Mexico and the U.S. are Closer Than Ever

Posted by & filed under Colonial Cities, Media, Mexico City, News, Travel Weekly, Upcoming Travel.

Mexico and the United States are closer than ever with more and more flight opening each week from all across the States. Are you ready to visit Mexico?

Travel Weekly, a travel industry news resource, recently published an article titled “Ever-growing Air Options Thanks to Low-cost Carriers” by Meagan Drillinger, a Mexico specialist, where she covers the significant increase of flights between the U.S. and Mexico.   Drillinger writes:

“It is getting cheaper and cheaper to fly to Mexico from the United States.  As of August 2016, restrictions on flights between the U.S. and Mexico were lifted, which was expected to bring more options and lower fares for travelers.

In that wake, airlines like American, Delta and Southwest started announcing new flight roots. Then in December, Mexico and the U.S. opened their aviation markets to other carriers, as well, meaning that airlines on both sides of the border would be able to fly any routes they wanted at prices they would set. The result has been an explosion of Mexican low-cost carriers crossing the border, with dozens of new routes scheduled for the future, as well. “

According to Travel Weekly, the U.S. Department of Travel will allocate a total of 28 flight slots between Mexico City Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York.  With the bulk of this allocation going to low-cost carriers, it makes travel to Mexico easy and affordable – especially perfect for shorter excursions like Journey Mexico’s Weekend Escape to Mexico City. Drillinger states:

“In the beginning of 2017, the U.S. DOT instituted a slot assignment to allocate a total of 28 slot pairs at Mexico City’s Benito Juarez Airport and at JFK. They were released in two phases for operations from this summer into summer 2018 and were provided exclusively to low-cost carriers. Six Mexican and U.S. airlines were seeking to access the 28 slot pairs. They were Alaska Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, Interjet, VivaAerobus and Volaris.”

St. Regis Mexico City, Luxury Hotel | Journey Mexico

In addition, Travel Weekly says that since Aeromexico and Delta completed their alliance late last year, the two airlines have been able to essentially operate as one airline – providing even more flight options across both the US and Mexico, making Mexico even more accessible.

Interjet, Volaris and Vivearobus, the main low-cost airlines in Mexico, are seeking to take advantages of these lifted restrictions, lower fares and increased visitors by expanding their flight options not only in and out of Mexico City but also to and from the most popular tourist destination within Mexico, such Los Cabos, Cancun and Puerto Vallarta, providing greater access to these incredible destinations.

Read complete article: Ever-growing air options thanks to low-cost carriers

It’s time to book your next vacation to Mexico, check our recommend trips in worldly Mexico City,  historical colonial cities or some of the best beach destinations on the planet – or combine all these locations in a custom itinerary for a complete Mexico experience.

Help Oaxaca Recover and Experience Day of the Dead

Posted by & filed under Culture, Newsletters and Promotions, Oaxaca, Upcoming Travel.

day of the dead escorted group tour
One of the areas hardest hit by the 1st earthquake and latest aftershock (this past weekend) was the Isthmus of Tehuantepec (state of Oaxaca), specifically the village of Juchitan; we feel especially connected to the area as one of our staff members, Alejandro Gómez is from this village and his family was seriously impacted from the quake; his grandmother is unable to return to her home.  We have raised money from our staff (JM matched every $$ raised 2×1) to deliver tarps and other supplies in dire need as these villagers are facing rains and cool nights with no homes.  So far we have raised $45,000 mxn and are looking to raise more.  This $$ was sent to one of our most trusted guides in the region who is organizing supplies and driving them from Huatulco to Juchitan.

Aid Through an Incredible Travel Experience

In addition, we are running a small group Journey Mexico Departure for Day of the Dead in Oaxaca (same state as the above mentioned affected region) and have 2 (out of 14) spaces open: Escorted Group Tours – Day of the Dead Tour in Oaxaca.   We will donate 50% of the trip fee ($4,377 / person) for the remaining two spaces to the relief efforts too.  We’d love to get these spaces filled and want to let you know about this opportunity to experience one of Mexico’s most remarkable celebrations while helping the relief efforts in the Isthmus.

 

If you’re interested in helping the Journey Mexico effort, we’re glad to accept donations; however, as we’re not a registered 501C3 Non-profit institution, we are unable to provide documentation that will allow them tax deductions for charitable giving or you can also give to http://comoayudar.mx/world.html.

Update: Mexico City/Puebla Earthquake

Posted by & filed under Health and Safety, Mexico City, News.

Journey Mexico – Updated Mexico City/Puebla Earthquake Information, September 26, 2017 5:00 PM

As Mexico City and Puebla return to normal following the earthquake on September 25th, we have seen and incredible outpouring of support from across Mexico and endless acts of heroism.  The philanthropic sprit across the county is incredible—with Mexicans, rich and poor, doing all they can for their fellow compatriots.  In addition, international support efforts have been tremendous and reflect the feelings of friendship Mexico has built around the globe.

We welcome and encourage travel to Mexico, as there is no better way to help the country and people recover and show your appreciation and support.

Below follows our most current information on the affected areas and how it may impact travel; we’ve also provided options for donations to help those impacted by the earthquake

 

MEXICO CITY:

Mexico City Airport:  All airport services are fully operational and fights are back to normal schedules.

Roads / Traffic Signals:  There are isolated road closures rerouting traffic around areas with active clean-up efforts.  Traffic signals have resumed normal operation.

Public Transport:  All services are working normally, (metro, metrobús, camiones etc.); some are free of charge at this time.  Some bus routes have been modified to avoid streets with active clean-up efforts.

Water / Electricity: Water and electricity have been restored to most of the city; however, there are still a few pockets in the city affected by limited water supply (Iztapalapa, Tlahuac and Iztacalco).  There are intentional power outages on street with active clean-up efforts for security reasons.

Telecommunications:  Landlines in some areas are still down yet are expected to be back at 100% by the end of the week.

Hotels:  All of Journey Mexico’s hotel partners are fully operational.

Sites of Interest:  Most sites have reopened and are operating on regular scheduled hours.  Those still closed are Palacio de Bellas Artes, Museo Nacional de la Revolución, Museo Tamayo and the Museo Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo.  We will continue to update their status.

 

PUEBLA:

Puebla Airport:  All airport services are fully operational and fights are back to normal schedules.

