You’re thinking of taking a vacation in Mexico, but you’re concerned about reports of violence. Find out the truth about what is really happening across the border. The slideshow below is a compilation of over 50 videos, tweets, reports from major media outlets and stories from expats living right here in Mexico.
August is a great time to start getting inspiration and thinking about holiday travel plans — and this month’s newsletter provides article and photos to get you going! Our headline story highlights ten of Mexico’s top archaeological sites, and we’ve also put the spotlight on Exploring Colonial Mexico— Morelia, Patzcuaro, Guanajuato, and San Miguel Allende (a trip not to miss!) Our hotel offers come from Las Ventanas in sunny Los Cabos and Parador San Juan de Dios in the Magic Town of Chiapas. Both promotions run thorough December- so be sure to check them out! Lastly, as always, you will find the latest news of hotel & industry updates, and latest news from Journey Mexico including upcoming travel dates for September.
We are proud to announce that for the fourth consecutive year, Journey Mexico has achieved a spot on Inc. magazine’s annual list of the 5000 fastest-growing private companies in America. With a three-year growth rate of 108%, Journey Mexico ranks 14th in the travel industry, up 7 spots from last year,
To rank among the 2012 Inc. 5000, Journey Mexico had to thrive through three of the toughest years the U.S economy has seen in living memory. In addition, Journey Mexico continues to persevere through the unrelenting negative media of Mexico pouring out of the United States, Journey Mexico has continued to provide unforgettable travel experiences to a continuously growing number of discerning and sophisticated travelers.
In a stagnant economic environment, median growth rate of 2012 Inc. 500|5000 companies remains an impressive 97 percent. The companies on this year’s list report having created over 400,000 jobs in the past three years, and aggregate revenue among the honorees reached $299 billion. The list represents the most comprehensive look at the most important segment of the economy—America’s independent entrepreneurs.
Chicago to León: The Mexican airline Volaris announced the launch of its new route to León, Guanajuato (BJX) from Chicago Midway (MDW) airport in Illinois, United States. Leon is a city located in the Bajío (lowlands) region of Central Mexico. This route will start to operate October 3, 2012 and will have weekly service, flying on Wednesdays in the afternoon. Volaris already has four direct flights serving Chicago to Mexico including: Morelia, Mexico City, Zacatecas and Guadalajara.
Denver to Mexico City: Volaris airlines announced the next opening of its new direct route connecting Mexico City (MEX) to Denver, Colorado (DIA). The flight schedule will start December 8, 2012 and will run twice-weekly through April and once-weekly from May through November. For Volaris, Denver will count as their ninth city in the United States serving flights to Mexico.
Forth Worth to Puebla: American Eagle, the regional affiliate of American Airlines, will begin daily round-trip jet service this fall between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Hermanos Serdan International Airport (PBC) in Puebla, Mexico. American Eagle will operate one flight per day between the two cities starting November 15, 2012.
New York to Mexico City: On 2 August, Interjet became the first low-cost airline on the important route between Mexico’s capital and the biggest city in the US. The Mexican carrier now operates daily between Mexico City (MEX) and New York JFK, NY (JFK), competing with Aeromexico’s 27 flights a week and Delta’s 14 weekly operations. Further, indirect competition comes from United’s 14 flights a week from Newark. This is Interjet’s third route to the US after its flights to Miami, FL and San Antonio, TX
Los Angeles to Mexico: The Mexican low-cost airline Volaris launched its sixth route to Los Angeles, CA (LAX) on 4 August. The airline already serves Los Angeles from Guadalajara, Mexico City, Morelia, Zacatecas and Aguascalientes. The airline now flies once a week across the border to the US airport from Culiacán (CUL) in northwestern Mexico with its 174-seat A320 aircraft. This is the airline’s first international service from Culiacán, which the airline since previously serves from Tijuana, Mexico City and Guadalajara.
Orlando, FL to Mexico City:
On14 July, the Mexican low-cost airline Volaris launched twice-weekly services from Mexico City (MEX) to Orlando, FL (MCO) – its sixth US destination from the Mexican capital. The A320-operated route is offered with twice-weekly frequencies until the first week of September when frequencies will be reduced to weekly operations. The airline’s Director Sales and Marketing, José Calderoni, said: “Volaris makes another step in the US, and we could not think of a better way to do so then with services to the magical Orlando.” Competition on the route comes from another Mexican carrier, AeroMéxico, which offers 15 weekly flights on the route.
