born, Bikram Choudhury. It’s traditional hatha yoga, done in a very specifc setting and sequence. It’s a series of 26 postures that take place in a room heated to a minimum of 105 fahrenheit, at about 40% humidity. The heat allows for greater fexibility, minimizes muscle strain, reduces the chance of injury and promotes greater cleansing of the body.
More and more people are discovering the amazing health benefts of Bikram yoga, and studios continue to open worldwide to meet demand. There are currently more than 1700. The frst Bikram stu-
text by Beth Purcell Simonsen
photos by John Walsh
dio in Mexico was opened in March 2007 by Calatayud. The studio is located in Las Lomas, one of Mexico City’s best neighborhoods; and there is now a second studio in Mexico City, in San Angel, in the southern part of the city.
every Bikram yoga teacher must undergo an intensive nine-week training before they are certifed to teach the Bikram style of hatha yoga. In fact, a specifc class dialogue must be used by all Bikram instructors to ensure that all who practice Bikram yoga will be taught in the same way Bikram himself teaches the 90-minute class.
Bikram, born in Calcutta, India, has been practicing yoga since he was three, and at the age of thirteen he became the youngest contestant ever to win the national India Yoga Competition. he was undefeated for the next three years. His guru was the physical culturist, Bishnu Gosh, younger brother of Paramahansa Yoganada, author of the well known book, “Autobiography of a Yogi.”
The incredible success of Bikram yoga recently forced the relocation of its world Teacher Training program. The original Teacher Training facility, located at Bikram Yoga College of India headquarters in Los Angeles, can no longer accommodate the growing number of teachers-in-training.
After evaluating different alternatives, and on the advice of Jim Barrak, a good friend and arguably the best real estate investor on the planet today, Bikram decided to bring his world-renown Teacher Training to Acapulco, to the beautiful fairmont Acapulco Princess hotel.
In a few weeks, a 11,000 square foot Bikram yoga room was built. up to 700 people can now practice Bikram yoga together, making it perhaps the largest yoga room ever built. Guests of the hotel and visitors to Acapulco can now practice Bikram yoga when teacher training is in session.The frst session was held in spring of 2008, and the second session began September 14 2008.
“Mexico offered a destination that is easily accessible and that could combine the top yoga training in the world with world-class facilities,” explains Catatayud. “Mexican hospitality and commitment to build what is required to welcome visitors and groups added another advantage.”
Bikram himself echoed this sentiment when I asked him why, out of all the places in the world he could pick to host his teacher training, he chose Mexico. “This is from my heart, Mexico is inexpensive, close by and has good food. It’s a beautiful location, and then there are the people, especially the people,” states Choudhury.
Let’s hope Bikram and his devoted practitioners stay hot in Acapulco for years to come. h
BY Meliá
Sol Meliá consolidates its designer hotel brand in Mexico and expands to Europe
When partners are nightlife gurus rande Gerber, Scott Gerber and nikki Beach, the scene is sure to be a sexy one. Me by Meliá, a bold new concept in hospitality from Sol Meliá hotels and resorts in Spain, has all of the elements to successfully seduce a fashionable crowd to its two posh properties on both sides of Mexico. Design, culture, cuisine, music, style and Latin infuences fgure prominently in each location, contributing to intoxicating experiences for discerning guests from around the globe.
“Mexico is a playground for many of our target guests,” says Guy hensley, vice president of the premium portfolio for Sol Meliá hotels and resorts. “These individuals travel not to get away but rather to engage and experience. They are passionate about their work and not bound by a 40-hour work week, expecting to stay connected even while on the road. They have an interest in international cuisine, music and art, and they are considered trendsetters among their peers, and are at the forefront of fashion and technology.”
On the Baja California Peninsula, the opening of Me Cabo on Playa el Médano follows the success of Me Madrid and Me Cancún. Inside and out, the stylish sanctuary in Cabo San Lucas is one big piece of eye candy. Views of the striking rock formations of Land’s end and the Sea of Cortés can be seen from just about every room and suite. Within the elegantly appointed accommodations, designed by rebecca Perez of Interarq in collaboration with architect Álvaro Sans, guests encounter comfort and convenience with gorgeous linens adorning luxurious beds, organic AVeDA bath amenities and soothing rainfall showerheads, along with complimentary WI-fI, state-of-the-art electronics, daily newspaper service and a large DVD selection.
“Cindy Crawford (married to Rande Gerber), Fall Out Boy, Bret Michaels and Fergie are just a few of the famous faces who have been spotted at ME Cancún.”
– Raúl Petraglia
ME BY MELIA AREA V.P., THE AMERICAS
for the ultimate in pampering at Me Cabo, The Level provides more exclusivity on the entire top foor, where luxurious Chic and Loft Suites feature foor-to-ceiling windows, ocean views and array of amenities including petit déjeuner, surround-sound speakers, media library, iPod docking stations and more. Additionally, energy suite guests can lounge on a large multi-level private terrace or bask under the sun in an outdoor Jacuzzi. All guests staying on The Level also have exclusive access to The Living room, a private lounge complete with cocktail service, a home theater, computer work stations and Internet. recreation certainly reigns at the resort. YhI Spa, named after
the Goddess of Light, promotes total wellness throughout its 7,306 square foot complex. Within this tranquil space, visitors can select from a menu of services inspired by ancient healing traditions, stay active in yoga Tai Chi and Pilates classes, or rejuvenate in the Temascal sweat lodge and outdoor waterfall, among other appealing options. extra energy comes in handy at the lively nikki Beach, which raises the bar on the classic pool party with glamorous guys and gals getting comfy on day beds, and resident and guest DJs spinning tracks for their enjoyment. The destination for dinner to dawn is The Passion Club restaurant & Lounge, the most popular place in Cabo for cocktails and conversation.
“Me Cabo has become a preferred hotel for celebrities, young entrepreneurs and socialites. The location and the vibe make it different from other hotels in Baja, says ernesto Luna, general manager for the resort. “We’ve hosted Playboy Playmate Kendra Wilkinson, the Kardashian sisters, Adrian Grenier from entourage, Kris Angel, Adam Sandler and Chelsea handler, as well as Luis Miguel, Barbara Mori and others.”
On the other side of the country Me Cancún sticks to the same edgy formula as its sister property in Cabo. While both are design driven, and feature The Level and YhI Spa, Me Cancún boasts its own set of stellar signature services and amenities. Most notable of the 488room property, located on an island between the nichupté Lagoon to the West and the Caribbean to the east, are the four happening destinations created by Rande and Scott Gerber of the Gerber Group— Adult area featuring Balinese beds, cabanas, chaises and a swim-up bar; the lobby lounge rose Bar; Infnity Bar located at the adults-only swimming pool and The Beach house. As for dining, Chef heriberto
“ME Cabo has become a preferred hotel for celebrities, young entrepreneurs and socialites.The location and the vibe make it different from other hotels in BAJA.”
– Ernesto Luna GM FOR THE
RESORT
Gómez is at the helm of the Mediterranean restaurant Salt and the Asian bistro Silk. for those guests that prefer to explore off property, Me Cancún is within a short distance of shopping, entertainment, golf, dining and nightlife.
Cindy Crawford, fall Out Boy, Bret Michaels and fergie are just a few of the famous faces who have been spotted at Me Cancún reveals General Manager raúl Petraglia. “Me speaks to the intellect, emotions, senses and desires of each guest, fostering an intimate lasting connection to the moment, the place and the brand. The Me experience is an extension of lifestyle of our guests,” he says regarding the hotel’s appeal.
Outside of Mexico, other properties that are part of the Me by Meliá portfolio include the Me Madrid and the newly opened fagship Me Barcelona. future Me expansion plans will target key cities in the united States and europe including new York, Miami and Vienna. h
Happily, I accepted an invitation to celebrate the launch of the most expansive development in all of Mexico, L as Villas de Mexico, held last May in Cancún. I welcome the opportunity to describe this extraordinary experience consisting of an unforgettable 48 hours of endless feasting, along with delightful programmed activities.
Cancún on schedule. We arrived at the stunning, contemporary ME Hotel, were met by our host, Gerardo Prieto Treviño, Chief Executive Offcer of the HXM Tourist Division, whose primary project is La Villas de Mexico. We had just enough time to check in, dash to our rooms to change clothes and arrive at the frst programmed event. This proved to be, indeed, a Gala Reception, complete with music, spirits and a vast array of distinctive mini tastes and canapés served on platters passed around by cheerful waiters. Here each of us was sought out by a Villas associate to offer information, answer questions and to ensure that we were suffciently informed.
After the ‘party,’ upon returning to our rooms to retire for the evening, we found a lovely welcome basket flled with goodies, among them local candies and Maracas! Wonderful amenities were assigned to the bathroom; and a printed program outlining the next full day’s non-stop agenda laid on the desk. Sleep came fast.
Day 2, we arose and dressed casually, then met for a buffet breakfast before boarding our bus bound for the Villas premier location in the newly developed port site. Mayté had forgotten her sun-screen, was en route to the hotel’s gift shop to buy some, when intercepted by Gerardo who, like “Johnny- On-The-Spot,” directed her to board the bus for the port/boat trip and made the purchase himself, one of several occasions demonstrating the personal attention afforded to guests.
After visiting the ‘clubhouse,’ now serving as a sales headquarters, we walked a short distance to the recreation site where, under a massive white tent, we listened to Gerardo’s presentation, which generated signifcant buzz. He detailed the projected development, composed of furnished, state-of-the-art homes, townhouses and condos, offering a variety of foor plans and refecting a range of traditions, customs, culture and architecture. While we all continued to munch on snacks, Gerardo spoke to us.
“I’m happy to have this challenge–that of creating the best villas all across Mexico,” he proudly proclaimed. “Villas de Mexico promises to be possibly the most ambitious residential project in Mexico and it will be the best one!”
The property’s, prime location with an expansive waterfront coupled with easy road access, made it easy for us to arrive at a large passenger ship that
“I’m happy to have this challenge–that of creating the best villas all across Mexico,”
Gerardo Prieto proudly proclaimed. “Villas de Mexico promises to be possibly the most ambitious residential project in Mexico and it will be the best one!”
took us to Isla Mujeres (The Island of Women) where swimming, dining and just lounging on a white sand beach were available. Onboard we mingled with other attendees and Villas associates, and snacked on gulf shrimp, various beverages and other delicacies designed to hold us over while traversing the tranquil turquoise Caribbean waters to the island. There, we were guided to a popular restaurant where an elaborate, sumptuous buffet lunch awaited us. This island visit was brief and, too soon, it was “On The Road Again,” where another event awaited us.
The scheduled press conference, comprised of a panel of sales and marketing directors who affrmed that owners in each of the locales, as members of Las Villas de Mexico, will be able to experience a variety of ‘homes’ in interesting locations throughout Mexico. Utilizing a unique intra-community internet site, and plastic membership card, owners will be able to trade their properties and visit all the sites, if so desired, aided by Concierge Services and Google.com, plus more.
The ME Cancun was incredible! the ambiance, the elegance, the service... it was all impecable!
Raúl Petraglia runs a tight ship! It was all wonderful.
Pepe Aguilar delighted us with his music...
he puts so much feeling into his lyrics- the crowd adored him!
That night, at the ME Hotel, an expanded audience attended another classy multimedia HOMEX presentation by Gerardo. The fnale, an extravaganza, included a promotional video, colorfully-costumed models representing each state in Mexico, a performance by illusionist, Nathan Burton, “The Atlantida” aquatics, a phyromusical display, and the legendary Pepe Aguilar in a musical production, all capped by a spectacular freworks display and wrapped gift to take home.
This delightful presentation was hosted by HXM, the company that builds handcrafted communities created from centuries of tradition. Each one is well researched, strategically positioned and defned before construction. The plan is to go all across Mexico, starting with the legendary beaches of Cancún, to the tropical hillside of Punta de Mita–north of Puerto Vallarta, and two contrasting landscapes located in Los Cabos.
The communities of Las Villas de Mexico will offer the opportunity to live an enriched life surrounded by a generous culture rich in traditions. The utopian balance will be struck in each magical location, implementing modern details and design that complement the Old World charm and diversity of the area. They will be the doorways to the most extraordinary homes, spas and clubs Mexico has to offer.
HXM Tourist Division is a branch of the mother company, HOMEX, which is one of the largest and oldest building companies in the world.
The communities of Las Villas de Mexico will offer the opportunity to live an enriched life surrounded by a generous culture rich in traditions. The utopian balance will be struck in each magical location, implementing modern details and design that complement the Old World charm and diversity of the area. They will be the doorways to the most extraordinary homes, spas and clubs Mexico has to offer. h
eVerY GIrL hAS A SenSe of what she’s looking for in the ultimate girlfriend getaway, but doesn’t know quite where to begin… MexicoTrAVeLer™ was there recently to experience this getaway… and it was truly amazing!
Let us do all the work for you! The spa experience coordinators at the Willow Stream Spa, the spa at fairmont MayaKoba, will eliminate the headache that comes with planning. Sit back and relax while these spa specialists cater to your own wish list, with a personalized experience that is nothing less than unforgettable.
enjoy fairmont’s Spa Season at the Willow Stream Spa, the spa at fairmont MayaKoba. Greet spring with a personalized spa experience, including your very own spa coordinator, a free Spa Season room upgrade, special Kerstin florian gifts and a $25 spa credit, among many extras. Shrug off the stress of winter and prepare to look and feel your best this summer. Welcome the opportunity to spoil yourself and your girlfriends by celebrating Spa Season at fairmont MayaKoba.
Package details include:
• Willow Stream or fairmont Spa robe and slippers for guests to use during their stay.
• Spa gift – renowned spa body and facial product experts.
• Personalized spa coordinator to help you select your spa experiences and book appointment
• Complimentary $25 spa credit per person for use in the spa during your stay
• fairmont President’s Club members receive an additional 10%discount at all Willow Stream Spas for more information, please visit WillowStream.com or dial 1-800441-1414 from Canada and uS or 984-206-3000 from Mexico and get ready to spend enjoy the perfect girlfriend getaway at Willow Stream Spa!
right in the heart of the tropical jungle, ancient backdrop for the Maya culture, the 37,000 square foot Willow Stream Spa at the fairmont MayaKoba offers guests a place to reenergize, and become inspired by the mystery of the lagoons and mangroves it nests within.
The connection with nature prevails throughout the spa and its 20 treatment rooms, some featuring private balconies with mesmerizing views that overlook the forest. The spa also includes steam rooms and saunas, a full-service salon, an outdoor patio, and two pools, including a sea-mineral soaking pool where aching necks and shoulders are soothed by gentle mini-waterfalls. The ftness studio at the Willow Stream Spa includes the latest equipment to ensure comfort, easeof-use, and overall effectiveness, all while overlooking lush mangrove forests and Mexican gardens.
Within their distinguished menu of services, Willow Stream offers several treatments inspired by ancient Mayan traditions and ingredients. Some locally-inspired experiences include the Mexican Stone Massage and the Tropical rain Massage, both enhanced by magical oils and ancient Mayan rituals. h
text by Pat Tyson photo courtesy Fairmont MayaKoba
fAIrMOnT MAYAKOBA hOTeLS & reSOrTS has awarded fairmont MayaKoba, riviera Maya, the coveted “hotel of the Year” for 2008, after evaluating 56 of its properties around the world. The award recognizes the best overall operating performance based on exceptional service and guest, client and staff satisfaction.