Roads / Traffic Signals:  Roads in the area are back to normal.  Traffic signals have resumed normal operation.

Water / Electricity: Water and electricity has been restored to the city.

Hotels:  All Journey Mexico hotel partners in Puebla are fully operational.

Sites of Interest:  The historical city center is open.  Some if the city’s historical buildings and churches sustained damage and remain closed.  60% city’s museums have reopened.

 

CUERNAVACA:

Sites of Interest:  The Palacio de Cortés and Catedral de la Asunción de María (Cuernavaca Cathedral) were damaged.  The Secretary of Culture and the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (National Institute of Anthropology and History) have closed the sites for inspection and are currently working to repair the damage to the cathedral; they will begin repair work on the Palacio soon.  The ex-convents of Tepoztlan & Tlayacapan also show some damage and have been closed, and, at this time, there is no set date for beginning repairs or reopening.

Donations:  Please check the following page for options: http://comoayudar.mx/world.html.  Mexico needs you now more than ever!

On Saturday, September 23 an aftershock stuck near Matias Romero in southern Mexico, further rattling this rural area. The area sustained damage to roads and more primitive structures—some of which had already sustained damage during the September 8th earthquake. This is a more remote region that is off the traditional tourism routes.

Baja California: A Fun-Filled Family Adventure

Posted by & filed under Destinations, Los Cabos & Baja Californias.

After countless trips to the amazing Riviera Maya and action-packed Veracruz, this past summer we finally decided to head to Baja California Sur on a fun-filled family adventure. Reading about the countless active-adventure experiences available in the region had certainly sparked our interest.

We started off with a direct flight from Mexico City to La Paz, which left us in awe as we had the most dramatic bird´s-eye view of the unique Baja topography; it is unlike anything that we had ever seen. The views are almost unworldly with the juxtaposition of the brown and barren mountain ranges jetting into such dramatically blue waters.

After breezing through the La Paz airport, which is small and very manageable, we headed to the Costa Baja Resort, where we were based for a few days while we explored the area. This property is on the outskirts of La Paz in a fairly new development adjacent to a marina, providing easy access to sailing and boat excursions. Another advantage of being in a nice marina is the easy access to top restaurants, where we enjoyed sunsets and chatted about the day’s adventures.

The Costa Baja Resort has spacious rooms, many with ocean views, and two outdoor pools; one of which is located at their beach club and has a shallow area for little ones. The beach club´s restaurant serves yummy, fresh, Baja-style cuisine with an emphasis on local seafood.

On our first morning, we started off early and hopped on a boat for a private tour of the absolutely stunning Espiritu Santo archipelago, which is protected and part of Mexico’s National Park system. As our captain guided us out through the Bay of La Paz, he gave us an educational overview of all the natural wonders that can be encountered in this area—coined by Jacques Cousteau as the “Aquarium of the World. En route to the islands we stopped to visit a sea lion colony were we got off our boat to snorkel with playful sea lion pups and juveniles in their natural habitat.  After this incredible encounter, we continued along the majestic coast of Isla Espiritu Santo, passing tranquil, aquamarine inlets set against rugged rock formations.  Turning into one of the inlets, we headed toward a deserted beach while fish darted beneath the boat.

Our guide and captain setup a temporary beach camp while we swam in crystalline waters on what felt like one of the most isolated and pristine locations that I have ever experienced. We enjoyed a delicious lunch and afterward kayaked from the beach over to a small island and back. This excursion offered the perfect combination of adventurous activity and relaxation. On our way back to the hotel, we boated past flocks of nesting birds and a former pearl farm. We learned more about the delicate habitats of the marine life, past overfishing and why the area is now protected.

After a day of rest and further exploring of La Paz, we headed out for the hour drive to the historical town of Todos Santos, a true oasis set in the desert landscape. Home to the famous “Hotel California,” this small town has attracted many artists, nature lovers and entrepreneurs over the years.  It is a quaint little town, small enough to explore on foot, with delicious restaurants and charming shops.


Just outside of town we tried our hand at surfing at Los Cerritos Beach. A sport like no other, we had a fantastic instructor who taught us the basics both in and out of the water. Memories of yoga returned to me as balance, focus and some core strength are necessary to maneuver, get to your feet, and catch that exhilarating “fist wave.”  This is absolutely a sport that I will to continue to practice, as it pushed me out of my comfort zone in an exciting way. Humorously, while I struggled to stay upright on the board, my son easily took to the sport and was able to catch wave after wave.

Our adventure continued to our final stop in Los Cabos with a stay at the wonderful One & Only Palmilla, located just outside of San Jose del Cabo. This hotel couldn´t be more perfect when it comes to pampering and family travel. We were greeted with refreshing fruit-infused water upon arrival and introduced to our butler who helped us arrange for a nanny in the evening so that my husband and I could enjoy a romantic dinner at incredible El Farallon restaurant located in The Resort at Pedregal.  Our room at the One & Only was grand, with ocean views and a large outdoor balcony with a lounge. The interior was impeccably appointed, from the embroidered pillows down to the handcrafted leather lamp shades. The property´s Pelican Beach Club was a favorite spot for us.  With one of the best “swimmable” beaches in Los Cabos, we enjoyed swimming and playing in the sand with our children—of course mixed which with taking breaks in our private sun lounge. The resort also has an impressive Kids Club that is complimentary to guests for children from 4-11 years of age; it offers all sorts of fun filled activities. Overall the service at this hotel is impeccable.

 

We certainly want to return to Baja California Sur soon, this time to discover Magdalena Bay during Grey Whale season and also to experience swimming with whale sharks in Balandra Bay off the cost of La Paz…hopefully this upcoming winter!

Updated Statement: Mexico Earthquake

Posted by & filed under Chiapas, Mexico City, News, Oaxaca.

Journey Mexico Southern Mexico Earthquake Update, September 8, 2017 7:00 PM

We at Journey Mexico are grateful for the outpouring of support and concern that we have received from our friends, clients, partners and suppliers from around the globe today.   As you know, a magnitude 8.1 earthquake occurred off the coast of southern Mexico (Chiapas) in the wee hours of Thursday night; we have spent much of the day gathering information from each of our regions of operation. Despite the magnitude of the earthquake, we can thankfully report that our current guests, staff and supplier partners are all safe.  Our hotel partners in the country have reported only minor damage and all remain open and fully operational.   The main roads and highways, airports, tourist areas, and public services, like water and electricity, are all fully functional.  Below are regional updates for the main tourism destinations within the impact zone in Southern Mexico.

