We’ve Done it Again! Zach Rabinor Selected as Wendy Perrin Trusted Travel Expert

Posted March 11, 2024 by Sally Wells & filed under Awards, Things We're Proud Of.

We’re delighted to share the news of Zachary Rabinor, Founder and CEO of Journey Mexico, securing his 10th consecutive placement on Wendy Perrin’s WOW List of Trusted Travel Experts. With a wealth of experience and insights gleaned from discerning travelers, Wendy meticulously selects the globe’s premier specialists every year. Zach’s extensive network throughout Mexico and knack for orchestrating unparalleled journeys have cemented his status among this esteemed cohort.

Tap into Zach’s tips for successful family travel alongside other travel experts by re-watching Wendy’s WOW webinar, aired in February 2024.

See what our travelers are saying about Zach’s and his team’s travel planning prowess – we love hearing from our guests through their reviews with Wendy!

“We’ve been to Mexico several times on our own. Last year, we contacted Zach’s office because we were looking for a unique experience. During our first call, Zach gave us an overview of his favorite Mexican places and experiences, and this conversation became our guide. We went to CDMX and Morelia to see the winter habitat of the Monarch butterflies. While we had been to CDMX before, our experiences this time were unique, and the pilgrimage to see the butterflies was an experience we will never forget. ” – ELISA SPAIN, February 2024

The tours and activities they planned in Mexico City (historical city tour, visit to San Angel, Coyoacan, and Casa Azul, etc.) were exactly what we wanted. They even arranged a private after-hours visit to the National Museum of Anthropology–we had the entire museum to ourselves! Wandering through the galleries with an expert was definitely a magical experience, and brought the cultures to life. – VANESSA HULME, March 2023

And finally, check out some of Zach’s Insider Travel Guides below:

Four Cornerstones of a Stay at Hotel Matilda in San Miguel Allende

Posted March 4, 2024 by Sally Wells & filed under Guanajuato & San Miguel Allende, Hotel News.

Cascading bougainvilleas mark the gateway to Hotel Matilda, set amongst the quaint cobbles and colorful facades of Aldama Street. Outside, it’s a classic San Miguel Allende scene – including a glimpse of the gothic parish – inside, it’s a contemporary vision of the city’s artistic spirit with a cool, sophisticated flair. We love the concept of this adults-only boutique hotel, and its location right in the historic center. Read on to uncover why we rate the Hotel Matilda experience.

1. Artistry at Every Turn

Indulge your senses in a feast of luxury and artistry at Hotel Matilda, where every corner is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered. From its carefully curated collection of contemporary Latin art to its thoughtfully designed interiors, every aspect of this sanctuary speaks to the soul of San Miguel de Allende. As you stroll through the hallways, you’ll encounter over 50 original artworks, each one with its own story to tell. A keen eye for aesthetics is woven seamlessly into the fabric of the hotel’s design – marble, quarried rock, and dark woods create an ambiance of understated elegance, while pops of caramel and turquoise add a playful touch. Intentional and stylish, the interiors blend the city’s classic and contemporary influences – earthy sculptures, statement light fixtures and huge paintings meet traditional features and furnishings.

Journey Mexico Insider: Ask at reception for a tour of the hotel’s art collection, including “Matilda”, a portrait of the hotel owner’s mother painted by none other than Mexican muralist, Diego Rivera.

2. Comfort for the Senses

Imagine the look of a high-end art and design shop, dressed with muted grays, uplifting blues, and soothing greens – this canvas of comfort is your guest room at Hotel Matilda. Sink into the plush embrace of crisp white beds adorned with Egyptian cotton linens, draw the blackout curtains for a restful sleep and relax with modern conveniences like flatscreen TVs. The marble-clad bathrooms, some featuring deep free-standing tubs, offer a touch of indulgence with Malin + Goetz toiletries. Opt for rooms with private terraces or balconies to soak in views of of sleek white Cubist walls softened with leaves and flowers, or choose the expansive Owner’s Suite C, redesigned by Namuh, featuring an expansive terrace for sunrise and sunset spectacles. Immerse yourself in a multi-sensory experience of comfort.

Journey Mexico Insider: Maggie Arias, Operations Manager at Hotel Matilda – “Our in-room minibar is a delightful treasure trove waiting to be discovered. From custom-made cocktails to the finest treats, it offers a taste of indulgence in the comfort and privacy of your room. I won’t spoil the surprise by revealing more!”

3. Peace and Tranquility

Matilda is a haven of calm, an inspiring home base for putting your feet up after a day exploring the treasures of the city. Descend beneath the swimming pool and escape to the property’s rejuvenating spa, featuring a hammam, where indulgent massages and facials slow the pace right down. The spa’s apothecary offers the chance to craft personalized skincare products under the guidance of a knowledgeable concierge, while the recent creation of a Zen Garden beckons quiet moments of reflection. Shaded by the gentle sway of palm trees and lined with vibrant flora, Matilda’s infinity pool is another peaceful oasis, a place for leisurely dips and basking in the sunshine beside the uplifting pinks and purples that pop from Claudio Limón’s mural.

Journey Mexico Insider: Spa Matilda’s new signature treatment, the HydraFacial, blends advanced medical technology with regenerating skincare techniques to cleanse, hydrate, and nourish.

4. Culinary Culture

San Miguel has blossomed as a gastronomic hub over the past decade thanks to the arrival of destination restaurants like Moxi, Hotel Matilda’s flagship restaurant. Savor the creations of Chef Vicente Torres, whose Michelin-starred pedigree shines through in every dish. Moxi’s menus consider San Miguel’s small producers, organic gardens, local vineyards and food artisans as a fundamental part of the process, reflecting the area’s growing conscious eating culture. For a dose of decadence, don’t miss the exclusive Krug menu, which expertly pairs plates with Champagnes, or keep it casual at Bar Müi where comforting noodle bowls are infused with Mexican flavors. Monkey Bar is also a highlight – channel San Miguel’s “rooftop drinks” culture as you sip cocktails, craft beers and high-end wines.

Journey Mexico Insider: Look out for Supper Club, where contemporary art and gastronomy come together under the flavors of a guest chef.

Start Planning your San Miguel Allende Trip.

Check out our inspirational San Miguel Allende itinerary for ideas on tours, logistics, and how to maximize your time all while staying at the one and only boutique Hotel Matilda. Once you have your travel ideas and dates ready, get in touch with our brilliant team of expert Mexico travel planners to let us know what you love and what you’d change. We’re here to personalize the trip just for you! Prices start at $1,000 USD per day for two travelers.

Mexican Celebrations: A Month-by-Month Guide to the Holidays and Festivals

Posted February 29, 2024 by Sam Murray & filed under Culture, Family vacations.

Mexican celebrations and national holidays offer the out-of-town visitor a fantastic chance to witness the country at its most raw. The fiestas and celebrations can be loud, raucous, and colorful but also deeply religious, poignant, and touching.

If you’re thinking about booking a vacation to Mexico, then take a look at what annual celebration you might be able to experience while you’re in the country.

Annual Mexican celebrations

January

New Year’s Day (Año Nuevo)

When: January 1
About: Along with much of the rest of the world, Mexico celebrates New Year’s Day on January 1. It’s traditional for families to come together on this day for some food and to share some stories from the night before. New Year’s Day is a day off for many workers, so don’t be surprised if it seems a little busier than usual.

Epiphany (Dia de los Reyes Magos)

When: January 6
About: Marking the beginning of the end of the Christmas celebrations, Epiphany sees many Mexicans eat rosca de reyes (king’s cake). This oval-shaped treat is meant to represent the Three Kings in the form of a crown and it might have a little figurine inside which symbolizes Jesus. They say the person who finds the Jesus in their slice should hold a fiesta on Día de la Candelaria.

February

Candlemass (Día de la Candelaria)

When: February 2
About: A deeply religious day, Candlemass sees loved ones come together in Mexico to share a meal of tomales. More religious families may also dress a baby Jesus and take it to their church.

Constitution Day (Día de la Constitución)

When: First Monday in February
About: A day off for Mexican workers, Día de la Constitución marks the day in 1917 when the country’s constitution came into law. You’re likely to see celebrations across the country, including picnics, parties, family gatherings, and festivals.

Valentine’s Day (Día del Amor y la Armistad)

When: February 14
About: Valentine’s Day in Mexico is celebrated in much the same way as it is elsewhere: chocolates, roses, dates, soppy messages, and romance. However, in Mexico, there is more focus paid on the love between friends so you wouldn’t be out of place sending a little message to your buddies.

Mexican Army Day (Día del Ejército)

When: February 19
About: Mexican Army Day honors two significant events in Mexico’s history: the creation of the Mexican Army in 1913 and the Loyalty March of 1911, when Cadets of the Military College led the president, Francisco Madero, to the National Palace. Mexican Army Day is your chance to see military parades, flag raising ceremonies, and tributes to the fallen.

Flag Day (Día de la Bandera)

When: February 24
About: Dia de la Bandera is a day of patriotism where you will likely see many, many Mexican flags hung across the country. You may also see a parade or two in which the crowds will salute the flag as it passes.

March

Anniversary of the Oil Expropriation (Aniversario de la Expropiación petrolera)

When: March 18
About: Aniversario de la Expropiación petrolera celebrates the day that former Mexican president Lázaro Cárdenas signed an order that took control of the majority of the foreign oil companies working in Mexico.

Benito Juarez’s Birthday (Natalicio de Benito Juárez)

When: Third Monday of March
About: A public holiday in Mexico, the third Monday of March marks the birthday of Benito Juarez, a celebrated politician and democracy advocate. Indigenous Zapotec, Juarez, went on to become the 26^th president of Mexico and brought about several political and social changes. Many Mexicans will take advantage of the long weekend to take a trip and spend time with their families.

Extra: Semana Santa and Pascua

When: The week before Easter week
About: One of the most important festivals in the Mexican calendar, Mexico’s Easter-time celebrations are divided into two very special weeks: Semana Santa and Pascua. Businesses and schools often close during this religious period, while families will take the chance to have a vacation together.

Semana Santa celebrations include parades, ceremonies, rituals, and dramatic reenactments while some towns have their own unique way of celebrating it.

Pascua is a calmer week when Mexican families tend to take their vacations.

Read more: For the full insight into the Easter-time celebrations, check out our in-depth blog post on Semana Santa and Pascua

April

Heroic Defense of Veracruz (Heroica Defensa de Veracruz)

When: April 21
About: This civic holiday celebrates the cadets and navy personnel from the Heroica Escuela Naval Militar and Mexican Navy who attempted to defend the city of Veracruz after it was occupied by the United States in 1914.

Children’s Day (Día del Niño)

When: April 30
About: On Children’s Day, parents might buy presents for their little ones while schools will throw mini celebrations for their pupils. Children enjoy games, eat candies, and generally have fun.

May

Labor Day (Día del Trabajo)

When: May 1
About: A day to celebrate the Mexican workforce, Dia del Trabajo is a national holiday across the country. As with many other national days of rest, the local population will use this time to spend with their friends and family.

Fifth of May (Cinco de Mayo)

When: May 5
About: Often confused with Mexican Independence Day by the rest of the world, Cinco de Mayo actually marks the Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla. While the Cinco de Mayo celebrations are big in the United States of America, the largest celebrations in Mexico are typically focused in Puebla, where the actual battle took place. Here you will find a great celebration, replete with parades, battle reenactments and more.

Miguel Hidalgo’s Birthday (Natalicio de Miguel Hidalgo)

When: May 8
About: May 8 marks the birthday of Miguel Hidalgo, one of the leaders of the Mexican revolution nicknamed The Father of Mexican Independence.

Mothers’ Day (Día de las Madres)

When: May 10
About: As you might expect, Mothers’ Day in Mexico celebrates the moms. Children normally show their thanks and love through gifts of flowers and chocolates. Many Mexican families will also come together for a big meal, often with traditional dishes.

Teachers’ Day (Día del Maestro)

When: May 15
About: Teachers’ Day has been celebrated in Mexico since 1918. On May 15, schools will either close completely or hold a day of fun activities for the kids and teachers. Youngsters may also bring in presents for their teachers as a way of thanking them for their hard work.

Students’ Day (Día del Estudiante)

When: May 23
About: Students’ Day in Mexico is a chance for the population to celebrate the freedom to be educated.

June

National Maritime Day (Día de la Marina)

When: June 1
About: A celebration of the Mexican Navy and the civil maritime sectors, National Maritime Day is marked with the flying of flags at government buildings. It’s particularly popular, unsurprisingly, in the coastal regions, where you might find parades, fireworks, and dances.

Fathers’ Day (Día del Padre)

When: Third Sunday of June
About: Fathers’ Day is a celebration of all the dads in Mexico. Typically, families will come together to share a meal while fathers might receive a gift or two from their children.

July and August

There are no major Mexican celebrations in July or August.

September

Anniversary of the Boy Heroes (Dia de los Niño’s Héroes)

When: September 13
About: Dia de los Niño’s Héroes pays tribute to six teenage cadets who died, bravely defending Mexico City’s Chapultepec Castle against the United States Army. It’s said that the last boy alive, Juan Escuti, jumped from the building draped in the Mexican flag rather than give it to the US troops.

Cry of Dolores (El Grito de Dolores)

When: September 15
About: More the beginning of Independence Day than a holiday in its own right, El Grito honors the moment independence leader Miguel Hidalgo rang his church bell and called the Mexican people to rise against the Colonial occupation. Now, the Mexican president will lead El Grito de Dolores from the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City. Sometimes, however, the shout may take place in the Dolores Hidalgo, where the original call to arms was made. If you head to other Mexican cities and towns, you may hear local government officials reenacting their own El Grito.
Read more: The Story of El Grito and Mexico’s Independence Day

Independence Day (Día de la Independencia)

When: September 16
About: After El Grito the night before, Independence Day in Mexico is marked in a spectacular celebration of sound, light, and color. Expect street parties, fireworks, flowers, and lots of flags across the country.
Read more: Independence Day in Mexico: The Tale Behind the Fight for Freedom

Morelos’ Birthday (Natalicio de José Ma. Morelos y Pavón)

When: September 30
About: The birth of Jose Maria Morelos y Pavon, another independence leader, is celebrated on September 30, particularly in Morelia which has taken his name. Here you will find street stalls, food, local shows, and more. School children will form a parade down the main streets accompanied by drums and bugles.

October

The Day of the Race (Día de la Raza)

When: October 12
About: The Day of the Race, an alternative to Columbus Day, celebrates the indigenous people of Mexico. In some parts of Mexico, native communities come together in their traditional clothing to celebrate the day.

