Coco Nogales Surf Contest in Oaxaca

Posted by & filed under Adventure, Oaxaca.

Coco Nogales, a professional surfer and local of Puerto Escondido, is putting on a surf contest April 29th and 30th, 2010 in Oaxaca, Mexico. The event is called “The Coco Nogales Surf Challenge – For the Future Stars” and is being hosted in conjunction with Hurley and Red Bull.

The prizes for the event will total approximately 30,000 pesos (about 3,000 USD), and 20 to 30 surfboards will be given away to local groms who can’t afford to buy boards.

I don’t think the contest has an official website but for more information, you can email [email protected] or call in Mexico (954) 101-6452. Video of Coco and Puerto Escondido below:

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Somewhere Near Tapachula Documentary

Posted by & filed under Adventure, Media, News.

Below is the trailer for a documentary film called Somewhere Near Tapachula about a mission in Tapachula, Chiapas for Mexican children with troubled pasts. In addition to shelter and schooling, the mission takes the children on weekly trips to the beach. Apparently, in 2004, someone left a surfboard at the mission for the children to use on these weekly trips to the ocean and since then, the process of learning to ride waves has given these kids a new outlook on life.

The blog I found the documentary on said the movie was to be released in October of 2009, and the film’s website shows tour dates from February to April (but no year). Oh wait, the film has its own blog, and… the tour is already over. If anyone has any info on where you can purchase/view the film in its entirety, please post in the comments section.

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Annual Newport to Ensenada Yacht Race Begins Next Week

Posted by & filed under Adventure, News.

If you are interested in sailing to Mexico, next Friday, April 23rd, marks the beginning of the 63rd Newport to Ensenada Yacht Race, the word’s largest international yacht race. So far there are 210 yachts registered for this year’s event.

The race takes sailors 125 miles from Newport, California to Ensenada, Mexico on the Baja California peninsula. This year’s winner will be awarded a $6,000 watch from Lamborghini.

Non-racers can enjoy the event as well by taking the three day cruise with Carnival Cruise. Passengers pass the sailboats and end up with the ultimate view for the finish of the race. More information can be found at the race’s website, and below is a video about the race.

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How To Follow Us Via RSS Feed

Posted by & filed under Newsletters and Promotions.

Typical RSS Symbol

If you’re not familiar with RSS Feeds, fear not. It’s actually a really simple and convenient feature that allows you to have updates from your favorite websites sent to you as soon as they are published, saving you the time of having to actually go to each site to check for updates.

Readers

To receive RSS feeds, you need a “reader.” A reader program is basically a customizable dashboard that receives and displays the RSS feeds to which you subscribe. Let’s say your three favorite websites are a sport’s blog, your friends website that publishes cooking recipes, and a news site. Once you sign up for their RSS feeds, you simply need to log into your reader account to view the newest content from all three sites. In your reader, you will see that the sports blog, the recipe site, and the news site each have their own little “section” on your dashboard, which you can move around. Now, you can choose which articles you’d like to read without having to actually navigate to each website.

If you have a Gmail account, iGoogle is the reader extension you should use. Once signed into Gmail, open a new tab in your web browser and go to http://www.google.com/ig. There you can customize your iGoogle page and move the different feeds around to your liking.

If you use Yahoo for email, your “MyYahoo” page is your reader. It’s very similar to iGoogle and is also customizable. There are several other reader programs, but these are the two I’d suggest.

Subscribing to an RSS feed

When you decide that you enjoy a website enough that you’d like their updates sent to your reader, look for their RSS icon. It’s usually orange with a sort of Wifi symbol on it (shown at top). If there is no icon, look for something that says “Follow our RSS Feed” or something similar. Once you find it, click on it and you should get something that looks like this:

Note, because I am signed into Google, it’s just showing me the Google options. If you use Yahoo, you will see several options – just click on the +Yahoo button. Because I use iGoogle, I would select “Add to Google Reader.” Once you click the button to add, you’re good to go. Sign into your reader account, and you will see the latest posts from the site you just added.