Domestic Routes:
On20 July,Mexico’s vivaaerobus inaugurated operations in Cuernavaca (CVJ) in south-central Mexico with two new routes. The city, which was nicknamed as “The City of Eternal Spring” by the German traveller Alexander von Humboldt, is now connected with Cancun (CUN) on the country’s Caribbean coast andMonterrey (MTY) in Mexican north, each with twice-weekly flights operated with the airline’s fleet of 737-300s.
If you’ve been itching to get away on a whirlwind vacation but have been waiting for a great deal to come along, you might just be in luck. Conde Nast’s 32 Trips of a Lifetime promotion is currently open to people who subscribe to the magazine. The promotion becomes available to the general public on August 21. What’s the big deal? For one thing, you can take your pick from 32 trips to some of the most exciting destinations on the planet. The trips are grouped by location and according to theme. The most exciting part of all is that you’ll enjoy discounts of up to 65 percent. Learn more about this incredible opportunity below.
Vacations around the World
As a part of the Conde Nast promotion, you can choose from vacation deals that span the globe. There are nine vacations available in Europe, five in Africa and the Middle East, six in Asia and Australia, three in South America, two in the Caribbean and Mexico and seven in the U.S. and Canada. Whether you’d like to return to a part of the world that you love, or if you’d like to venture someplace you’ve never been before, there’s sure to be something on the list that will pique your interest.
Exciting Themes
If you’re not sure where to begin, browsing vacation by theme is a great place to start. For families, there are options like cruises and Utah ski vacations. As far as beach vacations go, destinations include Cabo San Lucas, the Caribbean, Dubai and the Maldives and Hawaii. If adventure is what you seek, trips to southeast Asia, African safaris and tours of the Silk Road are all available. Some of the vacations focus on glamorous cities like Rome and Paris, or you can sign up to spend a week in New York City. With a quick glance at the list, you’re sure to be inspired.
How to Grab the Deal
There’s a limited number of available spaces for each vacation deal, so it pays to subscribe to Conde Nast to get in on the pre-sale action. If you’d rather wait and try y our luck when the sale becomes available to the general public, you’ll just have to hold on until August 21st. Either way, this is one deal that you don’t want to miss. Exceptionally great offers are being made because this is the 25th anniversary of the Trips of a Lifetime promotion, so hurry up, choose a vacation and book it today.
Travelers who enjoy luxury but value the unique and different will love staying in boutique hotels. These cozy hotels are designed to offer visitors the best experience a given area has to offer. Mexico’s Pacific Coast is dotted with these gorgeous hotels, which offer travelers a world of amenities in a sophisticated-yet-cozy environment.
No two boutique hotels are alike. Discerning travelers who wish to experience the cultural diversity and hospitality of Mexico will enjoy visiting any — or all — of these gorgeous boutique hotels located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.
A true luxury getaway, the seven villas that comprise Las Alamandas are located in Mexico’s beautiful Costalegre. This beautiful retreat is generally considered the most private in all of Mexico. Honeymooning couples will enjoy the intimacy of the space and the attention that has been paid to every last decorative detail. Small families who are looking for a relaxed, high-class hotel for a reunion will enjoy spending their days exploring the 1,500 unspoiled acres that make up the resort.
Located on 250 acres of lush jungle and breathtaking coastline on Mexico’s Central Pacific Coast, Imanta Resort is perfect for an idyllic wedding or getaway. This oceanfront boutique hotel features 11 rooms, a spa, boutique and beach pavilions. Imanta’s friendly staff and adventure guides are delighted to accommodate the needs of all guests. Boasting a private beach and rooftop bar, every traveler can marvel at the breathtaking vistas from Imanta Resort.
Designed to cater to eco-chic guests with a taste for the luxurious, Xinalani was founded to offer peace and serenity to every guest. Xinalani Resort is located on the Banderas Bay near Puerto Vallarta. This small hotel is the perfect getaway for a couple or for a small group seeking a wellness-oriented vacation. A beach club, dining room and full spa services cater to the needs of all guests. Travelers who are seeking balance and soul nourishment can use the yoga deck, which is situated in lush jungle area.