 

STATE OF CHIAPAS UPDATE:

San Cristóbal de Las Casas– The city of San Cristobal reports light damage in the wake of the earthquake.  While hotels, schools, hospitals and most public buildings did not suffer damage, several older churches and colonial buildings have cracks and are under review by local authorities.  In particular, the well known church of Zinacantan is closed for inspection.  During the earthquake, the city and several surrounding areas lost power, but this has been restored.  All roads, airports and services are open and operating normally.

Sumidero Canyon– The region reports no damage and all roads are open and operating normally.

Tuxtla Gutierrez- The region reports minor damage and all roads, airports and services are open and operating normally.

Villahermosa- The region reports minor damage and all roads, airports and services are open and operating normally. During the earthquake there was a short power outage but power has been restored.  Several buildings are under inspection by local authorities for cracks and damage and are closed until cleared.

Palenque– The region reports no damage and all roads are open and operating normally.

Pijijiapan Coast- The coastal town of Pijijiapan is 123 km south west of the epicenter of the 8.1 magnitude earthquake.  This remote village was severely damaged and local authorities are working hard to rescue residents and stabilize local infrastructure.

 

STATE OF OAXACA UPDATE:

Oaxaca City- The mountain city of Oaxaca has reported minimal damage after the earthquake.  The hotels, schools and other public buildings have been inspected by local authorities and have so far been reported all safe and clear.  Schools were closed today due to building inspections but will open Monday as usual.  All highways are open.  There are no power outages.  The airport is open and operating normally. 

Valles Centrales- The small crafts villages around Oaxaca City are all operating normally and report minimal to no damage.

Sierra Norte- The mountainous region around Oaxaca City reports no damage and all roads are open.

Puerto Escondido/ Huatulco:  In the resort towns of Huatulco and Puerto Escondido, the community reports no damage or disruption.  The airport is open and travelers have been arriving all day.  Local authorities have sent teams to inspect hotels, schools and other public buildings for damage and all reports are clear.  All highways are open.  There was one closure due to a landslide on the road to Masunte where travelers often visit a sea turtle conservation project however this is being cleared and should resume normal operations.  There are no power outages in this part of the coast.

Southern Coastal Oaxaca:  There have been reports of damage from smaller coastal towns in the remote region of Istmo, Southern Oaxaca. In particular, the town of Juchitán de Zaragoza was severely damaged and local authorities are working hard to rescue residents and stabilize local infrastructure.

 

MEXICO CITY UPDATE:

México City- The capital city was largely unaffected by the earthquake and aftershocks that continued throughout the day.  While many restaurants, offices, schools and shops were closed today for precautionary measures, the touristic community reports no damage or disruption to tours for the rest of the weekend.  The airport is open and operating normally.  Local authorities have inspected hotels, schools and other public buildings for damage and all reports are clear.  All highways are open.   Museums, archeological sites and churches are now open and operating normally.

Cuernavaca-   This region around Mexico City reports no damage and all roads are open.

Puebla-  This region reports no damage and all roads are open.

2017 Updated Mexico Travel Warning From U.S. Department of State

Posted by & filed under Health and Safety, News.

In light of the updated US Department of State Travel Warning for Mexico (August 22, 2017) and in response to many inquiries about the situation on the ground, below follows our comments and insight into Mexico’s current travel environment.

As the travel warning states, there has been an increase in conflicts between rival criminal organizations in various areas within in the country in 2017.  Though these conflicts can be unpredictable, they are exclusively amongst and between organized crime groups.  There has been no evidence that the organizations have or are targeting holiday travelers or civilians that are not related to illicit activity.

Though there are extremely isolated cases of holiday travelers being impacted by the actions of the criminal activity, those who were impacted were not targeted.  It’s also important to mention that in general the locations of these episodes was generally far from tourism frequented zones with a couple of high profile, but anomalous cases.

The recent warning from the US government was brought about due to some recent criminal organization activity in the popular tourist destinations of Los Cabos and Riviera Maya.  Due to recent territorial conflicts in these areas, there has been an increase in violence between criminal organizations.   It is important to note that, again, these conflicts and any related violence have not and are not targeting holiday travelers.  There has been no violence against tourists within hotels or resorts or traveling to or from any of the main tourist attractions in the area.

Many areas of Mexico, such as the popular state of Yucatan and city of Merida, and throughout the Central Highlands in destinations such as San Miguel de Allende and Mexico City, have no travel warnings at all.  That said, general precautions, as one would take when traveling anywhere in world, should always be taken.

With proper preparation and information we encourage and feel confident that travel to and within Mexico continues to be safe.  We are confident that those who honor us with the opportunity to serve them will enjoy a secure and memorable travel experience.  There is never a guaranty of complete safety when traveling anywhere, even within the US and Europe, yet by working with a trusted and professional destination specialist, like Journey Mexico, travelers minimize risk by relying on experts to keep them in the right places.   Living in the destination and ensuring the safe and enjoyable experiences of guests on a daily basis daily, we understand the environment and monitor the situation constantly.  Our primary goal is client, staff, and partner safety and we refuse to operate in any area of the country where we do not feel confident that we can ensure the safety and security of all involved.  Furthermore, we are unwilling to operate in environments where we perceive elevated risk and are committed to vigilantly monitoring the local situations throughout the Mexican Republic; we have well developed contingency and risk management plans in place in the event that they should be needed.

For those looking to travel to Mexico, we advise only working with reputable, experienced travel professionals with close relationships in the specific destinations they will visit to ensure the best and safest travel experience possible.

Mexico’s Stunning Haciendas

Posted by & filed under Culture, Destinations, Luxury.

Holding a rich and glorious, yet also ominous, place in the history of the country, Mexico’s stunning haciendas are unique memorials that offer tangible links to Mexico’s past.   Dating back as far as the 1500’s, immediately following the colonization of Mexico by the Spanish, haciendas have played an important part in what Mexico is today.