5 Things You Need to Know About Sunscreen Before Summer

Posted by & filed under News.

I just came across an interesting article that really opened my eyes about sunscreen. If you’ll be traveling to Mexico with us this year, or to anywhere else you’ll need protection from the sun, here are five things you need to know:

  1. According to the Environmental Working Group’s 2009 study, only one in ten sunscreens offers superior protection from the sun and is made from healthy ingredients.
  2. Sunscreens of 55-100 SPF only block 1-2% more sunburn rays than a sunscreen of 30 SPF.
  3. The sun produces three bands of ultraviolet light: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVB is the band that causes sunburn, and the US Food and Drug Administration only holds manufacturers to regulations in regards to UVB. Although UVB light will burn your skin with prolonged exposure, the body actually needs UVB light in order to make Vitamin D. According to Elsevier, the world’s leading publisher of Medical Information, 30-50% of Americans are deficient in Vitamin D.
  4. UVB only makes up about 4% of the total ultraviolet light that enters our atmosphere. UVA is actually much more responsible for long-term negative effects cause by the sun including: skin cancer, premature skin aging, and other skin damage. Because the US government does not regulate UVA protection, most claims of UVA protection on sunscreen bottles are not credible.
  5. Many brands claiming to block both UVA and UVB, Coppertone ultraGuard for example, use a compound that is absorbed into the skin called oxybenzone, which, although organic, is believed to be a photocarcinogen. When exposed to light, photocarcinogens damage human DNA.

Scary stuff right? The good news is there are websites out there that compare and rate brands of sunscreen. The Environmental Working Group has a great site that lists the top one hundred+ brands of sunscreen. They also have a great widget on the right hand side of the page, titled “Find Safe Sunscreen,” which allows you to search for specific brands and products and view their ratings. Don’t let the sun keep you from summer fun!

First Lady Michelle Obama Encourages Travel to Mexico

Posted by & filed under Health and Safety, News.

Michelle Obama in Mexico

Photo via Tolerance.ca

In a recent interview with ABC News from Mexico City, Michelle Obama said that it is a safe for Americans to travel to Mexico. She told reporters, “Our embassies are not discouraging American visitors. I think that they are encouraging them to be aware and to be smart as they travel.” She also said, “I would encourage any American to spend time here.” You can view a brief video of the interview at ABC’s Site.

New Sarcophagus to Give Fresh Insight Into the Fall of the Maya

Posted by & filed under Culture, News.

Exploring ruins at Tonina with Journey Mexico

Researches at the archeological site of Tonina in Chiapas found a new sarcophagus in January of 2010, which they feel could help clear up the mystery surrounding the fall of the Mayan civilization. The sarcophagus is said to measure 6.7 feet in length, 27.6 inches in width, and 23.6 inches in depth, which is very similar to the dimensions of “The Red Queen,” who was discovered in 1994 in Palenque, Chiapas.

The archeologists working on the site say that this new sarcophagus dates back to sometime between 840-900 AD, which is right around when the Maya stopped producing sculptures and inscriptions, signaling the end of their dynasty. Scientists hope that the discovery of this sarcophagus and its tomb will shed new light on what was happening at this time of transformation for the Maya.

Zach atop Tonina

This discovery adds to the incredibly long list of reasons to visit the Mayan ruins in the Yucatan and explore the mystery surround such a unique and important culture.

Full article at The Times of India

Dios Nunca Muere Showcases Contemporary Oaxacan Art

Posted by & filed under Culture, News.

Dios Nunca Muere (“God Never Dies”), an awesome exhibition of contemporary Oaxacan art, went off with great success last week at Deluge Gallery in Victoria, Canada. The exhibition showcased works from 17 artists from Oaxaca, Mexico – two being the regions most notable: Daniel Guzman and Dr. Lakra.

The press release for the show explains: “Dios Nunca Muere explores the seismic shift in contemporary art practice in Oaxaca, Mexico over the last two decades. The work of these artists — both individually and collectively — parallels and reflects widespread social, political and economic changes in the region.