“To be acknowledged by fairmont hotels & resorts as 2008’s ‘hotel of the Year’ motivates us to maintain the excellent level of service we offer and continue reinventing the business strategies that will make us stand out and remain ‘at the head of the family’ in these challenging times,” says Ian robinson, regional Vice President for Mexico and the Caribbean and General Director, fairmont MayaKoba.
In order to select the winner of the award, each property is evaluated on several levels of criteria, including meeting and exceeding occupancy and sales objectives, guest satisfaction, employee and meeting planners’ satisfaction and overall results. In addition to receiving top marks among fairmont properties in these categories, fairmont MayaKoba has also been recognized with the esteemed AAA five-Diamond Award in its two years of operation.
Moreover, two of the hotel’s restaurants—el Puerto and Las Brisas—have been recognized with the AAA four Diamond Award.
These acknowledgements further place the hotel in its award-winning position within the fairmont hotels & resorts family, proving fairmont MayaKoba’s ongoing commitment to surpassing brand expectations and maintaining the vision that has made it worthy of such accomplishments.
The work and commitment of the hotel’s staff, to ensure that every detail adheres to the values and excellence of the brand, has not only been evident by guests’ preferences around the world, but also through the important recognitions that have become a part of the hotel’s short, yet highly successful, history. fairmont hotels are one-ofa-kind properties where sophisticated travelers may discover culturally rich experiences that are authentic to the destination.
As for the future, robinson is involved with the development of new projects within his region. “This is one of the tasks of my job I enjoy most of all--taking a blank piece of paper and turning a project into something unique and special,” he affrms. Since its opening in 2006, the fairmont MayaKoba has worked to meet and exceed all of its objectives and standards and is extremely proud to bear the most prestigious recognition bestowed by the fairmont family. h
a place for the stars
Encircling what some would call the most beautiful bay in the world, Acapulco decades ago gave a new meaning to glamour as Mexico’s first world class resort destination. The Kennedys and Nixons honeymooned in Acapulco. It was the fashionable thing to do...and it may be coming back!
GT Las Brisas
011-52 (744) 469-6900
GT Fairmont Acapulco Princess
011-52 (744) 469-1000
GT Fairmont Pierre Marques
011-52 (744) 435-2600
GT Camino Real Acapulco Diamante
011-52 (744) 435-1010
GT Hyatt Regency Acapulco
011-52 (744) 468-1234
GT Mayan Resorts Acapulco (011-52 744) 469-6000
GT Quinta Real
011-52 (744) 469-1500
GT Villa Vera Spa & Racquet Club
011-52 (744) 109-0570
★
Copacabana
011-52 (744) 484-3260
Crowne Plaza
011-52 (744) 440-5555
Cano
011-52 (744) 435-1500
El Presidente
011-52 (744) 484-1700
Emporio Acapulco
011-52 (744) 469-0505
Fiesta Americana
011-52 (744) 484-2828
Mayan Sea Garden
011-52 (744) 469-6044
Park Royal Acapulco
011-52 (744) 440-6565
Ritz Acapulco
011-52 (744) 485-8958
Police 922: (744) 484-0490
Firefighters: (744) 484-4122
Red Cross: 065 (local access only) (744) 445-5912
Tourist Assistance: (744) 484-4416
Acapulco is one Mexico’s most important and famous beach resorts. It is located on the Pacific coast, 395 kilometers (245 miles) from Mexico City and 133 kilometers (83 miles) from Chilpancingo, the state capital of Guerrero. It has a warm, humid climate with temperatures ranging from 22º C (72º F) to 33º C (91º F) with sunny days throughout the year.
Among the port city’s many enticing qualities are: its beautiful bay, one of the best in the world; the calm waters of its beaches; the amenities offered by its well established hotel industry, which in recent years has undergone a major revamping, especially in the Punta Diamante neighborhood; and fi nally, the city’s unbeatable nightlife, which offers one of the hottest playgrounds among Mexican vacation destinations.
Acapulco ist eines der wichtigsten und berühmtesten Reiseziele in Mexiko. Die Stadt befi ndet sich an der Pazifi kküste, 395 km entfernt von Mexiko-Stadt und 133 km von Chilpancingo, der Hauptstadt des Bundesstaates Guerrero. Acapulco weist ein feuchtwarmes Klima mit Sonnentagen nahezu während des gesamten Jahres auf. Die Temperaturen bewegen sich im Durchschnitt zwischen 33° C und 22° C.
Unter den vielen Attraktionen, die einem das Herz in Acapulco höher schlagen lassen, ragen besonders heraus: die Schönheit einer der wundervollsten Buchten der Welt; der sanfte Wellengang der Strände; die Annehmlichkeiten der modernen Hotel-Infrastruktur, die durch die touristische Entwicklung der Punta Diamante einen neuen Glanzpunkt hinzugewonnen hat; sowie das unvergleichliche Nachtleben, das als das aufregendste in ganz Mexiko angesehen wird.
Für diejenigen, die Acapulco noch nicht
ACAPULCO
Acapulco es uno de los destinos de playa más importantes y famosos de México. Se localiza en la Costa del Pacífico, a 395 km de la Ciudad de México; y a 133 km de Chilpancingo, la capital del estado de Guerrero; cuenta con un clima cálido-húmedo que oscila entre los 33ºC y los 22°C, con días soleados durante la mayor parte del año.
Entre los muchos atractivos que podrá disfrutar en este puerto destacan: la belleza de su bahía, una de las más bonitas del mundo, el suave oleaje de sus playas, las comodidades que ofrece su importante infraestructura hotelera, la cual, durante los últimos años, se ha visto revitalizada con los modernos desarrollos turísticos de Punta Diamante; así como su incomparable vida nocturna, la mejor que se pueda disfrutar
For those who have never visited Acapulco, we recommend that you visit la Isla de la Roqueta (Roqueta Island), an ideal island setting where you can either relax or enjoy some scuba diving. You’ll also want to check out the infamous La Quebrada, where fearless cli ff divers plunge into the ocean below. If you’re looking for a little excitement of your own, Acapulco offers bungee jumping and parasailing, where from high above you can admire the stunning panoramic views of the bay, the hotel zone and the surrounding mountains, in their utmost splendor.
Nearby Acapulco, you can visit the beach of Pie de la Cuesta, known for its spectacular sunsets, or Puerto Marques, with it beautiful bay and calm waters. Finally, don’t miss out on Barra Vieja, where you are sure to enjoy delicious seafood dishes prepared in traditional Mexican restaurants.
kennen, empfehlen wir besonders den Besuch der Insel La Roqueta, die ideal geeignet ist, um zu entspannen oder in ihrer Umgebung zu tauchen, sowie die Klippen von La Quebrada, wo sie jeden Tag den halsbrecherischen Sprüngen der örtlichen Klippenspringer beiwohnen können. Falls Sie gerne selbst das Adrenalin in ihren Adern spüren möchten, ist es aber auch möglich, sich per Bungee-Seil oder Fallschirm in die Tiefe zu stürzen und dabei aus der Luft die unvergleichliche Landschaft der Bucht, ihrer Hotels sowie der sie umgebenden Berglandschaft in ganzem Glanze zu bewundern.
In der Umgebung von Acapulco können Sie zudem den für seine Sonnenuntergänge berühmten Strand von Pie de la Cuesta kennen lernen, die herrliche und von ihrem ruhigen Meeresgang geprägte Bucht von Puerto Marqués besuchen oder in Barra Vieja eines der köstlichen Gerichte mit Meeresfrüchten genießen, die die traditionellen Restaurants auf ihrer Speisekarte haben.
ACAPULCO
Acapulco est l’une des destinations côtière les plus importantes et les plus connues du pays. Elle se trouve sur la côte Pacifique, à 365 kilomètres de Mexico et à 133 kilomètres de Chilpancingo, la capitale de l’Etat de Guerrero. Le climat de la ville est chaud et humide et la température oscille entre 22 et 33 degrés, avec des jours ensoleillés la majeure partie de l’année. Parmi les nombreux atouts de la ville vous pourrez particulièrement profiter de : la beauté de sa baie, le confort qu’off re l’importante structure hôtelière, laquelle, ces dernières années, a été revitalisée par le moderne Punta Diamante, et enfin son incomparable vie nocturne, des plus réputes du Mexique.
ACAPULCO
Acapulco è una delle mete balneari più importanti e famose del Messico. Si trova nella Costa del Pacifico, a 395 km da Città del Messico e 133 km da Chilpancingo, capitale dello Stato di Guerrero; il suo clima caldo-umido oscilla fra 22°C e 33°C con giorni soleggiati durante la maggior parte dell’anno. Fra le molte attrazioni di cui si può fruire in questo porto risaltano: la bellezza della sua baia, una delle più a ffascinanti del mondo; il soave movimento delle onde sulle spiagge; le comodità offerte dalla sua importante struttura alberghiera la quale, negli ultimi anni, si è ra fforzata con il moderno sviluppo turistico di Punta Diamante, con la sua incomparabile vita notturna, la migliore di qualunque altra meta turistica del Paese.
en cualquier destino vacacional del país.
Para quienes no conocen Acapulco, recomendamos visitar la isla de La Roqueta, ideal para descansar o para practicar el buceo en sus alrededores, y La Quebrada, espectacular acantilado en donde todos los días podrá presenciar los “saltos” de los valientes clavadistas locales; así como “tirarse” en el bungee o volar en un parachute; desde las alturas podrá admirar el increíble paisaje que ofrecen la bahía, sus hoteles, y la serranía que los protege, en todo su esplendor.
En los alrededores de Acapulco, podrá conocer Pie de la Cuesta, famosa por sus atardeceres; Puerto Marqués, hermosa bahía de aguas tranquilas, y Barra Vieja, donde, estamos seguros, se deleitará con los exquisitos platillos del mar que ofrecen sus restaurantes tradicionales.
Pour ceux qui ne connaissent pas Acapulco, nous vous recommandons visiter l’île de la Roqueta, idéale pour se reposer ou faire de la plongée aux alentours, et la Quebrada, spectaculaire falaise où tous les jours vous pourrez apprécier les incroyables sauts des plongeurs locaux. Vous pourrez également vous lancer du saut à l’élastique ou sauter en parachute et depuis les hauteurs admirer l’incroyable vue, la baie, les hôtels et la montagne qui les protége. Aux alentours d’Acapulco, vous pourrez aller à Pie de la Cuesta, reconnue pour ses couchers de soleil, Puerto Marqués, magnifique baie aux eaux tranquilles, et Barra Vieja, où, nous sommes sûrs, vous vous régalerez avec les délicieux produits de la mer qu’off rent les restaurants traditionnels.
A quelli che non conoscono Acapulco è raccomandata la visita all’Isola della Roqueta, ideale per riposare o per praticare l’immersione lungo la costa e La Quebrada, una spettacolare alta scogliera dove, tutti i giorni si può assistere ai tu ffi dei coraggiosi tu ffatori locali; inoltre, ci si può lanciare con il “bungee” (salto con l’elastico) o volare con un paracadute; dalle alture potrà ammirare l’incredibile paesaggio che offre la baia, i suoi hotel e la regione montuosa che la proteggono.
Nei dintorni di Acapulco si può visitare Pie de la Cuesta, famosa per i suoi tramonti; Puerto Marqués, bella baia dalle acque tranquille e Barra Vieja dove, certamente si prova gran piacere con la degustazione degli squisiti piatti di mare che off rono i tradizionali ristoranti.
IN RECENT YEARS ACAPULCO has lost its eminence as Mexico’s top playground. Cancun, across the continent on the Caribbean, has grabbed that title...but this may change soon.
Encircling what some would call the most beautiful bay in the world, Acapulco decades ago gave a new meaning to glamour as Mexico’s frst world class resort destination.
Costera Boulevard, girding the bay, is the address of several of the resort hotels along with many of Acapulco’s top restaurants, grandest shops and wildest discotheques. Newer places, mostly condos, line the beach far from the bay and close to the airport in what is called Acapulco Diamante.
Wherever they check in, the Costera probably will be the frst place most people check out for a night on the town. A good way to get the feel for the street is to take a ride at sundown in a balloon-festooned horse-drawn buggy while spotting the spots to festa at later on.
photos by Jim Cline and the Mexico Tourism Board
The air age turned a once rowdy port into a glittering resort. Up until the 1960s there was a regular routine for an Acapulco holiday. The crowds would fock to Caleta Beach in the morning, Los Hornos Beach in the afternoon and drive out to quaff a coco loco (gin in a coconut shell) while admiring the sunset from a hammock beneath the palms at Pie de la Cuesta.
For variety, there were glass bottom boats going over to Roqueta, an island across from Caleta, and dugouts taking tourists through the jungle swamps between Puerto Marques and Revolcadero Beach, wild country where Johnny Weismueller made some of his Tarzan movies.
In those days Acapulco nights were for sleeping. The glamorous few, of course, had their private parties to go to. There was always some movie producer in town, which meant plenty of would-be starlets around. Lots of what they used to call cafe society. The Kennedys and Nixons honeymooned in Acapulco. It was the fashionable thing to do.
Sinfonía
Sinfonía
To sit sipping a margarita a dozen stories above the shore and dream of the night’s pleasures to come while watching the sun dip below the mountains may not be perfection but it comes quite close.
The jet age brought in the Jet Set and everybody else as well. In the 1960s Acapulco began to change again. Hoteliers moved down from the hills and out to the bayfront.
High-rise hedonist havens followed, but, purists to the contrary, Acapulco Bay became, if anything, more beautiful. To sit sipping a margarita a dozen stories above the shore and dream of the night’s pleasures to come while watching the sun dip below the mountains may not be perfection but it comes quite close.
Acapulco is not only attracting high end tourism, but high end hotel chains as well. Don’t be surprsed if it becomes the playground for the Jet Set again. h
two destinations in one
Originally Ixtapa was to be a masterplanned vacation center, complete with luxury hotels, a golf course and a marina at Ixtapa, a then-empty stretch of beach just above the vintage seaside village of Zihuatanejo would provide a home for workers in the region along with more modestlypriced inns… NOT… Zihuatanejo is NOW the address of some of the most exclusive and costly lodging on the Pacific Coast.
