Friday, December 19, 2008

JetBlue starts nonstop Tampa-Cancun flight out of TIA
JetBlue Airways brought the quick hop to Mexico back to Tampa International Airport on Thursday.

Passengers headed to Cancun, the beach and party resort on the Yucatan Peninsula, nibbled on Mexican food as a mariachi band played at their gate. For airport officials, the flight was serious business — a rare international nonstop for Tampa International.

"This is all local traffic," said Louis Miller, the airport's executive director. "People from Cancun aren't coming here. That's why it's important that the local community support it. If this doesn't work, it's scary."
World’s 10 most secluded sands - Tropical getaways
Pauline Frommer, 42, remembers first visiting Cancun as a seventh-grader when her father, Arthur, author of the famous Frommer Travel Guides — reported on the coastal city's very first hotel.

"It was completely deserted back then," says Frommer, also a travel writer.

Unfortunately, such secluded beaches rarely stay that way for long. Cancun has morphed into a sun worshiper's Mecca as famous for its high-rise hotels and nightclubs as for its beaches.

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Mexico says Cancun beach erosion 'urgent' problem - International Herald Tribune
MEXICO CITY: A Mexican environment official says beach erosion at the resort city of Cancun is so bad it needs urgent solutions.

Assistant Environment Secretary Mauricio Limon says "beaches urgently need to be restored given the level of deterioration they are showing" in Cancun and on the Maya Riviera to the south.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

The top five award destinations for December - USATODAY.com
Wondering where to go with all those frequent flier miles? If you know where to look, the airlines will help you choose flights with seats readily accessible to mileage program members.

In response to the outcry from mileage collectors frustrated by the lack of available award seats, the airlines are attempting to steer program members in the direction of flights which are good prospects for would-be award travelers, both by listing destinations with plenty of empty seats (hot spots) and occasionally discounting award flights to lower-demand destinations.
Mexico's Cancun 'A Great Party Town'
Mexicos Cancun A Great Party Town Mexico's popular travel destination Cancun is a thriving party town, an expert has said.

Visitors can enjoy impressive hotels, themed nightclubs, restaurants and bars, as well as the usually warm temperatures, according to Jennifer Rodger, writing for the Daily Mirror.

It can also be a great choice for families, the travel commentator added, due to the fact that there are all-inclusive hotels with creche facilities and organised activities.

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Owning property abroad
Dismal December days often fill my head with thoughts of selling off all I own in Canada and heading off to an island to waste away the rest of my days on beachfront property with all-I-can-drink coconut and pineapple refreshments.

A common dream, right?

But, how does one acquire property abroad? What are the legalities? Costs? Implications for the future?

While the steps may be different in every country, here's a small primer highlighting 10 things you didn't know about owning property in Mexico, a favourite sunny getaway spot, until now...

Monday, December 1, 2008

Yucatan's pristine paradise
We were in the jungle, about an hour's drive inland from Mexico's Caribbean coast, when I stumbled upon a fine metaphor for the Riviera Maya, the tourist-friendly nickname for the eastern edge of the Yucatan peninsula.

Our group of six had kayaked and then hiked along a well-marked path to a cenote. Stripping down to our swimsuits, we could barely wait to explore this water-filled limestone sinkhole

Taking a closer look, we warily contemplated the cave's narrow entrance, or chimuch -- Mayan for "frog's mouth" -- and we weren't entirely sure we wanted to be swallowed up by it.

Making like crabs, we backed in under the low-hanging lip of rock. Once inside, we walked down a stairway into a shadowy cavern full of dripping stalactites. I understood why the ancient Mayans considered cenotes links to the underworld. I also understood why we were told to wear our bathing suits. The crystal-clear water was cool and soft -- the most sublime swimming hole I've ever visited.


Shopping in Cancun
Designer stores, specialised shops, department stores and malls in the centre of the city are within walking distance of the Jungfernstieg underground station.

There’s the Queen of Pop, the King, and the other King of Pop.

We joined the crowds to give a screaming, sweating and floor-stamping reception to Madonna, Elvis, and Wacko Jacko…

At Coco Bongo’s nightclub in Cancun, there’s a dream line-up of live acts – OK, impersonators… but with this carnival atmosphere, you’d have sworn it was the real artists on stage.