Photographer, videographer, and art fanatic, Efren Quiroz, has obtained a sort of fame, in his own right, by producing raw videos of art exhibitions in Canada. Below is his video from Dios Nunca Muere.

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Journey Mexico 2010 Spring Newsletter

Posted by & filed under Newsletters and Promotions.



A Fresh Look at Journey Mexico

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new website and blog. The new Journey Mexico website is designed to showcase the unique and authentic experiences that we offer throughout Mexico as well as to provide travel planners with a user friendly and informative resource.

Our new blog (which you are looking at right now!) is where we will be posting news, information, pictures, and videos about Journey Mexico and the latest in travel to Mexico. We hope you follow along via our RSS feed!

Rainforest Alliance

Journey Mexico is a proud new member of the Rainforest Alliance. In accordance with the Rainforest Alliance’s mission, we are committed to promoting bio-diversity, sustainability, and cultural awareness through our hand crafted trips. Several of our trips offer volun-toursim opportunities for those looking for a chance to have a hands-on experience that directly benefits local wildlife and endangered species.

(April 15-19) This  week, Journey Mexico will roll out the red carpet for the world’s leading luxury travel executives as one of the preferred suppliers chosen to assist in organizing this years Symposium for the Virtuoso Travel Network. The inaugural Virtuoso Symposium in the Americas will be a landmark event, and Journey Mexico is thrilled to boost visibility of Mexico City’s cultural treasures as well as the region’s importance as a luxury travel destination.

What’s New at Journey Mexico?

As your eyes on the ground, we are always on the look out for top quality destinations and experiences to bring to our clients. Below, you will find several new hotels, restaurants, and locations that we are excited to start working with this year.

Hotels

Casa de la Real Aduana, Patzcuara – Just a few steps from the Plaza Quiroga Basque, this beautiful boutique hotel offers a wonderfully classic feel with a modern twist.

Hotel Las Alcobas, Mexico City – This 35 room hotel defines modern luxury.

Hotel Brick, Mexico City – “Brick is a chance to live Mexico City from within, to reminisce the city’s majestic past from a young and modern perspective.”

BeTulum, Tulum – This 20 room hotel marries luxury with the natural surrounds of jungle and sea.

Roses&Xocolate – JM trip planner, Gerardo Tovar, recently stayed at this boutique hotel and spa in Merida and loved it.

Restaurants

Izote, Mexico City – Journey Mexico President, Zach Rabinor, had the chance to dine with Izote owner and chef, Patricia Quintana, and has had nothing but great things to say.

Los Mirasoles, Morelia – JM director of operations, Mateo Luthi, and his wife recently dined at this gorgeous restaurant offering both Michoacana and international delicacies as well as over 250 wines.

Pujol, Mexico City – Recently, Matthew Upchurch, CEO of Virtuoso invited Zach for dinner at Pujol, and Zach reports that the meal was truly a unique culinary experience.

Cenote

We couldn’t believe our eyes when we were introduced to this private, secluded cenote. We know future customers will fall in love with its tranquility just as we have.

Journey Mexico Featured Promotions

Experience More at the Four Seasons, Punta Mita

Discover the best that Punta Mita has to offer while enjoying up to $1200 US credit for a 3 night stay. Take even more credit for a longer stay! Whether it’s winding up your golf swing or unwinding at the spa, this daily credit gives you room to stay and play.

Daily Credit Room Type Apr. 11-30 May 1 –June 25 June 26 – Oct. 1
$150 Casita Garden View $595 $545 $415
$150 Casita Oceanview $855 $725 $590
$200 Casita Oceanview Premium $895 $820 $645
$200 Casita Oceanfront $1,130 $1,090 $845
$400 1-Bedroom Gardenview Suite $1,825 $1,290 $1,100
$400 1-Bedroom Oceanview Suite $2,225 $1,490 $1,325
$400 1-Bedroom Oceanfront Suite $2,735 $2,195 $1,660

Escape to tranquility with The Haciendas/Esencia Summer Sampler Promotion

Book this 8 night country-to-coast special combination of The Haciendas locations in the Yucatan countryside and Esencia on the Riviera Maya and the fourth night is free at both locations (May – Nov. 15th).