Located in Costalegre, Hotelito Desconocido is a welcoming resort snuggly located in a nature reserve. Guests are invited to soak in Mexican art, culture and history during their stay at Hotelito Desconocido. The hotel is located inside El Ermitaño, a lagoon listed by UNESCO as a bird paradise and aquifer. Guests will enjoy watching an assortment of birds and turtles on a daily basis. This eco-friendly resort is comprised of 27 rooms. Hotelito Desconocido offers guests a spa, full restaurant and variety of outdoor adventure opportunities.
As Mexico’s Finest Adventure Company , we are excited to share some news with our readers:
As a result of Adventure Travel and Trade Association’s (ATTA) 2011 Adventure Travel World Summit, the coastal city of Veracruz, Mexico will be hosting the first ATMEX Adventure Travel Trade Show from September 5 – 9, 2012. Designed by the world’s leading adventure tourism trade organization, ATMEX is expected to emerge as one of Latin America’s most important annual adventure travel events.
The theme for the Trade Show will be “Breaking New Trails”. It aims is to create a learning environment for domestic operators, to help Mexican suppliers develop new partnerships with international buyers and media, and to stimulate responsible growth and sustainable development for Mexico and for the adventure travel trade worldwide. Jessica, from our e-marketing team, will be traveling to the trade show as well as attending the pre-tours. Starting September 1, follow along on Twitter and Facebook for more information about what we accomplish during this industry conference. We’re sure we’ll have some exciting news to share!
Travelers who aspire to be earth-friendly and who wish to contribute to local communities while traveling often participate in ecotourism. Green-friendly and chic, ecotourism is a growing industry around the world. Many resort destinations in Mexico have made the eco-friendly switch. The country’s beautiful, varied natural landscape provides the perfect background for the discriminating ecotourist. Consider these five beautiful resorts when planning an eco-friendly trip to Mexico.
Located on Banderas Bay near Puerto Vallarta, this serene resort is surrounded by both the Pacific Ocean and a lush jungle. Xinalani Resort is a small hotel composed entirely of high-class suites. Designed to accomodate wellness retreats and group workshops, this retreat provides the perfect combination of luxury and serenity. Guests can enjoy being close to nature without sacrificing the conveniences of modern living.
Located on the Usamacinta River in Frontera Corozal, Ocosingo, in the state of Chiapas, this beautiful resort offers camping areas in addition to single, double and triple rooms. This stunning ecotourist resort is operated by a group of native people called the Choles. The owners have worked hard to ensure that guests enjoy the enchanted land surrounding the Usamacinta in a fashion that is eco-friendly and beneficial to the local economy. Unique, delicious local dishes are served at the hotel’s on-site restaurant. Visitors can swim, hike and explore nearby archaeological sites while staying at Escudo Jaguar Hotel.
Situated on beautiful Holbox Island, visitors of Xaloc Resort enjoy an eco-friendly getaway on an incomparable white sand beach. This boutique resort is composed of bungalows that have been constructed with care. The owners of Xaloc Resort have paid careful attention to all the small details that make an eco-friendly getaway a truly remarkable experience. The resort offers a full-service restaurant and beautiful views of the night sky. Visitors can enjoy relaxing, swimming and exploring local craft arts from the comfort of this innovative resort.
Visitors enjoy the best of ecotourism and luxury travel at this resort and spa located near Chicen Itza, Mexico. The hotel boasts luxury accommodations and is located in proximity to the many Mayan archaeological sites of the Yucatán Peninsula. The Yaxin Spa provides a variety of holistic services inspired by Mayan culture to help guests relax and unwind. The Hacienda Chicen Resort staff are happy to help visitors make arrangements to see local sites and participate in a variety of ecotourist activities.
Travelers who want to explore the jungle will love the opportunities afforded by staying at Puerta Calakul Ecovillage in Calakmul, Campeche, Mexico. The eco-resort is located near the largest archaeological zone in the area and the astounding Calakmul biosphere. Guests are encouraged to relax, unwind and escape from their daily routines when visiting this gorgeous resort. Guests are offered a variety of luxury amenities on-site. Resort staff can assist travelers who wish to make arrangements to explore the many archaeological sites in the area.