November

Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos)

When: November 1 to 2
About: The main Day of the Dead celebrations take place on November 2. On this day, families pay tribute to their lost loved ones by visiting the cemeteries where they are buried and leaving them flowers, their favorite food, and tributes. Throughout the day, Mexican families will also come together to eat food and drink. You may also see special parades with floats and people in highly elaborate costumes.

November 1 is known as Dia de los Angelitos (Day of the Little Angels) and pays tribute to children and infants who have died.
Read more: Day of the Dead in Mexico Explained

Revolution Day (Día de la Revolución)

When: November 20
About: Revolution Day honors the start of the Mexican Revolution. Cities will throw their own celebrations with parades and ceremonies taking place.

Mexican Navy Day (Dia de la Armada de Mexico)

When: November 23
About: Not to be confused with National Maritime Day, Mexican Navy Day celebrates the country’s navy with a series of parades and ceremonies. Head to the coastal towns for the best celebrations.

December

Day of the Virgin Guadalupe (Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe)

When: December 12
About: Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe marks the day when a man named Juan Diego met the Virgin Mary in Mexico City in 1531. It’s said that Mary instructed Juan Diego to arrange for a church to be built on Tepeyac Hill. Now, celebrations take place across Mexico to honor this miracle, while the followers of Catholicism will attend church.

Las Posadas

When: December 16 to 24
About: A Christmas tradition, posadas are a reenactment of Joseph and Mary’s quest to find a place to stay before the birth of Jesus. Traditional songs are sung, piñatas are struck, and food and drink are consumed. To truly experience a traditional Mexican Christmas, you can’t miss out on a posada.

Itinerary: Book our Winter Holiday in Colonial Mexico vacation to experience a true Mexican Christmas

Christmas Eve (Nochebuena)

When: December 24
About: Christmas Eve in Mexico (called Nochebuena) will mark the end of the posadas, while children receive gifts from baby Jesus. It’s normal for families to come together and enjoy a traditional Mexican Christmas meal while Christians may also go to church for a Midnight Mass called Misa de Gallo.

Christmas Day (Navidad)

When: December 25
About: The largest Christmas celebrations take place on December 24 in Mexico, soChristmas Day is a family day, where workers get time off to catch up with their loved ones and eat leftovers from the night before.

Day of the Innocents (Dia de los Santos Inocentes)

When: December 28
About: Day of the Innocents, which can be likened to April Fools’ Day, is a day for pranks and tricks. It actually commemorates the tale of King Herod ordering all baby boys to be executed in a bid to kill baby Jesus.

New Year’s Eve (Víspera de Año Nuevo)

When: December 31
About: In Mexico, the new year is welcomed with a flash of bang and color. Fireworks take place across the country including in the capital of Mexico City with plenty of fiestas and street parties taking place. If you come at this time, you may also pay witness (or even take part) in the eating of 12 grapes at midnight. It’s said that if you manage to finish your dozen grapes in less than 60 seconds, you will get 12 wishes come true.

Public holidays in Mexico

Public holidays in Mexico mean workers can take the day off and relax with their friends and family. Here are the public holidays for 2024.

Public holidays in Mexico 2024

New Year’s Day	January 1
Constitution Day	February 5
Benito Juarez’s Birth	March 21
Good Friday	March 29
Labor Day	May 1
Election Day	June 02
Mexican Independence Day	September 16
Presidency Transition Day	October 1
Revolution Day	November 20
Christmas Day	December 25

Start Planning to Experience a Mexican festival in Mexico

To witness or take part in a Mexican festival is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can be both joyous and humbling at the same time. However, logistically, it can be difficult to organize with luxury hotels and villas snapped up quickly. Make sure to speak to a Journey Mexico Travel Planner who can organize your whole trip for you taking in the very best celebrations throughout the country. Our custom-tailored journeys start from $1,000 USD per day for two travelers in interior Mexico, and $1,800 per day for two travelers in beach destinations.

Meet Mexico’s Changemakers: 7 Influential Women You Need to Know About

Posted February 28, 2024 by Sally Wells & filed under changemaker series, Culture, Ecotourism, News.

Our Changemakers series tells the stories of the people proactively responding to challenges faced by Mexico`s natural world and communities. Our aim with these articles is to spread the word, share knowledge, and inspire action.

March plays host to Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day—a poignant reminder to pause and honor the remarkable social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women worldwide. It’s not only a time for reflection but also a call to action, urging us to accelerate the journey towards gender equality. For a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination, collective action is paramount, where differences are not just acknowledged but cherished. We’re thrilled to seize this opportunity and shine a spotlight on some incredible Mexican women. Through unwavering dedication, hard work, and tenacity, they have achieved extraordinary feats. Join us as we delve into their inspiring stories and spread the word!

1. Catalina Yolanda López Márquez, Guardian of Oaxaca’s Cochineal Dye

Doña Catalina is a master of the ancient art of cochineal dyeing—an age-old technique hailing from Mexico’s rich pre-Hispanic heritage. Her journey began over five decades ago when she taught herself how to elaborate the brilliant red dye, recognizing its significance as a vital part of cultural legacy. Alongside her daughter Claudia, she runs the Nocheztlicalli museum in Oaxaca City, where she meticulously tends to her nopal cactus garden and nurtures the insects essential for dye production. Through immersive workshops at the museum, Catalina shares her profound understanding of cochineal cultivation, ensuring its continuity for future generations. Her pioneering efforts in reviving cochineal cultivation reflect her commitment to preserving this natural dye, which is still used by artisans in Oaxaca’s native crafts today. Catalina’s tireless dedication earned her the esteemed title of Living Human Treasure in 2023, bestowed by Oaxaca’s Secretary of Cultures and Arts, a testament to her role as a champion and custodian of Mexico’s extraordinary cultural heritage. Additionally, her accolades include clinching the top spot in the Award for Mexican Women Inventors and Innovators in both 2007 and 2008, further recognizing her outstanding contributions.

2. Frida Kahlo, Icon of Resilience

Frida Kahlo is perhaps Mexico’s most recognized woman, who’s legacy as a pioneering artist and cultural icon lives on. Her fearless exploration of identity, pain, and perseverance are universally relatable, and beyond her artistic talent, Kahlo’s achievements as a woman resonate on a profound level. Despite facing numerous personal challenges, including physical disabilities and chronic health issues, she boldly challenged societal norms and defied the gender stereotypes of her time, tapping into themes of female empowerment, body positivity, and individuality, which paved the way for future generations to be their authentic selves. Her unwavering determination serves as an enduring inspiration, reminding us of the power of creativity and self-expression in the face of adversity. Dive into Frida Kahlo’s psyche at Casa Azul, her beloved home in Mexico City.

3. Regina Chay, Queen of Community-focused Leadership at Las Haciendas

Regina’s journey from humble beginnings to Senior Resident Manager of the restored henequen Haciendas under IHG, including renowned properties like Haciendas Santa Rosa and San Jose, is a testament to her warm leadership, keen eye for detail, and passion for sharing Maya culture. Embracing a community-centric approach to leadership, Regina fosters a sense of family within her team. She actively engages the haciendas in community outreach, collaborating with organizations like the Mundo Maya Foundation, a beacon of sustainability in the region, offering vital training and employment avenues for Maya women and families. Beyond being workplaces, the haciendas represent an important part of Maya heritage and identity. As Resident Manager at Hacienda Santa Rosa, Regina seamlessly weaves Maya history and culture into the daily experience, where a botanical garden boasts nearly 300 medicinal plants, a sanctuary helps to preserve the sacred Melipona Bee, and guests are connected to native craft activities like filigree and weaving.

4. Adela Flores, Sharing Generational Tradition

Adela is at the heart of culinary endeavors within the “Chinampas en Movimiento” project, spearheaded by the civil association REEDUCA, one of our positive impact partners. Hailing from Otomí roots, Adela’s journey led her to one of the original communities most representative of Xochimilco, San Gregorio Atlapulco, where she continues to live. Imbued with a wealth of culinary wisdom passed down through generations of resilient women in her family, Adela’s upbringing under the tutelage of her mother and grandmother ignited a passion for preserving and celebrating Mexican culinary heritage. It’s the dedication of countless Mexican women like Adela that ensures the survival of this invaluable cultural legacy, a fact deserving of profound gratitude. As the matriarch of the chinampa project, Adela proudly embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine. Meet Adela and taste her authentic creations on our axolotl and chinampas experience in Mexico City—an immersive journey into Aztec agroecology and the endangered native salamander.

5. Rosana Alvarez, Making Environmental Education Accessible

Rosana Álvarez is the visionary behind the remarkable community initiative, Vía Orgánica A.C., dedicated to fostering connections between local small-scale farmers and discerning consumers in search of responsible and healthy organic fare in San Miguel de Allende. Beyond offering access to wholesome food, Vía Orgánica actively champions a range of educational endeavors centered on regenerative organic agriculture, bolstering the local economy, promoting sustainability, and enhancing natural health through its Eco-Ranch and Educational Center. One standout initiative within the project is the maguey project, which harnesses the ecological benefits of maguey plants as part of an ambitious regeneration movement aimed at reducing CO2 emissions. Additionally, the ranch’s seed bank serves as a vital safeguard for Mexico’s heirloom seeds, combating contemporary challenges through the rescue and preservation of key ingredients such as corn, squash, beans, and chilis, ensuring the integrity and diversity of these essential crops for future generations.

6. Lorena Ramírez, Breaking Barriers in Huaraches

Lorena Ramírez, a renowned long-distance runner from Mexico, has captivated the world with her extraordinary talent, resilience, and cultural significance. Hailing from the indigenous Rarámuri community in Chihuahua’s remote Sierra Madre mountains, Lorena’s prowess in ultra-marathons has earned her widespread admiration. Running in traditional attire and ‘ huarache’ sandals made of recycled tire rubber, she effortlessly navigates rugged terrains, showcasing not only her physical endurance but also her deep connection to her heritage and the land. Lorena’s achievements highlight the strength and endurance of indigenous women while serving as a source of inspiration for athletes and admirers worldwide. Her dedication to her craft and commitment to preserving her cultural identity make her a true symbol of strength and determination. Connect with Lorena and her family’s land and traditions with a journey to the Copper Canyon in northern Mexico.

7. The Women of Granada & Yaxunah, Collective Power – Holga Tamayo, Yenni Canul, Ingrid & Luciely Cahum

The women of the Maya communities of Yaxunah and Granada are the unsung heroes who preserve age-old culinary traditions, like cooking in the ancient ‘pib’ pit ovens, and apply their expertise in cultivating and tending gardens daily to ensure a vital source of nutrition for their families and neighbors. At the same time, by working together as a group, women like Holga Tamayo, Yenni Canul, and Ingrid and Luciely Cahum combat misogynistic stereotypes and are exemplars of dedication, strength, intelligence, and responsibility, contributing to local economies by working in agriculture, making traditional crafts, or by being entrepreneurs. These multifaceted roles make an invaluable contribution to their communities and beyond, driving progress with resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment. Get hands on with these incredible women with our cultural exchange exploring Hanal Pixan, the Yucatecan celebration of Day of the Dead.

Want to learn more about these incredible women?

Get in touch with one of our travel planners to learn about how you can incorporate an adventure in your personalized Mexico itinerary, that`ll connect you to stories, projects, and cultures of these mighty women. Custom made trips start at $1,000 USD per day for two travelers.

Author: Sally Wells

The British-born writer first fell for Mexico’s magic while studying Spanish in Guadalajara. A decade later, she’s taken her time getting to know the country’s multifaceted personality, and now calls Puerto Vallarta home. Sally has always had a soft spot for the written word and finds inspiration in life’s subtleties as much as the big moments. She loves stepping into someone’s world, listening to their experiences, and making connections. A firm advocate for candid communication, Sally believes storytelling has the ability to empower, enlighten, and spark empathy.

Our Responsible Travel Fee: What it is and Who it Benefits

Posted February 20, 2024 by Sally Wells & filed under Culture, News, Things We're Proud Of.

We´re thrilled to be implementing Journey Mexico´s Responsible Travel Fee on March 01, 2024, with 100% of the funds going directly to handpicked NGOs in Mexico.

By requesting this donation from each of our guests, together, we can make a positive difference to Mexico´s extraordinary natural world and its wonderful people. We believe that travel and business hold the power to transform; the same reason we proudly became B-corp certified in October 2023.

Each of the civil societies we support have been chosen because of their tangible impact on the biodiversity, traditions, and communities that make Mexico so special. Read below to find out about the non-profit organizations we´re partnering with or head over to our sustainability page to learn more about how the fee works.

MUNDO MAYA HACIENDAS FOUNDATION

Where: Yucatán, Campeche and Quintana Roo states

Catalyst: In the early 90s, a group of Mexican entrepreneurs created Las Haciendas, restoring former henequen plantations and haciendas – with the input and employment of residents – into a route of boutique hotels as a model of sustainable tourism to generate a socio-economic impact at a micro-regional level.

The next step was the creation of the Haciendas del Mundo Maya Foundation A.C. in 2002, after Hurricane Isidore stormed through the Yucatán Peninsula, to improve the quality and living conditions of the Mayan communities, while respecting and preserving local culture and the environment.

Goals: The foundation strives to strengthen the capacities and skills of the residents of Mayan communities in the Yucatán Peninsula, generating microregional development hubs with the participation of residents as promoters of their own projects. This helps to foster the identity, recognition, and preservation of Maya culture whilst working towards eradicating poverty and the social marginalization of communities.

Strategy: The implementation of economic and social development projects is framed within the foundation´s Comprehensive Community Development Program, including initiatives such as:

Traspatio Maya: A gourmet food brand created by the foundation and produced by Mayan communities to promote new local economic alternatives and contribute to the conservation of local biodiversity. Products include pink salt, salt foam, salt pyramids, and salt seasoned with habanero or achiote, Melipona honey and Tajonal and Tsisilché flower honeys.
Taller Maya: This brand, with lines in fashion, home, jewelry, children, spa, and special collections, was started by forming groups of Mayan craftswomen and collaborating with designers to create contemporary, high-quality pieces that revive traditional techniques and materials. The foundation works alongside the craftswomen to establish and strengthen social enterprises, as well as provide ongoing support for production and administration processes.
Las Haciendas Spas: Building on the traditional knowledge of Maya massage practitioners, in 2004, Mundo Maya incorporated formal training for spa therapists, establishing five spas in Las Haciendas and forming a service cooperative, which is now 100% self-managed.