It’s just one of the crazy scenes you can expect to find on Mexico’s most popular destination, the Yucatan peninsula. And to allow for a full-time party agenda, we made it easy on ourselves by going all-inclusive (with First Choice).

Monday, November 24, 2008

Mayan culture lines the Mexican coast close to Cancun
"Malo ken" - "good morning" - said the guide as he welcomed us to the modest archeological site of Muyil. His words were in Yucatec Mayan, and his profile could have easily served as a model for the carvings adorning the temples and monuments left by his ancient ancestors.

For sheer bang for your travel buck, you could go pretty far and still not find a destination as culturally rich and exotic as Mexico's "Riviera Maya." Only a four-hour flight from New York, this gateway to the Mayan world stretches 80 miles along the Caribbean from just south of Cancún to Muyil - entrance to Sian Ka'an Biosphere, a 2,000-square-mile home to wild jaguars, tapirs, monkeys and crocodiles.
Mexico's Riviera Maya offers adult paradise
Children are wonderful, but sometimes you need a break. That's what adults-only resorts are designed to provide.

The term "adults only" occasionally means the resort is racy, offering, for instance, nude beaches. But mostly it means no children allowed. In some cases, the minimum age is 16; in others, it's 18.

Cecile Mortel, senior travel consultant at Homestead Travel, a division of Wings Travel, in Hummelstown, recently visited four adults-only, all-inclusive resorts along Mexico's Riviera Maya.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Experience Real Beauty Under The Sea
CANCUN, Nov 17, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Ever thought of swimming under extremely crystal clear waters while observing the most incredible marine species that inhabit the Earth?
Stop dreaming and visit a spectacular paradise considered one of the top places in the world for diving. Cancun offers some of the best natural landscapes and the highest quality in resources to ensure an unforgettable experience.
Cancun's coastline is located in front of the Great Mesoamerican Reef, a system extending 450 miles all the way from Punta Nizuc to the Bay of Islands in Honduras. This reef system is home to 100 coral species, 350 mollusks, and 164 species of reef dwelling fish, sea turtles, crocodiles, lemon sharks, dolphins and manatees, among other exotic creatures. The best news is that you don't have to travel many hours since there are between ten to 12 coral reefs, some of which are located at only 45 minutes from the shore.
Retreating to the jungles of Tulum
TULUM, Mexico — The Mayan Riviera along the Yucatán Peninsula is renowned for its spectacular beaches, stretching from the increasingly Las Vegas-like Cancun to solitary stretches of white and turquoise to the south.

But in the beach town of Tulum, about two hours south of Cancun, a new kind of tourism is emerging: the jungle vacation. A growing number of developers and hoteliers are beginning to market the allure of the area's thick jungle, home to Mayan villagers, mysterious underground pools and the occasional jaguar.
Lots of sunny fun on Mexican coast
CHECKING into Riu Yucatan in the resort of Playacar, Mexico, I had little idea just how special a place it would be.

Set right on the white sands of the Caribbean — the hotel pool area had steps leading down to the beach — the all-inclusive five-star hotel offered luxuriously spacious rooms, two pools complete with pool bars, regular bars, a shop, theatre and three speciality restaurants to die for.

I travelled with my best friend Suzy, whose birthday we'd planned the two-week holiday to celebrate. While we took full advantage of the beach and pool, we were spoiled for choice by the range of activities and trips on offer from Thomson, our tour operator.

Friday, November 7, 2008

Mexico's Asur Oct passenger traffic up 1 pct | Reuters
MEXICO CITY, Nov 6 (Reuters) - Mexican airport operator Asur said on Thursday its passenger traffic rose 1 percent in October as its operation in the Caribbean resort of Cancun partially offset weakness in nearly all of its eight other airports.

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Delta adds nonstop flight to Cancun
Nashville International Airport says Delta Air Lines will begin non-stop flights to Cancun on Dec. 27.

The new service will leave Nashville at 11:25 a.m. on Saturdays and arrive in Cancun on 2:30 pm. The return flight will depart from Cancun on Saturdays at 3:20 p.m. and arrive in Nashville at 6:50 p.m.