 Old photo – Hacienda Xcanatun

Let’s start with a look back.  As the Spanish first settled in Mexico, land grants were given to conquistadores, officials of the crown and Spanish dignitaries by the Spanish monarchy.  Some land grants were even given to regular Spaniards who petitioned the crown, volunteering to move to the new land for Spanish Crown.

Initially the land grants were not far-reaching, yet, fairly quickly these land grand grew—via land acquisition or simply by confiscating lands “owned” by the indigenous people.   As their acreage grew, some matching the size of whole countries in Europe, the Spaniards built large, colonial-style estates from which to operate business enterprises usually centered around agriculture, mining or livestock.  These large estates became the great haciendas of Mexico.

Old photo – Hacienda Xcanatun

During the 1700s, the haciendas had become bustling operations and construction grew from simple houses to elaborate grounds with additional living quarters, large stables for animals, buildings for workers and even churches and stores.  They became communities within the seemingly endless boundaries of the estate. For 200 years, the haciendas would grow in size, power and influence, even as the political and ruling system in Mexico changed hands from the Spanish, to Mexico, to the French and back to Mexico.

Hacienda Uayamon

Then, in November of 1910, things changed, and the beginning of the end of the great haciendas commenced.  This was the time of the Mexican Revolution, led by Pancho Villa, Venustiano Carranza, and Emiliano Zapata.  As part of the revolutionary uprising against the long-standing regime, the revolutionary soldiers decimated the haciendas as a show of power—raiding, ransacking and burning every hacienda they came across.   The massive lands the haciendas occupied were eventually given back to the people and the owners of the haciendas were only allowed to keep 200 acres.

Hacienda Labor de Rivera

Some haciendas were rebuilt and continued to function at a fraction of what they were prior to the revolution while others simply became residences.   Yet, many lay in ruins, shells of the grand estates they once were.

As many of these once regal buildings lay in decay, even as recently as this millennium, they were purchased and restored.  Many became unique, luxury properties where guests are able to re-live and re-experience the incredibly rich history residing in the walls of these stunning properties.

Hacienda de San Antonio

Our team has hand-selected the best-of-the-best of these hacienda properties across Mexico.   These properties have flawlessly combined the primitive feel of the haciendas, when the “charros” and plantation workers walked the grounds and the owning family lived in lavish, yet bygone, opulence, with modern luxuries and comforts to create a wonderfully exclusive Mexican experience.

Hacienda Temozón

With our wide selection of haciendas, we are able to provide distinct experiences for all types of travelers—from couples to families to groups.  Stay at a hacienda in the heart of a city for easy exploration, or one just outside the city for an escape after a day of touring, or one close to ancient archeological sites to dive deeper into Mexico’s rich history or even one perfect for families with fun, interactive experiences for the kids.

Hacienda San Gabriel de las Palmas

Make your trip a brief escape for a long weekend, stay a bit longer or, best of all, create a multi-destination itinerary and mix a stay at a hacienda with a visit to a beach resort and get the best of both worlds.

Anyway you choose, Journey Mexico can help you plan a memorable and custom-tailored travel experience to the most incredible and luxurious haciendas throughout Mexico.  Relive a departed era and important time in Mexico’s past with a truly unique Mexican experience today.

– Featured Luxury Haciendas –

Hacienda Xcanatun

Located just outside of Merida City, this beautifully-restored hacienda, set among lush gardens is like a tranquil escape from the city. The hacienda dates back to 1790 and was almost in ruins when the owners bought it and worked on converting it into a luxury hotel.

Hacienda de San Antonio

Flanked by an active volcano in the highlands of Mexico, Hacienda San Antonio is set around lush tropical gardens that center on a majestic water feature. Located just 30 minutes from Colima airport, and with its own private airstrip, the hacienda is easily accessible from the surrounding area.

Hacienda Uayamon

Built in 1700, Hacienda Uayamon is located in the Yucatan Peninsula outside Campeche and boasts a kind of rustic modern luxury.

Hacienda San Gabriel de las Palmas

Set among beautiful grounds, with soring palm trees, tranquil fountains and waterfalls, this 16th century Franciscan monastery was built on the order of conquistador Hernán Cortés and is now a luxury hotel.  Considered a museum as well as a resort and spa, guests will enjoy staying in a historical monument.

Mexico: The 8th Most Visited Country in the World

Posted by & filed under News.

Mexico advanced one place from 2016 to 2017 in the rankings for the most visited countries in the world, moving from the 9th to the 8th most visited country in the world.

According to World Tourism Organization (WTO), in its recent World Tourism Barometer report, Mexico passed Turkey after receiving 35 million tourists in 2016.  Holding the top three spots are France at 86.2 million, USA at 84 million and Spain at 75.6 million.   The UK and Germany hold the spots above Mexico at 35.8 million and 35.6 million, respectively. With continued growth as more and more people discover and return to Mexico, it could climb to the #6 spot soon!

Rank Country UNWTO
Region		 International tourist arrivals
(2016)
1  France Europe 86.2 million
2  United States North America 84.0 million
3  Spain Europe 75.6 million
4  China Asia 59.3 million
5  Italy Europe 52.5 million
6  United Kingdom Europe 35.8 million
7  Germany Europe 35.6 million
8  Mexico North America 35.0 million
9  Thailand Asia 32.6 million
10  Turkey Europe 32.0 million

 

International tourism receipts

In the official communicate issued by the Presidency of the Republic, Mexico has had a continued, growing, record upturn in tourism. The number of foreign visitors grew by more than 9% from 2015, with international tourist arriving by air growing by nearly 11%, establishing Mexico as a global tourist power.

Recognition and Awards

The incredible destinations and experiences available in Mexico continue to be recognized around the world.  San Miguel de Allende was recently named the World’s Best City by Travel + Leisure, Mexico won the Best International Destination for Family Travel at the Travvy Awards and Puerto Vallarta was named the second best international city for LGBTQ travel.

Discover the best of Mexico with Journey Mexico

The diversity in Mexico is incredible.  With so much to see and to, people can come back time and time again for a completely new experience.   Start planning your next trip to Mexico by checking out some of our best experiences to explore and fall in love of this beautiful country.

Yucatan Family Adventure
Extravagant San Miguel Allende + Villa
Culinary Tour Through Mexico City, Puebla, and Oaxaca
Morelia and the Monarch Butterfly Migration
Swim with Whale Sharks and Visit Ancient Ruins

Swimming with Whale Sharks in Mexico: 4 Facts to Know About Biggest Fish of The Sea

Posted by & filed under Adventure, Nature, Whale Watching.