Impact:

The involvement of community members in building a shared vision for the future and selecting strategies to materialize it.
The sustainable utilization of natural resources and respect for the environment.
Rescuing traditional Mayan medicine and herbalism, strengthening the overall health of families and improving access to primary care.
Access to education through an educational project constructed by the community members, integrating cultural elements specific to Mayan culture.
Local income generation, the creation of fair-trade social enterprises, and their integration into the formal productive sector.
Improved housing in rural communities in Yucatán through a Self-Construction Housing and Infrastructure program; the foundation provides materials and oversight while families manage the construction process themselves.
Benefitting over 200 women from different communities who work with the brand Taller Maya and reviving traditional Yucatán craft techniques like henequen (foot loom, corking, and backstrap loom), hand and machine embroidery, horn and stone carving, Guatemalan loom, hammock warping, Sansevieria fiber extraction, palm weaving, silver filigree, seedwork, candles, and soaps.

Learn more at https://www.haciendasmundomaya.org/

UNCOVER THE MAYAN TRADITION OF HANAL PIXÁN: COMMUNITY-LED CULTURAL EXCHANGE

Xochimilco Agroecological Initiative (IAX)

Where: Mexico City

Catalyst: Urbanization has led to the decline of the chinampa farming tradition, with 16.69% of the chinampa area now urbanized and 49.61% abandoned and at risk. Despite Xochimilco’s cultural significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a globally recognized agricultural system, Mexico City’s rapid expansion threatens its survival. The displacement of farmers and abandonment of traditional farming techniques for more profitable commerce are eroding Xochimilco’s traditional essence and cultural identity.

Goal: To preserve and restore the chinampa agricultural system while promoting sustainable farming practices. The initiative aims to protect Xochimilco’s unique ecological and cultural heritage, support local farmers, and prevent further urbanization of the chinampa zone.

Strategy: The IAX aims to restore and protect the chinampa system through sustainable farming, water management, and community engagement. Its strategy includes rehabilitating abandoned chinampas, promoting agroecological practices, supporting farmers with training and financial incentives, and improving water quality. Some initiatives include:

Arca Tierra: Project based on three fundamental pillars – the restoration of chinampas, the sale of vegetables, and chinampa experiences. The agroecological community comprises a network of 65 farming families or chinamperos, 35 chefs, eight food artisans, and two artists, all with shared missions of revitalizing and protecting traditional agricultural practices and promoting fair trade.
REEDUCA`s Chinampas en Movimento: Reactivating pre-Hispanic, agroecological crop cultivation techniques in Xochimilco`s chinampas (man-made plots of fertile land) & cleaning the habitat of the endandered axolotl salamander.
La Escuela Campesina: The Farmers’ School is an innovative six-month program designed to train participants as young chinampa farmers with the knowledge, values, and skills necessary to analyze, apply, and promote a sustainable and viable agricultural development model. The program aims for participants to engage in the rehabilitation of abandoned chinampas, generate employment, and contribute to the recovery of traditional farming knowledge.
Adopt a Chinampa: Abandoned chinampas are restored for production, including planting traditions, festivities, biocultural heritage, and traditional cuisine. The recovery of an abandoned chinampa is a six-month process that involves diagnosis, design, and planning before being carried out.

Impact:

If a chinampa is productive and not abandoned, it cannot be built upon, which contributes to the effort to contain urban sprawl and work toward food sovereignty in Mexico City.
Using a chemical-free agroecological production method (chinampas) has a positive ecological impact; it restores soil, cleans the water, reforests, and sequesters carbon in the soil, helping to reverse climate change.
Chinampa experiences include public events featuring synergies with renowned chefs and private events where guests can enjoy the scenery, cuisine, and beauty of the location, while learning about its importance.
The promotion of sustainable development through environmental awareness in schools, providing support for the “Green School” Environmental Certification, fostering the exchange of experiences, conducting outreach campaigns, and strengthening educational centers by promoting “eco tips.”
Collaborations with schools to successfully establish specific gardens that protect pollinators.
Significant action in sea turtle conservation on the Oaxacan coast, particularly in camps like Barra de la Cruz, Escobilla, Tierra Colorada, and Cahuitán.
Helping to shape public conservation and biodiversity policies by working in collaboration with institutions such as CONABIO and SADER.
Creation of a self-sustaining productive chinampa; helping to conserve genetic resources for food and agriculture.
Contribution to biodiversity conservation through direct actions in protected natural areas and efforts aimed at safeguarding endangered species.
Engagement in the rehabilitation of abandoned chinampas, generation of employment, and contribution to the recovery of traditional and sustainable farming knowledge.

Learn more (Spanish) at https://iaxmx.org/ https://www.arcatierra.com/ https://www.reeducamexico.org/

MEET MEXICO’S CHANGEMAKERS: ANCESTRAL AGROECOLOGY IN MEXICO CITY WITH CHINAMPAS EN MOVIMIENTO`S MARTIN SANCHEZ

Making a Positive Impact

Check out the links below to learn about more of Journey Mexico´s responsible travel initiatives:

Our Approach to Sustainable Tourism
Journey Mexico´s Sustainability Committee
Creating Change: Our Commitment to Sustainability and Community Impact
Virtuoso Sustainability Community
#JourneyGivesBack

Start Planning your Positive Impact Vacation to Mexico

Get in touch with one of our travel planners to learn about how you can incorporate regenerative travel experiences with Reeduca or the Mundo Maya Foundation into your personalized itinerary. Custom made trips to Mexico City and the Yucatan Peninsula start at $1,000 USD per day for two travelers.

6 Things We Love About Casa Sierra Nevada, a Belmond Hotel

Posted February 9, 2024 by Sally Wells & filed under Guanajuato & San Miguel Allende.

Welcome to Casa de Sierra Nevada, a charming oasis nestled in the heart of San Miguel de Allende. We love how this enchanting hotel embodies the city’s rich tapestry of past and present influences, seamlessly weaving together history, culture, art, and gastronomy. As a custodian of San Miguel’s heritage, Casa de Sierra Nevada honors its role by infusing every aspect of its design, culinary offerings, on-site experiences, spa treatments, and workshops with clues about the city’s heritage. We can see why Casa Sierra Nevada features on Condé Nast Travelers 2024 Gold List as well as topping the bill on Travel+Leisure’s reader-voted Best City Hotels in Mexico 2023. Keep reading to find out six reasons this property is consistently one of our favorites!

1. History in Design

Casa de Sierra Nevada’s layout is a little different to a typical hotel, comprising six 17th and 18th century mansions known as ´casonas´ scattered over the grounds. Each one whispers tales of a bygone era, inviting guests to uncover the history woven into each unique space. Take Casa Principal, where a glimpse into the wine cellar reveals echoes of a colonial past, here, a tunnel once connected the house to the nearby church. Meanwhile, Casa Palma’s serene garden boasts a circular stone adorned with intricate carvings, a poignant homage to pre-Hispanic culture, while poolside arches crafted from stone salvaged from the garden echo the grandeur of aqueducts. Venture into Casa Limon, and you’ll discover stone-carved fireplaces adorned with floral motifs in the Tequitqui style, a captivating fusion of Spanish and pre-Columbian elements that speak to the resilience of indigenous communities throughout periods of evangelization.

2. Craftmanship Meets Comfort

Step into a world where old-world charm meets contemporary luxury. Each corner of this exquisite hotel reflects the essence of Mexico, enveloping guests in history and comfort. With 37 rooms and suites spread across the meticulously restored ´casonas´, guests are treated to a one-of-a-kind stay. Every room and suite is a testament to Mexican craftsmanship, adorned with local artwork, dark wood furniture, ornate woodwork, and Mexican-tiled bathrooms featuring polished copper sinks. Curved ceilings, functioning wood-burning fireplaces, stucco walls, and elaborately embroidered linens add to the ambiance, capturing the spirit of San Miguel de Allende. Accommodations boast views of the city, gardens, or courtyards, and all offer modern comforts like king beds, personal butler service, and LCD televisions, seamlessly integrated into the period aesthetic. For those seeking an extra touch of indulgence, Deluxe Suites feature bronze, freestanding bathtubs large enough for two, and the Parroquia Suite boasts views of the iconic Parish of San Miguel plus a private plunge pool on the terrace.

3. Rooftop Wining & Dining

Casa de Sierra Nevada has elevated one of our favorite things to do in the city – eat and drink at a rooftop bar! In collaboration with Handshake, Mexico City’s renowned speakeasy bar honored among “The World’s 50 Best Bars,” guests are treated to an unparalleled mixology experience at Tunki Rooftop Bar. Set against the backdrop of breathtaking views overlooking the city’s picturesque domes and the pink parish, Tunki invites guests to unwind with innovative cocktails and small plates inspired by Peruvian cuisine. From pioneering concoctions to inventive twists on classics, each sip and bite is a celebration of creativity and flavor. Adding to the charm, every piece of furniture adorning the rooftop has been thoughtfully sourced from local artisans in San Miguel de Allende and Guadalajara, offering a touch of authenticity to complement the experience.

4. Creative Heritage

At Casa de Sierra Nevada, art isn’t just decoration—it’s a vibrant expression of San Miguel’s cultural legacy. Belmond’s commitment to fostering artistic collaborations resonates deeply with the city’s eclectic heritage, from the bohemian spirit of the 1960s beatniks to the modern-day international artistic community. Currently, guests can immerse themselves in the creative process through partnerships with esteemed artists like Hermes Arroyo and Betsabée Romero. Arroyo’s captivating ‘mojigangas’ workshop invites guests to craft their own miniature versions of these striking papier-mâché characters, celebrating Mexican folk art at the hotel’s Artist Corner in Casa Parque. Meanwhile, Romero’s evocative interventions for the Day of the Dead 2023 festivities breathed new life into spaces like Andanza restaurant and select facades of the hotel. Look out for more workshops and exhibitions at the hotel with Betsabée later this year!

5. Spa

After getting immersed in the fairytale charm of San Miguel, indulging in some pampering at Casa de Sierra Nevada’s Laja Spa is the perfect way to unwind. Named after the picturesque river that meanders through Guanajuato state, the spa offers a tranquil retreat where ancient traditions of healing and rejuvenation come to life. Drawing on the timeless wisdom of indigenous communities, treatments at Laja Spa incorporate medicinal herbs, therapeutic massage techniques, and the purifying essence of copal smoke to nurture the body, mind, and spirit. Set within an Old-World cottage ambiance, with three intimate treatment rooms adorned with fireplaces and low ceilings, the spa provides a sanctuary for guests to relax and renew.

6. Sazón Cooking School

Embark on a culinary journey like no other with the Sazón Cooking Class, a beloved experience at Casa de Sierra Nevada. Housed within the walls of a splendid 18th-century mansion, this immersive cooking school invites guests to explore the vibrant world of Mexican cuisine. Whether delving into the bold flavors and rich history of regional favorites or mastering the art of creating elegant modern dishes, participants are guided through every step of the culinary process by expert chefs. The adventure begins with a visit to a bustling local market before a hands-on session in the kitchen as participants learn traditional techniques and culinary secrets – a true feast for the senses!

Ready to Discover Casa Sierra Nevada for yourself?

Our Mexico travel planning experts are here to help you get started crafting your vacation! Get in touch with our team, who are ready to create a completely customized travel itinerary for San Miguel Allende at your pace, all from your home-away-from-home for the week at Casa Sierra de Nevada. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a free night stay with their current ‘4th Night Free’ promotion. Our personalized trips start at $1,800 USD per day for two travelers.

What Not to Miss at the Reimagined Belmond Maroma

Posted February 7, 2024 by Sally Wells & filed under Riviera Maya & Tulum.

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, takes its name from a privileged location on the impossibly beautiful Punta Maroma coastline. Nestled into the beating heart of the Riviera Maya, the property is hugged by lush jungle and gazes over open Caribbean Sea. Mexican and Mayan influences weave throughout the hotel’s culinary and wellness spaces, common areas, guest experiences, and 72 rooms, suites, and villas, while innovative environmental programs and selective partnerships show the Belmond`s commitment to its role as guardian of the destination’s natural and cultural wealth.

After a two-year closure to renovate and revamp, Belmond Maroma opened its doors once more in August 2023, unveiling reimagined interiors, brand-new waterfront suites, a nature-inspired wellness sanctuary, forward-thinking sustainability programs, and a new gastronomic age.

Here’s our top six highlights of the reimagined Belmond Maroma, a property that channels the cultural and natural heritage of the Riviera Maya.

Guerlain’s First Mexican Spa

Maroma Spa by Guerlain launched in November 2023 and is the first spa by the French Maison in Latin America. This sanctuary brings together holistic wellbeing experiences rooted in nature and ancient practices with the know-how of Guerlain. The concept incorporates nine jungle-view treatment rooms and signature therapies rooted in the natural elements of air, water, earth, and fire. The Melipona Bee, a species held sacred by the Maya for thousands of years, lends the power of its honey to healing treatments, while the frequency of its buzzing is channeled into sound therapies. Maroma Spa offers daily meditation, movement and yoga sessions as well as having its own apothecary where The Healing Remedies Workshop is a highlight, offering guests the chance to harvest their own herbs from a traditional `kaánché` before making natural balms and scrubs using a copper alembic.

Artisan-Focused Design

Renowned designer, Tara Bernerd, and her team are behind Maroma’s aesthetic rebirth. Using an exquisite eye for understated elegance, the interiors experts reimagined a luxury haven with Mexican heritage at the forefront, honoring the masterful work of local artisans. Through collaborating with craftspeople at the top of their game, the furnishings and artistry that color Belmond Maroma´s personality showcase the best of Mexican art and design, while embodying generations of tradition, dedication and pride. Look out for José Noé Suro’s hand-painted Jalisco clay tiles in the guestrooms, Eduardo Ricon´s shadow boxes displaying native botanicals, and the eco-manta staff uniforms embroidered by Concepción Orvañanos. Take a moment to observe Henequin rugs, handwoven Oaxacan textiles, timber-framed Yucatecan doors, and the shell chandeliers that were inspired by Maya jade jewelry.

New Beachfront Bliss

Ten new one- and two-bedroom beachfront suites join Maroma’s collection of deeply relaxing accommodations, scattered across an exclusive stretch of jungle-backed sand. Some of the latest additions boast their own pools and gardens, while all rooms offer idyllic ocean views and direct access to the beach. To inject a dose of sensorial Mexican identity, the hotel called on the socially conscious brand, Collectiva Concepción, to design in-room guest kaftans hand-embroidered by female artisans in Chiapas, as well as collaborating with Mexico City-based fragrance brand Xinú to create a custom scent and bath amenities inspired by the regional Amate tree, along with the aromas of clay, incense, and lemon.