Monday, November 3, 2008

Dreaming of Cancun, waking to find all-inclusive deal for adults only
Last night I had a dream about Cancun. I’ve never been there, but in my dream I was standing on a beach looking at the waves and thinking, “This is nice, but it’s not Cancun.” Cancun had become my measuring stick for beach travel. I wasn’t able to get back to sleep, so I started surfing around the Web and found a new all-adults, all-inclusive resort 15 miles south of Cancun on the Riviera Maya, where I wish my dream would pick up again.
Take me out to the béisbol game
CANCUN, Mexico — When the Quintana Roo Tigres hosted the Mexico City Diablos one night this summer, a fan strapped a pinata in the shape of a red devil to the railing on the baseball stadium's upper level. Every time the Tigres scored a run, the man or one of his children ran over and beat the pinata with a belt. Next to the pinata was a prayer candle. And, shades of Chicago baseball showman Bill Veeck, a dwarf dressed in a Tigres uniform served as batboy.

Welcome to the AAA Mexican League.

I'm not normally a baseball fan — my last trip to a park with my son was nearly two decades ago in Durham, N.C., to catch a Bulls game.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

10 dazzling destinations
MEXICO -- Mexico is blessed with fabulous beaches on both coasts. One of my favourite Mexican hideaways is the one-time sleepy fishing village of Zihuatanejo (just south of the modern, hip resort town of Ixtapa).

If you want a relaxing, seaside Mexican experience on the west coast and would rather stay at fab digs such as the Casa Qui Canta (the House That Sings) than at an all-inclusive five-star mega-resort, this is the place to chill out.

But if you are looking for a superb beaching and water-sports shangri-la, Cancun and the Mayan Riviera should be at the top of your list as a Mexican sun spot.

The 130-km stretch known as the Riviera Maya begins 18 km south of Cancun International Airport in Puerto Morelos and extends to Tulum, one of Mexico's most important archeological sites.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Hanal Pixan, a Supper Not Everyone Can Enjoy
CANCUN, Mexico, Oct 27, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Since Prehispanic times, each November, Mexicans remember those who have passed away and come back to share with living relatives.
Each region has a different way of praising their ancestors through rituals and ceremonies like the picturesque Mayan tradition of Hanal Pixan or supper of the souls.
Combining Mayan and Christian elements, food and beverages are offered to remember those beloved ones that undertook the eternal journey and are permitted to come back to visit their living relatives who prepare the most succulent feast that will make them feel alive once again.

Monday, October 27, 2008

The quiet side of Yucatán
Our walk along the Yucatán beach on the Gulf of Mexico is turning into a voyage of discovery, despite the fact that we are a half-hour drive from the closest Mayan ruins.

We stride by fishing boats leaning over in the sand and wave at fishermen returning with coolers full of grouper, which will end up on dinner plates in nearby homes and restaurants in the port city of Progreso.

We pick up shells washed up by the tide and stop to snap pictures of kids playing soccer in the sand. It all seems very ordinary, but the backdrop is not.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Leonardo DiCaprio holidays in Mexico
Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio has become the latest celebrity to enjoy a holiday in Mexico this year.

Following in the footsteps of Britney Spears, Jennifer Aniston and Kate Beckinsale, Leo was spotted soaking up the sunshine alongside his model girlfriend Bar Refaeli.

According to gossip website JustJared.com, the pair have been spending their time visiting historic sites and topping up their tans on the beaches of Cancun.
Leo was pictured wearing a wetsuit, while his glamorous girlfriend looked tanned and toned in a two-piece bikini.
Escape to ... Mexico's Maya Riviera
Bright lights, big city? That's Dallas, no doubt. But when the prescription calls for a getaway to a locale where serenity is as abundant as the tropical scenery, the cure can be found in Mexico's Riviera Maya.

Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, paradise is forever at the Ceiba del Mar resort. At least it seems that way, when you're lounging in the sand under a thatched-roof canopy listening to the waves caress the shore. The quaint fishing village of Puerto Morales is just a short stroll down the beach, and it's easy to envision a sun-kissed life from a simpler time.

While it's only 20 minutes from the Cancun airport (direct flights from Dallas/Fort Worth are numerous), Ceiba del Mar is a world away from the glitz, bustle, and noise of Cancun and Cozumel. But as a luxury destination, this boutique resort ensures you'll never leave wishing for more -- except for extra time to enjoy all it has to offer. Such as ...