Swim with giant sharks? Are you crazy?!  Don’t worry, whale sharks are known as the Gentle Giants of the Sea.

As the largest fish on the planet, whale sharks can reach lengths of 18 to 40 feet (5.5 to 12 meters) and with an average weight of approximately 15 tons, making a swim with these incredible creatures a truly unique and wonderful “bucket list” experience.

whale shark

Mexico is the ideal location to swim, snorkel and interact with whale sharks, as these majestic animals visit both coasts throughout the year.  Mexico’s warm, clear and nutrient-rich waters create the perfect meeting place for man and fish.

With Journey Mexico, you can design an itinerary where one day you are visiting a Mayan archeological site or driving an off-road buggy through the desert and the next day swimming with whale sharks to create an extraordinary travel experience.

Four Facts to Know Before Swimming with these Docile Animals:

  1. Are they whales or sharks?

Because of their size, you may think they are whales, but in fact they are sharks. Yet, in spite of the shark’s scary reputation, there is nothing to fear.  Even with a mouth that is about five feet wide (1.5 meters) and with more than 300 tiny teeth, which they don’t use to eat, you are still way too big for them to eat and not on their menu.

Whale Shark
  1. But they are sharks, will they eat me?!

They are strictly filter feeders and their diet consists solely of plankton, tiny micro-organisms that live in the top layers of the sea, so swimming with these amazing creatures is totally safe and mind-blowing!

whale shark
  1. They all look the same

Although they may look the very much alike in photos and videos, no two whale sharks are the same.  Like your fingerprints, each whale shark has its own distinctive, and beautiful, pattern of white dots spread throughout their bodies.  Scientists use these intricate patterns to identify individual whale sharks and study their behavior.

Whale Shark
  1. Where to swim with whale sharks in Mexico

We are very lucky in Mexico, because the whale sharks visit areas of Mexico nearly the entire year.  They split their time between Mexico’s coasts, giving you the chance to choose your location for this incredible experience.

whale shark

Mexico’s Caribbean Coast:

From June to September, the whale sharks make a visit to the warm waters off the Yucatan – where the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea meet.  Be sure to check-out some of our private whale shark swimming experiences and don’t miss out on this amazing event.

Baja Sur/La Paz:

From November to April, you can swim and snorkel with the whale sharks in the stunning waters of the Sea of Cortes.  Called the “world’s aquarium” by the famous Jacques Cousteau, this area is an ocean lover’s dream come true.  Book your next adventure with one of our customizable trips.

Are you ready to dive into this adventure? Contact one of our expert travel agents at [email protected] and let us design your next great vacation in Mexico.

Exploring Mexico with Journey Mexico FAM 2017

Posted by & filed under Adventure, Colonial Cities, Culture, Destinations, Mexico City, News, Yucatan.

Each year Journey Mexico invites a select group of our travel partners to join us on a FAM trip and let us show them what a Journey Mexico travel experience is like. This year’s FAM took us to four states in 16 days—from the city to the beach and more. It was a great group and we could not have asked for better people.

Below are some of the photos shared on social media using the hashtag #JMFAM2017.

Una publicación compartida de Atlas Reizen (@atlasreizen) el

Una publicación compartida de Scarlett (@scarletteelizabeth) el

Una publicación compartida de Atlas Reizen (@atlasreizen) el

Una publicación compartida de Atlas Reizen (@atlasreizen) el

Una publicación compartida de Atlas Reizen (@atlasreizen) el

 

We look forward to the 2018 FAM and will begin planning soon. Do you have any ideas for us as we plan?

Coastal Ecosystem Rehabilitation Project at Mayakoba

Posted by & filed under News, Riviera Maya & Tulum.

With the purpose of recovering the local ecosystem of Mayakoba and to fight against the negative effects of global warming and beach erosion that is present in Riviera Maya and the Caribbean, local authorities and hotels have launched a coastal ecosystem rehabilitation project.

Mayakoba

Mayakoba is implementing an innovative and comprehensive project to rehabilitate its coastal ecosystems as a measure to front a growing sea level, which has caused a vast amount of erosion and loss of sand on the beaches not only in the Caribbean but on worldwide scale.

Mayakoba

The project will have clear recovery goals; it aims to rebuild the coastal dunes, place barriers as protection against erosion and waves, recover sand on the beach and reefs, and most importantly create new coral barriers. This is an important project for the area and can hopefully inspire other environmental efforts throughout Mexico.

Read more about this incredible project here

Cool Places to Stay Cool in Mexico This Summer

Posted by & filed under Destinations.

The beach destinations of Mexico, that are so popular with many visitors, have summers that are pretty hot and can be pretty humid too.  This is just fine when you are on holiday and swimming in the ocean in front of your villa or hanging out in the pool with a drink in your hand at your resort.

But if you are not a big fan of the heat or want to do more than simply relax around the pool or ocean, Mexico still offers incredible travel experiences during the summer months.  Mexico is a very large county with twelve distinct climate regions—from tropical wet regions to arid deserts to temperate plateaux.  And the central highlands offer a comfortable, cooler climate for exploring Mexico during the summer months.

Adventure Guanajuato

Nearly two-thirds of Mexico is made up of highlands and plateaux with climates that are comfortably temperate most of the year.  In these regions, you will even see snow capped mountains and volcanoes during the cooler winter months; creating a stunning backdrop. Mexico City resides at an elevation of 2,300 meters (7,546 feet) while Guadalajara sits at 1,589 meters (5,213 feet) and San Miguel de Allende at 1,900 meters (6,234 feet).  These elevations contribute to the much cooler summer climates and make these areas perfect for summer travel.

Mexico Climate Classification

In these higher regions, most of the rain falls during the summer months.  Yet, the plateau, which resides between two ranges of the Sierra Madre mountains, is sheltered from the coastal marine rain systems and experiences far less rainfall and humidity.  Though the summer is the rain season, the rains are rarely heavy and usually fall as showers.  With these cooling showers and associated clouds, the daytime temperatures are perfect, usually around 23-24 °C (73-75 °F), and the nights are fresh and cool—creating the perfect environment for daytime exploring and evening dining.