Responsible Travel

Maroma has taken some incredible steps on its sustainability journey, implementing impactful actions that help to manage energy usage, conserve the natural surroundings, and support their communities. We love the hotel’s collaborations with local artisans to upcycle transparent glass bottles into blown glass amenities and conservation projects that include educating about and releasing turtle species that hatch on local beaches; an on-property sanctuary to protect and raise awareness about the endangered Melipona bee species in partnership with Fundación Selva Maya and Mayahuum; the identification and protection of endemic bird species that call Maroma’s grounds home; and a nursery that produces over two thousand endemic plants. From a culinary perspective, 90% of ingredients are sourced from Mexico, half of which come from the Yucatán Peninsula, including freshly caught seafood from the Amigos de Sian Ka’an cooperative.

Michelin-Star Gastronomy

Maroma teamed up with Michelin-Star restaurateur, Curtis Stone, to launch the property’s newest signature restaurant, Woodend. The celebrated chef brings his renowned live fire technique to the beachside eatery, where the jungle and sea set a beautiful scene for gastronomic storytelling. Curtis’ philosophy on cooking embraces creating dishes with local ingredients, enhancing natural flavors over an open flame, and placing value on the practices passed down through generations – a perfect match for Maroma. Woodend’s menu takes inspiration from the farmers and fishermen whose ingredients are pillars of local dishes, paying tribute to the Yucatán Peninsula’s history, and traditions. Freshly grilled seafood, the finest meats, and plant-based delights are perfectly paired with vibrant marinades, signature sauces, and spice blends.

Tap Into Heritage

Belmond Maroma’s curated experiences are more than just activities, they’re gateways to Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. Dive deep into culinary legacy with the Nixtamal Journey, where you’ll master the art of crafting tortillas by hand using exotic corn varieties. To explore Mexico’s native elixirs, embark on the Journey of the Agave, where the traditions of tequila, mezcal, and sotol come to life through immersive tastings and tailored experiences. And, for a transformative encounter with ancient Mayan wisdom, immerse yourself in a Temazcal Ritual by the beach, led by a Mayan shaman who channels the power of steaming volcanic stones, herbal teas, chants, and percussion to nourish the body, mind, and spirit. These experiences offer invaluable insights into the wisdom of the past that still enriches the culinary and wellness practices of today.

Ready to Discover Belmond Maroma for Yourself?

Our Mexico travel planning experts are here to help you get started crafting your vacation! Get in touch with our team, who are ready to create a completely customized travel itinerary for, exploring the natural wonders and adventures of the Riviera Maya at your pace, all from your home-away-from-home for the week at Belmond Maroma. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a free night stay with their current ‘4th Night Free’ promotion. Our personalized trips start at $1,800 USD per day for two travelers.

A Guide to Mexico’s Newest Hotels & What’s to Come

Posted January 25, 2024 by Sally Wells & filed under Hotel News, New Hotels, News.

We’ve put together this comprehensive list of Mexico’s luxury hotel openings and transportation news, so you’ll know what’s arrived and what to watch.

Newly Opened Hotels in 2023

Belmond Maroma, Riviera Maya

Rooms: 72
Tucked between the lush jungle and soft sands of the Mexican Caribbean, Maroma, A Belmond Hotel has made its eagerly awaited return, revealing ten brand-new waterfront suites, a nature-focused wellness program in collaboration with Guerlain, forward-thinking sustainability initiatives and new culinary direction by Mexican chef, Daniel Camacho.

St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya

Rooms: 124
Nestled on a premium stretch of coastline between serene Punta Maroma and the buzz of Playa del Carmen, the St. Regis Kanai is a contemporary resort that stands out for its unique, curved architecture floating above mangrove forest. Access to the St. Regis’ Signature Butler Service comes included with all guest rooms, while 19 ocean view suites and a 2-bedroom Presidential Suite take luxury to the next level. Wining and dining can be enjoyed at Toro, the property’s flagship restaurant, on the top floor St. Regis Bar, and at the adults-only speakeasy, Jack’s Club.

Numu Boutique Hotel, San Miguel de Allende

Rooms: 44

Set in the charming city center, Numu hotel in San Miguel Allende blends a slick, earthy design with touches of tradition and color that nod to the town’s rich history and vibrant cultural scenes. Enjoy guest rooms with private terraces and balconies, or upgrade to the Master and Presidential Suites. The rooftop pool terrace with 360 cityscape views, treatments at Nubye Spa, and El Huerto de Don Enrique restaurant are highlights.

Otro Oaxaca, Oaxaca City

Rooms: 16

Grupo Habita’s boutique hotel Otro Oaxaca in Oaxaca City has a prime location right across from the Church of Santo Domingo in the city center. Behind the hotel’s historic façade, find a contemporary minimalist design that nods to colonial and ancient cultures. The hotel boasts a rooftop pool and mezcal bar overlooking the church domes, the “bunker” cultural space, and the sub-level Otro Mundo spa, complete with a heated plunge pool that’s naturally illuminated by a porthole overhead.

Andaz Mexico City Condesa, Mexico City

Rooms: 213
Making its debut in the capital right at the start of 2023, Andaz Mexico City brings its bold, contemporary aesthetic to the hip Condesa neighborhood. Art installations and Mexican design details give guest rooms and common spaces plenty of personality, while the rooftop pool terrace boasts panoramic views over the city. Enjoy restorative treatments at Pasana Spa & Wellness, plus Mexican seafood and signature cocktails at Cubaya.

Colima 71, Mexico City

Rooms: 16
Opened in February 2023, Colima 71 is a boutique hotel in Mexico City that mirrors the essence of its surroundings in La Roma neighborhood, a bohemian hub of art galleries, café culture and gastronomy. The work of contemporary artists weaves through the space and the hotel´s 16 king suites offer intimate quarters to rest after a day exploring the big city.

The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai

Rooms: 182
A neighbor of the St. Regis in the up-and-coming Kanai development, this is Edition’s first property in Mexico. Natural materials like bamboo and local limestone harmonize with vistas over lush mangroves and the Caribbean Sea. Suites feature plunge pools and terraces with ocean/mangrove views, and the Sky Rooftop Villa is as spacious as it is luxurious at 27,000 sq. Ft. The lobby’s tranquil water design is echoed by the lagoon-inspired swimming pool and So’ol Beach Club’s infinity pool. An organic Bamboo structure hosts the hotel’s yoga space and spa fitted with hydrotherapy pools, a Turkish hammam, and an infrared capsule room.

Volga, Mexico City

Rooms: 50
Set one block away from the city’s iconic Reforma Avenue, this boutique hotel is in the pulsing heart of the megalopolis. Volga brings music, art, and gastronomy together in an immersive experience, from its signature restaurant curated by Ado Kobayashi, concept store, and exhibition space, to live performances in the underground Music Room or up on the rooftop terrace surrounded by city views.

In Other News

Soho House CDMX House, the opulent members’ club, has arrived to Mexico City’s Juárez neighborhood (next door to Roma and Condesa). Once a private residence, the historic casa boasts Baroque and French influences and features an open-air swimming pool, dedicated tequila bar, an underground vinyl listening room and an impressive collection of works by artists with a personal connection to Mexico. JW Marriott Mexico City has overhauled many of its public spaces including the lobby, bar, events and meeting rooms, in addition to establishing four new restaurants. Over on the Pacific Coast, the St. Regis Punta Mita´s multi-million-dollar renovations encompass completely redesigned restaurants and bars. 2023 also saw Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets and Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club open their doors.

Maroma, a Belmond Hotel – Riviera Maya

Numu Boutique Hotel in San Miguel de Allende

New Hotels in Mexico 2024

Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos

Rooms: 79
Grand Velas added to its Los Cabos portfolio with a second property between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. Opened in January 2024, the adults-only boutique offers an intimate option for relaxing romantic getaways with a private beach, wellness center and spa, ocean view infinity pool, personalized service and access to its neighboring sister property.

Habitas Mazunte

Rooms: 28
Mazunte has become a cornerstone for free spirits exploring the premier surf breaks, stunning beaches, and laid-back lifestyle of the Oaxacan Coast. Inspired by the tiny beach town’s gorgeous natural wealth and wellness culture, Habitas Mazunte is a place to slow down, relax and feel good. The hotel will perch on a jungle-clad cliffside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, featuring a wellness center and yoga shala, a clubhouse with a pool, bar and restaurant, and activities such as snorkeling, surfing, hiking, and the release of baby turtles.

SHA Wellness Clinic Riviera Maya

Rooms: 100 + 35 private residences
SHA is open for bookings in the Mexican Caribbean. The award-winning wellness clinic has unveiled its latest addition amongst the tropical beauty of Costa Mujeres, a secluded stretch of coastline just north of the Riviera Maya. Luxurious accommodations join state-of-the-art facilities within 17 acres of coveted beachfront, offering a next-level wellness experience that combines therapies and practices from both natural and scientific medicines.

Kimpton Virgilio Mexico City

Rooms: 48
Kimpton Virgilio brings the brand’s first hotel to Mexico City, slated to open in winter 2024. The property will claim its place in the capital`s Polanco neighborhood, home to art galleries, many upscale restaurants, and one of the city`s fanciest shopping streets. The hotel will offer a rooftop bar and pool, a signature Spanish-inspired restaurant and amenities such as a fitness center, bikes, yoga mats, and 24-hour in-room dining.

Todos Santos Boutique Hotel

Rooms: 10
The intimate Todos Santos Boutique Hotel is set right in the heart of town amongst the charm of art galleries, cobblestone streets, and cafe culture. The historic building dates to the late 19th century and has undergone a transformation to reinstate its original grandeur with rich colors, dark wood, hand-painted murals and meticulous craftsmanship. In addition to its sumptuous design, highlights include the rooftop breakfast terrace, lavish La Copa Bar, and lazy afternoons by the pool. Now open for bookings.

Banyan Tree Veya, Valle de Guadalupe

Rooms: 30
The Banyan Tree Veya will be the Banyan Tree Group’s fourth Mexican property, offering a luxury experience of Mexico’s rapidly growing wine tourism scene. Just a couple of hours drive south of the US border, Veya sits amongst the rolling hills of Valle de Guadalupe. Expect sleek villas with private pools, the brand’s first signature winery, culinary concepts, swimming pools, and the Banyan Tree’s award-winning Spa. Coming in spring 2024.

Four Seasons Cabo San Lucas at Cabo del Sol

Rooms: 96 + 61 residences
Expected to open in early 2024, the resort will blend Mexican and Mediterranean vibes within the coveted Cabo Del Sol community on one of the region’s few swimmable beaches. Enjoy classic Four Seasons hospitality alongside amenities like a private beach club, a kid’s club, luxurious spa and wellness facilities, plus dining and shopping experiences

Chablé Sea of Cortez, La Paz

Rooms: Approx 50
This huge resort covering some 15 acres of beachfront desert is estimated to open sometime in 2024, landscaped to blend into the surroundings. Guests can expect incredible sea views from luxury pod-type accommodations with private terraces, gardens and plunge pools, alongside a luxury spa.

More Hotel News

We’re still looking out for the updated opening date of the new Nauka, Ritz-Carlton Reserve on the Riviera Nayarit’s Costa Canuva. The property will host over 90 luxury hotel rooms, 14 suites, 20 residences, a spa, a private beach club, and access to the private community´s signature 18-hole golf course.
After being pushed back from its 2023 opening, the St. Regis Los Cabos Quivira resort is expected to get the green light in fall 2024, launching 140 guest rooms, luxury residences, and fine dining restaurants just 15 minutes away from downtown Cabo San Lucas.
This summer in the Baja Sur desert, Paradero Todos Santos is scheduled to complete 24 luxury residences that will offer one to three bedrooms, designed for families with fully equipped kitchens, rooftop jacuzzi terraces, stargazing nets and private pools.
The newly built beachfront ME by Melia Sayulita is on the cards to have 125 rooms and villas, a trio of restaurants, a beach club, rooftop bar, swimming pool, gym and spa.
Located north of Puerto Escondido on Palmarito Beach, OCN Resort and Residences is expected to launch in the summer months, with culinary concepts by award-winning chef, Brad Kilgore.
Adults-only, all-inclusive Hotel Mousai will open a second property in Cancun, slated for May 2024.
In the Riviera Maya, the adults-only Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres is due to open around February 2024 and just across the Caribbean Sea, the all-inclusive Almare is also expected this year.

wellness hotel in cancun by sha clinic beach

Sha Wellness Clinic & Resort – Cancun

Hotels Coming to Mexico in 2025

Milaroca, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Nayarit

Rooms: 57 + 27 private villas
Located at a 40-minute drive north of Puerto Vallarta Airport, Milaroca will settle into a lush 105-acre, pristine beachfront estate, built as a low-density project with non-invasive practices. The property will encompass several open-air swimming pools, six unique dining venues, a wellness center, organic farm, and curated shopping experiences.

Waldorf Astoria, San Miguel Allende

Rooms: 120 + 24 private residences
The Waldorf Astoria plans to open its third Mexican property in UNESCO-recognized San Miguel. Wellness-inspired amenities will include a state-of-the-art fitness center, yoga and meditation areas, and a destination-inspired spa, as well as a rooftop space with pools looking out over city vistas.

Rosewood Mandarina, Riviera Nayarit

Rooms: 140
Now rescheduled to open in 2025, this will be Rosewood’s fourth property in Mexico. Set between the Sierra del Vallejo Mountain range and a one-mile stretch of pristine beach, the property will offer suites and villas with panoramic views, three bars and restaurants, three pools, a fitness center and a signature spa with 10 treatment rooms.

More to Come

2025 should also witness the opening of Amanvari on Baja Sur’s East Cape, tucked between the Sea of Cortez, farmland, and wild desert. Inland destinations will see the additions of ME by Melia in San Miguel de Allende and Grand Hyatt in Mexico City, while Zel Sayulita by Melia and Park Hyatt Cancun will arrive on Mexico’s Pacific and Caribbean coastlines.

Hotels Opening in Mexico in 2026 & 2027

Six Senses Xala, Costalegre

Rooms: 51 + 25 private residences
The end of 2023 brought the big news that Six Senses will be unveiling its first Mexico property along the Pacific coast’s breathtaking Costalegre – set to open in 2026. The property will become part of Xala, a socially and environmentally conscious development that has been underway for several years, with beachfront and elevated all-pool accommodations that fit into a village-like design. Embracing Xala’s sustainable angle, Six Senses will join the cause with reforestation and turtle conservation projects as well as making improvements to the community’s infrastructure.