If you are seeking a completely different travel experience, book an eco-friendly hotel.
The article Mexico Maligned; The Mainstream Media´s Myopia by Terry Denton confronts the issue of the onslaught of negative media coverage of Mexico over the past couple of years. In the article, Denton presents an alternative view, offers some rational metrics for measuring Mexico’s safety and ends by challenging consumers to base their ultimate decision on travel to Mexico on something other than overwrought media reports.
[Summary Excerpt]:
“I hope I have demonstrated that striking Mexico off your list of vacation destinations based solely on money driven media reports is, dare I say it, illogical, irrational and well ..myopic. The real shame is that you are depriving yourself of one of the most value centered travel experiences available anywhere in the world. Mexico has world-class hotels, incredible dining, exciting activities and rich traditions all tendered to the world by humble masters of unparalleled service.
Unfortunately, this humble blogger doesn’t have a prayer by himself of making the least dint in the news coverage of Mexico. Unbowed and undeterred, however, I shall keep on lending my own voice to many others crying in the wilderness.I shall attend Mexico, I shall defend Mexico, I shall recommend Mexico!My only hope is that your decision, fellow traveler, when it is made, will be based on a basic grasp of geography, a familiarity with a few simple statistics and a confident reliance on the consistent testimony of a legion of travelers to Mexico with irrefutable firsthand knowledge.
Whatever you eventually decide, I will fully respect your decision. But please,and again I say please, don’t let a myopic media’s thirst for mayhem rob you of experiencing one of the world’s great treasures. Take if from one who knows, you will be the poorer for it.”
Mexico is known as a haven for vacationers who want to hit the beach and explore ancient Aztec and Maya ruins. This beautiful, ecologically diverse country is also the perfect location for a relaxed golf vacation. If you are interested in exploring oceanside courses by day and kicking back in a luxurious villa at night, you are well-served by visiting Mexico. Review these top Mexican golf courses and the beautiful hotels near them before making your next vacation plans.
Golf in Gorgeous Los Cabos at Cabo del Sol
Called one of the “Top 100 Courses in The World” by “Golf Magazine,” Cabo del Sol offers something for every golfer. Located in beautiful Cabo San Lucas on the Sea of Cortez, the ocean and desert courses are designed for golfers with discriminating tastes.
The Ocean Course Jack Nicklaus has boasted that the Cabo del Sol Ocean Course is the best strip of golf property in the world. “Golf Digest” has ranked this course 24th on the list of the top 100 gold courses outside of the U.S.
The Desert Course Cabo del Sol’s Desert Course, designed by Tom Weiskopf, combines the beauty of the desert with breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez. “Golf Digest” has ranked the Desert Course one of the top 10 courses in Mexico.
ME Cabo Hotel With steps leading down to the sea and a scattering of pools, gardens and Bali beds, ME Cabo Hotel is a perfect getaway after a busy day on the course. Enjoy the best amenities and world-class restaurants in this hideaway.
Las Ventanas al Paraiso Known in English as The Windows to Paradise, this beautiful resort lives up to its name. This acclaimed resort beckons to visitors with a full-service spa, excellent restaurants and luxurious suites.
Follow The Course in Beautiful Puerto Vallarta and The Riviera Nayarit
Puerto Vallarta and The Riviera Nayarti are located due west of Guadalajara on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. This beautiful area has long been a favorite among discriminating tourists and golfers.
Vista Vallarta Jack Nicklaus Set in the foothills of Puerto Vallarta, this Jack Nicklaus course is considered a must-play course by serious golf enthusiasts. Fresh breezes and stunning mountain views make this course as relaxing as it is challenging.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit Located on the Banderas Bay just outside Puerto Vallarta, this high-end resort has received Condé Nast’s “Most Excellent Spa Hotel” award. Visitors can relax in luxury and enjoy the best in hospitality while visiting Grand Velas.
Enjoy Beautiful Play on The Riviera Maya
Located on the Yucatán Peninsula on Mexico’s Caribbean Coast, the Riviera Maya is a beautiful getaway for the discriminating traveler who loves breathtaking nature and world-class luxury.