Mix this perfect weather with the abundant travel opportunities and experiences available in the central highlands and you have the perfect summer escape to Mexico.   Explore cosmopolitan cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara, full of culture and culinary delights, walk the beautiful streets of San Miguel de Allende or eat your way through the famous foodie destinations of Puebla or Oaxaca.

Adventure Oaxaca

Summer is a great time to explore Mexico, so contact Journey Mexico and lets work on your perfect “cool” trip to Mexico this summer.

CHECK THESE COOL SAMPLES ITINERARIES TO STAY COOL IN MEXICO THIS SUMMER

Colonial Mexico Trip: Exploring The Heartland
Extravagant San Miguel Allende + Villa
Mexico’s Great Colonial Cities
Spirit of Mexico: San Miguel Allende & Tequila Experience
See our complete list of customizable samples itineraries to stay cool in Mexico this summer

Weekend Escapes are Good for the Body, Mind and Soul

Posted by & filed under Adventure, Colonial Cities, Destinations, Guanajuato & San Miguel Allende, Los Cabos & Baja Californias, Mexico City, Riviera Maya & Tulum.

With a work-life balance becoming more and more important in people’s lives and longer vacations becoming more and more difficult with life’s day-to-day obligations, Weekend Escapes are becoming more and more popular.   These long weekend are a great way to take a short break and recharge, rediscover and rejuvenate.

Studies have shown the benefits of weekend vacations and some corporations are even encouraging such long weekends.  They are practical, easier to plan, an easy to pull off.  They offer the excitement one experiences during research and planning, the sheer pleasure of the travel experience, and the creation of memories that will last a lifetime.   All this from just a long weekend!

To really take advantage of the escape, it is best to do all you can to get away mentally as well.   While you will want to stay connected to share your incredible experience with your friends and family, it is good to do what you can to disconnect  and unplug from work while away.  Work can suck you in, and you know it will.  Chill out, explore, discover and, most of all, enjoy your escape.

For those living in the Americas, Mexico is the perfect place for a long weekend escape.   With easy-to-access destinations offering a wide variety of different travel experiences, you can find a quick trip suited to your desires.   From sitting on a beach with a drink in hand to walking the hallowed grounds of an ancient archaeological site to the stimulating discovery of a world-class city, Mexico is hard to beat.

Whether your perfect weekend escape is to Mexico or more of a “staycation” closer to home, don’t wait to plan your next getaway.   Enjoy the process, the anticipation and excitement – and most of all, enjoy the travel experiences.  After all, you work hard and are busy, you deserve it.

READY TO TAKE A WEEKEND ESCAPE TO MEXCIO? Check our new weekend escapes experiences
Weekend Escape to Mexico City
Weekend Escape to San Miguel Allende
Weekend Escape to Todos Santos
Weekend Escape to Tulum
Weekend Escape to Playa del Carmen

 

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San Miguel de Allende: An Art & Gastronomy Destination

Posted by & filed under Culinary Vacations, Guanajuato & San Miguel Allende, Holidays, Fairs & Festivals.

Recently announced in Food & Beverage Magazine, San Miguel de Allende will host a new food and art festival called MAG: Market of Arts & Gastronomy . The event is planned to become an annual occurrence, with the first dates programmed for July 13 to 16 of this year. The festival will bring together chefs, restaurants, wineries, artists, and major media along with sponsors Rosewood San Miguel Allende and Matilda.

San Miguel de Allende

“The Market of Arts & Gastronomy (MAG) will be the grandest and most dynamic food and art festival in Mexico, bringing together an array of high-profile participants including leading chefs, hotels, restaurants, food and spirits companies, wineries, artists, major media and others,” said Mr. James

Among the activities and events scheduled for this festival are:

  • Petit Comité Culinary & Art Events: Special, intimate dinners and luncheons will be held at leading restaurants and unique locations in historic San Miguel, with noted chefs cooking and artists exhibiting their works; participation will range from 40 diners to a maximum of 120. Among the dinner locations will be Casa Armida,1826 Restaurant at Rosewood, Moxi,The Restaurant and Casa Dragones, while a special lunch will be held at Bruce James’ home.
  • Marché: A grand market of gastronomy, beverages and art in San Miguel’s beautiful Parque Juárez will feature more than 120 booths with leading restaurants offering tasting dishes, tastings of Tequila, spirits, beers, wines and cheeses, and an art tunnel, art performances and art exhibitors. Casa de Aves will be supplying the design and the stands for the Marché.
  • Talk: Chefs and artists will share their personal experiences with dynamic demonstrations.
    • A ‘Mixology Room’ will be a dedicated space for enjoying premium and artisanal spirits and liquors, with top Mexican bartenders working their magic.
    • Edible Expositions will present innovative art works that will be eaten by festival goers. At an Edible Exposition by Fernanda Prado, dinner courses will be paired with art and Monte Xanic wines.
    • Special Tasting Events: Tequila, mezcal and beer tastings at El Chorro ‘Casa de la Cultura’ (a space for cultural and art activities).
    • Trillar: From a word referring to a green coffee bean that has not yet matured or been classified, the Trillar at Hacienda los Picachos will be a platform for emerging chefs to present their creative ideas to the press and MAG guests.
    • Casa Cuervo After Party: The main party of the festival where all the chefs, sponsors, festival-goers and press will celebrate the first edition of MAG.

Do not miss this delicious event! We invite you to enjoy all the flavors, smells and excitement that San Miguel de Allende has for you. To start planning,  check out some of our samples itineraries or contact one of our travel planners at [email protected]

Food Wine & Tequila in Colonial Mexico
Spirit of Mexico: San Miguel Allende & Tequila Experience

 

Time to Plan for La Guelaguetza Festival in Oaxaca

Posted by & filed under Culture, Holidays, Fairs & Festivals, News, Oaxaca.

One of Mexico’s largest and most colorful festivals, La Guelaguetza  in Oaxaca, is coming up quickly, so it’s time to start making preparations now! This year the Guelaguetza will take place on July 17 and July 24.