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

2 tourists die in parasailing accident in Mexico
CANCUN, Mexico: A security official says two foreign tourists fell to their deaths while parasailing south of Mexico's resort town of Cancun.

Local Deputy Attorney General Luis Canche says the two women were killed when the rope tying their parachute to a speed boat snapped. The women were hurled onto rocks on shore. A third woman fell into the water and survived.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

AirTran to fly Cancun from BWI, ATL
Just in time for spring break, AirTran plans to offer new flights to Cancun, with roundtrip nonstops from both BWI and Atlanta.

The AirTran planes will fly out of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.
Eco-adventuring in the Mayan world
CANCUN, Mexico - Evidently, there may not be much time left. According to the Mayan calendar, a distinct end of a cycle will occur on Dec. 21, 2012.

Although it's not clear what cycle will be ending -- and although we're not fatalistic -- we decided it would be an opportune time to experience the Mayan world.

It seemed there wouldn't be any better way to explore this ancient civilization than by taking an interactive eco-adventure tour.

There are a variety of Mayan ruins to explore in the area -- Chichen Itza, Tulum and Coba. Our choice for a group tour was Coba.

Saturday, October 4, 2008

Mayan Worlds
Cancun, Mexico. Evidently, there may not be much time left. According to the Mayan calendar, a distinct end of a cycle will occur on Dec. 21, 2012.

Although it's not clear what cycle will be ending -- and although not fatalistic -- we decided it may be an opportune time to experience the Mayan world.

It seemed there wouldn't be any better way to explore this ancient civilization than by taking an interactive eco-adventure tour.

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Magic pueblos cast a spell with relaxed pace, ancient traditions
The "magic of Mexico" is such a popular slogan that it's almost a cliché, and yet the unspoiled villages, relaxed pace and ages-old traditions that phrase represents to travelers are in short supply in the go-go destinations the country promotes most vigorously.

Fortunately, Mexico's Secretariat of Tourism, working with state and local governments, has begun recognizing its Pueblos Magicos (magic villages) and, more importantly, funneling government funds to help preserve their authentic qualities and develop unintrusive tourism facilities. To become a Magic Pueblo, a community must have unusual historical or religious significance, a heritage that has been preserved over time and reasonable access from major cities or other tourist destinations.
Swimming off the Mexican coast with the gentle giants
Cancun, Mexico - Skipper Jorge drops anchor 50 kilometres off the Mexican coastal resort of Cancun before shouting over to his partner Jose to usher two passengers with life-jackets, flippers and snorkels to the side of the vessel. Suddenly Jorge lets out a cry of "12 metres" and a huge fish, whose mouth stretches more than one-and-a-half metres across, looms into view. It approaches the boat slowly and swims alongside.

Jose and the two guests let themselves fall into the water before making their way towards the cavernous opening which could easily swallow up both of them. For its part, the whale shark seems to be ignoring the two colourful "objects" within its field of vision and it simply changes course.

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Pollution killing world's coral reefs | Reuters
CANCUN, Mexico (Reuters) - Dainty blue fish dart around coral shaped like moose antlers near the Mexican resort of Cancun, but sickly brown spots are appearing where pollution threatens one of the world's largest reefs.

Parts of the reef, nestled in turquoise waters, have died and algae -- which feed on sewage residues flowing out of the fast-growing resort city -- has taken over.

Coral reefs like Chitales, near the northern tip of a Caribbean reef chain stretching from Mexico to Honduras, are dying around the world as people and cities put more stress on the environment.

Climate change alone could trigger a global coral die-off by 2100 because carbon emissions warm oceans and make them more acidic, according to a study published in December.

Monday, September 29, 2008

Mexico magic for families
Cancun and the Riviera Maya are the fastest growing hotspots of the Caribbean. A third terminal at Cancun airport opened last May and efficiently delivers even more sun lovers to this coast full of natural wonders and Mayan ruins.

At the all-inclusive Occidental Grand Xcaret, the gang won't get bored dining around at the resort's 11 restaurants and 14 bars. A daily program for children, aged 4 to 12, includes snorkeling, an introductory scuba class, tennis and a host of other activities.