Additional specials at The haciendas:

  • Three course dinner for two with a bottle of wine in secluded, romantic area for $95 (Tax and service included)
  • 25% off spa services and 15% food and beverage

Additional specials at Esencia:

  • Breakfast included
  • Complimentary airport transfers
  • $125 credit for restaurants or spa redeemable at checkout

Experience complete luxury at this The Tides Zihuatanejo Resort in Mexico

This Zihuatanejo hotel offers cool garden waterfalls and enchanting lagoons. From Apr. 8 – Oct. 31st, The Tides is offering:

  • 30% off rates and spa treatment
  • $30 optional upgrade per night to the next room category (subject to availability)
  • Daily American breakfast included (this only applies for new bookings starting July 1st – October 31st)

Travel Alert: How Save is Mexico?

As you may have heard in the news, US Department of State has extended a travel warning focused on certain regions of Northern Mexico.  The warning has been extended in the wake of an increase in violence along the U.S. – Mexico Border.

We at Journey Mexico prioritize our clients’ safety and security first and while reviewing this warning, it is important to note a few key things.

1.) Mexico’s main tourist destinations are, geographically, very far from the very specific areas included in the warning. Mexico’s top travel destination, Cancun, is 1,312 miles from Ciudad Juarez, (the Mexican town most noted for recent violence), and the number two most traveled to city, Puerto Vallarta, is over 700 miles away. The distance from Cancun to Ciudad Juarez is approximately the distance from New York City to Miami, and the distance from Mexico City to Ciudad Juarez is approximately the size of the entire state of California!

2.) The warning does not discourage travelers from visiting tourist destinations, rather recommends that travelers exercise caution and be alert to safety and security issues if traveling in the border regions affected by the violence.

3.) The warning specifically notes that “common-sense precautions such as visiting only legitimate business and tourist areas during daylight hours, and avoiding areas where prostitution and drug dealing might occur, can help ensure that travel to Mexico is safe and enjoyable.”  This is true for travel to any country, even travel through the US and Europe.

While Journey Mexico is taking the necessary steps to avoid client travel to the affected areas, those of us that live here know how beautiful and safe Mexico is, so let’s spread the word and continue to bring visitors to Mexico in 2010 to share in all the unforgettable experiences this country has to offer!

Quiverito Surf Shop in Sayulita Doing Something Different

Posted by & filed under Puerto Vallarta & Punta Mita.

If you’ll be surfing in Mexico any time soon (Sayulita specifically), be sure to check out one of the town’s newest surf shops, Quiverito. Although Sayulita is a tad saturated when it comes to surf shops these days, Josh Labovitz, Quiverito’s owner, is definitely doing something different and refreshing.

Take a quick glance into the shop, and you’ll immediately see something unique is going on. The walls are lined with retro and classic boards from shapers like Gordon and Smith, Stewart, Skip Frye, Herbie Fletcher, Al Merrick, Terry Goldsmith, Ian Zamora, and others. There are also a few modern boards in the mix, like Firwire, but you’re definitely not going to find racks of Quicksilver tees, shelves of Volcom wristbands, or counters covered in Red Bull stickers. The classic vibe led me first to believe the shop was a gallery, but then I saw a sign that read: “ALL boards for rental and sale.” My head tilted, I stared at a vintage Gordon Smith single fin and went, “That can’t be right.” But, alas, the sign did not lie.

The mentality at Quiverito is simple: Boards are meant to be ridden. When most board collectors would wince at the idea of you even touching their coveted Skip Frye, Josh says, “Like it? Take it for a ride.” When I asked Josh how someone with such a great collection of boards could let total strangers take them out, he said, “It’s definitely an exercise in dis-attaching myself from material things, but I figure, I ding them up myself every time I travel. Why not let other people enjoy them as well?”