Montage Punta Mita + Pendry Punta Mita

Both Montage and Pendry resorts will make their way into the private peninsula community of Punta Mita in Mexico’s Pacific Coast in 2026. Spread across 63 acres, Montage Punta Mita will offer 140 guestrooms, 91 branded residences, treatments at Spa Montage and a fitness center, together with a collection of culinary experiences, a swimming pool, the Compass Sports and outdoor activity center, meeting and event spaces, a game room, and the signature Paintbox children’s program. Pendry Punta Mita will claim its place on 30 acres of beachfront, with views over one of the Riviera Nayarit’s fabulous surf breaks. The property plans to feature 115 guestrooms, 30 fully serviced Pendry Residences, and similarly to Montage, wellness at Spa Pendry, several culinary options, a resort pool, the Compass Sports center, meeting and event spaces, a game room, and Paintbox for the kids. Both resorts grant guest access to Punta Mita’s top-end amenities, including two signature Jack Nicklaus golf courses and five beach clubs.

More to Come

Futher hotel openings anticipated in 2026 include the 200-room Nobu in Tulum, Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun, the all-inclusive Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun, Grand Hyatt Los Cabos, W Costa Mujeres, and Hyatt Place, which will be conveniently located just a 10-minute drive away from Cancun Airport.

Looking forward a few years to 2027, Belmond will further expand its Mexico portfolio with the launch of Katanchel, a Belmond Property near Mérida in the Yucatán, restoring a traditional, hacienda-style estate that dates back to the 17th century.

new montage hotel in punta mita mexico render

Montage – Punta Mita

Transportation & Connectivity Updates

Following the return of Mexico’s aviation safety rating being restored to the highest level (as announced by the US government in September 2023) additional routes have popped up between the two countries, increasing connectivity from Dallas/Fort Worth, Charlotte and Miami (American Airlines), Fort Lauderdale and Orlando (Spirit), Atlanta (Delta), Newark, LA, Chicago O’hare, Houston (United) and New York’s JFK Airport (JetBlue). The Aeroméxico-Delta partnership plans to fly 30% more seats between the U.S and Mexico next July, and the the low-cost Mexican airline, Viva Aerobus will launch six routes in the first half of 2024, linking Monterrey with Austin, Denver, Miami, New York City, the Bay Area and Orlando. The Mexican army-run airline, Mexicana, has returned to national skies, networking Mexico City’s second airport, Felipe Angeles (NLU/Mexico City AIFA), with a whole host of domestic destinations.

Tulum’s highly anticipated airport opened in December 2023, cutting travel time from Cancun Airport in half, and Puerto Escondido’s airport expansion is slated for 2024, which will include a new passenger terminal, parking lot, the modernization of buildings and rehabilitation of existing areas. The long-awaited highway project to connect Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca City is also underway, and although rumor has it that it will be completed in 2024, the finish date remains unknown. And of course, we must mention the Tren Maya (Maya Train), a controversial railway project that debuted its first phase in December 2023 and is expected to fully open in the spring of 2024.

New Experiences Offered by Journey Mexico

We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to create new experiences for our travelers to engage with Mexico in a unique and authentic way. With a focus on intimately exploring the country´s gastronomy and cultures we’re excited to share Journey Mexico´s new experiences for 2024. As part of our commitment to positive impact and socially conscious travel, we´ve developed experiences that directly benefit local communities and the environment, like our day trip connecting with the Mexico City-based Milpa Alta community to learn about their sustainable farming legacy and get hands-on with local culinary heritage. Read more about our new experiences here.

Start Planning Your Vacation at one of Mexico’s New Hotels

Whether you have the seeds of an idea or a fully-fledged vacation dream, our Mexico specialists can help you to make it a reality. Get in touch with our travel planners to find your perfect accommodation and create a customized itinerary with private transfers, authentic experiences and expert local guides. We invite you to take a look at our sample itineraries, private villas and luxury Mexico hotel profiles to spark inspiration!

Ease Into the New Year: Wellness Meets Nature at Be Tulum & Nomade Holbox

Posted January 9, 2024 by Sally Wells & filed under Destinations, Riviera Maya & Tulum.

Welcome to 2024! Stepping into the new year can often be a time of reflection, intention setting, and renewal. Starting afresh is a whole mood, and for every mood, there’s a space. We’re bringing a duo of boutique hotels to the table that we think create the perfect cocoon to reset, relax, and get inspired for the year ahead. From the Mexican-Caribbean’s hippest destination to tranquil, island magic, read on to unveil our favorite things about Be Tulum and Nomade Holbox.

How to Get There

Be Tulum: This icon of barefoot luxury is easier to reach than ever thanks to Tulum’s new airport (TQO), cutting the 2+ hour drive from Cancun airport (CUN) in half. Set between lush jungle and the sparkling Caribbean Sea, the hotel invites its guests to enjoy tropical paradise with a twist of boho. The surrounding area is full of treasures to uncover, from the overgrown temples and spellbinding biodiversity of Sian Ka´an, to crystalline cenotes (natural swimming holes) and ancient Maya cities. We love arranging authentic, luxury travel experiences for our guests to connect with the wonders of a destination – we’re that well-traveled friend with the best insider tips!

Nomade: Located on easygoing Holbox Island, the journey to this peaceful hotel adds to the sense of adventure and remoteness. Drive around 2.5 hours from Tulum (or approx. 2 hours from Cancun airport) to the small port town of Chiquilá, where you´ll take a 20-minute ferry before catching a golf cart to Nomade near the end of Punta Coco – Holbox is a car-free island! Does that sound tiring? We’ve got you! Journey Mexico will take care of all the arrangements so you can enjoy a seamless, door-to-door transfer.

What’s the Vibe?

Both properties are the creation of Argentinian architect, Sebastian Sas, born from a vision to blend luxury and nature, while “bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern wellness”. Empathy with the natural world and the value of a holistic lifestyle are at the heart of both hotels, while each expresses its own unique personality and sense of place.

Following a remarkable boom over the past decade or so, Tulum has become synonymous with the boho aesthetic, moonlight dance parties, and new-age spirituality. From sleepy fishing village to hipster rite of passage, Tulum offers its own eclectic mix of postcard-perfect tropical landscapes, Maya history, world-class DJs, yoga retreats, and a stylish carefree crowd.

Holbox offers a glimpse into the essence of Tulum from yesteryear – think fewer people, getting off-the-grid, and melting into a laid-back way of life. A true natural sanctuary, the island is known for its impossibly blue waters and spectacular white sands – it´s the kind of place you come to slow down and drink coconuts in the sunshine.

Don’t Miss at Be Tulum

Yäan Healing Sanctuary: A place where ancient healing techniques meet contemporary wellness culture – a visit to this legendary spa in the hotel grounds must not be missed on any trip to Tulum. Beautifully landscaped into the jungle, the center features a cenote-inspired, therapeutic water circuit – a practice enjoyed before every treatment – and therapies performed with herbs and flowers from the spa´s organic rooftop garden. Come to Yäan and get rejuvenated with sensorial temazcal ceremonies, energy cleanses, restorative bodywork and yoga sessions in a treetop studio.
Design-forward Accommodations: Be Tulum’s guest rooms are a masterclass in boho chic. Framed by naturally magical surroundings and housed within structures made from recycled wood, gorgeously curated interiors take cues from the queen herself, Mother Nature. Stone, wood, and palm leaves weave through the design while neutral tones and soothing dark hues drape across premium bed linens and furnishings. Bathe in outdoor showers, plunge into private pools, and relax on rooftops wrapped in jungle leaves. Take privacy to the next level at the stunning ocean front Be Haus villa.
Responsible Culinary Experiences: The hotel’s Mexican fine-dining restaurant, Ocumare, harvests its vegetables from a local organic orchard run by Mestiza de Indias. As part of the growing regenerative agriculture movement, the project strives to recover heritage crops using ancient cultivation methods and fair labor practices, while combatting the harmful effects of Mexico’s agrochemical industry. Ocean front Maresias also sources thoughtfully, working closely with local fishermen to secure a variety of freshly caught seafood. Tip: go for dinner, stay for great cocktails and DJ sets, Tulum-style in the sand.
Picture-perfect: If Instagram enticed you here, you’ll have endless opportunities to get those beach-ready, boho shots. Be Tulum is so photogenic you can look hip without even trying. But whether you envisage your snaps in the enchanting blue waters, unwinding on a waterfront daybed, or sipping a cocktail under a palapa, we have a hunch that photos will be the last thing on your mind once you`ve surrendered to the entrancing natural beauty of the surroundings.

What we Love about Nomade Holbox

Architectural Beauty: Nomade has got the wow factor, pulling out all the stops to create truly unique builds while keeping its impact on the environment to a minimum. We were genuinely mesmerized by the treehouses – bejuco structures that reach 7 meters into the air with rooftop decks for stargazing – and the dramatic woven vaults of the main space. The materials are natural, the technology is forward-thinking, and with just 30 rooms, a smaller crowd gets to enjoy this intimate property.
Wellness Program: The hotel’s extensive offerings encompass water healing therapies, different styles of yoga, cacao ceremonies, sound journeys, breathwork, and meditations in the Gratitude Tent, presented in a rolling weekly schedule. This comprehensive program is enriched by a roster of visiting practitioners who deliver private sessions on anything from astral chart readings to dream decoding. Nomade Holbox is a hit for both travelers who love their holistic treatments, and those who are curious.
Magical Mixology: In a place where reflection and a sensitivity towards nature are inevitable, a sundowner watching day fade to night feels almost ceremonial. Nomade’s creative mixologists lend sunset rituals a helping hand. Be it a velvet soda, tangy elixir shot, mezcalita, or tropical smoothie, grab your tonic and head to the beach.
Nature’s Embrace: People who value connection with nature and the elements will be in heaven at Nomade Holbox. Set on the west side of the island, this is one of the few places on the peninsula where you can see the sun set over the water. There are birds everywhere, including those who find refuge in Yum Balam nature reserve each year on route from north to south, and word has it you can see bioluminescence right on the hotel’s beach when the conditions are right.

Ready to plan a trip to Tulum and Isla Holbox?

Experience the natural sanctuary and wellness offerings of Tulum and Holbox for yourself! To start planning, we`ve put together an inspirational itinerary to show you how to best combine both Be Tulum to Nomade Holbox into one trip. All our example itineraries can be personalized into your dream vacation – simply get in touch with our travel planners, tell us what you love, and start planning your trip.

10 New Experiences to Add to Your Mexico Trip in 2024

Posted December 26, 2023 by Sally Wells & filed under Culinary Vacations, Destinations, Mexico City, News, Oaxaca, Things We're Proud Of, Yucatan.

What a ride 2023 has been, and we’re excited to share a collection of sensational travel experiences to take your Mexican escapades to the next level in 2024! We created these adventures to connect you to a kaleidoscope of artistic wonders, the beating heart of vibrant cities, nature’s jaw-dropping marvels, and the cultural curiosities that make Mexico unique. The experiences below can be added to any personalized itinerary that includes accommodation – get ready for authenticity and plenty of ´wow´ moments!

OAXACA

1. The Magic of Oaxaca City with Behind-the-Scenes Art Experience

Get immersed in the magic of Oaxaca City, a place where past and present come together in a sensorial explosion. Think street performers, colorful facades and sizzling food stalls, surrealist folk art, hand-woven textiles and bustling markets that tell stories of generational tradition. See colonial history expressed through intricate churches and feel the pre-Columbian soul of the city, where over half of the population identifies as indigenous. Finish your exploration with an artistic twist at Quetzalli Gallery, where the renowned curator and art critic, Guillermo Santos, will guide you through the contemporary pieces on display.

2. Ancestral Cuisine in Portozuelo: A Community-led Culinary Experience

Curated by renowned chef, Alejandro Ruiz, this culinary adventure takes you on a journey into the heart and soul of Oaxacan cuisine in Zimatlán village. Hosted by La Raya community, connect to sustainable practices exploring the orchard, farm, and compost area, before relaxing in an open-air kitchen fueled by wood and charcoal as skilled cooks guide you through the richness of local flavors, ancient techniques, and the deep-rooted traditions of the region. Get ready to uncover specialties like memelitas, chicharrón, and guajes!
 

3. Uncover the Flavors of Mezcal: A Private Tasting Session

If you have a passion for mezcal or a penchant for spirits, this one´s for you. Enjoy an intimate tasting session in a historic, colonial-style house in Oaxaca City. As you´re guided through the distinct aromas and notes of an insider curation of mezcals, learn about this magical spirit´s fascinating origins and history. Your hosts work closely with the local mezcal families whose craftsmanship preserves ancestral elaboration processes, giving this mezcal experience added meaning.

4. Oaxaca’s Art Scene: Workshop Hopping

Oaxaca City is a hub of artistic expression, from bold street art and fantastical carved ´alebrijes´, to the cultural identities conveyed through embroidered dresses. Join the celebrated art expert, Guillermo Santos, as you visit up to three local workshops that specialize in a range of creative fields, like painting, textiles, graphics, and sculpture. This insider experience not only offers you a fast track into the city´s vibrant arts scene, but also allows you to cultivate a deeper connection with the creators behind the artwork.

YUCATÁN

5. Kayaking in the Yucatán Peninsula at Chuburná with a Hidden Beach Picnic

Get off the beaten path and bask in the Yucatán Peninsula`s natural beauty with a trip to the coastline north of Mérida. Explore a pristine area of mangrove forest by kayak, paddling through peaceful channels that lead to a crystalline natural spring. A private lunch will be served on a secluded beach, where you can enjoy local flavors alongside breathtaking views. Tip: Visit between September and April to see flamingoes in their natural habitat.

6. Uxmal Maya Ruins & Lunch by a Private Hidden Cenote

The ancient Maya civilization is revered for its extraordinary engineering, astronomical, and social achievements. Dive into the stories of the past with a private expert at Uxmal – one of the Yucatán´s most important Maya archaeological sites – as you observe important temples, quadrangles and monuments. Finish the afternoon in the awesome beauty of a private cenote, a native natural wonder that was held sacred in Maya culture. You´ll have these fresh, crystalline waters all to yourself, with the added luxury of a catered lunch. Swim, relax, eat, and try your hand at making tortillas if the mood takes you!