Ixtapa
GT Melia Azul Ixtapa
011-52 (755) 555-0000
GT Las Brisas Ixtapa
011-52 (755) 553-2121
★
Barceló Ixtapa Beach Resort
011-52 (755) 555-2000
★
Club Med Ixtapa
011-52 (755) 555-1000
Dorado Pacifco
011-52 (755) 553-2025 ★
Emporio
011-52 (755) 553-1066
★
Holiday Inn Ixtapa
011-52 (755) 555-0500
★
NH Krystal
011-52 (755) 553-0333 ★
Pacifca
011-52 (755) 555-2500
Park Royal Ixtapa
011-52 (755) 555-0550
Presidente InterContinental
011-52 (755) 553-0018
Casa Buenaventura
011-52 (755) 554-2855
Club Intrawest
011-52 (755) 555-0350
La Casa Que Canta
011-52 (755) 555-7030
The Tides
011-52 (755) 555-5500
Villa Vera Puerto Escondido
011-52 (755) 553-8165
Villa Luz
011-52 (755) 112-1834
Municipal Police: (755) 554-2040
Fire Department: (755) 554-7551, 0012
Red Cross: (755) 554-2009, 6533
Tourist Assistance: (755) 554-2001
Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is one of Mexico’s most beautiful beach destinations. Nestled between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, 152 miles northwest of Acapulco in the state of Guerrero, Mexico, the climate is hot, with an average year-round temperature of 82º F.
is dual destination is a great choice for the traveler looking for a little of everything, from posh resort pampering, to modest simplicity. Zihuatanejo, or “Zihua,” as it’s a ffectionately called, is the more laid back for the two locations. Until the 1970s, Zihua was a sleepy fishing village, and although it has grown since then, it still retains its small-town feel, friendly people and casual lifestyle.
Zihuatanejo has the old-fashioned charm of traditional Mexico. Its downtown features narrow cobblestone streets that house local restaurants, bars and artisan boutiques. Fish-
Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo ist eine der schönsten Strand-Destinationen Mexikos und befindet sich - eingebettet zwischen den Sierra Madre Bergen und dem Pazifischen Ozean - 245 km (152 Meilen) nordwestlich von Acapulco im Bundesstaat Guerrero. Es herrscht heisses Klima mit einer Jahresdurchschnittstemperatur von 28°C (82°F). Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo bietet dem Reiseliebhaber, der von allem ein bisschen haben möchte, eine Unmenge an Angeboten, die vom Verwöhnpaket in einem Nobel-Resort bis zu den bescheidensten Unterkünften reichen. Zihuatanejo, liebevoll auch „Zihua“ genannt, ist von beiden Städten die gemütlichere Destination. Bis zu den 70er Jahren war Zihua ein verschlafenes Fischerdorf und obwohl es seitdem gewachsen ist, verbreitet es weiterhin ein gemütliches Kleinstadtgefühl mit sympathischen Einwohnern und einem lockeren Lebensstil. Zihuatanejo entspricht dem Charme eines traditionellen Mexikos. Das Stadtzentrum besteht aus engen Kopfsteinpflastern, auf welchem sich lokale Restaurants, Bars und Boutiquen, die nationale Kunsthandwerke ausstellen, befin-
IXTAPA ZIHUATANEJO
Es una de los destinos de playa mas hermosos de Mexico. Hubicado entre la Sierra Madre y el Oceano Pacifico, a 152 millas de Acapulco en el estado de Guerrero, Mexico, el clima es caliente y la temperatura promedio anual es de 82º F.
Este destino es una excellente opcion para el viajero que busca un poco de todo, desde lujosos resorts, hasta la mas modesta simplicidad. Zihuatanejo, o “Zihua”, como se le llama de cariño, es el mas tranquilo de los dos. Hata 1970 Zihua era un pueblo de pescadores muy tranquilo, y aunque ha crecido desde entonces, todavia mantiene su imagen the pueblito, la gente es amigable y lleva una vida muy casual.
Zihuatanejo tiene el encanto de el Mexico tradicional. El centro de la ciudad esta acompañada de extrechas callejuelas de adoquin en las que se encuentran restaurantes locales, bares y tiendas de artesanias. Los pescadores todavia se reunen cada mañana para vender lo que
ermen still gather each morning to sell their catch of the day, and Zihuatanejo’s well-protected bay offers various beaches for relaxation, recreation and dining.
In contrast, Ixtapa is government-planned modern tourist resort that was begun in the early 1970’s, constructed on what was once a coconut plantation and mangrove estuary. In Ixtapa you’ll find high-rise hotels lining the beachfront, modern condominiums , upscale shops, discos, fine cuisine and a marina with more than 600 slips.
Probably the most popular boat trip from Ixtapa is to Isla Ixtapa for snorkeling and lunch at one of the island’s several restaurants, although opportunities for sports fishing, surfi ng, diving and snorkeling, sailing, golf, tennis, and horseback riding abound in both Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. For travelers, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo offers the appealing possibility of visiting two distinct destinations in one vacation.
den. Fischer kommen weiterhin jeden Morgen zusammen, um ihre selbstgefangenen Fische zu verkaufen, und Zihuatanejos gut geschützte Buchten mit ihren vielfältigen Stränden laden zur Entspannung, zu diversen Freizeitaktivitäten und feinem Essen ein.
Ixtapa dagegen ist ein in den frühen 70er Jahren von der Regierung entworfenes modernes Touristen-Resort, das einst auf KokosnussPlantagen und Mangrovenwäldern konstruiert wurde. Hochragende Hotels, moderne Wohnungen, gehobene Einkaufsläden, Diskotheken, exquisite Restaurants und ein Yachthafen mit über 600 Anlegeplätzen umgeben die Strandpromenade.
Die beliebteste Schi ff fahrt führt zur Insel Ixtapa und gilt als perfekter Ort zum schnorcheln mit anschliessendem Mittagessen in einem der vielen Inselrestaurants. Selbstverständlich fehlt es rund um Ixtapa und Zihuatanejo auch nicht an Möglichkeiten zum Sportfischen, surfen, tauchen, segeln, reiten, Golf und Tennis spielen. Kurzum, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo ermöglicht jedem Reiseliebhaber zwei unterschiedliche Destinationen in einem einzigen Urlaub zu erleben.
pesacron ese dia, la bien cuidad bahia de Zihuatanejo ofrece varias playas para la relajacion, recreacion y comida.
Ixtapa, a cambio, es un punto turistico que fue planneado por el govierno para ser moderno y fue iniciado en 1970, fue construido sobe lo que alguna vez era una plantacion de cocos y manglar estuario. En Ixtapa se encuentran elevados los hoteles a la orilla de la playa, condominios modernos, tiendas de primera clase, discotecas, cocina fi na y un puerto de mas de 600 sips.
Probablemente el paseo en barco mas popular desde Ixtapa es a la Isla Ixtapa donde los turistas pueden snorkelear y tomar el almuerzo en uno de los muchos restaurantes en la isla. Aunque existe la oportunidad par deportes como pescar, sorfear, bucear , golf, tenis, y montar a caballo se escuentran en tanto Ixtapa como en Zihuatanejo. Para los viajeros, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo ofrece la posibilidad de visitar dos destinos distintos en un solo viaje.
Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo est l´une des plus belles destinations balnéaires du Mexique. Elle est nichée entre les montagnes de la Sierra Madre et l´Océan Pacifique, à 245 km au nordouest d´Acapulco dans l´Etat de Guerrero, Mexique. Le climat est chaud, avec une température moyenne de 28 º C tout au long de l´année.
Cette double destination est un excellent choix pour le voyageur qui recherche un peu de tout, de la station balnéaire la plus chic à la plus modeste simplicité.
Zihuatanejo, ou « Zihua » comme on l´appelle a ffectueusement, est le plus décontracté des deux endroits. Zihua était jusqu´aux années 70 un village de pêcheurs endormi et bien qu´il se soit agrandi depuis, il conserve encore son atmosphère de petite ville, ses habitants accueillants et son style de vie décontracté.
Zihuatanejo a le charme désuet du Mexique traditionnel. Son centre ville se distingue par ses étroites ruelles pavées qui abritent des restaurants locaux, des bars et des boutiques d´artisanat. Les pêcheurs se rassemblent enco-
IXTAPA ZIHUATANEJO
Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo e’ una delle destinazioni marittime piu’ belle del Messico. Annidata tra la Montagne della Sierra Madre e l’Oceano Pacifico, 152 miglia a nordovest nello stato di Guerrero, Messico, ha un clima caldo, con temperature medie di 28º tutto l’anno.
Questa doppia destinazione e’ una scelta ideale per chi vuole un po’ di tutto, dal resort sofisticato, alla modesta semplicita’. Zihuatanejo, o “Zihua”, com’e’ a ffettuosamente chiamata, e’ la piu’ rilassata delle due localita’. Fino agli anni settanta, Zihua era un villaggio di pescatori, e anche se cresciuta da allora, mantiene ancora la sua atmosfera da piccola cittadina, con gente amichevole e uno stile di vita rilassato.
Zihuatanejo ha il fascino del passato del Messico piu’ tradizionale. Il suo centro storico ha strade in pietra su cui si a ffacciano ristoranti, bar e botteghe di artigianato locale. Ancora oggi, i pescatori si ritrovano ogni mattina a
km
re chaque matin pour vendre leur pêche de la journée. La baie bien protégée de Zihuatanejo off re diverses plages où il fait bon se relaxer, se divertir et se restaurer.
Ixtapa est par contraste une station touristique moderne, planifiée par le gouvernement et construite au début des années 70 sur ce qui était alors une plantation de noix de coco et un estuaire de mangroves. Le voyageur trouvera à Ixtapa de grands hôtels en bord de mer, de modernes appartements, des boutiques chics, des discothèques, de la cuisine fine et un port de plaisance avec plus de 600 anneaux.
La traversée en bateau la plus populaire est sans doute celle d´Ixtapa à l´île Ixtapa pour la plongée en apnée et le déjeuner dans l´un des multiples restaurants de l´île. Les occasions de faire du sport tels que pêche, surf, plongée sousmarine et plongée en apnée, voile, golf, tennis et équitation abondent tant à Ixtapa qu´à Zihuatanejo. Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo off re aux voyageurs la séduisante possibilité de visiter deux destinations touristiques di fférentes pendant les vacances.
vendere il pesce appena pescato, mentre la ben protetta baia di Zihuatanejo off re diverse spiagge per rilassarsi, divertirsi e cenare.
Ixtapa, invece, e’ un resort turistico moderno che fu costruito da enti governativi negli anni settanta su quel che una volta era un estuario di piantagioni di noci di cocco e mangrovie. In Ixtapa troverete grandi hotel a riva sul mare, moderni condomini, negozi chic, discoteche, ristoranti di alta cucina e una marina con piu’ di seicento ormeggi.
Probabilmente, l’attivita’ piu’ popolare e’ la gita in barca tra Ixtapa e la Isla Ixtapa per fare snorkeling e pranzare ad uno dei diversi ristoranti sull’isola, anche se abbondano le opportunita’ per andare a pescare, fare surf, immersioni, gite in barca a vela, golf, tennis e passeggiate a cavallo sia a Ixtapa sia a Zihuatanejo. Per i turisti, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo off re l’intrigante possibilita’ di visitare due distinte destinazioni in un’unica vacanza.
photos by Jim Cline and the Mexico Tourism Board
IT IS CURIOUS how vacation destinations develop. Thirty years ago the government decided to create a master-planned vacation center, complete with luxury hotels, a golf course (there now are two) and a marina at Ixtapa, a then-empty stretch of beach just above the vintage seaside village of Zihuatanejo. Picturesque Zihuatanejo, circling a truly lovely bay, would provide a home for workers in the region along with more modestly-priced inns, many of which already were operating.
But it is Zihuatanejo that now is the address of some of the most exclusive and costly lodging on the Pacifc Coast: Casa Que Canta, Villa del Sol; wich is now The Tides and the tiny three called Quinta Troppo, Casa Cuitlateca and Casa Carolina. Reversing this trend is the Capella, recently opened and advertising an introductory rate of 300 dollars per night “plus taxes and other charges.”
Zihuatanejo long has attracted an eclectic array of characters. Consider ‘’The Shawshank Redemption,’’ in which two convicts played by Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman daydream of the ultimate good life in Zihua. Residents still speculate in which of their neighbors might have inspired the flm.
Compared to Zihuatanejo, Ixtapa is somewhat more conventional. Most of the hotels there stand a discreet distance from each other. They line the beach with a series of shopping centers and one of the golf courses across the road on the other side. The area strikes me
But it is Zihuatanejo that now is the address of some of the most exclusive and costly lodging on the Pacific coast.
as especially appealing for family vacations. Most children are happy never to leave the swimming pool area unless it is to play around the beach and the hotels are prepared to help keep an eye on the little ones. Who can ask for any more than that?
The venerable game of backgammon remains alive and well at Las Brisas in Ixtapa. Dating back to ancient times (the Romans called it ludus duodecim scriptorium), backgammon became the pastime of choice for the wealthy and fashionable a generation ago. It fared for a while and then fzzled. Some blame the demise of its on the excessive concentration it demanded.
So why does it survive at one lone hotel Ixtapa? Credit the architect. When Ricardo Legorreta designed what was frst a Camino Real and then a Westin (almost no hotel in Ixtapa operates under its original name), he had written into his contract that no project of his could be altered without his permission. Legorreta installed permanent backgammon boards in the Bar La Club, and they remain there still. h
so rich in history
Few capitals in the world can rival it in beauty, excitement and exotic fascination.
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Mexico City, the oldest metropolis on the American continent, is perched atop a highland valley at about 2,240 meters (7,392 feet) above sea level. Towering high above the city’s southeast side are two volcanoes: Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl. e nation’s capital has some of the best weather in the world with an average temperature of 22º C (72º F).
Once known as the City of Palaces, Mexico City has two areas that were declared World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO. e fi rst, the Centro Historico (Historic Center), has beautiful historic and religious buildings, such as the Catedral Metropolitano (Metropolitan Cathedral), one of the most important architectural structures in the Western Hemisphere. e Palacio Nacional (National Palace) has spectacular Diego Rivera murals that chronicle Mexico’s history. And Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts), which hosts the city’s most important cultural events, is a beautiful construction that blends art nouveau and art deco styles. e other World Heritage Site, Xochimilco Ecological Park, is often called the Venice of Mexico due to its beautiful canals. Flower-painted boats offer
Mexiko-Stadt ist die älteste Metropole Amerikas und befindet sich in der Region der Zentralen Hochebene Mexikos (auf einer Höhe von 2.240 Metern ü.dM.), umgeben von den Vulkanen Popocatépetl und Iztaccíhuatl. Die Stadt zeichnet sich durch das beste Klima der Welt aus, mit einer jährlichen Durchschnittstemperatur von 22° C.
Einst als die “Stadt der Paläste” bekannt, wartet Mexiko-Stadt mit zwei als Weltkulturerbe von der UNESCO ausgezeichneten Stadtteilen auf: Zum einen das Centro Histórico (Altstadt), das mit solch bezaubernden religiösen und historischen Bauwerken geschmückt ist wie der Catedral Metropolitana, einem der wichtigsten Denkmäler Amerikas; dem Palacio Nacional, in dessen Innenhof Sie die eindrucksvollen Wandgemälde von Diego Rivera bewundern können, die dessen Sicht der Geschichte Mexikos zum Ausdruck bringen; oder dem Palacio de Bellas Artes, ein wundervolles Gebäude, das im Stile des Art Nouveau und Art Decó erbaut wurde und eine der wichtigsten kulturellen und künstlerischen Ausstellungsflächen der Stadt besitzt. Zum anderen der Parque Ecológico de Xochimilco, der wegen seiner schönen Kanäle von vielen als das “Mexikanische Venedig” angesehen wird und an Bord einer “Trajinera” (ein mit Blumen geschmücktes Holzboot) durchquert werden kann.