El Camaleon Riviera Maya Golf Course Designed by Greg Norman, almost every hole on this beautiful course boasts water features. Located in an area recognized by the Audobon Society, golfers will enjoy stunning nature views while playing this challenging course.
The Fairmont Mayakoba Only 45 minutes from the Cancun International Airport, this luxury hotel is tucked into a forest canopy. The Xcaret Preserve and Cozumel are located within 30 minutes of the hotel, which offers a full complement of world-class amenities.
So if you are an avid golfer, Mexico has amazing resorts that not only offer luxury, privacy and serenity but also award-winning golf courses, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Journey Mexico offers guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reside in a centuries-old hacienda, or plantation. Guests can also bask in the sun from a luxurious beachfront villa on the Costa Alegre or enjoy the sophistication of contemporary urban retreats. A favorite choice among discerning travelers is beautiful San Miguel De Allende, located in Central Mexico.
Enjoy The Good Life in San Miguel de Allende
Whether you love baroque and neoclassical architecture or enjoy taking in the local music scene, San Miguel De Allende offers something amazing for you. The city’s historic core is composed of well-preserved buildings that have become home to various art institutions and galleries over the past 60 years. The beautiful cathedrals and restaurants that dot the streets of San Miguel De Allende serve as the perfect backdrop for the many live music and arts events that visitors are likely to encounter while on the streets or in the parks.
Thanks to the influx of foreign artists and visitors after World War II, San Miguel De Allende is a truly multicultural city where visitors can both practice their Spanish and enjoy the comfort of being able to communicate in English. Almost all villas in this beautiful area hire staff who speak English. Most villas feature private chefs, housekeepers, security staff, sturdy fireplaces, beautiful pools and full Internet access. Review our favorite villa choices in San Miguel De Allende before heading out on your next adventure.
Casa 6 Fuentes
This luxurious villa is located in Central San Miguel De Allende. A wealth of services, a private pool and breathtaking views of the city will make for the perfect getaway. The villa boasts five bedrooms and a private home theater, making it a good vacation choice for groups or families. The villa, which also features six-and-a-half baths, sleeps up to 10. Amenities include:
English-speaking houseman, chef, gardner, housekeepers and security staff
A home theater and electric grand piano
A fully equipped gym
A heated pool and 10 fireplaces
Casa Kate and Emma This beautiful hideaway in Central San Miguel De Allende is built on a hillside that offers gorgeous views of the city. A beautiful patio and sun deck are perfect for artists who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The villa boasts three bedrooms and two baths. It sleeps six comfortably. Amenities include:
A housekeeper and gardener
A playroom with a wealth of entertainment equipment
Three gas heaters and three fireplaces throughout the house
The option to hire a private chef
Casa Heyne Experience colonial luxury in this hacienda-style home with panoramic views of downtown San Miguel De Allende. The elegant sala, or great room, is accesible via a beautiful staircase. Eight furnished patios allow you to enjoy the outdoors and the extensive landscaping in which the residence is ensconced. Amenities include:
A staff of six, including a cook and English-speaking houseman
A full-service bar
Four fountains and eight beautiful outdoors area for sunset viewing and dining
Two wood-burning fireplaces and rooms with both baths and showers
London to Cancun: Virgin Atlantic expanded its Caribbean network as the British long-haul airline launched its first route to Mexico on 12 June. From its London Gatwick (LGW) base, the airline now flies twice-weekly to Cancun (CUN) with 451-seat 747-400 aircraft. Competition comes from British Airways’ three flights a week as well as leisure airlines Thomson Airways’ five and Thomas Cook’s two weekly operations. Sir Richard Branson, President of Virgin Atlantic, commented: “Cancun is one of the top five long-haul leisure destinations for UK travellers, so we are delighted to be able to add this route to network. This route launch further cements our position as the UK’s leading long haul leisure airline.” Saturdays and Tuesday
New York to Cancun / Atlanta to Mexico City:
On 1 July, AeroMexico expanded its presence in the US markets with two new routes. New York, NY (JFK) returned to the airline’s offering out of the resort city of Cancún (CUN), and is now served on a daily basis until the end of September. Competition on the 2,500-kilometre route comes from two US carriers: jetBlue (twice-daily flights) and American Airlines (daily). In addition, the airline has resumed flights from Mexico City (MEX) to Atlanta, GA (ATL), which it last offered in January 2009. Flights to Atlanta are operated daily using E-190s. AeroMexico’s SkyTeam partner Delta already operates the route with 26 flights a week. Aeromexico currently serves 17 US cities
Hotel Matilda and Mexico’s most recognized chef, Enrique Olvera, have entered into a partnership that brings his internationally acclaimed culinary skills and techniques to the hotel to create a world-class dining experience.