MEXICO CITY

7. The Milpa Alta Route: Sustainable Agriculture & Mexico’s Culinary Heritage

This multifaceted gastronomic experience showcases the ingredients and flavors of Mexican culinary heritage while taking you behind the scenes at La Ruta de Milpa Alta. The project connects rural fields south of Mexico City, working with local families to revive sustainable agricultural techniques and uphold the farming lifestyle as a noble way to earn a living. Learn about pre-Hispanic crops that are still staples today as you visit corn and nopal cactus fields, grind ´mole´ sauce the traditional way, and transform corn kernals into Mexican specialties at a hands-on workshop. Finish with a 4-course signature lunch dreamed up by renowned chef, Jorge Córcega.

8. Chinampas & Axolotls in Xochimilco: Nature & Conservation in Mexico City

Led by the environmental education and conservation non-profit, REEDUCA, this meaningful experience takes you back in time to Mexico City´s pre-colonial past. In a gondola-style traditional boat, explore the back channels of Xochimilco, a hidden natural oasis that feels far removed from the bustling megalopolis. Visit a working ´chinampa´ and learn about the efforts to rescue this ingenious Aztec crop technique, enjoy lunch prepared with love by local cooks, and meet the quirky axolotl salamanders that call Xochimilco´s canals home. Read more about our Xochimilco and axolotl tour here.

9. Beyond the Buzz: Explore the Roma & Condesa Neighborhoods Through an Insider Lens

Feel like a local as you get to know La Roma and La Condesa with your guide, David, a born and raised New Yorker who has lived in Mexico City for over three decades. As a seasoned journalist and the author of two award-winning books that vividly capture the essence of the city, your expert has unique insights into the capital’s trendiest neighborhoods. Explore modern influences and timeless traditions, diverse architecture, and the bustling sights and sounds of daily life. 

10. Uncover Mexico City´s Historic Center, Murals & Cantinas

On another insider adventure with David, unveil seven centuries of society in Mexico City´s historical center, decode captivating murals and hear the stories about the artists, and feel like a local at your guide´s favorite cantina. With David´s unique grasp of the capital´s culture, this is an amazing opportunity to get under the skin of one of the world´s most dynamic cities.

BONUS DIA DE LOS MUERTOS TOURS

3 Night- Day of the Dead in Mexico City: Join the Celebrations

On this purposeful 4-day Day of the Dead tour through Mexico City, become part of Mexico´s vibrant traditions. Heartfelt remembrances, artistic expression and age-old customs come together in a meaningful celebration of life. Explore displays at renowned museums and admire intricate altars dedicated to lost loved ones, join tributes at a local cemetery, create your own personalized altar-making experience, and indulge in a gastronomic adventure.

6 Night – Day of the Dead in San Miguel Allende: Enchanting Celebration of Souls

Embark on an authentic Día de Muertos tour in the UNESCO World Heritage city of San Miguel de Allende. Guided by one of our local experts, go deeper into the history, traditions, and meaning of a cherished celebration that’s as vibrant as it is profound. Our exclusive itinerary is interwoven with cultural immersion and exchange to give you a genuine experience of this legendary festival.

ADD ONE OF OUR NEW TRAVEL EXPERIENCES TO YOUR BESPOKE ITINERARY FOR 2024

Get in touch with Journey Mexico´s team and speak to a travel planner to begin customizing your itinerary. You may want to start by browsing our inspirational itineraries to the Yucatán, trip ideas for Mexico City, or Oaxaca travel itineraries as a first step. Our personalized trips are tailormade to reflect your individual interests and include accommodation, private transfers, and unique experiences with a private, English-speaking guide. Trips start at from $1,000 or $1,800 USD per day for two travelers depending on your destination.

Meet Mexico’s Changemakers: Ancestral Agroecology in Mexico City with Martin Sanchez

Posted December 20, 2023 by Sally Wells & filed under changemaker series, Ecotourism, Mexico City, Nature.

Today, we`re journeying to Xochimilco`s waterways in the south of Mexico City to meet Martin Sanchez, a biologist, lifelong advocator for sustainability, and chairman of the board for REEDUCA, a Nonprofit Civil Association formed in the capital.

In this article, we’ll be zooming in on Martin`s work with Chinampas en Movimiento project, part of a wider movement to restore and protect the chinampa farming system, which we support through Journey Mexico`s Responsible Travel Fee. This brilliant initiative strives to reactivate the pre-Hispanic “chinampa” ecosystem through an agroecological, sustainable, and collectively responsible model. Through restoring, maintaining, and working the chinampas to cultivate fresh produce, the project provides jobs, raises awareness about food security, preserves ancient agroecological techniques and provides refuge for local wildlife, including the endangered axolotl salamander.

Journey Mexico`s content writer, Sally (SW), had the pleasure of sitting down for a chat with Martin and tapping into his knowledge. But before we dive into the highlights of our Q+A, let’s step back in time for some context:

What is REEDUCA ?

The organization began as a grassroots network initiated by parents seeking to enrich the environmental education programs at their children`s schools, before formalizing in 2021 to focus on conservation and the sustainable use of Mexican biodiversity. Now, REEDUCA`s multidisciplinary team of biologists and educators runs and collaborates on several campaigns in Mexico City and the Pacific Coast:

Chinampas en Movimento: reactivating pre-Hispanic, agroecological crop cultivation techniques in Xochimilco`s chinampas (man-made plots of fertile land).
Jardines Polinizadores: promoting the creation of pollinator gardens in collaboration with CONABIO (National Commission for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity) to encourage the health of local ecosystems.
Supporting and/or facilitating bird and sea turtle conservation projects.
Organizing events, workshops and training related to the conservation of natural resources, biodiversity, and ecosystems.

Did you know Mexico City rests in the remains of an ancient lake?

The Aztec Empire`s capital, Tenochtitlan, was built on an island in Lake Texcoco, the largest of five interconnected lakes in the Valley of Mexico and home to the famous scene of an eagle perched on a cactus, eating a snake. As instructed by Huitzilopochtli, the Aztec God of sun and war, this was the place to build their spectacular city, which they did, and connected it via waterways. The Aztecs innovated man-made squares of fertile land fixed to the shallow canal beds called `chinampas`, complete with complex drainage systems to avoid flooding and networks of canals for canoes to pass through. The chinampas were used for sustainable crop cultivation, a feat of engineering and agriculture that also supported a great diversity of plant and animal life.

Fast forward five centuries to a cityscape that sprawls across the empty lake basin (eventually drained by the Spanish) with some wetlands to the east, and the last remaining waterways to the south that once connected the lower lakes to Tenochtitlan. While axolotls once thrived in the huge lake system, today, they are critically endangered due to habitat reduction, pollution, and the introduction of imported fish species. Our Changemakers chapter takes place here, in present-day Xochimilco, where we`ll hear Martin`s story about reviving Mexico City`s last remaining chinampas.

Martin’s Background in Sustainability

SW: As a biologist, when did you feel the call to start working within sustainable development?

MS: Since forever! I feel very fortunate because I had many opportunities as a young person to explore Mexico and understand the need to care for nature. A turning point in my life was when I was 13 years old, and I went to Chacagua´s lagoons on the Oaxacan coast. There is an area where the crystal-clear sea water merges with the coffee-colored water of the lagoon. Seeing that contrast, the flocks of parrots, and hundreds of birds, observing the crocodiles, I was so amazed. I remember my mom telling me, ‘son, pay close attention to this and enjoy it because it won’t be here forever,’ and I asked, ‘why?’. She said, ‘people have needs, and at some point, this will be destroyed,’ and I thought, ‘NO!’. From that point, I felt responsible for working towards conserving places like Chacagua. It gave my life meaning.

SW: What was your path to becoming chairman of the board for REEDUCA?

MS: I started studying biology at the UAM (Autonomous Metropolitan University), and there, I took part in a project on axolotls when I was 19. Additionally, during my high school summers, I participated in conservation camps where we did community work in protected areas and studied environmental education. In 2021, I volunteered for a civil association, Cuerpos de Conservacion Mexicanos, where we also conducted conservation programs with young people in the south of Mexico City. Later, I worked with the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP) where I was responsible for a conservation project specifically in the Chacagua lagoons, so it came full circle. I oversaw conserving various endangered species, and I learned how to make policy decisions for their conservation. Afterward, I wanted to start my own civil association, and that’s when I joined REEDUCA, focusing with my collaborators on biodiversity conservation.

“Ecotourism plays an important role in raising awareness
and realizing the need to care for places;
we don’t protect what we don’t know.”

How does the Chinampa project work?

SW: How did REEDUCA start working with the chinampas?

MS: The chinampa where we currently work was rescued 13 years ago by another civil association called ‘Redes.’ It went through a crisis because it was a non-productive, demonstrative chinampa, so it focused on more academic and donation-based activities, such as seed and seedling exchanges with neighbors, consultations, providing training on production issues, and evaluating the conditions of the chinampa.

REEDUCA took over the chinampa during the pandemic, when Redes stopped receiving donations, making it unsustainable. We took the reins and began working within the framework of a productive chinampa that sustains itself through the sale of its agricultural products. Families in the city outside Xochimilco pay a monthly membership to receive regular hampers with produce from the chinampa. We call these families ‘co-farmers,’ and they also have access to go and help at the chinampa. Currently, we have 17 families receiving baskets, but ideally, we need more to reach a good number, around 25 families. We´re looking for families in Mexico City who want to receive baskets and support the project! Everything received directly by REEDUCA from the sale of vegetables goes towards fair salaries for our farmers and the maintenance of the chinampa itself.

SW: How has the local Xochimilco community received the chinampas project?

MS: People have received it very well; we´re in contact with the neighbors, many of whom cultivate agricultural produce or offer services. The economic spillover from the income generated by the chinampa goes directly into the community, so it`s well-regarded. We have a good relationship with the local community and follow the unwritten rules – which allows us to continue operating – such as treating people fairly, speaking with accessible language, approaching them directly to communicate, and making person-to-person agreements to be able to maintain both the chinampa and provide tours.

“Sustainability also involves being economically viable;
the project has to sustain itself.”

Protecting the Endangered Axolotl Salamander

SW: Can you tell us about the chinampas project´s work with axolotls?

MS: We`re currently in a certification process conducted by the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and are now recognized as a ‘Chinampa Refuge´. This means that the water in our ´apantles´ (man-made irrigation canals) is high quality and suitable for receiving axolotls. We have a simple filtration system where water passes through channels with plants to retain fish that pose a threat to axolotls, such as carp and tilapia. The same plants also retain bacteria, microorganisms, and even invertebrates that can negatively affect water quality. Additionally, we have filters, nets, and rock mounds that further filter what passes through. So, in the two apantles we have, the water quality is much better than in the main canals. It’s a straightforward filter that has had a significant impact. We conduct water assessments that confirm the water quality is suitable for the axolotls as well as for irrigating the vegetables people will consume.

We´re planning to restore more apantles to accommodate axolotls from a project by the Biology Institute at UNAM and their ecological restoration laboratory. We are in the final stage of improving the apantles, where we`ll have a designated area specifically for the axolotls to live and reproduce.

“We currently have two microchipped axolotls
that Journey Mexico´s travelers can meet.”

A Nature Haven in Mexico City

SW: We love showing our travelers that an area of such natural beauty exists in the bustling metropolis. How do your visitors react to Xochimilco?

MS: It’s a truly surprising experience, I can tell you that it astonishes 100% of the people who live it. I have not seen a single person who goes to Xochimilco to observe nature, experience the chinampas, and navigate in a trajinera, who is not left amazed. Many of them are so impressed that they come back to have the same experience.

I´m very passionate about birdwatching. In the past, I was hired to collect data on birds in Mexico City´s wetlands. I realized what a great treasure birdwatching is here and created my own bird guide that I give to Journey´s clients. In the protected area of Xochimilco, there are currently 187 registered bird species. On outings, we usually see around 25 species, and once, we spotted around 70!

“I have not seen a single person who goes to Xochimilco
to observe nature, experience the chinampas,
and navigate in a trajinera,
who is not left amazed.”

Visting Xochimilco’s Chinampa with Martin/Journey Mexico

SW: We´re so happy to offer our clients such a meaningful experience with your team in Xochimilco. What do you think makes it extra special?

MS: It’s incredible that Xochimilco is in the middle of the city, it`s such a beautiful place. It’s a truly unique site; you can go anywhere in Mexico, and there’s not even a slightly similar place.

It’s like a journey through time because it’s the way the Xochimilcas used to live. The indigenous roots are deeply embedded in the traditions—the way of moving around, the houses situated in the middle of the canals in certain areas, and the conservation of the area.

It’s a comprehensive 360-degree experience because we work within the local economy. The rowers of the trajineras (traditional, colorful, gondola-like boats) that take you to the chinampa are our collaborators; we know their names, know who they are, and are familiar with their life stories. We don’t use motorized boats; we do it in the traditional way by rowing and it creates a welcoming, cozy atmosphere. We have a special lunch menu for Journey Mexico`s guests where the food selection has meaning. Local cooks share their traditional daily food with pride and love, it`s intimate experience where visitors can get as hands-on as they like, grinding corn on the `metate` and making salsa in a `molcajete`.

By participating, you are genuinely contributing to the conservation of local biodiversity and ecosystems by supporting the chinampa that’s at the heart of the experience. You get to see how a system operates 100% sustainably and the cherry on top is getting to meet the axolotls, which we only do with Journey Mexico. Thanks to the chinampa project, we are truly taking care of their habitat.

“The other guides and I have known the chinampa system
for a long time,
so in biological, social, and historical terms,
it allows us to give an insider perspective.”

THE ROLE OF ECOTOURISM

SW: How important do you think ecotourism is to this and other projects?

MS: I believe any form of tourism that allows people to respectfully get to know and recognize places like Xochimilco is meaningful. Ecotourism plays an important role in raising awareness and realizing the need to care for places; we don’t protect what we don’t know. If you`ve experienced it in some way you will do something, be it a photo on your Instagram, to say this place is important.

“Our goal is to have a transgenerational impact
and leave a truly sustainable legacy for those who follow.”

FUTURE ACTION

SW: What´s next for REEDUCA and Chinampas en Movimiento?

MS: In the short term, our goal is to restore the apantles and be able to welcome axolotls within a matter of months. Cleaning the apantles is a very specific task that requires specialized equipment from a provider and has an elevated cost, so there are a few elements at play.

At some point, we`d like to acquire our chinampa (we`re currently renting) so that it stays with the farmers and the same practices continue, ensuring that it is sustained in the short and long term, and future generations can enjoy what we have, or something even better.

We constantly have a flow of local young people who are volunteering or visiting the chinampa to have a different experience. I’m also a teacher at a high school where we have a social service program, and the students spend their time helping with chinampa tasks. This way, they become aware there is a place that is important; tomorrow, they`re the ones who’ll make the decisions. Our goal is to have a transgenerational impact and leave a truly sustainable legacy for those who follow.