CIUDAD DE MÉXICO
La Ciudad de México, la metrópoli más antigua de América, se ubica en la región del Altiplano Central (a una altura de 2,240 msnm), cobijada por los volcanes Popocatépetl e Iztaccíhuatl y se distingue por tener el mejor clima del mundo, con una temperatura promedio anual de 22°C. Conocida anteriormente como la “Ciudad de los Palacios”, la Ciudad de México cuenta con dos zonas declaradas como Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la UNESCO: su Centro Histórico, engalanado con bellos edificios religiosos e históricos como: la Catedral Metropolitana, uno de los monumentos arquitectónicos más importantes de América; el Palacio Nacional, en cuyo patio interior podrá admirar los espectaculares murales donde Diego Rivera plasmó su visión de la historia de México; o el Palacio de Bellas Artes, hermosa construcción de estilos art nouveau y decó, que aloja uno de los recintos culturales y artísticos más importantes de la ciudad. Y el Parque Ecológico de Xochimilco, considerado por muchos como la “Venecia mexicana”, por sus bellos canales que pueden ser recorridos a bordo de una “trajinera” (curiosa embarcación de
tours of the canals and floating gardens.
If you’re interested in cultural events, Mexico City offers a wide variety of museums, such as the Museo Nacional de Antropologia (a worldclass anthropology museum), the Museo Nacional de Arte ( e National Art Museum) and the Museo Nacional de Historia (a history museum in Chapultepec Castle where you can see an amazing exhibit that chronicles the nation’s history and art, from the pre-Hispanic era to present day).
In north Mexico City, you can visit the Basilica de Guadalupe, one of the most visited basilicas in the world; in fact, it is second only to Saint Peter’s Basilica, in Vatican City, in the number of visitors it receives each year. is is a must-see for those who want to learn more about the city’s customs and traditions.
What’s more, Mexico City is a cosmopolitan metropolis, where new and old traditions coexist side by side. Here you can go shopping at bazaars and crafts markets in the Coyoacan and San Angel neighborhoods. Or you can go to exclusive boutiques and shopping centers in the posh communities of Santa Fe and Polanco, where you’ll be surrounded by the comfort of top-notch hotels and restaurants.
Kulturliebhabern bietet sich in Mexiko-Stadt eine große Vielfalt an Museen, unter denen vor allem das Nationale Museum für Anthropologie, das Nationale Kunstmuseum und das in dem Schloss von Chapultepec beherbergte Nationale Museum für Geschichte zu nennen sind. In diesen Museen können Sie herausragende Sammlungen bewundern, die die künstlerische und geschichtliche Entwicklung des Landes von der vorspanischen Epoche bis in die heutige Zeit widerspiegeln. Im Norden der Stadt können Sie die Basilika von Guadalupe besuchen, dem nach der Basilika von San Pedro im Vatikan zweitmeistbesuchten Tempel der Welt. Die Basilika ist ein unverzichtbarer Anlaufpunkt für alle, die gerne noch mehr über die Bräuche und Traditionen der Stadt erfahren möchten.
Zu all dem muss hinzugefügt werden, dass Mexiko-Stadt eine weltoffene Enklave ist, in der sich das koloniale Erbe mit einem weiten Fächer an dieser modernen Stadt zueigenen Aktivitäten vereint: Einkäufe in Basaren und Handwerksmärkten, wie in den Vierteln von Coyoacán und San Angel, oder auch in exklusiven Boutiquen und Einkaufszentren, wie denen der Stadtteile Santa Fe oder Polanco, die von dem Glamour und dem Komfort international hochrangiger Hotels und Restaurants umgeben sind.
madera adornada con flores). Si su interés es cultural, la Ciudad de México ofrece una gran variedad de museos como: el Museo Nacional de Antropología, el Museo Nacional de Arte y el Museo Nacional de Historia (alojado en el Castillo de Chapultepec), donde podrá admirar estupendas colecciones que reflejan la evolución artística e histórica del país, desde la época prehispánica hasta nuestros días. Al norte, podrá visitar la Basílica de Guadalupe, el segundo santuario más visitado en el mundo después de la Basílica de San Pedro en el Vaticano, una escala obligada para quienes quieren conocer aun más sobre las costumbres y tradiciones de la ciudad. A todo esto hay que agregar que la Ciudad de México es un enclave cosmopolita, donde la herencia de la tradición colonial se combina con un amplio abanico de actividades propias de una ciudad moderna: compras en bazares y mercados de artesanías, como los de los barrios de Coyoacán y San Ángel, o bien en exclusivas boutiques y plazas comerciales, como las que se encuentran en Santa Fe y la zona de Polanco, rodeadas del glamour y el confort de sus hoteles y restaurantes de categoría internacional.
CITY
La ville de Mexico, la métropole la plus ancienne d’Amérique, se situe sur le haut plateau central mexicain, à une altitude de 2,000 mètres. La ville est entourée des volcans Popocatépetl et Iztaccíhuatl et est connue pour posséder le meilleur climat du monde entier, avec une température moyenne annuelle de 22°C. Connue autrefois comme la “ville des palais”, la ville de Mexico dispose de deux zones classées par l’UNESCO comme patrimoine mondiale de l’humanité: le centre historique et le parc de Xochimilco. Le centre historique, paré de beaux édifices religieux et historiques tels que: la cathédrale métropolitaine, un des monuments architectoniques les plus importants de l’Amérique; la palais national, où vous pourrez admirer dans le patio les spectaculaires peintures murales de Diego Rivera qui racontent l’histoire de Mexico; le palais des beaux arts, magnifique édifice de style art nouveau et art déco. Le parc écologique de Xochimilco, considéré par beaucoup “la Venise mexicaine “que vous parcourrez à bord
CITTA’ DEL MESSICO
Città del Messico, la metropoli più antica dell’America, si trova nella regione dell’Altipiano Centrale ad un’altura di 2240 m.s.l.m.; protetta dai vulcani Popocatépetl e Iztaccíhuatl, si caratterizza per avere il miglior clima del mondo, con una temperatura media annuale di 22°C. Anticamente conosciuta come la “Città dei Palazzi”, Città del Messico off re due zone dichiarate Patrimonio dell’Umanità da parte dell’UNESCO: il Centro Storico e il Parco Ecologico di Xochimilco. Il primo è adornato da stupendi edifici religiosi e storici come la Cattedrale Metropolitana- uno dei monumenti architettonici più importanti di tutta l’America- ed il Palazzo Nazionale (Palacio Nacional), nel cui cortile interno si può ammirare gli spettacolari murali con i quali Diego Rivera concretizò la sua visione della storia messicana; il Palacio (Palazzo) de Bellas Artes, una bella costruzione secondo gli stili art nouveau e decó, che ospita uno degli spazi artistici e culturali più importanti della città. Il Parco Ecologico di Xochimilco è considerato da molti “la Venezia messicana” per i suoi bei canali, percorribili a bordo di una “trajinera” (curiosa imbarcazione di legno adornata
d’une”trajinera” (embarcation en bois décorée de fleurs).
Si vos centres d’intérêts sont plutôt culturels, la ville de Mexico dispose d’une grande variété de musées comme: le musée national d’anthropologie, le musée des arts, le musée national d’art et d’histoire (logé dans le château de Chapultepec) où vous pourrez admirer des collections qui reflètent l’évolution artistique et historique du pays, de l’époque préhispanique jusqu’à nos jours.
Au nord, vous pourrez visiter la basilique de Guadalupe, la seconde basilique la plus visitée au monde après la basilique Saint Pierre au Vatican, étape obligée pour ceux qui veulent connaître les coutumes et traditions mexicaines.
On peut ajouter que Mexico est une ville cosmopolite où l’on peut trouver toutes les activités d’une ville moderne: achats dans des bazars et marchés d’artisanats, par exemple à Coyoacán et San Ángel, ou dans des boutiques et centres commerciaux, comme ceux de Santa Fe et de Polanco, entourés de restaurants et hôtels de classes internationales
con fiori). Per chi ha interessi culturali, Città del Messico off re una gran varietà di musei: il Museo Nazionale d’Antropologia (Museo Nacional de Antropología), il Museo Nazionale d’Arte (Museo Nacional de Arte) e il Museo Nazionale di Storia (Museo Nacional de Historia), quest’ultimo alloggiato nel Castello (Castillo) di Chapultepec, dove si possono ammirare stupende collezioni che riflettono l’evoluzione artistica e storica del Paese dall’epoca preispanica ai nostri giorni. A nord della città si può visitare la Basilica della Guadalupe (Basílica de Guadalupe), il secondo santuario più visitato nel mondo dopo la Basilica di San Pietro in Vaticano e tappa obbligatoria per chi vuole conoscere meglio i costumi e le tradizioni della città. Città del Messico è un’enclave cosmopolita, dove l’eredità della tradizione coloniale si unisce alle molte attività proprie di una città moderna: si può acquistare nei bazar e mercati d’artigianato, come quelli esistenti nei quartieri di Coyoacán e San Ángel, o in esclusive boutique e centri commerciali che s’incontrano in Santa Fe e Polanco, circondati dal glamour e confort di hotel e ristoranti di livello internazionale.
text by Jimm Budd
photos by Jim Cline and the Mexico Tourism Board
OLDEST CAPITAL IN THE NEW WORLD, largest city in the Western Hemisphere, Mexico City is the frst stop for most visitors arriving in the country. Its airport is the busiest in Latin America. True, many of the debarking passengers stay only long enough to change planes and many of the others are business travelers, but for a vacation, Mexico City ranks up there with Paris or Hong Kong.
For tourists Mexico City can be exploring pyramids and temples built back when Arthur reigned in England, spending one afternoon at the races and another strolling through Chapultepec Castle, the only imperial palace in North America. It can be lunch at a sidewalk cafe and a gourmet dinner in a colonial hacienda.
Few capitals in the world can rival it in beauty, excitement and exotic fascination. Most travelers book hotels on or near Reforma Boulevard where they are just minutes from other the leading restaurants, fascinating shops and all the dazzling sights there are to see. Reforma runs through the very heart of town, from Chapultepec Park—hunting preserve of the Aztec Emperors—on close to swnk and trendy Polanco with its many boutiques and appealing cafes. Reforma leads into Juarez Avenue, gateway to the ancient lanes of the colonial heart of New Spain, and then to the great plaza known as the Zocalo where the Halls of Montezuma stood.
When it comes to night life, the emphasis is on night in Mexico
The Aztecs founded Mexico City in 1325. There is something special about a breakfast at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Zocalo, then going on to marvel at the remains of the Great Temple of the Aztecs, admire the murals in the National Palace and the gilt altars in the huge Metropolitan Cathedral.
And that is just the beginning. Another day might start with breakfast by the lake in Chapultepec Park hard by the castle where the Emperor Maximilian reigned a century ago. Next stop would be the world famous Museum of Anthropology to see the Aztec calendar stone and a Maya tomb.
When it comes to night life, the emphasis is on night inMexico City. A siesta usually is in order late in the afternoon, followed by cocktails at a lobby bar, dinner at any one of many fne establishments in Polanco or the Bohemian Condesa neighborhood with its pubs, bistros and cantinas. One evening, surely, will be set aside for the magnifcent Ballet Folklorico with its presentations of Mexico’s regional dances. Others might include a concert, night at the opera or a Broadway show in Spanish. h
the state that has it all, including mezcal
e tequila fad awakened all this interest in mezcal.
Tequila, of course, is a form of mezcal, mezcal being the fermented, distilled juice of the agave plant. In the case of tequila, it is the juice of the blue Weber agave grown in Jalisco or one of its neighboring states.
★
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Oaxaca City is located in Mexico’s southern region in the middle of a zone surrounded by four valleys. Behind the valleys lie three important mountain ranges, which keep the climate mild with an average temperature of 18º C (64º F).
In this city, the capital of the state of Oaxaca, you can admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings in the Centro Historico (Historic Center), which was declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. e edifices include la Catedral ( e Cathedral), el Templo y ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzman ( e Temple and Ex-Convent of Saint Domingo de Guzman), la Basilica de la Soledad ( e Basilica of Solitude) and el Teatro Macedonio Alcala ( e Macedonio Alcala eater), among other magnificent colonial and 19th-century constructions. As you visit the main plaza, the numerous establishments surrounding the Historic Center, and the traditional markets,
Die Stadt Oaxaca befindet sich im Süden der mexikanischen Republik. Sie liegt genau im Zentrum eines Gebietes, das von vier Tälern umgeben ist. Diese Täler sind wiederum von drei großen Gebirgsketten umschlossen, weshalb ein mildes Klima, mit einer Jahresdurchschnittstemperatur von 18°C, vorherrscht. In Oaxaca, der Hauptstadt des gleichnamigen Bundesstaates, können Sie die Architektur der prächtigen Gebäude des historischen Zentrums bewundern, welches von der UNESCO zum Weltkulturerbe erklärt wurde. Dies umfasst die Kathedrale, das ehemalige Kloster und die jetzige Kirche Santo Domingo de Guzmán und die Basilika de la Soledad sowie das makedonische eater Alcalá, um nur einige der herrlichen Bauten aus der Kolonialzeit bzw. des 19.°Jahrhunderts zu erwähnen. Sei es in den Eingängen rund um den Plaza principal (wichtigster Platz einer Stadt in Lateinamerika und Spanien), in den zahlreichen Geschäften im Umfeld des historischen Zentrums oder auf seinen traditionsreichen Märkten, wie der Benito Juárez und der 20°de noviembre, Sie finden alle Arten kunsthandwerklicher Produkte, die aus den verschiedenen Regionen des Bundes-
La ciudad de Oaxaca se localiza en la región sur de la República Mexicana, justo en medio de una zona rodeada por cuatro valles, los cuales, a su vez, son protegidos por tres importantes cadenas montañosas, lo que favorece su clima templado que promedia una temperatura anual de 18ªC.
En esta ciudad, capital del estado del mismo nombre, podrá admirar la arquitectura de los bellos edificios que engalanan su centro histórico, declarado como Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la UNESCO: la Catedral, el Templo y Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán y la Basílica de la Soledad, así como el Teatro Macedonio Alcalá, entre otras magníficas construcciones coloniales y decimonónicas. En los portales que rodean a su plaza principal, en las numerosas tiendas que encontrará en los alrededores de su centro histórico y en sus mercados tradicionales, como el “Benito Juárez” o el “20 de noviembre”, encontrará todo tipo de
such as Benito Juarez and 20 de Noviembre, you’ll find all kinds of crafts that come from various regions of Oaxaca. Among the most popular crafts are the colorful alebrijes, swords, wool garments and beautiful black pottery. At some of the more traditional places you can try the delicious local fare, such as tamales, mole dishes and Oaxacan cheese. Another favorite is Oaxaca’s famous mezcal, a regional alcoholic beverage made from the maguey plant.