Chef Olvera is now responsible for the operation of the hotel restaurant, Moxi, and the hotel lounge, Bar Matilda. He is currently revamping both, including creating new restaurant, bar and wine menus. As of June 21, a new culinary era will be launched at Hotel Matilda and in San Miguel de Allende when Chef Olvera’s cuisine is served for the first time.
“We are thrilled to join forces with Chef Enrique and introduce a level of culinary sophistication to San Miguel de Allende that previously could only be found in Mexico City,” said Hotel Matilda Director Bruce James. “From the beginning, refined, innovative Mexican cuisine has been our culinary emphasis at Hotel Matilda, and now with Chef Enrique on board we are taking our dining experience to the highest international standard.”
Hotel Matilda Joins Forces with Internationally Renowned Chef Enrique Olvera to Create World-Class Dining Experience
Chef Olvera has received numerous prestigious awards and is recognized not only as Mexico’s leading chef but as one of the best in the world. In 2011, his Mexico City restaurant, Pujol , made the coveted San Pellegrino list of ‘The World’s 50 Best Restaurants’ at #49. When the new 2012 list came out, Pujol had advanced 13 places to #36.
Hotel Matilda offers the only contemporary, avant-garde experience in colonial-themed San Miguel de Allende. The boutique hotel caters to the lifestyle of today’s traveler with designer rooms and suites, an award-winning holistic spa, a popular lounge known for its creative mixology, and a vibrant, art gallery-like ambiance filled with dramatic contemporary art. Hotel Matilda opened in September 2010 in the center of San Miguel de Allende, the crown jewel of Colonial Mexico that is an UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its intact 500-year-old Spanish architecture.
Where is Copper Canyon and why is it considered a tour of a lifetime?
The Copper Canyon, or Barranca del Cobre in Spanish, is a system of canyons located in the (Sierra Tarahumara) southwest portion of the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. It was formed some 40-80 million years ago and it covers about 28,000 sq. miles of amazing gorges and incredible ravines.
The Copper Canyon is located 350 km (217 miles) from Chihuahua and 250 km (150 miles) from Los Mochis, in the state of Sinaloa. The Copper Canyon is almost four times the volume of the Grand Canyon and offers a multitude of hiking trips and other activities including mountain biking and white water rafting. Wildlife viewing includes many species of mammals, birds and reptiles.
Four of the main canyons in the area are:
Barranca del Cobre (Copper Canyon): 5,770 ft. deep
Barranca del Sinforosa: 5,904 ft. deep
Barranca del Batopilas: 6,002 ft. deep
Barranca del Urique: 6,136 ft. deep
The only way to reach this beautiful place from the city of Los Mochis is on an 8-hour train ride. From Chihuahua you can travel by train, car or bus.
If you take the train, you will make several stops that include Ciudad Cuahutemoc. This area thrives on the apple industry and is home to the largest Mennonite community in the country. Another stop is at Creel, a town in the Sierra Tarahumara. Divisadero is only 36 miles from Creel and it has the best known view of the 3 canyons together: Copper Canyon, Urique and Tararecua. Also nearby are the Basaseachic Falls, the second highest waterfall in Mexico with a drop of 246 meters (812 feet). Adventure Park Copper Canyon, a national park, is the most popular attraction in the area and has the second largest zip line in the world.
The train route delivers wonderful viewpoints, valleys, cliffs and waterfalls, as well as dozen of tunnels and bridges.
Have we intrigued you enough with this wonderful area? Here are 5 amazing Copper Canyon tours that will sure take you on a tour of a lifetime.
This trip is ideal for travelers wanting to combine the world famous Chihuahua al Pacifico train journey from the Sea Cortes up into the Sierra Tarahumara, with visits to local towns and villages very much off the beaten path.