SW: What parting message do you have for our readers?

MS: Give yourself the opportunity to visit! This is a genuine experience where you get close to and reconnect with nature. Your visit will have a direct impact not only through supporting Xochimilco`s conservation but also by conveying the message that you`re in a significant place.

Ready to travel back in time and visit Xochimilco’s chinampas?

A regenerative travel experience created exclusively for Journey Mexico, you can find more details about our signature chinampas tour here. Our Mexico-expert travel planners are happy to include this in any Mexico City itinerary you wish to plan – get in touch to start planning your very own personalized itinerary. Custom made trips to Mexico City start at $1,000 USD per day for two travelers.

The above excerpts were taken from an interview conducted via video call and translated from Spanish. Some editions have been made for brevity and clarity.

Author: Sally Wells

Journey Mexico is Officially B-Corp Certified

Posted December 18, 2023 by Sally Wells & filed under Things We're Proud Of.

We’re excited to announce that Journey Mexico is now officially B-Corp Certified!

What`s the B all about?

Much more than an award, our B-Corp Certification recognizes a steadfast commitment to responsible and transparent business practices, which prioritize having a positive impact on people and places as much as making a profit. In fact, the B stands for `benefit for all`, and that’s what we stand for too. We believe that Mexico’s natural world and the communities we engage with should benefit from Journey Mexico’s operations as well as our team, travelers, and partners.

How do you get Certified?

B Lab is the non-profit organization behind the prestigious global movement – widely considered the gold standard for sustainability and positive impact. Getting B-Corp certified is a rigorous process and one that we’ve been dedicated to for the past 12 months. It involves digging into a company`s operations to measure their social and environmental impact. We`re thrilled to join this global community of organizations working towards a shared goal.

Our B in Action

We’re proud of what we’ve achieved during our 20 years of serving our guests and motivated by the challenge of the B-Corp Certification process. We welcome the ongoing challenge of digging into every aspect of our operations to see where we can do more, be better, and making those changes. Our brilliant team has been busy working with our partners to create more community-led travel experiences, getting hands-on with local volunteering opportunities, establishing Journey Mexico`s Sustainability Committee, and taking part in sustainability workshops on this year’s annual company retreat in Puebla.

What`s Next?

We feel privileged to be able to help social and environmental causes while still connecting our travelers with Mexico’s breathtaking diversity of landscapes, the warmth and wisdom of our people, and the country’s rich cultural heritage. This is just the beginning, we’re committed to keep educating ourselves, learning from our mistakes, making improvements, and striving to be the leader in positive impact travel in Mexico. For us, the sustainability journey is the destination.

Visit our sustainability page for more information about our projects and efforts.

El Callejon del Beso: The Story Behind Guanajuato’s Famous Alleyway

Posted December 11, 2023 by Sam Murray & filed under Colonial Cities, Guanajuato & San Miguel Allende.

The heartbreaking story behind El Callejon del Beso (the Alley of the Kiss), an enchanting narrow alleyway in the equally magical city of Guanajuato, is a Shakespearean tale of forbidden love and murder. Here’s how it goes…

The sign marking Callejon del Beso Credit: Wiki Commons

The Story of El Callejon del Beso

Ana was the daughter of a controlling Spaniard who was determined she marry a wealthy man. He was so single-minded in his plans for her that he would go to great lengths to stop her speaking to anyone he deemed too poor.

However, one day, as she strolled through the streets of Guanajuato, she met a handsome but humble miner named Carlos, and the pair instantly fell in love.

Going against her father’s wishes, Ana met with Carlos in secret.

However, after hearing rumors of the pair’s meet-ups, Ana’s father followed her and caught the pair together. Furious, the father threw Ana into her bedroom and locked the door, vowing to marry her to an old, rich nobleman from Spain.

Separated from his love, heartbroken Carlos went to visit Ana’s house. When he got there, he noticed Ana’s bedroom sat in a very narrow alleyway and, within touching distance, there was another home with a balcony facing her bedroom.

With renewed hope, Carlos went to the owner of the home and offered to purchase it. The owner refused, asking for more money. Carlos raised his offer, again the owner refused. Carlos raised his offer again, but the owner refused once more.

Starting to get a little irritated with Carlos’ persistence, the owner raised the praise so high that he thought Carlos would leave him alone.

However, Carlos accepted, gathering every last coin he had to pay the man.

Now the proud owner of a house within touching distance of Ana’s bedroom window he called to his love. The pair embraced and promised to see each other every night.

But one night, as the lovers were lost in a passionate kiss, Ana’s father entered her bedroom. Seeing his daughter in the arms of the humble miner, the father went into a violent frenzy, picking up a dagger and plunging it into his daughter’s chest, killing her.

Some say that, in his desperation to protect his love, Carlos attempted to jump from his window into Ana’s bedroom, but crashed to the floor, hitting the third step and breaking his neck.

Others say that, overcome with grief after seeing Ana’s lifeless body, he committed suicide in his place of work, La Valenciana Mine.

The Alley of the Kiss with Carlos and Ana’s two balconies Credit: Wiki Common

Visiting the Alley of the Kiss

Today, El Callejon del Beso is one of Guanajuato’s most famous tourist attractions. It’s said couples should stand on the third step (helpfully painted in red) and kiss to enjoy a lifetime of luck in love — which some say is delivered by the spirit of Carlos himself.

You can find the famous alley, which measures just 168cm (66 inches) wide, on the Cerro del Gallo hill, a gorgeous 18^th century neighborhood of colonial architecture and winding cobblestone streets.

And, whether you choose to believe the story of Ana and Carlos or not, it’s undeniable that Guanajuato City has a romantic charm to it, found in few other places around the world.

From high up, you will see a collection of brightly colored buildings colored in cobalt blue, terracotta, baby pinks, and more. Perhaps its most eye-catching feature, however, is its iconic yellow church, Our Lady of Guanajuato Basilica.

Ready to Book Guanajuato and El Callejon de Beso with Journey Mexico?

Let us know when you’re ready to come visit and how we can put together your dream trip to Guanajuato, and we’ll create something special just for you. Our seven-day tour of Guanajuato and San Miguel Allende is a traveler-favorite to experience a complete immersion into both of cities, enjoying museum tours, cooking lessons, and art explorations. Our custom-tailored journeys start from $1,000 USD per day for two travelers in interior Mexico, contact us now to start planning and Journey Mexico mexpert will get back to you within 24 hours.

Main photo credit: Wiki Commons

Our Virtuoso Communities: Sustainability and Ultra Luxe

Posted November 30, 2023 by Jessica S. & filed under Things We're Proud Of, Virtuoso.

We`re excited to announce our acceptance into the Virtuoso Communities of Ultra Luxe and Sustainability. Incase you’re unfamiliar, Virtuoso is the leading global network of luxury travel advisors who work with a vetted portfolio of the best travel brands globally (that’s us!). We can`t wait to engage our advisors who specialize in these niches, helping them to develop their knowledge within Mexico`s diverse destinations and share insider expertise with their clients.

SUSTAINABILITY

The Virtuoso Sustainability Community connects Virtuoso partners and advisors who are passionate about responsible travel. This space allows the network to increase its collective impact through learning and sharing best sustainability practices, inspirations, and success stories. Our acceptance into the sustainability community was based on the following criteria:

Celebrating Culture – We showcase local culture including art and gastronomy. This involves respectfully interacting with local people and supporting cultural preservation. Our Day of the Dead trips are a great example of how to participate in meaningful traditions and learn from local communities.
Supporting Local Economies – Internally, we created the Green Champion Race as a way to educate and motivate our team members to make more sustainable choices at home. We love hearing from our staff about how they’ve consciously started buying produce from independent shops and making donations to support local charities.
Protecting the Planet – We always require our guests to follow strict guidelines on our nature experiences. For example, respecting all restrictions and rules for swimming with whale sharks, when witnessing the Monarch butterfly migration, snorkeling with sea lions, and observing whales in Baja Sur.

ULTRA LUXE

The Virtuoso Ultraluxe Community is reserved for travel professional who curate one-of-a-kind travel destinations and exclusive experiences including yachts, special access, private charters, and villas. Our inclusion into the ultra luxe community was based on our ability to provide the following:

Unparalleled Privacy – Our bespoke, award-winning trips in Mexico offer our guests memorable moments and the utmost privacy. Think days out on opulent yachts, after-hours museum visits, and private catered cenotes. Our spectacular luxury Mexico villa portfolio exclusively features personally inspected properties that have been handpicked by our expert team. Our close relationships with our partners allow us to secure hard-to-get dates, outstanding services, and the best rates for our clients. We specialize in creating a discreet and tranquil environment for VIP guests.
World-Class Service – We are guide-owned and operated with a collective experience of over 40 years. We take immense pride in connecting our guests with Mexico`s unique, authentic and unexpected travel experiences. Our logistics and site knowledge are unparalleled, and a deep mission of service is ingrained in company culture, evident from our sales process to our seamless service on the ground. We specialize in tailor-made itineraries that are customized to cater to each traveler`s interests and preferences.
Elite Travel Modes – We provide a diverse range of luxury private transportation options by land, air, and sea, such as deluxe sprinters, charter planes, yachts and helicopters, or yachts that carry helicopters for ultimate exploration.
Privileged Access: Our extensive black book of contacts provides exclusive private access to some of Mexico’s most coveted archeological sites, museums, private estates, and activities. We take pride in crafting personalized itineraries that connect ultra-luxury travelers with some of the country’s best-kept secrets. For example, private dinners in Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul gardens, sunrise access to Mayan archaeological sites, authentic shamanic blessings, and participation in local family traditions during Day of the Dead. Our expertise makes the impossible possible.

READY TO PLAN A TRIP TO MEXICO WITH EXPERTISE IN SUSTAINABILITY AND LUXURY?

Let us know when you’re ready to come visit and how we can put together your dream trip, and we’ll create something special just for you. Our sample itineraries are a great starting point to get some ideas flowing before you contact our expert travel planning team, who´ll tell you everything you need to know. Our custom-tailored journeys start from $1,000 USD per day for two travelers in the interior of Mexico and $1,800 USD per day for two travelers in beach destinations.

Posadas in Mexico, a Christmas Tradition

Posted November 23, 2023 by Carlos Villamayor & filed under Culture, Holidays, Fairs & Festivals.

For many Mexicans, the word posadas evokes chilly nights surrounded by family and friends, singing, enjoying a warm meal, and spreading holiday cheer all around. If you have never been lucky enough to be invited to one of these celebrations, read on to find out what posadas in Mexico are all about.

What are posadas?

A scene from one of the posadas in Mexico

A scene from a posada in Mexico

The word posada means inn or lodging, and traditionally posadas are a celebration of the Christmas story. They take place on nine nights from December 16 to 24 and commemorate the Virgin Mary and St. Joseph’s search for a place to stay where Jesus could be born. Posadas in Mexico feature hot food and drinks, sweets, music, and piñatas.

Throughout Mexico, churches and communities still celebrate these festivities with their traditional, religious elements. Today almost any party held around Christmas is called a posada. Schools often host posadas as end-of-the-year parties for students and teachers.

How did posadas originate?

Posadas in Mexico began as a way for the Spaniards to teach native people about Christmas. During the nine days leading up to Christmas Day, masses would include representations of Mary and Joseph. Following mass was a party where people were blindfolded before hitting a piñata with a stick, a representation of faith defeating temptation with the help of virtue. The fruits and sweets that poured out of the piñata represented the joys of union with God.

In time, posadas started to be held in neighborhoods and people’s homes, becoming a more familiar and tightly-knit occasion, as well as preparation for Christmas. At the beginning of a posada, people are divided in two groups, the ones “outside” representing Mary and Joseph, and the ones “inside” representing innkeepers. Then everyone sings the posada litany together, re-enacting Mary and Joseph’s search, going back and forth until they are finally “admitted” to an inn. After this tradition, the party proper starts. Posadas have spread to other countries — such as Guatemala, Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela; the celebrations vary by location.

Must-haves for a successful posada

Piñatas

Traditional piñatas typically have seven spikes to represent the seven deadly sins. Although piñatas have mostly lost their original religious meaning in most parts of Mexico, they remain an essential part of las posadas. They are commonly filled with candy (originally representing the forgiveness of sins and a new beginning.) In more traditional celebrations you’ll find them filled with small fruits, cookies, and peanuts.

Aguinaldo or Bolo

These are little candy bags that hosts hand out to the guests at the end of the posada.

Ponche Navideño (Mexican Christmas Fruit Punch)

A hot, flavorful drink that for many is synonymous with the holidays. Its ingredients vary from state to state, but it is traditionally prepared with tejocote (Mexican hawthorn), sugarcane, tamarind, apple, pear, guava, and cinnamon sticks. Some hosts will also offer their adult guests ponche con piquete – punch with a sting of alcohol, usually tequila or rum.

Tamales

The warm treats of tamales are made of steamed corn dough filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables. They date from pre-Columbian times. You can find tamales throughout Mexico year-round, but they’re especially popular during the holiday season.

Singing

The posada litany is essential. Many people also sing Christmas carols, and during modern posadas, people break out a karaoke machine and sing into the night.

The posada litany

Spanish	English
Afuera: En el nombre del cielo os pido posada pues no puede andar mi esposa amada.	Outside: In the name of Heaven I beg you for lodging, for she cannot walk, my beloved wife.
Adentro: Aquí no es mesón, sigan adelante, yo no debo abrir, no sea algún tunante.	Inside: This is not an inn, so keep going, I cannot open, you may be a rogue.
Afuera: No seas inhumano, tennos caridad, que el Dios de los cielos te lo premiará.	Outside: Don’t be inhuman; have mercy on us. The God of the heavens will reward you for it.
Adentro: Ya se pueden ir y no molestar porque si me enfado os voy a apalear	Inside: You can go on now and don’t bother us, because if I become annoyed I’ll give you a trashing.
Afuera: Venimos rendidos desde Nazaret, yo soy carpintero de nombre José.	Outside: We are worn out coming from Nazareth. I am a carpenter, Joseph by name.
Adentro: No me importa el nombre, déjenme dormir, pues que yo les digo que no hemos de abrir.	Inside: I don’t care about your name: Let me sleep, because I already told you we shall not open up.
Afuera: Posada te pide, amado casero, por sólo una noche la Reina del Cielo.	Outside: I’m asking you for lodging dear man of the house, just for one night for the Queen of Heaven.
Adentro: Pues si es una reina quien lo solicita, ¿cómo es que de noche anda tan solita?	Inside: Well, if it’s a queen who solicits it, why is it at night that she travels so alone?
Afuera: Mi esposa es María, es Reina del Cielo y madre va a ser del Divino Verbo.	Outside: My wife is Mary, she’s the Queen of Heaven and she’s going to be the mother of the Divine Word.
Adentro: ¿Eres tú José? ¿Tu esposa es María? Entren, peregrinos, no los conocía.	Inside: Are you Joseph? Your wife is Mary? Enter pilgrims; I did not recognize you.
Afuera: Dios pague, señores, vuestra caridad, y que os colme el cielo de felicidad.	Outside: May God pay, gentle folks, your charity, and thus heaven heap happiness upon you.
Adentro: ¡Dichosa la casa que alberga este día a la Virgen pura. La hermosa María!	Inside: Blessed is the house that shelters this day the pure Virgin, the beautiful Mary.
Todos juntos: Entren, Santos Peregrinos, reciban este rincón, que aunque es pobre la morada, os la doy de corazón.	All together: Enter, holy pilgrims, receive this corner, for though this dwelling is poor, I offer it with all my heart.