In the city’s surrounding areas, you can visit archaeological zones Monte Alban and Mitla, pre-Hispanic capitals of the Zapotec and Mixtec people. If you visit the town of Santa Maria de Tule, you can marvel at the famous Arbol del Tule (Tule Tree). What’s more, the magnificent natural scenery at Parque Nacional Benito Juarez and the spectacular fossilized waterfalls at Hierve el Agua are certain to impress you. All of these places are relatively close to Oaxaca City, one of Mexico’s most charming cities.
staates Oaxaca kommen. Dabei heben sich vor allem die farbenfrohen Alebrijes (bezaubernde Figuren, die Fantasiemenschen und -tiere darstellen), die Schwerter, die Textilien aus Wolle und die herrlichen Arbeiten aus schwarzem Ton hervor. An diesen traditionsreichen Orten haben Sie auch die Möglichkeit, die exquisiten Gerichte der typisch einheimischen Küche zu probieren. Dazu zählen die Tamales (ein meist mit Fleisch gefülltes Maisfladenbrot), die Moles (Fleischeintopf, meist aus Hühnchen- oder Schweinfleisch), der Käse und der berühmte Mezcal (ein für diese Region typisches alkoholisches Getränk, das aus der Maguey-Pflanze gewonnen wird). In der Umgebung der Stadt können Sie die archäologischen Stätten der Monte Albán sowie der Mitla (ehemalige Hauptstädte der vorhispanischen Kulturen der Zapoteken und Mixteken) besuchen. Einen Besuch lohnen auch das Dorf Santa María del Tule, wo Sie den berühmten Árbol del Tule (eine Riesenzypresse) bewundern können, und die herrlichen Landschaften des Naturparks Benito Juárez sowie die großartigen Steinwasserfälle in Hierve el Agua, unweit der altertümlichen Stadt Antequera (Oaxaca), eine der zauberhaftesten Städte Mexikos.
artesanías provenientes de las diferentes regiones que conforman el estado de Oaxaca, entre las que destacan los coloridos “alebrijes”, las espadas, los textiles de lana y los bellos trabajos de barro negro. En estos lugares llenos de tradición también podrá saborear los exquisitos platillos que identifican a su cocina tradicional: los “tamales”, los “moles”, el “quesillo” y el famoso mezcal, la bebida típica de la región, la cual es elaborada de la planta del maguey. En los alrededores de la ciudad podrá visitar las zonas arqueológicas de Monte Albán y Mitla, antiguas capitales de las culturas prehispánicas zapoteca y mixteca; el poblado de Santa María del Tule donde podrá admirar la espectacular figura del famoso “Árbol del Tule”; y los magníficos escenarios naturales del Parque “Benito Juárez” o las espectaculares cascadas pétreas de Hierve el Agua, todos ubicados a pocos kilómetros de la antigua Antequera (Oaxaca), una de las ciudades más encantadoras de la República Mexicana.
OAXACA
La ville de Oaxaca se trouve dans la partie sud de la République Mexicaine, en plein milieu d’une zone délimitée par quatre vallées, lesquelles sont protegées par trois importantes chaînes de montagnes, ce qui lui permet de jouir d’un climat tempéré avec une température annuelle moyenne de 18ºC. Dans cette ville, capitale de l’état du même nom, vous pourrez admirer l’architecture des beaux édifices qui ornent son centre historique, reconnu Patrimoine de l’Humanité par l’UNESCO: la Cathédrale, le Temple, l’ExCouvent de Santo Domingo de Guzman, la Basilique de la Soledad, de même que le éâtre Macedonio Alcala parmi les splendides édifices de l’époque coloniale et du dix-neuvième siècle. Vous trouverez toutes sortes de pièces artisanales provenant des di fférentes régions de l’état de Oaxaca, tant sous les arcades qui entourent la place principale, comme dans les nombreuses boutiques du centre historique, de même que dans les marchés traditionnels tels que le marché «Benito Juarez» et le marché «20
OAXACA
La città di Oaxaca è situata nella regione meridionale della Repubblica Messicana, in una zona circondata da quattro valli protette, a loro volta, da tre importanti catene montuose, che favorisce un clima temperato con una temperatura media annuale di 18ºC.
In questa città, capitale dello Stato che porta lo stesso nome, si può ammirare l’architettura dei begli edifici che abbelliscono il centro storico, dichiarato dall’UNESCO Patrimonio dell’Umanità: la Cattedrale, il Tempio e l’Ex Convento di Santo Domingo di Guzmán, la Basilica della Soledad, il Teatro Macedonio Alcalá oltre a magnifiche costruzioni coloniali ed ottocentesche. Nei porticati che circondano la piazza principale, nei numerosi negozi presenti intorno al centro storico, nei mercati tradizionali come il “Benito Juárez” e il “20 de noviembre”, si può trovare ogni tipo d’artigianato proveniente dalle diverse regioni dello Stato di Oaxaca: i colorati “alebrijes” –belle figure rappresentanti esseri ed
de noviembre». Parmi ces objets figurent notamment les «alebrijes» colorés (jolies figures représentant des êtres et des animaux imaginaires), les épées, les tissus en laine, ainsi que le magnifique travail des objets en terre noire. Dans ces lieux remplis de traditions, vous pourrez également savourer les plats exquis qui font le renom de la gastronomie de Oaxaca: les «tamales», les «moles», le fromage, ainsi que le fameux mezcal, la boisson typique de la région, élaborée à partir de la plante du maguey. Dans les environs de la ville, vous pourrez visiter les sites archéologiques de Monte Alban et Mitla, anciennes capitales des cultures préhispaniques zapotèque et mixtèque. Dans le village de Santa Maria del Tule vous pourrez admirer la figure spectaculaire du fameux «Arbre du Tule», ainsi que les magnifiques mises en scène naturelles du parc «Benito Juarez», ou bien les spectaculaires cascades de pierre de Hierve el Agua. Ces sites se trouvent à peu de distance de l’ancienne Antequera (Oaxaca), une des villes les plus charmantes de la République Mexicaine.
animali immaginari-, spade, tessuti di lana e bellissimi lavori in terracotta nera. In questi luoghi ricchi di tradizioni si possono assaporare gli squisiti tipici piatti della cucina locale: i “tamales” (un impasto di mais e burro avvolto in una foglia di banano o di mais, con carne bovina o di pollo ), “moles” ( una salsa preparata con diversi tipi di peperoncini e varie spezie), il formaggio ed il famoso mezcal, la bevanda tipica della regione, prodotta dalla pianta dell’agave (maguey). Nei dintorni della città si possono visitare le zone archeologiche di Mitla e del Monte Albán, antiche capitali delle culture preispaniche zapoteca e mixteca e l’abitato di Santa Maria del Tule dove è possibile ammirare: lo spettacolare “Arbol del Tule”, i magnifici scenari naturali del Parco “Benito Juárez” e le splendide cascate di pietre di Hierve el Agua. Tutti questi luoghi si trovano a pochi chilometri dall’antica Antequera ( Oaxaca), una delle città più a ffascinanti della Repubblica Messicana
lage. This is more than enough. Visitors returning from visits to the ruins at Mitla see the basics. A mule or a donkey pulls a circular millstone around a circular trough, smashing cooked agave cores, crushing out the juice.
“But that is just a show for tourists,” a guide named Pepe told me. Srta. Flores only sells these excursions. She sends Pepe to lead them. “You can see the real thing in Matalán,” Pepe said. “Or even better, in San Juan del Río.”
IN OAXACA, mezcal-tasting expeditions perhaps qualify as the newest form of adventure tourism. By that, I mean real adventure tourism. Soft adventure has its thrills, but supposedly involves no actual risk.
“You might compare these trips to wine tasting in France or the Napa Valley in California,” says Irma Flores, administrator at Oaxaca Tours. “Actually, it should be more interesting. There are many surprising, subtle differences to be found in mezcal.”
That is the risk part.
The tequila fad awakened all this interest in mezcal. Tequila, of course, is a form of mezcal, mezcal being the fermented, distilled juice of the agave plant. In the case of tequila, it is the juice of the blue Weber agave grown in Jalisco or one of its neighboring states.
Mezcal, on the other hand, can be produced from any of several varieties of agave. Espadín, verde, cenizo and tobalo are the most prized of the mezcal agaves, tobalo being the most highly regarded since it grows wild in the mountains and is diffcult to harvest.
According to documents published by the Oaxaca state government – which may be prejudiced – the distillation of tequila is industrialized while Oaxaca mezcal production is artesanal. “What people look for are single-village mezcals,” Srta. Flores at Oaxaca Tours told me. “They compare it to single-malt Scotch whiskey.”
Mezcal-tasting expeditions take adventurous customers out to see the Mezcal villages and sample their products. In most cases, just one vil-
Of course, I opted for San Juan del Río, a three-hour drive from Oaxaca. Two of those hours are over an unpaved road. Those of us who live in cities seldom confront rural life. Happily, the people in San Juan are not desperately poor. Mezcal has made the village relatively prosperous.
Agave requires nearly a decade to mature, but only little care is needed during all those years. The plants usually are propagated in garden plots for about two years, then dug up and replanted on outlying hills. Requiring neither fertilizer nor insecticides, they grow in what now is known now as the organic manner.
Harvesting means lopping off the spiked leaves and hauling the cores -- piñas (“pineapples”, because that is what they resemble when the leave have been chopped off-- to one of the local distillers. Sosimo, the wizened elf in charge of the distillery I visited, had his family helping, placing the piñas in a rock-lined pit, to be covered with hot stones and buried for nearly a week. “The piña absorbs favors from the smoke and the earth, something that does not happen with tequila, where the piñas are baked in ovens,” Pepe explained. Sosimo nodded sagely.
Once they are dug up, the piñas are allowed to cool, then crushed for their juice, which is frst fermented, then distilled. I had seen the same process at the Sauza factory in Tequila. Sosimo’s operation appeared less effcient. “So is patting out tortillas by hand, but they taste better,” said Pepe.
April: Holy Week
May: Humanity Week
Mixteca, Puebla & Italy
May: Music Festival
Huatulco
May: Fishing International Tournament Huatulco
July 20 – 28: Guelaguetza Oaxaca
October 1 - 2:
Day of the Dead Festival Oaxaca
November: Coastal Dancing Festival Puerto Escondido
November: Surf International Festival Puerto Escondido
November: Music International Festival of the Sea Huatulco
December 23: Radishes Night Oaxaca
December: Christmas Festivities Oaxaca
My reward came after having patiently observed all this. “Take just a tiny sip.” Pepe cautioned. “There will be more.”
That frst sip was of white mezcal, “joven,” none too pleasing to my uneducated palate. Then came another white, “minero,” distilled three times. The fery rawness was gone. Madurado is mezcal aged two months, añejo as much as a year. Then there is reserva, rarely offered to tourists, even in thimble-sized cups.
Pepe offered to take me to another distillery, any one that struck my fancy, simply to show that all follow the traditional process. “Mezcal here is pure mezcal,” he said. “Later, when it is sold to the bottlers...” He shrugged. “In Oaxaca there are two types of mezcal, tipo uno, which is supposed to be 100% agave, and tipo dos, which is 80%.
That is better than tequila, which sometimes is only 51%.”
Driving back, it I mentioned that I had seen no worms. Pepe laughed.
Worms, it seems, are another business. Although they live in the agave plant, they are harvested by another group. There are red worms and white worms. The reds, which fade to a pale pink, are considered better. “Some people say they add favor,” Pepe said. “Some people say they improve cheap mezcal. Maybe so, but in the cheapest kind, the worms are plastic. Watch out for those.” h
magically charming
Hollywood in the 1940s made Acapulco famous. In the 1960s Puerto Vallarta’s time had come… Puerto Vallarta is charming and picturesque, with some of the best gastronomy and art galleries in the republic.
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Puerto Vallarta lies along Banderas Bay, the second largest bay in the Western Hemisphere. It is located 352 kilometers (219 miles) from Guadalajara, the state capital of Jalisco, and it is nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountain range. e region has many forests, rivers and waterfalls, with an average temperature of 27° C (80° F).
Of its many attractions we recommend Playa Mismaloya, which gained fame after director John Huston fi lmed “ e Night of the Iguana” (starring Ava Gardner and Richard Burton) there in 1963. is beach is a popular celebrity hangout. e impressive rock formations of Los Arcos emerge from the bay’s crystalline waters, which are great for diving and discovering incredible underwater mountains and steeps. e city hall has murals painted by Manuel Lepe, and the Malecon (sea wall) is adorned with
Puerto Vallarta befindet sich in der Bucht von Banderas, der zweitgrößten des amerikanischen Kontinents. Die Stadt liegt 352 km entfernt von Guadalajara, der Landeshauptstadt des Bundesstaates Jalisco, genau dort, wo die Ausläufer der Sierra Madre Occidental enden. Die natürliche Umgebung von Puerto Vallarta ist gekennzeichnet durch Dschungel, Flüsse, Wasserfälle sowie eine angenehme jährliche Durchschnittstemperatur von 27° C.
Unter den vielen Attraktionen Puerto Vallartas empfehlen wir besonders den Besuch folgender Schauplätze: Playa Mismaloya -unter Prominenten einer der beliebtesten Strände in Mexiko, wobei der Ruhm auf Regisseur John Huston zurück geht, der dort 1963 mit Ava Gardner und Richard Burton den Spielfi lm “Die Nacht des Leguans” drehte; Los Arcos -eindrucksvolle Felsformationen, die aus dem kristallklaren Wasser der Bucht emporzuragen scheinen und zugleich einer der besten Orte ist, um zu tauchen und unglaubliche Unterwasserberge- und wände zu entdecken; Palacio Municipal - geschmückt mit Wandmalereien von
Puerto Vallarta se localiza en Bahía de Banderas, la segunda más grande del continente americano, a 352 km de Guadalajara, capital del estado de Jalisco, justo donde termina la Sierra Madre Occidental. Su entorno, caracterizado por jungla, ríos y cascadas, goza de una temperatura promedio anual de 27ºC. Entre sus múltiples atractivos recomendamos visitar Playa Mismaloya, uno de los sitios favoritos de las celebridades, lanzado a la fama por el director John Huston quien, en 1963, fi lmó ahí “La Noche de la Iguana”, con Ava Gardner y Richard Burton; Los Arcos, impresionantes formaciones rocosas que parecen emerger de las aguas cristalinas de la bahía, uno de los mejores lugares para bucear descubriendo increíbles montañas y muros submarinos; el Palacio Municipal, decorado con murales de Manuel Lepe; y el Malecón, engalanado con románticas esculturas de bronce; además
romantic bronze sculptures. What’s more, the streets of downtown offer shops and galleries that sell local paintings and sculptures of local artists. e city, known for its top-notch services, also has golf courses, boutiques and a marina, comprising of sail boats and yachts.
In Puerto Vallarta you can enjoy the services of the Boutique and Gran Turismo hotels, the exquisite regional cuisine of Jalisco that so many people have come to love, and the terraces of open-air restaurants. You can also watch cruise ships roll in as you take in an incredible sunset.