At the adjoining Xcaret ecological theme park, water babies swim with dolphins, snorkel through crystal clear subterranean rivers, dive without a tank using "Snuba" equipment or stroll along the bottom of the ocean wearing a Sea Trek helmet. Stone pathways lead through the jungle to ancient sites.
Cancun is hot, hot, hot
When it gets to be winter at home, armies of us climb aboard airplanes and don't come down until we hit Mexico and magic places like Cancun and the Riviera Maya.

It was the beaches that first drew us to Mexico's Yucatan -- endless stretches of silky white sand and turquoise waters, lying under a bright blue sky -- but the fun doesn't end on those beaches.

There's much, much more.

We've discovered that Cancun is a jumping-off point for all kinds of pleasures.

Monday, September 22, 2008

Escape to Puerto Morelos, a delightful jewel in the Mexican Caribbean
With no buildings over three stories in height, only two main streets in the entire town, and a beautiful white sand coastline, its hard not to unwind in the former fishing village of Puerto Morelos, also known as “The Jewel of the Caribbean.”

The town’s relaxing atmosphere, charming boutique hotels and natural beauty create the perfect setting for complete relaxation and tranquility. “The Jewel of the Caribbean” is located about 20 kilometers south of Cancun and is lined with spectacular beaches that are ideal for reading a book, sunbathing, and taking a palapa-shaded nap on a sunny afternoon.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Alaska Airlines to Slash Capacity By 8%, Announces Staff Cuts
The airline will end seasonal service on three Mexico routes, between San Francisco and Cancun, Mazatlan and Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo. Alaska Airlines continues to serve these destinations non-stop from Los Angeles, and operates a daily seasonal non-stop flight between Seattle and Cancun.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Bennigan's Grill & Tavern Opens in Cancun, Mexico | Blue MauMau
(Cancun, Mexico) – September 8, 2008 – Bennigan’s Franchising Company is thrilled to announce the opening of a new Bennigan’s Grill & Tavern location in Cancun, Mexico, continuing the overseas expansion of the brand.

The new restaurant, with a sleek, modern design, is centrally located in Cancun’s hotel zone in the “Plaza Form By The Sea” on Kukulcan Blvd., the hottest nightlife area in town. It offers unbeatable views of the beach and ocean, as well as the great food and happy hour all Bennigan’s are known for.

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

ASUR Announces Total Passenger Traffic for August 2008 Up 12.9% Year Over Year
MEXICO CITY, Sept 08, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S.A.B. de C.V. (ASUR), today announced that total passenger traffic for August 2008 increased by 12.9% when compared to August 2007.

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Mayan ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula delight
MARTINSBURG - A visit to the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico would not be complete without a visit to at least one of the ruins that abound there. This was the land of the ancient Maya. At one time the Maya occupied 125,450 square miles of land which included the present states of Chiapas, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatan and Quintana Roo in Mexico and stretched south to include Guatemala, Belize, Honduras and parts of El Salvador.

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Explore Cancun's Amazing Wildlife and Majestic Nature
CANCUN, Mexico, Aug 22, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Cancun is one of those few places where we can find nature's richness and diversity at its best. Through its reefs, mangroves and jungles, taking some time off the beach to explore wildlife is an essential part of every trip to Cancun, which offers a unique glimpse at fabulous sceneries under the waters and above where you can be in direct contact with wildlife.
In the jungles surrounding Cancun, you can go in search of one of the most admired animals by the Mayans: the jaguar. You can be part of a new expedition playing tribute to the habitat of this great feline. The tour offers activities such as snorkeling, exploring Mayan sites and camping on immaculate protected areas.

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Delta to begin nonstop Nashville-Cancun service
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Delta Air Lines plans to offer a nonstop flight between Nashville and Cancun beginning December 20.

According to a news release from the company, as an introductory offer the Saturday flights will cost $159 one-way.

Friday, August 15, 2008

Direct routes to Cancun offered by JetBlue
JetBlue Airways will start a new direct route between Tampa and Cancun, Mexico beginning Dec. 18.