Litany translation by Tony Rosado.

Ready to Start Planning Your Holiday Trip to Mexico?

Our sample itineraries in Mexico are a great starting point to get inspired for your next trip. Be sure to check out our holiday season in Mexico City & Riviera Maya itinerary that combines both culture and beach; or if you’re looking for something more traditional check out our eight-day tour of Colonial Mexico to experience the full spectrum of the holiday celebrations. Visit the town of Tlalpujahua, known as Mexico’s Santa’s Workshop, while a visit to Tzintzuntzan offers the chance to create your own Christmas decorations. After, head to San Miguel de Allende to see their posada and pastorela events. Once you have an idea in mind, contact our expert travel planning team who will help to personalize your vacation to perfection. Our custom-tailored journeys start from $1,000 USD per day for two travelers in interior Mexico, and $1,800 per day for two travelers in beach destinations.

Winter Holiday in Colonial Mexico
Holidays in Mexico City & the Riviera Maya

The holiday season is a wonderful time to visit Mexico and be a part of its rich traditions. Contact one of our expert travel planners and let us put together a custom trip for you and your family.

Introducing Our Newest Pacific Coast Villas

Posted November 17, 2023 by Sally Wells & filed under Luxury, Puerto Vallarta & Punta Mita.

We´re so excited to show you the latest additions to Villa Journey Mexico´s hand-picked luxury villas portfolio on the spectacular Mexican Pacific coast, from the Riviera Nayarit to the sun soaked Costalegre. Before being added to our curated collection, each villa goes through a meticulous vetting process to make sure they meet our incredibly high standards. Discover which properties made the cut below

Villa Akama – Punta Mita

Sleeps 20 | 9 Bedrooms
You´ve got it all at your fingertips at Villa Akama, a palatial beachfront villa in Punta Mita: a sweeping infinity pool just steps from the ocean, a personal chef, a private cinema, rooftop bar, and central grand palapa lounge. We love this villa for big get togethers with family and friends.

One&Only Mandarina Villa 16 – Riviera Nayarit

Sleeps 16 | 5 Bedroooms
Nestled on a scenic hilltop at One&Only Mandarina and accessed by a private road, Villa 16 delivers ultimate seclusion. Thanks to its elevated position, the two-story private home offers dramatic views over the Pacific Ocean and majestic Sierra Madre mountains.

Villa Mixto – Puerto Vallarta

Sleeps 20 | 6 Bedrooms
Let time slow down for a while in the sleepy fishing village of Quimixto. Accessed only by boat, get off the beaten path and relax in the villa´s private swimming pool and day beds on the sand. The penthouse´s upper-level deck is perfect for yoga (or lounging) at sunset. Villa Mixto is managed by Xinalani hotel and with just a 5-minute walk away, includes full access to the property.

Casa Ventana – Puerto Vallarta

Sleeps 4 | 2 Bedrooms
Casa Ventana luxury villa in Puerto Vallarta takes the prime penthouse spot on the top floor of Indah Tower. Located in the upscale Conchas Chinas neighborhood, the villa offers spectacular views over Puerto Vallarta´s ocean-meets-mountain cityscape, complemented by pristine, modern interiors.

Casa Nautica – Puerto Vallarta

Sleeps 14 | 6 Bedrooms
Nestled into the beautiful shoreline south of Puerto Vallarta, Casa Nautica is an oceanfront estate that boasts vistas over the rock formations of Los Arcos Marine Park. Hand-selected artwork and regal furniture add character to interiors, with a generous infinity pool patio outside.

Casa Las Glorias – Costa Careyes

Sleeps 14 | 7 Bedrooms
Casa Las Glorias in Careyes is a private estate is spread over a rocky cliff top, featuring panoramic vistas across sparkling turquoise ocean. Interiors are colorful, fitted with elegant furnishings, Mexican artwork and traditional artisan crafts. The villa also has its own tennis and squash courts.

Casa Paloma Blanca – Las Rosadas Costalegre

Sleeps 12 | 6 Bedrooms
This gorgeous estate showcases the owner´s contemporary Latin American art collection, featuring bright paintings, surrealist sculptures, and stone carvings. From the spacious jacuzzi and infinity pool, take in sumptuous views over a coconut palm grove, wild beaches, and the Pacific Ocean. Casa Paolma Blanca at Las Rosadas is the largest of the private villas on property.

Villa La Joya & Villa Na Praia – Las Rosadas Costalegre

Sleeps 6 | 3 Bedrooms
Villa La Joya and Villa Na Praia are two separate 3-bedroom casitas at Las Rosadas. They are a love letter to the Mexican Pacific. Wall-length sliding doors maximize the mesmerizing views over dry tropical forest, cerulean waves, and an archipelago of islands. Choose La Joya for sunset drinks on a private firepit terrace.

Casa Garrobo – Zihuataenjo

Sleeps 18 | 7 Bedrooms
This secluded villa cascades over a cliffside, with an amazing sun deck above crashing waves plus three swimming pools. Spread across three structures, Zihuatanejo private villa Casa Garrobo offers plenty of space for entertainment and relaxation, including a huge open-air palapa lounge.

Niku House – Puerto Escondido

Sleeps 12 | 5 Bedrooms
Niku House is an oceanfront villa in Puerto Escondido that looks over a wild beach on the Oaxacan coast with nobody else around. Unwind at the property´s swimming pool and stylish, al fresco lounge area gazing out to the waves. A private cook and bartender provide daily meals and cocktails.

Ready to book your luxury villa rental?

Contact Annel, our Mexico Villa Specialist to get started or browse our full collection of villas here. We have a curated portfolio of villas in Puerto Vallarta, private rental homes in Costa Careyes, and luxury rental villas in Punta Mita for you to look through! All Journey Mexico trips provide guests with personalized service and a 24/7 in-country travel assistant.

www.villasbyjourneymexico.com

#JourneytoPuebla: Highlights from Journey Mexico´s Annual Retreat + 20th Anniversary

Posted October 19, 2023 by Sally Wells & filed under News.

2023 marks a significant milestone for Journey Mexico as we reach our 20th anniversary! A sense of celebration permeated this year´s annual retreat when our team members got together from across the country to be reunited in our host city, the spectacular Puebla. Our annual retreats are not just a chance to revel in the beauty of Mexico’s breathtaking destinations, but also an opportunity to connect – meeting the team´s new faces, deepening old friendships, and aligning our goals for the future.

We got to step into the shoes of our travelers, with a tailored itinerary that operated seamlessly, including guided walks, special access, amazing sustainability workshops and family-style dinners around town.

Relive the highlights of Journey Mexico´s 2023 company retreat in Puebla with us below:

Banyan Tree Puebla

The Banyan Tree Puebla was nothing short of a tranquil haven, where we discovered the essence of the brand’s sanctuary-like charm. This beautiful property became our home-away-from-home, accommodating our entire team with grace. Some of us were lucky enough to uncover the hotel’s best-kept secret – the captivating ruins of an ancient convent and monastery on-site, accessible through an underground tunnel. The Banyan Tree Puebla was ideal for our needs with its strategic location – close to town – and spacious meeting room for our sustainability workshops. A few of us even managed to steal a moment of serenity at the hotel´s remarkable rooftop pool, boasting breathtaking panoramic views over Puebla’s rooftops and chapel domes. The sunset vistas from this privileged vantage point set the perfect tone for our welcome dinner.

Los Volcanos Permaculture and Agroecology Center

Located in the town of Santa María Tonantzintla, this project was formed in 2019 by a group of friends, in response to concerns about the negative impact of climate change and the loss of biodiversity. Los Volcanes is founded on community work, running its amazing model of permaculture and agroecology with the help of volunteers. The center hosts workshops, courses and training on a wealth of topics that spotlight the environment, a sustainable lifestyle, and personal wellbeing.

We received an iconic welcome from Popocatépetl Volcano, billowing smoke clouds in the distance as we walked past fields of flowers and corn crops to Los Volcanes. At the center, it was inspiring to see what´s possible with hard work, the right knowledge, and dedication. The project´s leaders showed us around, giving an insight into the elements behind a self-sustaining community with zero waste, from the eco building materials and techniques, to the garden used to grow Mexican herbs for natural medicine use, and the pre-Hispanic Milpa (Three Sisters) planting system used to cultivate squash, beans, and corn. We got our hands (and feet!) dirty cutting back plants and learning how to make ´cob´, a sustainable building material made with mud, clay, and straw. To finish, we tasted the project´s super fresh, organic flavors ourselves with a garden-to-table lunch in the sunshine. Thank you, Los Volcanes, for showing us the way towards a greener, brighter future!

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Puebla Walking Tour & Foodie Experience

What a great way to soak up Puebla – following the steps of an expert guide, our foodie tour became a sensorial experience exploring the city´s historical center and quintessential flavors. Looking up at buildings and peering into shop windows, you begin to see the patterns of Puebla unfold. Big, beautiful Talavera tile facades, traditional textiles modeled on mannequins and intricate church domes. Hot oil sizzling chalupas, the smoky welcome of a taco arabe stand and baskets of bread rolls waiting to become cemitas. Turning a corner into the Zócalo (main plaza) never gets old, this verdant social hub is lined with cafes and eateries, and home to the city´s striking 16th-17th century cathedral.

Off-Hours Private Visit to Palafoxiana Library

In true Journey Mexico style, we had an exclusive visit with special off-hours access to Puebla´s legendary Biblioteca Palafoxiana. You can feel the history in this 17th century library, recognized by UNESCO as the first and oldest of its kind in the Americas. The smell of wood and books set the scene as our host described the story of the library and its astonishing collection of literature, initiated by the donation of 5,000 books from the prodigious bishop, Juan de Palafox y Mendoza.

JM 20th Anniversary

We kicked off our last night of celebration with dinner and dancing at Hook Rooftop – tip: this restaurant has one of the best views over the cathedral, which lights up in the evenings. We loved honoring our own journey from humble beginnings to a 60-strong team and leaders in authentic luxury travel experiences in Mexico. It was the perfect chance to take a moment to recognize our Sustainability Committee and the winner of this season´s Green Champion Race too.

Check out our reel for a snapshot of the night, the energy was high!

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Cholula

No trip to Puebla is complete without an afternoon in Cholula, a pretty town 30 minutes outside the city where ancient history meets contemporary life. Our local guide walked us through pre-Hispanic and colonial history as we traversed the largest pyramid base in the world. While some of the foundations have now been excavated, when the Spanish arrived the overgrown pyramid resembled a hill, and the conquistadors built a Catholic church on top. We climbed up the many steps to be rewarded with 360-degree views over Cholula and the surroundings volcanoes, before entering the church, adorned with gold and hundreds of lilies.

We got to tap into the town´s trendy scene too, with games and a tasty dinner at Cervecería Cholula, where our CPO, Matteo, got dunked in cold water as a forfeit!

Sustainability Seminars

This year at Journey Mexico, we’ve taken a deep dive into our own operations as a luxury travel company, and we continue to make changes on our journey towards sustainability and impactful travel. This means we believe that business can and should make a positive impact on the environment, local communities, our staff, our travelers, and our collaborators. We got our teeth into two fantastic seminars over the weekend with Technology for Impact. It´s not always easy to talk about the challenges that our planet is facing, and these workshops felt like a safe space to voice our concerns, ask those burning questions, and listen to the perspectives of our team members. Thanks to interactive, collaborative, and engaging sessions, we got the opportunity to unite our goals, self-reflect on leading more sustainable lifestyles in and outside of work, and plant the seeds of hope and action.

Thank you for reminiscing with us! If you´re ready to start planning your own adventure in Puebla, get in touch with our expert team here and let us know how to personalize a trip that´s exactly to your taste. Take a look at our latest inspirational itinerary from Puebla to the Yucatán to see how to connect the Banyan Tree´s three Mexican properties on an unforgettable journey.

A Mexico City Luxury Traveler Insider Podcast

Posted October 5, 2023 by Sally Wells & filed under Mexico City.

Journey Mexico´s Director of Operations, Tim McBride, was recently invited to appear on the Luxury Travel Insider podcast´s panel of Mexico City virtuosos. Hosted by Sarah Groen, the CEO of Bell and Bly Travel, this episode is dedicated to Mexico´s incredible sprawling capital, a fascinating paradox of ancient and contemporary, vast and intimate, gritty and magical.

After planning to visit for just a few months, Mexico City got under Tim´s skin and he´s now called the capital home for over a decade! An expert on all things logistical in the city, Tim works closely with our guests to ensure they have a seamless and supportive experience during their time in Mexico City and beyond.

We love connecting our travelers with Mexico City´s diversity of adventures, designing personalized experiences that go deeper into the capital´s wealth of museums and art galleries, get to the heart of an exploding gastronomic scene that´s backed by over 1000 years of culinary legacy, and uncover the city´s lesser-known jewels, like the agricultural heritage of Xochimilco, a canal system that once connected the majority of the city.

Listen to the Luxury Travel Insider podcast here to hear Tim discuss Mexico City´s neighborhoods, why a long lunch is a cultural must, and his favorite travel experiences Journey Mexico can put together for our discerning guests, from the folkloric ballet to meeting up-and-coming designers.

More Ways to Listen:

Apple Podcasts – Spotify – Stitcher Radio – Google Podcasts

Ready to Visit Mexico City?

If you’re interested in visiting Mexico City, contact travel expert (and podcast host!), Sarah Groen and let her know which of our Mexico City sample itineraries you would like to start personalizing! Trips to Mexico City start at $1,000 USD per day for two travelers.