Sportfishing is just one of many activities you can do during your stay in Puerto Vallarta. Each year, during the month of November, the International Sailfish Fishing Tournament takes place. Because of that and so much more, Vallarta is the ideal place for a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
PUERTO VALLARTA
Puerto Vallarta se situe dans la baie de Banderas, la seconde plus grande du continent américain à 352 km de Guadalajara, capitale de l’Etat de Jalisco, où se termine la Sierra Madre Occidentale. Son environnement, constitué de la jungle, des rivières et des cascades, profite d’une température moyenne annuelle de 27ºC. Parmi les multiples attraits de la ville, nous vous recommandons de visiter Playa Mismaloya, un des lieux favoris des célébrités, lancé par la célébrité du réalisateur John Huston qui, en 1963, fi lma ici “La Noche de la Iguana” (la nuit de l’Iguane), avec Ava Gardner et Richard Burton; “Los Arcos”, d’impressionnantes formations rocheuses qui semblent émerger des eaux cristallines de la baie, un des meilleurs lieux pour plonger et découvrir d’incroyables montagnes et monde sous-marins; “el Palacio Municipal” (mairie), décorée avec des muraux de Manuel Lepe; et enfi n le “Malecón” (la jetée), avec des sculptures romantiques de
bronze. En plus des rues du centre ville, où vous trouverez des boutiques et des galeries de peinture et sculptures des artistes locaux, vous pourrez aller au port, la “Marina Vallarta”, pleins de voiliers et de yachts, avec des clubs de golf, des boutiques exclusives et des services de première classe.
A Puerto Vallarta, vous pourrez profitez du service impeccable des hôtels et du grand tourisme, des plats exquis qui identifient la cuisine de Jalisco et admirer, depuis des terrasses de restaurants, des magnifiques bateaux de croisière ou les incroyables couchers de soleils, qui lui ont donné une réputation mondiale. Parmi les activités que vous pourrez réaliser dans ce paradis, la pêche est l’une des plus convoitées; tous les ans, durant les mois de novembre, a lieu le tournoi international de pêche en mer. Pour tout cela, Puerto Vallarta est le lieu idéal pour profiter d’un séjour reposant et divertissant.
Manuel Lepe; der Malecón - aussta ffiert mit romantischen Bronze-Statuen; die Straßen des Stadtzentrums – Konzentrationspunkt zahlreicher Geschäfte und Galerien, die Gemälde und Skulpturen von bekannten lokalen Künstlern zum Verkauf anbieten; sowie die Marina Vallarta - voll von Segelschi ffen und Yachten sowie mit einem Golfplatz, exklusiven Boutiquen und erstklassigem Service aufwartend.
In Puerto Vallarta können Sie die erstklassigen Angebote der Hotels Boutique und Gran Turismo genießen, die köstlichen Gerichte der Küche von Jalisco probieren und aus den Freiluft-Restaurants heraus die Ankunft von Kreuzfahrtschi ffen sowie die unglaublichen und weltweit bekannten Sonnenuntergänge bewundern.
Unter den vielen Aktivitäten, die man in diesem Paradies ausüben kann, ragt besonders das Sportfischen heraus. Jedes Jahr im November findet hier das Internationale Fächerfisch-Turnier statt. All dies und noch viel mehr macht Puerto Vallarta zum idealen Ort für eine abwechslungsreiche und erholsame Reise.
Puerto Vallarta si trova nella Bahía de Banderas, per ampiezza la seconda più grande del continente americano, a 352 km da Guadalajara, capitale dello Stato di Jalisco, proprio dove termina la Sierra Madre Occidentale. Il suo ambiente, caratterizzato da giungle, fiumi e cascate, beneficia di una temperatura media annuale di 27ºC.
Tra le sue molteplici attrattive raccomandiamo la visita alla Playa Mismaloya, una delle mete favorite dalle celebrità, resa famosa dal regista John Huston che, nel 1963, qui fi lmò ‘’La Notte dell’Iguana’’, con Ava Gardner e Richard Burton; Los Arcos, impressionanti formazioni rocciose che sembrano sorgere dalle acque cristalline della baia, uno dei luoghi migliori per immergersi e scoprire incredibili montagne e muraglie sottomarine; il Palacio Municipal, decorato con murales di Manuel
de las calles del centro de la ciudad, donde encontrará tiendas y galerías que ofrecen pinturas y esculturas de reconocidos artistas locales; y la Marina Vallarta, llena de veleros y yates, con su campo de golf, boutiques exclusivas y servicios de primera.
En Puerto Vallarta podrá disfrutar los servicios de hoteles Boutique y Gran Turismo, saborear los exquisitos platillos que identifican a la cocina jalisciense y admirar, desde los restaurantes al aire libre, el arribo de cruceros o las increíbles puestas de sol, que le han dado fama mundial.
Entre las actividades que se pueden realizar en este paraíso destaca la pesca deportiva; todos los años, durante el mes de noviembre, tiene lugar el Torneo Internacional de Pesca de Pez Vela. Por todo esto, Puerto Vallarta es el lugar ideal para gozar de una jornada de descanso y diversión.
Lepe; il Malecón, abbellito da romantiche sculture di bronzo; le strade del centro della città, dove troverà negozi e gallerie che off rono dipinti e sculture di riconosciuti artisti locali; la Marina Vallarta, che accoglie numerosi velieri e yacht, il campo da golf, boutique esclusive e servizi di prima qualità.
A Puerto Vallarta potrà godere dei servizi degli hotel Boutique e Gran Turismo, assaporare gli squisiti piatti che caratterizzano la cucina di Jalisco e ammirare, dai ristoranti all’aperto, l’arrivo delle navi da crociera o gli incredibili tramonti, che gli hanno dato fama mondiale. Tra le attività che si possono realizzare in questo paradiso si distingue la pesca sportiva; tutti gli anni, durante il mese di novembre, ha luogo il Torneo Internazionale di Pesca del Pesce Vela. Per tutto questo Puerto Vallarta è il luogo ideale per godere di una giornata di riposo e divertimento.
text by Jimm Budd
photos by Jim Cline and the Mexico Tourism Board
PUERTO VALLARTA DOES HAVE ITS FLAWS. Traffc crowds its narrow, cobbled streets, and that traffc gets worse on weekends now that new highways have brought the town within a few hours’ drive from Guadalajara. More conservative vacationers are dismayed by the way the Puerto Vallarta has become such a favorite with homosexuals, supposedly the most “gay-friendly” destination in Mexico.
Still, Puerto Vallarta is Puerto Vallarta, charming and picturesque, with some of the best gastronomy and art galleries in the republic.
Puerto Vallarta appeals to the young and those who wish they were young. It is the place to “ligar.” Vallarta Nayarit, or by whatever name it has adopted now, attracts to the “post-ligar” crowd, families with young children. Adolescents probably will be happier if their parents opt for accommodations in Puerto Vallarta.
For some, summer nights are spent waiting for sea turtles to lumber ashore and lay their eggs in the sand. But perhaps the biggest joy in Vallarta is the resurrection of Playa los Muertos, which local boosters turned into a slum when they tried to rename it Playa del Sol.
The streets leading down to Los Muertos, particularly Basilio Badillo and Olas Altas, have become the address of some of the best places to dine in PV. Plus jazz bars, piano bars and salsa saloons.
Time was when Los Muertos was Puerto Vallarta. That was before “The Night of the Iguana,” the 1964 John Huston flm that made the town famous. Other cities erect monuments to military men and
Its
all culture, cuisine and ecology and the idea that now Puerto Vallarta is much more than a beach. That’s reason enough to go there now.
politicians, but the big statue in Vallarta to Huston.
The tribute may be somewhat misplaced. By now, beyond doubt, the charms – and they are many – of Puerto Vallarta would have been discovered, but Huston did hurry things along.
Richard Burton played a priest tempted into wickedness by Sue Lyon, Ava Gardner and Deborah Kerr, but it was Elizabeth Taylor who spiced up the action. She showed up to watch and keep Burton company. Both were married at the time, but not too each other. The press poured in and seldom did a day go by that some newspaper did not publish a report from Puerto Vallarta.
Hollywood in the 1940s made Acapulco famous. In the 1960s Puerto Vallarta’s time had come. But now its all culture, cuisine and ecology and the idea that now Puerto Vallarta is much more than a beach. That’s reason enough to go there now. h
a touch of mystery
Playa del Carmen was once little more than a single hotel by the Cozumel ferry dock, today Playa is a thriving hodgepodge of a city, where cafes and restaurants are numerousas are the shops, and at Playa del Carmen, nightlife lasts until dawn.
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e Mayan Riviera, a natural paradise that merges with the waters of the Caribbean Sea, is a coastal strip that stretches more than 120 km (75 mi) from Puerto Morelos to Punta Allen, in the state of Quintana Roo. e climate in this Yucatan Peninsula region is subtropical with an average temperature of 25°C (77°F).
Considered one of the fastest growing tourist destinations over the last decade, here you can relax or enjoy recreational activities at luxurious resorts nestled in the jungle. e posh hotels offer exclusive golf courses, spas and white-sand beaches, such as El Secreto and El Paraiso, where you can bask in the sun and indulge in all kinds of water sports. For example, you can scuba dive off the coast at a depth of more than 10 meters (33 feet) as you take in the spectacular sights of the Great Meso-American Barrier Reef. You can also discover ancient Mayan cities such as Coba and Tulum; the latter is
La Riviera Maya, verdadero paraíso natural bañado por las aguas del mar Caribe, es un litoral de más de 120 km comprendidos entre Puerto Morelos y Punta Allen, en el estado de Quintana Roo, en la región de la península de Yucatán. Su clima es semitropical, con una temperatura promedio anual de 25°C. Considerado como uno de los destinos turísticos de mayor crecimiento durante la última década, en este lugar es posible descansar en lujosos resorts escondidos en la selva, que le ofrecen alternativas de diversión y descanso en sus campos de golf y exclusivos spas; en sus playas de blancas arenas, como las del Secreto y Paraíso, podrá tomar el sol y practicar todo tipo de actividades acuáticas, como bucear a más de 10 m de profundidad en las espectaculares franjas coralinas que dan forma al Gran Arrecife Maya, ubicado frente a sus costas. También descubrirá antiguas ciudades mayas como Cobá y Tulum, ubicada esta última a la orilla del
RIVIERA MAYA
Die Riviera Maya ist ein Küstenstreifen von mehr als 120 km Länge, der sich zwischen Puerto Morelos und Punta Allen in dem Bundesstaat Quintana Roo erstreckt. Umspült von dem Karibischen Meer stellt die Riviera Maya ein wahrhaftes Naturparadies dar. Das Klima ist subtropisch, mit einer jährlichen Durchschnittstemperatur von 25° C. Als eines der am schnellsten wachsenden Tourismusziele des letzten Jahrzehnts ist es in der Riviera Maya möglich, sich in luxuriösen Ferienresorts inmitten des Urwalds zu entspannen, sei es auf einem der Golfplätze oder in einem der exklusiven Spas. An den weißen Sandstränden, wie dem “Playa del Secreto” und “Playa del Paraíso” können Sie die Sonne genießen und alle möglichen Wassersportaktivitäten ausüben. Besonders eindrucksvoll ist es dabei, in mehr als 10 Metern Tiefe durch die eindrucksvollen Korallenformationen des Gran Arrecife Maya zu tauchen, das sich an der Küste entlang erstreckt. Ebenfalls können Sie in der Riviera Maya antike Maya-Städte erkunden, wie Cobá und die direkt am Meer
located right on the beach. What’s more, you can visit incredible ecological reserves such as Sian Ka’an, which was declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. Here you can take part in eco-tourism outings, sailfish and marlin fishing, and other outdoor activities such as: long walks or horseback riding, while enjoying the beautiful backdrop of the Caribbean Sea. During your visit to the Mayan Riviera, do not miss out on Xcaret and Xel-Há, two of Mexico’s most important theme parks, where you can see fascinating indigenous wildlife and live the unforgettable experience of snorkeling in underground rivers. At dusk, don’t forget to visit the spectacular nightclubs, where you can chat with friends over drinks, or you can visit a restaurant and treat yourself to a delicious lobster dinner. ese are just some of things you can do in the Mayan Riviera, which is why it has earned a reputation as the ideal destination to enjoy life.
mar; y conocerá increíbles reservas ecológicas como Sian Ka’an, considerada Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la UNESCO, donde también podrá practicar el ecoturismo, la pesca de pez vela y marlin, entre otras actividades al aire libre, como la caminata o la cabalgata, con el mar Caribe de escenario principal.
Durante su visita a la Riviera Maya no deje de visitar Xcaret y Xel-Há, dos de los parques temáticos más importantes de México, donde además de observar magníficos ejemplos de flora y fauna locales, tendrá la oportunidad de practicar el esnórquel en sus ríos subterráneos, una experiencia inolvidable. Y, al caer la tarde, no pierda de vista los espectaculares espacios diseñados para bailar y complacer la búsqueda de diversión nocturna con una buena copa en compañía de los amigos, o bien para comer una deliciosa langosta, atributos que consolidan la fama de la Riviera Maya como el destino ideal para disfrutar de la vida.
LA RIVIERA MAYA
La Riviera Maya, véritable paradis naturel longé par la mer des Caraïbes, est un littoral de plus de 120 kilomètres, entre Puerto Morelos et Punta Allen, dans l’Etat de Quintana Roo situé dans la région de la péninsule du Yucatán. Son climat est semi tropical, avec une température annuelle moyenne de 25°C. Considéré comme l’une des destinations touristiques en forte croissance sur la dernière décennie, il vous sera possible ici de vous reposer dans de luxueux hôtels nichés dans la jungle, qui vous off riront des choix variés de loisir et de repos. Vous profiterez des clubs de golf ou des spas et des plages de sable blanc, comme celles de Secreto et Paraíso; vous pourrez bronzer et essayer tout type d’activité nautique, ou plonger à plus de 10 mètres de profondeur pour voir les spectaculaires coraux qui forment le grand récif maya, situé face aux côtes. Vous découvrirez également d’antiques cités mayas, telles que
RIVIERA MAYA
La Riviera Maya, un vero paradiso naturale bagnato dalle acque del Mar dei Caraibi, è un litorale di oltre 120 km situato tra Puerto Morelos e Punta Allen, nello Stato di Quintana Roo, nella regione della penisola dello Yucatan. Il suo clima è semitropicale con una temperatura media annuale di 25°C. Considerata come una delle destinazioni turistiche in maggior crescita dell’ultima decade, è possibile rilassarsi in lussuosi resort, nascosti nella selva, che le offrono alternative di divertimento e riposo nei suoi campi da golf e nei suoi esclusivi centri benessere (spas); nelle sue spiagge di sabbia bianca, come quelle del Secreto e del Paraíso, potrà prendere il sole e praticare tutti i tipi d’attività acquatica, come l’immersione a più di 10 m di profondità nelle spettacolari strisce coralline che danno forma al Gran Arrecife Maya (Grande Barriera Corallina Maya), situato di fronte alle sue coste. Scoprirà anche antiche città maya come Cobá e Tulum, quest’ultima situata sulla
gelegene Ausgrabungsstätte von Tulum, oder eines der unglaublichen Naturreservate besuchen, wie dem von der UNESCO als Weltnaturerbe ausgezeichneten Reservat von Sian Ka’an. Diese Naturparks sind hervorragende Schauplätze, um sich ökotouristisch zu betätigen, vor dem Hintergrund des Karibischen Meeres Spaziergänge und Ausflüge zu Pferde zu unternehmen oder solche Arten wie Fächerfische oder Marlins zu fangen. Während Ihres Besuchs der Riviera Maya sollten Sie es nicht versäumen, Xcaret und Xel-Há zu besuchen, zwei der wichtigsten emenparks in Mexiko, in denen Sie großartige Exemplare der heimischen Flora und Fauna beobachten und die unvergessliche Erfahrung machen können, in unterirdischen Flüssen zu schnorcheln. Sobald der Abend hereinbricht, bietet Ihnen die Riviera Maya außergewöhnliche Schauplätze, um zu tanzen, in Begleitung von Freunden auf eine einzigartige Reise anzustoßen oder in einem der erstklassigen Restaurants eine Languste zu speisen – Eigenschaften, die den Ruhm der Riviera Maya bekräftigen, ein ideales Reiseziel zu sein, um das Leben zu genießen.