Guelaguetza, meaning “offering” and “mutual exchange of gifts and services” in the ancient Zapotec language, is a festival that gives thanks to the gods of corn and celebrates the acts of giving and sharing. The state’s many indigenous peoples and cultures, which have been numbered at 16 different groups, are a draw for tourists who want to learn about the cultural customs of the area. The festival of La Guelaguetza dates back to 1932 and is now celebrated folklorickly through  traditional music, dancing, and events which attracts thousands of visitors from around the world each year.

oaxaca-rostros

If you are a fan of cultural travel, traditional music and dance, the sights and sounds of la Guelaguetza cannot be missed.  Contact one of our expert planners for more information, VIP access to special events, and hotel availability.

Read more: The Sites and Sounds of La Guelaguetza, Unique Vacation Experiences in Oaxaca

Five Hot Destination to Visit in Mexico

Posted by & filed under Culture, Travel + Leisure.

Do you know where to go in Mexico? Travel + Leisure and our incredible, Mexico-loving expert CEO Zach Rabinor, listed the 5 top trendy destination to visit in Mexico.

“Mexico offers world-class opportunities for culture, wildlife, active travel, and more,” said Rabinor. “Ranking seventh in the world for the number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites—we have 34—and with the U.S. dollar at an all-time high relative to the Mexican peso, the time to get off the beaten path in Mexico is now.”

Merida Dancers

Here are the five destinations and tips for every kind of traveler.

1. For Art and Architecture Lovers:

Guadalajara

As a contemporary art hotspot and home to an emerging cultural scene, Guadalajara is fast becoming a vibrant Mexican epicenter where modern design and historic architecture collide.

2. For Wine Lovers:

San Miguel de Allende

Host to several boutique hotels, private homes, and haciendas celebrating the region’s cuisine and wine. Just outside San Miguel de Allende, the Guanajuato wine route begins: Starting at the vineyards of Cuna de Tierra, explore the vineyards on a wagon ride and visit the barrel room to discover how San Miguel de Allende’s wine differs from the rest of the world’s production—the Dolores Hidalgo region has produced wine since the 16th century, a history propelling the area to craft Mexico’s best Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Nebbiolo.

San Miguel de Allende Wine

3. For Food Lovers:

Mexico City

Mexico City is the height of cuisine, culture, and world-class museums, all in one intoxicating locale. As Mexico’s capital, the metropolis radiates energy everywhere from renowned fine dining establishments to incredible taco stands.

tacos mexico city

To eat your way through Mexico City, begin with a taco crawl of street side purveyors and public market bodegas with Club Tengo Hambre. Try local delicacies like elotes, corn on the cob lathered in Mexican crema, cotija cheese, and spices. At Casa Jacaranda in Roma Norte, learn familial tamale and chalupa recipes with chefs Jorge and Beto in their home. End with a chocolate and mezcal tasting at Temporal, where chef Diego Pérez-Turner crafts a custom menu blending two classic Mexican specialties.

casa jacarandas mexico city

4. For the Beach Bum:

Isla Holbox

Located where the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico and only a drive and ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Holbox couldn’t differ more from its raucous neighbor. This small island is only 26 miles long and less than two miles wide, offering a relaxed demeanor and a hammock-strewn coastline home to natural beauty unspoiled by tourism.

Isla Holbox

5. For the Historian:

Mérida

The capital of Mexico’s Yucatán state and home to a colonial city founded atop the ancient Mayan city of Thó, Mérida is history in the flesh, replete with elegant buildings and former homes of wealthy hacienda owners of the past.

At the convergence of several ancient civilizations, the narrow streets and shady plazas exude Old World charm as horses and cars alike traverse the cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old mansions.

Read the whole article 5 Destinations to Visit in Mexico Right Now  and check out some of our sample itineraries to explore every one of these incredible locations and plan your next customized holiday to Mexico with Journey Mexico.

Food, Wine and Tequila in Colonial Mexico
Culture of Mexico Experiance
Culinary Tour Through Mexico City, Puebla and Oaxaca
Island Hopping in the Mexican-Caribbean – Isla Mujeres, Contoy & Holbox
Highlights of the Yucatan Peninsula

Playa del Carmen: One of the 25 Best Destinations in the World

Posted by & filed under Destinations, Riviera Maya & Tulum.

TripAdvisor recently announced its list of the Top 25 International Destinations 2017, and Playa del Carmen, Mexico was listed as the 20th best destinations in the world by the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards 2017.

This is incredible recognition for this Playa del Carmen. Perfectly located along the Riviera Maya corridor with endless activities, attractions, natural beauty, culinary experiences and energetic nightlife, it is no wonder Playa del Carmen landed on this list.  

Why is Playa del Carmen on the radar of international travels? Well, here are five reasons we at Journey Mexico would have it on our list

    1. Swim in Refreshing Cenotes

Like hidden jewels hidden in the lush jungles surrounding Playa del Carmen, you’ll find some of the most outstanding cenotes in Riviera Maya- cenotes like Cenote Azul pictured here.  And with Journey Mexico, we can arrange private swims in some of the area’s most beautiful and private cenotes.

Cenote

    2. Dive and Snorkel in Paradise

Either in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea or the crystal clear, fresh waters of the cenotes and underground river systems, the Playa del Carmen area is a great place to scuba dive and/or snorkel.  

Snorkel Scuba

    3. Visit Maya Archeological Sites

Less than an hour driving from Playa del Carmen, you can visit the magnificent ruins of Tulum, the only Maya city located overlooking the sea.

Tulum

    4. Swim with Sea Turtles

Have you ever swam in a warm, clear cover looking eye-to-eye with a majestic sea turtles? We can make that happen.  30 minutes aways from Playa del Carmen you will find Akumal, a small beach community famous as a meeting and eating location for sea turtles, where travelers can respectfully swim with and admire these incredible animals.  

Akumala Turtle

    5. Savor Yucatan Cuisine

Any adventure isn’t fully complete without a local gastronomy journey. From street tacos to gourmet restaurants, Playa del Carmen has a wide variety of regional and international options to satisfy any your desires.  

Food Yucatan

Check out some of our sample itineraries to enjoy a unique and authentic adventure in Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya.

Riviera Maya – Yucatan Boutique Hotel Hideaways
Riviera Maya Villa Retreat
Ultimate Honeymoon

Contact one of our travel planners to reserve and design you next Mexican adventure at [email protected]

A Guide to Guadalajara: Art, Culture, Food

Posted by & filed under Colonial Cities, Destinations.