Quiverito provides a really unique opportunity to save yourself the 80+ bucks in flying boards back and fourth (as well as peace of mind about dinging your babies) and the chance to ride classic shapes without having to shell out mucho dinero to pull them off the wall. The coolest part is that you can check the boards out on Quiverito’s website, pick one out, and reserve it before you ever get on the plane. Check the website out at www.quiverito.com.

Journey Mexico Featured on Planeta.com

Posted by & filed under News.

We were featured on Ron Mader’s website, Planeta.com, this week in a section called Luxury Travel in Mexico by Ron Mader. Many thanks to Ron. Planeta is an incredible resource for responsible and eco travel, and we’re thrilled about everything Ron is doing for travel to Mexico.

Ron has a really cool photo-scavenger hunt going on his site right now so if you are in Mexico now, coming soon, or happen to have a lot of pictures from a previous trip to Mexico City, be sure to get involved.

Another Study Confirms Safety of Mexico

Posted by & filed under Health and Safety, News.

The safety of traveling to Mexico is a redundant topic for those of us living here, but Americans still don’t seem to be getting the message (especially my mother).

When explaining the situation to friends and family back home (about 30 miles north of Philadelphia), I always draw an analogy along the lines of: “Do you not feel safe living outside Philly because some got murdered in a back-alley in Memphis, Tennessee?” Obviously, the answer should be no as Memphis is more than a 20 hour drive from Philadelphia just as Mexico City is much more than 20 hours away from these boarder towns (Juarez specifically) where murders are occurring.

A new study from Brookings Institute compares Washington D.C. with the country of Mexico in general, strengthening my point. Apparently, Washington D.C. has a murder rate of 31 people per 100,000 inhabitants, where as the country of Mexico has a murder rate of approximately 11.5 people per 100,000 inhabitants. New Orleans’s murder rate is 74/100,000!

It’s a shame that the American media creates such a biased portrait of the safety of traveling to Mexico, when there are so many unbelievable trips to be taken and incredible sites to be seen in this breathtaking country.

You can find the full article via the Miami Herald Online

Viva Tequila Festival in Guadalajara

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

Image via http://www.periodicoelsur.com/

Today marks the beginning of the Viva Tequila Festival in Guadalajara, which will run from today until March 22nd and is expected to become an annual event. The festival was formed with full support from the Mexican government as well as from the ministries of Culture and Tourism, so it should definitely be quite the party.

The goal of the festival is increase tourism to the historic city of Guadalajara as well as to solidify tequila as the national drink of Mexico and, in turn, boost the sales of tequila worldwide.

The list of activities for the ten-day fest is enormous and includes tequila tasting, art shows, a photography contest, several free concerts and shows, and a celebrity parade.  I haven’t yet been able to find a full list of activities in English, but you can find a full list of events in Spanish at Vivir Guadalajara.

7th Annual Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival

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

March 17-20th of this year marks the 7th annual International Guitar Festival in Zihuatanejo, Mexico. Each year, musicians, artists, and music lovers from around the world flock to Zihuatanejo, one of Mexico’s most unspoiled and tranquil bays, for the festival.

Zihuatanejo provides the perfect backdrop for four days of music, sun, and relaxation. If you get restless, there’s plenty going on in Zihuatanejo besides the festival, including golf, tennis, hiking, fishing, and shopping. If you’re a surfer, there are always waves in this region of Mexico, and Zihautanejo’s nightlife (especially during the Guitar Fest) won’t let you down.

Proceeds from the festival go to La Casa de la Cultura, which is a cultural education center that has been offering free art and cultural classes to adults and children in Zihuatanejo for 15 years. For the full schedule of events and participating artists, visit Zihuafest.

Travel + Leisure Best Adventure-Travel Outfitters 2010

Posted by & filed under Things We're Proud Of, Travel + Leisure.

Journey Mexico has been selected as one of the World’s Best Adventure-Travel Outfitters for 2010. We were selected under the category of Regional Specialists due to our specialized focus on Mexico’s cultural and natural heritage. Travel + Leisure went on to feature one of our Whale Watching Trips as a one of the “World’s Top Adventure Trips.”