Cobá et Tulum, cette dernière étant située au bord de la mer. Vous connaîtrez également d’incroyables réserves éco-archéologiques comme celle de Sian Ka’an, classée patrimoine de l’humanité par l’UNESCO, où vous pourrez faire de l’écotourisme, pêcher le merlin et le poisson voile, ainsi que des activités de plein air, comme la ballade à pied ou à cheval, ayant pour vue la superbe mer des Caraïbes. Durant votre séjour dans la Riviera Maya, ne manquez pas de visiter Xcaret et Xel-Há, deux des parcs de loisirs les plus importants du Mexique, où, en plus d’observer de magnifiques exemples de flore et faune locales, vous aurez l’opportunité de faire du snorkel dans ses rivières souterraines, une expérience inoubliable. Et, en début de soirée, ne manquez pas les endroits où l’on danse et profite de la vie nocturne en bonne compagnie d’amis, ou manger une délicieuse langouste. La Riviera Maya dispose de tous ces attraits qui font d’elle un endroit où l’on profite de la vie.
riva del mare; conoscerà incredibili riserve ecologiche come quella di Sian Ka’an, considerata Patrimonio dell’Umanità dall’UNESCO, dove potrà praticare, fra le varie attività all’aria aperta, l’ecoturismo, la pesca del pesce vela e del pescespada (marlin), camminate o cavalcate, avendo il Mar dei Caraibi come scenario principale. Durante la sua visita nella Riviera Maya non dimentichi di visitare Xcaret e Xel-Há, due dei più importanti parchi tematici del Messico, dove, oltre all’osservazione di magnifici esemplari di fauna e flora locali, avrà l’opportunità di praticare lo snorkel nei suoi fiumi sotterranei, un’esperienza indimenticabile. Al calar della sera non si perda l’occasione di visitare gli spettacolari spazi disegnati per ballare e compiacere la ricerca del divertimento notturno con un buon bicchiere in compagnia degli amici o di mangiare una deliziosa aragosta, attributi che consolidano la fama della Riviera Maya come la destinazione ideale per godere della vita.
text by Jimm Budd photos by
Jim Cline and the Mexico Tourism Board
INVISIBILITY IS WHAT YOU NOTICE frst along the Maya Riviera. From the sky, the towers of Cancun glitter as you approach the airport. But once on the ground, you drive south through the Quintana Roo jungle along a road lacking any resort hotels, luxury restaurants or elegant shopping centers.
Unlike Cancun, the resort hotels along the Maya Riviera for the most part are all-inclusive, meaning that meals and entertainment as well as accommodation plus airport transfers are included in the package price. Packages are the way to go. These hotels normally are not open to curious souls who would like to wander in and see what is available.
The exception here is MayaKoba- which is an exclusive high-end development where the Fairmont, Rosewood, Banyan Tree and the Mandarin Oriental are located. A must see!
Currently, no structure along the Riviera rises more than three stories above the ground, so a sea view is to be treasured. Buildings may cover no more than fve or ten percent of the total property. Similar rules once applied in Cancun. How long they will remain in effect along the Riviera is a matter of speculation. A local journalist told me that, protected by an injunction, one developer has started work on a 30-level tower.
No congestion regulations also place many Riviera resorts 90 minutes or more from the Cancun airport. That will change when the Maya Riviera gets its own international airport, but such a project may require fve years or more before it is completed. All this explains why so many Riviera hotels are all-inclusive. Once in the premises, getting away is-
The exception here is MayaKoba, which is an exclusive high-end development where the Fairmont, Rosewood, Banyan Tree and the Mandarin Oriental are located. A must see! .
challenging. Iberostar does provide transportation for its Paraiso complex into Playa del Carmen, 18 kilometers distant.
Playa del Carmen is the exception to the rule along the Riviera. Once little more than a single hotel by the Cozumel ferry dock, today Playa is a thriving hodgepodge of a city, where the many hotels are not all-inclusive and many actually offer cheap accommodations. Not luxurious, but not expensive either. The cafes and restaurants are numerous, as are the shops, and at Playa del Carmen, nightlife lasts until dawn, or so they tell me.
With high-rises banned, at least for the moment, guests at even the most lavish Riviera resorts can plan on long walks from the reception area to their rooms and from their rooms to beach or pool, not to mention restaurants, shops and spas. Almost every Riviera hotel has its own ftness center, but guests really can keep in shape without these. h
the State with an abundance of Silver
Zacatecas itself is one vast museum.
Founded 450 years ago, Zacatecas overflows with monuments to the conspicuous consumption of the early silver barons.
★
Quinta Real
011-52 (492) 922-9104
★
Meson de Jobito
011-52 (492) 924-1722
★
Hacienda del Bosque
011-52 (492) 924-666
★
Emporio
011-52 (492) 925-6500
★
Howard Johnson
011-52 (492) 922-3311
★
Casa Torres
011-52 (492) 925-3266
★
Santa Rita
011-52 (492) 925-4141
★
La Finca del Minero
011-52 (492) 925-0310
★
Hostal Reyna Soledad
011 -2 (492) 922-0790
★
Hostal del Sol
011-52 (492) 935-0315 / 922-4242
★
Don Miguel
011-52 (492) 924-1002
★
Maria Bonita
011-52 (492) 922-4545
Posada Tolosa
011-52 (492) 922-5105
★
Casa Santa Lucia
011-52 (492) 924-4900
Meson de la Merced
011-52 (492) 922-6370
Hostal del Vasco
011-52 (492) 922-0428
La Casona de los Vitrales
011-52 (492) 922-0428
Parador en Zacatecas
011-52 (492) 922-1788
Argento Inn
011-52 (492) 925-1718 / 925-1822 ★
Casa Real
011-52 (492) 923-4282
Plaza Zacatecas
011-52 (492) 923-1219
Gracia
011-52 (492) 899-2544
Posada de la Parroquia
011-52 (492) 923-1088
Guadalupe Express
011-52 (492) 921037 ★
Chula Vista
011-52 (492) 899-5200 ★
Casa de los Gobernadores
011-52 (492) 768-6691
Villarreal
011-52 (492) 922-1170
Angeles
011-52 (492) 925-5075
General Emergencies: 066 (local access only)
Police 922 (local access only) 922-9250
Fire Department: 922-5350
Red Cross: 922-3005
Tourist Information: 924-0393
Zacatecas sits on the high central plateau of Mexico between the Sierra Madre Occidental and Sierra Madre Oriental ranges. It is a state of semiarid plains and mountains, high in elevation (average 7,700 feet).
e state of Zacatecas is best known for its rich deposits of silver and other minerals, its beautiful colonial architecture and its importance during the Mexican Revolution. Its mineral wealth was discovered soon after the Spanish conquest. Today, Zacatecas remains strong in silver output, producing almost 20% of the world’s supply.
e state’s capital, also named Zacatecas, was founded in 1546, the same year nearby mines were discovered. is early colonial town became second only to Mexico City during the colonial period in both population and economic influence, reaching its height in the 16th
Der Bundesstaat Zacatecas befindet sich im Hochland von Mexiko auf 2500m Höhe zwischen den westlichen und östlichen Sierra Madre Gebirgen. Die Landschaft besteht vorwiegend aus halbtrockenem Prärieland, das von Bergen umgeben ist. Die ehemalige Silberminenstadt ist auch heute noch bestens für ihre reichen Vorkommnisse an Silber und anderen Mineralien bekannt und für ihren Einfluss während der mexikanischen Revolution. Beeindruckend ist auch ihre Architektur im ehemaligen Kolonialstil. Der Mineralien-Reichtum wurde kurz nach der spanischen Eroberung entdeckt. Bis heute produziert Zacatecas noch sehr viel Silber und zwar bis zu 20% des Weltbestandes an Silber.
Die Bundeshauptstadt von Zacatecas, ebenfalls Zacatecas genannt, wurde 1546 gegründet. Im gleichen Jahr wurden in unmittelbarer Nähe mehrere Minen entdeckt. Während der Kolonialzeit war Zacatecas die zweitgrösste Stadt hinter Mexiko City, sowohl von der Bevölkerungsdichte als auch vom wirtschaftlichen Einfluss her. Im 16. und 17. Jahrhundert erreichte die Stadt ihren kulturellen und wirtschaftli-
ZACATECAS
Zcatecas se encuentra sentada en el antiplano de Mexico jsuto entre la Sierra Madre Ocidental y la Sierra Madre Oriental. Es una estado semiarido con montañas de elevaciones altad (promedio de 7,700 pies).
El estado de Zacatecas es mejor conocido por ser rico en plata y otros minerales, su hermosa arquitectura colonial y su importancia en la historia de la Revolucion Mexicana. Su riqueza minera fue descubierta pronto despues de la conquita de los españoles. Hoy, Zacatecas es un fuerte punto de produccion de plata, produciendo casi el 20% de la provision de plata en el mundo.
La capital, tambien llamada Zacatecas, fue fundada en 1546, el mismo año en el que fueron encontradas minas cercanas a la region. Esta cuidad colonial se convirtio el segundo lugar, durante la epoca colonial en populacion y economia, siguiendo a la Ciudad de Mexico, fue en esta epoca en la que llego a su cuspide en el
& 17th centuries when many opulent buildings and public works were constructed, including the famous Cathedral–still considered the epitome of baroque in Latin America.
In 1993, the beautiful colonial center of the city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located 613 km from Mexico City, the city features winding cobblestoned streets and elaborately decorated buildings, many of them constructed from beautiful pink limestone (cantera rosa), which seems to change color as the light shifts throughout the day. Encircled by mountain peaks, Zacatecas is one of the most picturesque cities in northern Mexico, and boasts excellent restaurants, fine hotels and a wealth of impressive museums. Due to its somewhat removed location, Zacatecas receives less tourists than do many other colonial cities, making it a perfect place to visit, as you can enjoy all of the colonial charm with less of a crowd.
chen Höhepunkt. Mehrere opulente Gebäude und öffentliche Anlagen wurden zu der Zeit gebaut, unter anderem auch die berühmte Kathedrale, das Merkmal lateinamerikanischer Barockkunst.
1993 wurde die wunderschöne Altstadt von Zacatecas durch die UNESCO zum Weltkulturerbe ernannt. Zacatecas ist 613km von Mexiko City entfernt. Die Stadt wird von kurvigen, kopfsteingepflasterten Strassen und kunstvoll dekorierten Gebäuden geprägt. Viele dieser Gebäude wurden mit rosa-farbenem Kalkstein (cantera rosa) erstellt, dessen Farbe sich über den Tag hindurch in Abhängigkeit der Lichtverhältnisse ständig verändert.
Umgeben von Bergspitzen, stellt Zacatecas eine der malerischsten Städte im Norden von Mexiko dar. Zacatecas bietet exzellente Restaurants, elegante Hotels und einen Reichtum an beeindruckenden Museen an. Dank der etwas abgelegenen Lage, erhält Zacatecas weniger Besuch von Touristen im Vergleich zu anderen zentraler gelegenen Kolonialstätten. Das hat den Vorteil, dass man ohne einen grossen Touristenzustrom den Kolonialcharme Zacatecas in vollen Zügen geniessen kann.
siglo 16 y 17 cuando muchos edificios opulentos y obras publias fueron construidas, incluyendo la famosa catedral-- todavia considerada la epitome de el arte barroco en Mexico.
En 1993, el hermoso centro colonial de la ciudad fue declarado por UNESCO Patrimonio a la Humanidad. Localizado a 613 km de la Cuidad de Mexico, las calles de la cuidad estan cubiertas por adoquines y edificios elaboradamente decorados, muchos construidos en cantera rosa, que crea la ilusion de cambiar de color cuando cambia la luz del dia. Rodeada de montañas, Zacatecas es una de las ciudades mas pintorescas del norte de Mexico que cuenta con excelentes restaurantes, hoteles fi nos y una extensa lista de museos. Debido a su remota locacion, Zacatexas recibe menos turistas que muchas otras ciudades, convirtiendolo en el lugar ideal para visitar, ya que se puede conocer la ciudad con su encanto colonial sin las multitudes.
Zacatecas est situé sur le Haut Plateau central du Mexique entre la Sierra Madre occidentale et la Sierra Madre orientale. Cet État est formé de plaines semi-arides et de montagnes dont l´altitude moyenne s´élève à environ 2400 mètres.
L´ État de Zacatecas est surtout connu pour ses riches gisements d´argent et autres minéraux, sa somptueuse architecture coloniale et son importance durant la Révolution mexicaine. Sa richesse minérale a été découverte peu après la conquête espagnole. Aujourd´hui l´exploitation de l´argent à Zacatecas est encore importante et représente près de 20 % de la production mondiale.
La capitale de l´ État, appelée aussi Zacatecas, a été fondée en 1546, la même année de la découverte des mines toute proches. Cette ancienne ville coloniale était durant la période coloniale la seconde ville la plus importante du Mexique après Mexico, tant par sa population que son influence économique. Elle a atteint son apogée aux 16ême et 17ême siècles,
ZACATECAS
Zacatecas e’ uno stato situata nell’altopiano centrale del Messico tra la Sierra Madre Occidentale e la Sierra Madre Orientale. E’ caratterizzato da pianure semiaride e montagne con un’altitudine media di circa 2300 metri.
Lo stato di Zacatecas e’ meglio conosciuto per le sue ricche miniere di argento e di altri minerali, nonche’ per la sua meravigliosa architettura coloniale e la sua importanza durante la Rivoluzione Messicana. I suoi ricchi giacimenti furono scoperti subito dopo la conquista spagnola.
Oggi Zacatas continua ad essere grande produttrice d’argento, con piu’ del 20% delle riserve mondiali.
La capitale dello stato, anch’essa chiamata Zacatecas, fu fondata nel 1546, lo stesso anno in cui furono scoperti i giacimenti. Tra le prime citta’ coloniali, Zacatecas fu seconda solo a Citta’ del Messico durante il periodo coloniale sia in termini di popolazione sia per l’influenza
quand on y a construit de somptueux édifices et effectué de nombreux travaux publics, dont la fameuse cathédrale, encore considérée de nos jours comme l´exemple typique du baroque en Amérique Latine.
En 1993 son magnifique centre colonial a été classé par l´UNESCO « Patrimoine Culturel de l´Humanité ». La ville de Zacatecas, située à 613 km de Mexico, se caractérise par de sinueuses ruelles pavées et des édifices minutieusement décorés, plusieurs d´entre eux en pierre calcaire rose (cantera rosa) qui semble changer de couleur selon la luminosité tout au long de la journée. Encerclé de pics montagneux, Zacatecas est l´une des villes les plus pittoresques du Nord du Mexique et est fière de ses excellents restaurants, de ses beaux hôtels et de sa profusion de musées impressionnants. En partie en raison de son emplacement éloigné, Zacatecas reçoit moins de touristes que beaucoup d´autres cités coloniales, ce qui en fait l´endroit idéal à visiter pour apprécier tout son charme colonial sans la foule des visiteurs.
economica, raggiungendo il culmine durante il sedicesimo e diciassettesimo secolo quando furono costruiti numerosi palazzi opulenti e opere pubbliche, tra cui la famosa Cattedrale – ancora considerata l’epitomo del barocco in America Latina.