The rail journey whisks you over 36 bridges and through 87 tunnels along its 405 miles length. Explore the rugged paths down into the Batopilas Canyon, and hike through the beautiful Copper Canyon and La Bufa Canyon.
One of the highlights of this trip includes a visit to the small village of Satevo, about four miles from Batopilas. The “Lost Cathedral” of Satevo, sometimes referred to as “Templo de Nuestra Senora de Satevo,” is said to have been built in the early 1600.
This adventurous trip is designed for those who wish to enjoy a number of different activities during their visit to Mexico. It runs for 17 days, and travelers will enjoy amazing hiking in the Copper Canyon; a spectacular train journey through the mountains; trips into the pristine Pacific whale lagoons for opportunities to see, photograph, and even touch friendly Gray whales; and a unique kayak trip through a incredible wilderness area in the Sea of Cortez. This trip is a classic adventure taking in three different areas of Northern Mexico. It is ideal for active travelers wanting to combine remote hiking and paddling in unforgettable wilderness settings and amazing wildlife viewing opportunities with visits to local villages and towns very much off the beaten path.
This trip includes the Chihuahua al Pacifico railroad journey through the canyon. This train ride is a highlight in itself and this spectacular trip is a natural transition between the cold, arid canyons of the Sierra Tarahumara and the dazzling Sea of Cortez.
Ideal for active travelers seeking adventure, this Copper Canyon hiking tour is a 9 day expedition through the canyons of Northern Mexico.
On this tour we’ll visit wild campsites near remote indigenous family compounds perched on canyon walls. Access to these sites is only available by mule and walking.
This tour also includes the spectacular train ride through the canyons of the Sierra Tarahumara.
This unique 10 day trip is operated during the Semana Santa Holy Week. We will delve into remote Tarahumara villages and experience the preparation and culmination of the processions, dances, and rituals that mark this incredible amalgam of native Raramuri creation myth and Catholic tradition in the High and Low Sierra Tarahumara. Visits to logging outposts, frontier mining towns, and colonial cities are peppered with nights in traditional Tarahumara villages and rancherias. Our rugged hike culminates in the town of Munerachi on the walls of the Batopilas Canyon, where we will participate in the most intense night of celebration in one of the most traditional Tarahumara villages.
This trip is an excellent way to discover the beauty and excitement of the northern Mexico area. The highlight of this trip is the train-ride through the Copper Canyon, referred to as “The Train in the Sky”, and voted “Most Exciting Train Journey in the World.” Not only would you be able to explore this amazing canyon, but you would have the opportunity to experience the culture, traditions, and history of several colonial towns in Northern Mexico.
If you are looking for a truly unique vacation, the Copper Canyon might just be what you’re looking for.
Be sure to catch the June issue of the Journey Mexico Newsletter before it’s too late to take advantage of the fantastic hotel offers from Hotelito Desconocido on Mexico’s Pacific Coast and Hotel Bo in Chiapas! This month’s spotlight features a specific Yucatan itinerary and the new holistic center, Akalki, in Bacalar. Follow along with us on facebook as we share pictures, posts & videos! Lastly and as always, you will find the latest travel dates and where to find Journey Mexico in the upcoming months!
Less than a week ago, a powerful group of financial and political leaders representing approximately 80% of global trade convened in Baja California Sur inLos Cabos, Mexicoto discuss the future of international economic stability. President Barack Obama is just one example of the high-profile attendees that gathered at the annual G20 Leader’s Summit amidst the fitting backdrop of a cultural oasis stimulated by a thriving tourist market.
Mexico: First Latin American country to chair the annual Presidency of the G20 Group
The Group of Twenty, better known as G20, brings together members from 19 countries and the European Union for much needed talks about international cooperation, accelerating employment and financial preparedness with structural reforms, and promoting sustainable development across the globe. This year marks the first time that a Latin American country has held the rotating Presidency of the G20 group, and only the second emerging economy to take the reins, following the Presidency of the Republic of Korea hosted in Seoul in 2010.