The capital of the state of Jalisco and second most populated city in Mexico, Guadalajara is the birthplace of mariachi music. Old colonial charm meets modern living in a city that boasts shopping, museums, sporting events and day trips to near by Tequila and Lake Chapala among the many things to do there. Voted the hottest destination of 2015, and again the best place to travel in 2016, Guadalajara only keeps getting better, and 2017 will be no exception!

Guadalajara Centro Histórico

What to do in Guadalajara

As Mexico’s second largest city in the country, there is a lot to see in do. To maximize time in this exciting city, consider hiring a private tour to Guadalajara’s city center – and maybe even fitting in Tlaquepaque! Your guide will know just the places to stop for a complete overview and understanding of everything Guadalajara has to offer.

Consider the following: As you make your way to the Historical Center of Guadalajara,  drive through the old and new residential districts, observing the wide avenues lined with monuments and fountains to get a feel for the city. Once in the historical center, visit the City Hall with its mural depicting the Spanish conquest of Mexico, the 16th century cathedral and the Governor’s Palace (the State Capital Building), built in the 18th century and boasting murals by José Clemente Orozco. Next, head to the  Rotonda de las Personas Ilustres (Rotunda of the Illustrious). Built in 1952, the 17 pillars of this monument pay tribute to the history of Jalisco and house the remains of the city’s important historical figures. A Guadalajara-must-do is Hospicio Cabañas; built in the 19th century, this hospice facility provided care and shelter for the disadvantaged. It boasts impressive architecture and murals, visiting the Degollado Theater, the city’s opera house, with golden walls and interior mosaic work.

Mural Clemente Orozco Guadalajara

Another thing to do when in Guadalajara is to visit the nearby town of Tlaquepaque to explore and shop for local handicrafts. The pedestrian mall, lined with 17th and 18th century houses is full of shops, museums, galleries and restaurants. Local goods include ceramics, blown glass, cut crystal, paper mache, leather goods, embroideries and jewelry. Be sure to stroll to the main plaza to El Parian, where the Mariachi bands play for tips as people eat and drink.

Tlaquepaque Street

Art in Guadalajara

In addition to incredible historic murals depicted by some of Mexico’s most famous artists like José Clemente Orozco, Guadalajara also has an emerging contemporary art scene.  place where visitors can witness some of Mexico’s greatest architecture, including the work of legendary Arch. Luis Barragan.

Some of our favorite art stops include:

Art Gallery Travesia Cuatro – Travesia Cuarto was founded in 2003 as a gallery for emerging and mid-career international artists in Madrid, Spain. In recent years, they have focused on building a bridge between Latin American and European art scenes and decided to open a a gallery of the same concept in Guadalajara. The gallery is located in Casa Franco – a beautiful house designed by legendary architect Luis Barragán in 1929.

Paramo Gallery- Páramo was founded in Guadalajara in 2012 to present exhibitions of emerging and established artists in order to generate work and ideas to further a global dialogue. While presenting an ongoing program of exhibitions, events, performances, screenings and talks, they also offer a residency for artists to engage in the city of Guadalajara and create experimental and innovative work on site.

Curro y Poncho –  Also famous for its architecture, the Cube Tower by Carme Pinós houses Curro y Poncho, a gallery that is enjoying international recognition. The idea behind this concept  was to create a dialogical space to become a platform for Mexican and non-Mexican artists whose discourse constantly transcends the physical space of the gallery as well as its artists’ nationality. Over the course of almost seven years Curro has effectively become an obligated reference for the Guadalajara art scene.

Art Studios Insider Access – By appointment only, special tours lead by Journey Mexico include exclusive access to art studios  to meet with recognized artists and learn about their work including Gonzalo Lebrija Studio (photography, video, sound and sculpture to capture the aesthetic experience of time and the isolated Self.), Jose Dávila Studio (reproduction strategies to dismantle the relation between form and content, as well as manifest the virtues and deficiencies of his references), and Eduardo Sarabia Studio (work honors and mocks his Latino heritage through exposing Mexican cultural clichés about drug smuggling, banditry, and the import/export of tawdry contraband).

Ceramic Factory Insider Access –  By appointment only, Journey Mexico offers exclusive access to meet the owners of Ceramica SURO, a family-owned ceramic factory in Tlaquepaque that has been around since the 1950s. Travelers will learn abou tJosé Noé Suro’s work, observe how it is made, and learn about the artists that are involved in the project.

 

Restaurant Suggestions in Guadalajara

One of the best ways to experience a destination is through its food, and Guadalajara is no exception! From the markets of Mercado Libertad (aka Mercado de San Juan de Dios) to the fine-dining restaurants, Guadalajara offers delectable regional cuisine. Typical dishes include tortas ahogadas, birria, carne en su jugo, and pozole Jalisco-style. Known for its  entrepreneurial culinary spirit offering contemporary takes on traditional recipes, there are many great restaurants in Guadalajara including:

• Lula Bistro
• Anitla Li
• Alcalde
• I Latina
• La Chata de Guadalajara
• La Tequila
• Santo Coyote
• Hueso (Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurant)
• La Panga del Impostor
• Magno Brasserie

Gastronomy Guadalajara

Where to Stay, Guadalajara Hotels

Demetria – Demetria is a design boutique hotel, restaurant, and art gallery located in the Lafayette neighborhood of Guadalajara. Chic, trendy and contemporary, the hotel boasts a large art collection, making it as much a gallery as it is a hotel. It is set between two historic houses, Luis Barragán’s Casa Franco and Pedro Castellano’s Casa Quiñones, modeled to preserve Guadalajara’s architectural history and reflects a successful combination of contemporary art and Zen comfort.

Casa Fayette – Located in the trendy and vibrant Lafayette area of Guadalajara, this Grupo Habita hotel is true to style in the merging of art, design, fashion and architecture. Set across two buildings that are entirely unique in style, the 1940’s art-deco designed home flows into the patio to the modern high rise that houses all of the suites.

 

Casa Fayette Guadadalajara

Ready to visit Guadalajara?

If you’re interested in traveling to Guadalajara to immerse yourself in its creativity and design,  browse our sample itineraries below or  contact Journey Mexico today.

Guadalajara, Tequila, and Punta Mita  – Discover the home of mariachi and tequila in the state of Jalisco, visiting Guadalajara and the Magic Town of Tequila before heading to the beaches of Punta de Mita for some rest and relax time.