Nel 1993, il bellissimo centro coloniale fu dichiarato dall’UNESCO Patrimonio Mondiale dell’Umanita’. Sito a 613 km da Citta’ del Messico, la citta’ ha caratteristiche strade pavimentate in pietra ed edifici dalle elaborate decorazioni, molte realizzate con pietra rosa (cantera rosa) che sembra cambiar colore durante la giornata. Circondata da monti, Zacatecas e’ una delle citta’ piu’ pittoresche nel nord del Messico e vanta ottimi ristoranti, bellissimi alberghi e diversi musei di grande effetto. Zacatecas riceve un minor numero di turisti rispetto a molte altre citta’ coloniale per la sua localizzazione alquanto remota, rendendola un posto perfetto da visitare per godere del fascino del periodo coloniale senza incappare in grosse folle.
1993 UNESCO 613
THE TROUBLE WITH ZACATECAS is that one visit never is enough. You are likely to depart with this feeling that you have not seen it all, that you need to go back. Mention some other city and the well-traveled are likely to say, “Been there, done that.” Zacatecas is different.
Once regarded as a remote and distant outpost, this tiny provincial capital boasts two of the most unusual hotels in the republic, including one that was once a bullring. And paintings by Picasso, Dali, Chagall, Miro and Goya in a local museum.
Actually, the city itself is one vast museum. Founded 450 years ago, Zacatecas overfows with monuments to the conspicuous consumption of the early silver barons.
Towering over the heart of Zacatecas is the Cathedral, every square centimeter of its pink stone facade carved in what is said to be the ultimate in Churriguesque. Legend (and Zacatecas abounds in legends)
photos by Jim Cline and the Mexico Tourism Board
claims that the sculptor had been sentenced to death (the legend does not say why) but granted a reprieve until he completed carving the Cathedral’s facade. He made that project endure a lifetime.
For a stranger, Zacatecas can be a maze. Streets change names every block or two, some twisting off into outdoor stairways, plazas, plazuelas or quaint lanes like Callejón del Mono o Callejón de los Deseos (que solamente falta una tranvía).
Since Zacatecas is such a maze, best way to get an overview is from the famous teleférico which only runs when the breezes are not blowing. Apparently those who sold the city on the scheme never mentioned windy days could be a problem.
The teleférico takes only seven minutes to cross the city, arriving at El Grillo, a lesser hill, and the door to an elevator in a one-story building. The elevator goes down to a mine.
January 20: “Papaquis” Celebrations Nochistlan
Feburary 2: La Candelaria Celebration Sombrerete
Feburary, 3rd Week:
“Ash Wednesday” Carnival Fair of Rio Grande
April Holy Week: Cultural Fair of Zacatecas Zacatecas
April Holy Week: Spring Celebrations Jerez
May, 2nd Week: Spring Regional Fair Monte Escobedo
May Holy Week: San Isidro Celebrations (Morisma) Enrique Estrada
June 23: “Toma de Zacatecas” Anniversary Zacatecas
July 29 - August 5: International Festival of Zacatecas Folcklor
August, Last week: Morismas de Bracho Zacatecas
September, 1st week: Fair of Grape and Tuna Ojo Caliente
September, 1st Sunday: National Fair of Zacatecas (two weeks) Zacatecas
October 12: Anniversary Fair Luis Molla
October 13 - 21: International Festival of Theatre on the Walk Zacatecas
December 8 - 12: Anniversary Fair Loreto
December 12: Regional Fair of Guadalupe Guadalupe
December 12: Traditional Celebrations Tabasco
December 25: Santo Niño de Atocha Celebrations Fresnillo (Plateros)
Towering over the heart of Zacatecas is the Cathedral, every square centimeter of its
pink stone facade
carved in what is said to be the ultimate in Churriguesque.
This silver mine was hewed out three or four centuries ago by workers using nothing more than picks and shovels. The shaft, which extends nearly two kilometers, glowers, rocky and gloomy. Guides tell horror tales of fooding and walls caving in. A little train takes tourists in to see all this. At the end of the line the tunnel opens onto an underground chamber that becomes a discotheque on weekend evenings. The mine, it seems, might still be worked, but the disco brings in more money.
Zacatecas still produces more silver than any place else in the world, or so I was told. Not only silver ore but silver jewelry. El Centro Platero in the city has been training artisans for more than a decade now, and many have opened their own shops in what had been a convent. h
I can safely say this has also been the year to continue distributing both MexicoTRAVELER™ and BajaTRAVELER® among the stars…
So many great events...
Latin Grammy in Houston SPA RITUAL opening at Cabo Villas Beach ResortVIPdinnerfeaturingtheMariachiVargashostedbythestateof Jalisco Silver Celebration in Zacatecas Friends Birthdays’ in ZacatecasGaryPlayerdesignshisfirstcourseinMexicoLorenaOchoaplays golf in Cabo The Harvest at Cetto Vineyards A weekend in Tepoztlan Australians Hit Hollywood_the documentary Skal celebrates its new President for Mexico Maria Conchita Alonso’s Birthday in Las Vegas The Press Conference on the Tennis Open in Cabo Private charters to Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos…. and so much more...
And all for the distribution of the magazines…. As the saying goes, it’s a dirty job, but somebody’s gotta do it!
Hope you enjoy the photos at the various events we were invited throughout the year… we sure enjoyed attending them and distributing the magazines!
friends
Over the years I’ve tried numerous Spanish language tapes, CDs and books. I think I’ve probably benefitted from them all, but this my friends, this earworms® Musical Brain Trainer, is the best so far (by far).
I have to admit that I was skeptical. It took me a long time to put Rapid Spanish Vol 1 in my car’s CD player, but I’m glad I finally did. I first listened to it with my two young daughters, and now we’re all hooked. We choose this CD over regular music CDs, because, you see, earworms® is language learning set to music. The earworms® system plays on the known fact that rhythm and words, when put together, are a powerful memory aid.
“Simply by listening to these specially composed melodies with their rhythmic repetitions a few times, the sound patterns are indelibly burned into your auditory cortex,” states the promotional material for the earworms® CD. I’m not sure if the sounds are actually “burned into your auditory cortex,” but the words and the music do stick with you.
I unexpectedly used a phrase from the CD last week. The entire phrase effortlessly rolled off my tongue. It was a bit surprising, but very rewarding. Earworms® mimics the way we are taught language as children, so it feels natural, unlike rote memorization. Consequently, listening to it involves minimal concentration, so the CD is great to use to while driving, working out, doing housework, etc.
Rapid Spanish Vol 1 focuses on the ability to hold a conversation in Spanish; it covers the words and phrases you need for your a trip abroad: ordering in a restaurant, asking for directions, dealing with problems, shopping, numbers, telling the time, etc.
Earworms® launched in Europe in 2000 and is incredibly popular in the United Kingdom, Australia, and now in the United States as well. It was named an “iTunes Top 5 non-Fiction Best-Seller of 2007,” alongside “The Secret” and NPR’s “This American Life.”
The only downside to this line of Spanish language learning CDs is that it’s published in the United Kingdom, so focuses on Castilian Spanish--the Spanish of Spain. Not a bad thing in itself, of course, but a bit off putting for those of us who speak Spanish primarily in Mexico or Central or South American countries. You hear a lot of “th” sounds in words which you are used to hearing the “s” sound. You know, gracias pronounced like grathias; it takes a bit of getting used to.
Regardless, earworms® Musical Brain Trainer is an excellent language tool. It’s effective and fun to listen to. And the best news is that The Rapid Series is going to progress through to Volume 5. I’m looking forward to using them all.
Available in bookstores or order from: The earworms® Musical Brain Trainer website: http://www. earwormslearning.com/set_press.php
This beautiful photo book by Cristóbal García Sánchez and Guillermo García Oropeza, a Mexican historian who has received the Jalisco Award for Literature, the Pedro Sarquís Foundation Award, and the José Clemente Orozco and Pedro Ciprés Award, takes you to all parts of Mexico; from well known municipalities such as Cuernavaca to many towns and small cities off the beaten path.
Considering the fact that there are currently 29 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Mexico, it’s not surprising that there are more than 100 beautiful Mexican towns, but I was amazed at how many of the them I’d never before heard of. It was delightful to turn page after page and discover new and exciting places to visit, places such as: Bernal, Tlacotalpan, Zinacantán, Bacalar.
Just these names are enticing, but the beautiful photos and accompanying text really tantalize. Oropeza shows off his literature background with descriptions such as this about San Sebastián del Oeste, it “has a beautiful landscape, both peaceful and suggestive, like a Chinese watercolor.” Or this description of Jerez, “It is a quite, harmonious place, like a poem.”
These 101 beautiful towns were chosen for wideranging attributes, from being the home to important missions, pre-Colombian remains, monasteries, or silver mines; to proximity to cave paintings or geographical wonders (think coral reefs, canyons, caverns); to being the birthplace of celebrated Mexican personalities.
The book is organized regionally, starting with towns in northern and Baja Mexico, working down to towns in central, then finally southern Mexico. Most towns have a two-page spread, but some have as many as four pages devoted to them. One page is text describing the town, with a small photo insert, the adjoining page is typically a full-page photo. The photographs are stunning and the text is concise but ample enough to give you a feel for the town’s personality and unique characteristics.
There are both a regional and an alphabetical contents. The regional contents is accompanied by a full page map, making it easy to discern, with just a quick glance, where each town is located. There is also an address section included at the end of the book that provides tourist office information as well as hotel, restaurant and winery contact information. The book closes with suggested reading in the areas of art and architecture, culture and history, and literature.
This is a book that will definitely have you longing to visit places you never even knew existed.
Available in bookstores of order from: Rizzoli/Universe International Publications, 300 Park Avenue South, 3rd Floor New York, NY 10010; 800-52-BOOKS. www.rizzoliusa. com.
Linda Abbot Trapp’s concise book provides an easy-touse tool for those wanting to become better acquainted with the myriad plants and trees of tropical Mexico.
Trapp, who lives in Puerto Vallarta, is a professional writer who has authored five other books. She holds a doctorate from Iowa State University and was dean at the California School of Professional Psychology. Botany is not her academic field of study; she is instead an amateur botanist and plant enthusiast who was motivated to write “Ornamental Plants and Flowers of Tropical Mexico” when she was unable to find a “stand alone book” that would teach her about the plants surrounding her home.
The book is arranged alphabetically by the primary name of the plant, and just more than 100 plants are included. The index lists the common name, the Latin name and alternate names that Trapp came across while researching the book, making it easy to cross reference. There is also a short bibliography included for those who are inspired to go on to learn more on the subject.
A full page, which typically displays from three to six photos, is dedicated to each plant. The photographs often include examples of the different color variations of the particular plant or flower. Brief use and care information is provided for each plant as are cultivation and propagation tips.
Notes are also included for some plants. I found the notes regarding toxicity or possible bodily reactions helpful, but my favorite notes were those imparting interesting historical botanical facts, for instance that the Aztecs grew poinsettias for dye and medicine, or that the round, flat leaves of the sea grape tree were used as writing paper in the schools and missions in early settlements in Mexico.
If you’ve had formal botanical training this book will probably not offer you anything new, but for people like me, who love the topical splendor of Mexico, but know little about the use, cultivation or types of trees and flowers surrounding you, it’s interesting and helpful.
Overall it’s a useful field guide that makes it easy for visitors (and locals alike) to identify plants of various tropical regions in Mexico.
Available in bookstores or order from: Sunbelt Publications, 1256 Fayette Street El Cajon, CA 92020; 1-800-6266579; www.sunbeltpub.com
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THERE’S VERY LITTLE this Dimpled Darling hasn’t accomplished in the world of entertainment. In the course of his wide-ranging career Mario López has been an actor, dancer, producer and writer, has appeared in films and, as a talented presenter, has hosted a number of television shows. Most recently, he proved his ability as a dancer in a live performance by becoming a smashing success on Broadway in New York and now we may see those flashing dimples every evening on EXTRA.
At a very early age his mother, Elvira, recognized her lively, hyperactive son needed to direct his intense energy into an activity he would love and encouraged him to study dancing. At age ten he was discovered by a local agent when he found López read well and directed him toward a variety of roles. This was the beginning of his career, which led him to auditioning for roles, doing local commercials, while he was still in his teens, commuting between his hometown of San Diego and Los Angeles.
His first role was on the series a.k.a. Pablo; then he was a dancer and drummer on the syndicated children’s music series Kids Incorporated. On the Saturday morning ABC comedy series, Saved By The Bell, López was cast as the macho high school heartthrob, A.C. Slater, in 1989. This role brought him fame and he remained with the show until its run ended in 1993. By this time he had attracted many fans and continued on in a wide variety of projects, including playing Olympic diving champion Greg Louganis in the television movie Breaking the Surface.
And the opportunity to pursue his longtime passion for dancing presented itself when he joined the cast of the ABC competitive reality show “Dancing With The Stars.” With his brilliant smile, joie de vivre attitude and flashing dimples, he danced into the hearts of American audiences as he shared his combination of fun, energy and obvious athletic ability.
“It was a lot of fun and I learned a lot,” he says enthusiastically. “And I am grateful for the opportunity to be taught dances I had never known before.”
Much of this success is no doubt due to his physical condition and love of fitness. In magazines López exhibits ripped abs, a toned torso and trim waist that has caused him to be referred to as America’s “best beach body.” In his new book, Mario Lopez’s Fitness, that he says took him a year to write, he shares with readers a workout program that makes losing fat and toning muscle easy for everyone.
“To maintain body fitness I graze every two to three hours on what is considered “regular food,” he explains. “I don’t feel alive until I’ve broken a sweat!” He mixes it up between cycling, dancing, weights, boxing and running at least 45 minutes at a time. While in high school he was an amateur wrestler and was on the school’s wrestling team.
Born in San Diego, California, on October 10, 1973, to Mario Sr., and Elvira, López has a younger sister, Marissa, who is married to ex-Houston Texans linebacker, Kailee Wong. He attended Chula Vista High School and grew up in a Hispanic household where Spanish was also spoken. He has many relatives in Mexico whom he wishes he had more time to visit. And does he want to settle down and have a family of his own?
“Right now I live through my sister, nieces, nephews and cousins; I am so busy that it wouldn’t be fair to anyone. Anyway, I’m a kid myself,” he laughs. Being Catholic, he finds comfort in solitude when he is able to attend church. “In fact, I went this morning,” he replies. His mother, Elvira, has always been a very strong influence in his life and he has always counted on her for guidance.
“I’m a momma’s boy,” López jokes–but with great affection in his voice. His love of family and of life extends to Mexico. He loves to visit as often as he can and recently spent vacation time at a favorite spot, the One&Only Palmilla in Cabo San Lucas. h
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