The G20 originated in December 1999 as a conference of international finance ministers and central bank governors concerned about the overwhelming financial crisis overtaking the world economy, as well as the imbalanced representation of developing countries in international dialogue dedicated to these issues. In November 2008, the current financial crisis spurred former President George W. Bush to leverage the G20 group as a strategic platform to organize a global coordinated response to the economic decline. Since 2008, seven Leader’s Summits have been held in Washington, D.C., London, Pittsburgh, Toronto, Seoul, Cannes and now, Los Cabos, Mexico.
Tourism – A Major Vehicle for Growth
Mexico’s G20 Presidency signals an essential shift in the group’s initiatives, which in the past have centered largely on strengthening financial institutions, implementing better standards for fiscal supervision and pumping more resources into international trade as the best means of jumpstarting the economy. Inspired by a recent meeting of the G20 Tourism Ministers, Mexico’s president Felipe Calderon Hinojosa proposed world tourism as a significant force for driving economic improvement across the globe.
Not only did this issue force the summit’s recognition of tourism as a major “vehicle for job creation, economic growth, and development,” but also led the G20 Leaders to introduce plans to rethink current travel and immigration regulations to better promote job creation and poverty reduction on an international scale.
Los Cabos, Mexico as an Example of Economic Development
As Mexico joins the exclusive list of destinations where the world’s most influential figures have dared to tackle the hurdles of nourishing a global economy, Los Cabos stands out as a shining example of how marketing a country’s inherent cultural qualities can create new opportunities for economic growth. Not to mention, the pleasant climate, a consistent reputation for security and a world class tourism infrastructure provided the means to support an event of this magnitude.
We congratulate Los Cabos for hosting a memorable summit.
The World’s Travel & Tourism Council Americas Summit convened for the first of their ‘Regional Summits’ in Riviera Maya, Mexico this past May. During the Summit, key travel and tourism industry figures from the public and private sectors, NGOs and the media gathered to explore the challenges and strengths throughout the tourism industry while identifying opportunities for growth and collaboration. With the spotlight already on Mexico, among the Americas Summit attendees and speakers were prestigious Mexican figures such as President Felipe Calderón Hinojosa, Carlos Slim Helú (richest man in the world), Gloria Guevara, and Roberto Hernández Ramírez.
President Felipe Calderón impressed all when he directly addressed Mexico’s security concerns and the efforts being made to alleviate them through law enforcement, education, infrastructure and economic development. He also made it very clear about Mexico’s commitment to tourism and sustainability and his personal support to make Mexico a leading worldwide destination. During the welcome dinner held at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya resort, Calderón described Mexico’s citizens as “genetically prepared to receive visitors,” which was indeed true; the warm Mexican hospitality made light of itself throughout the entire summit.
President and CEO of Journey Mexico, Zachary Rabinor, participated at this event. When asked about the summit, Zach said, “I felt honored to be amongst the industry’s leaders and am excited to forge ahead in helping Mexico earn recognition as a world class destination and the travel and tourism industry be prioritized for its vital contribution to job creation, conservation, global collaboration, and the global economy.”
The main outcome of WTTC Americas Summit focused on “generating jobs and prosperity” which aligned itself with the priorites of the T20 meeting (held a week earlier in Merida, Yucatan with tourism ministers from 20 of the most developed economies in the world). Harnessing the travel and tourism industry to fuel job creation, T20 devised proposals including those around current travel visa issues, which has been formally received by President Calderón. As the Chairman, he will take this to the G20 leaders meeting this month in Los Cabos, to demonstrate the power of the industry to create jobs and drive growth. To follow G20 news, you can connect directly to their website G20Mexico.
“Creating my family’s itinerary was a collaborative and exciting process. The team at Journey Mexico understood what I was envisioning and created a customized, two week itinerary for us I couldn’t wait to experience. It covered all of the special highlights of the Yucatan – Mayan ruins, haciendas, cenotes (natural sinkholes commonly found in the Yucatan where you can swim), colonial cities and a stunning island called Holbox, where we ended our trip and vowed to make a return visit soon.”
Las Alamandas
Imanta Resort
Xinalani Retreat
Xinalani Retreat
Escudo Jaguar Hotel
Xaloc Resort
Hacienda Chichen Resort & Yaxin Spa
Puerta Calakmul Ecovillage
Where is Copper Canyon and why is it considered a tour of a lifetime? 