Tampa will join other cities that already have nonstop flights to the Yucatan region of Mexico including Boston, New York and Orlando. Fares, according to JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU), will start at $99.
Bright future predicted for Mexican tourism
The tourism industry in Mexico can look forward to a bright future, according to an expert on foreign investment.

Chris Chadd, head of research at Property Frontiers, said that the country's established resorts of Cancun and Acapulco are 'testament to [its] potential'.
Direct routes to Cancun offered by JetBlue
JetBlue Airways will start a new direct route between Tampa and Cancun, Mexico beginning Dec. 18.

Tampa will join other cities that already have nonstop flights to the Yucatan region of Mexico including Boston, New York and Orlando. Fares, according to JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU), will start at $99.

Monday, August 11, 2008

Shaker of salt: Collector obsessed by tequila
TEPOZTLAN, Mexico — Ricardo Ampudia cradles the bottle of tequila like a baby. It is, after all, a rare "presidential" tequila - a bottle commissioned by former Mexican leader Jose Lopez Portillo when he was elected in 1976.

"It's exceptional," Ampudia tells a gathering of friends touring his collection. "It's what he would serve at the presidential dinner table."
Get away from it all in Cancun
It's just shy of 10 a.m. and the intense sun is already shimmering off the turquoise Mexican Caribbean Sea. My toes are firmly planted in the white sand and I'm sipping on a pina colada. OK, my second pina colada. When you're in Cancun, it's easy to lose track of, well, just about everything.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Mexico closes 5 small hotels south of Cancun
MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico's Environmental Department is closing down at least five small, upscale hotels and three other developments south of Cancun. Officials say the businesses don't have permission to operate in the protected area near the Tulum Ruins.

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Cancun offers more than lazy beach time
Along with the above, Cancun — a 2½-hour flight from Dallas — offers mucho activities, from swimming with dolphins to holding an alligator to swinging through the jungle. The operative word is "vamanos” or "let's go.”

"This is our fifth time here (to Cancun),” said one California tourist, there with her large extended family. In a seven-day trip, they like to spend five days going and doing, she said.

Saturday, June 28, 2008

Swimming with Whale Sharks, A Reality Near Cancun
CANCUN, JUNE 26-.Swimming with the Whale Shark, the largest fish in the world is a dream that can only become a reality in few places throughout the world, such as Australia and Belize. Closely and conveniently situated near the U.S., Cancun located in the Mexican Caribbean, is particularly privileged due to the fact that the majority of the whale shark species prefer these waters. The best time to be a part of this fantastic adventure is during the summer months of July and August.

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

WestJet Expands International Network With Two New Sun Destinations
CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwire - June 25, 2008) - WestJet (TSX:WJA) today announced the introduction of seasonal non-stop service to two new international sun destinations in the Caribbean: Bridgetown, Barbados and La Romana, Dominican Republic. These new sun destinations are part of WestJet's enhanced winter schedule, which will also include new service to Cancun and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, from various cities across Canada. WestJet will announce schedule details for the new Mexican destinations shortly.
Native ingredients and rituals distinguish Mexico's top spas
Once known mainly as cheaper alternatives to U.S. or European destination spas, Mexico's spas now offer thoroughly unique experiences that combine sophisticated treatments from all over the world with indigenous rituals such as the temazcal sweat house and native materials like nopal cactus, volcanic ash, chocolate, vanilla and honey — all from Mexico's tropical forests. Here are 10 of Mexico's most outrageous spas.
Tips to avoid being victimized on vacation
CANCÚN The vendors selling jewelry on the beach will say just about anything to get you to buy their merchandise. Police say you should be skeptical of their claims. Jewelry sellers often tell tourists that their wares are made of real silver and then quote prices starting at around $20, says Verónica Fajardo, a spokeswoman for the Cancún police.

Monday, June 23, 2008

Mexico's sales-tax refunds could prove taxing for U.S. tourists
Mexico is now offering sales-tax refunds for goods bought by foreign visitors in five popular tourist haunts — Mexico City, Cancun, Guadalajara, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta. But collecting the cash will require digesting lots of fine print as the program gets off the ground.

The refunds are for value-added tax paid on retail goods, and exclude hotel and restaurant tabs. The items must be purchased in stores that have registered with the rebate program — only about 5% of total retailers at present, though the government is "aggressively" marketing the program to others.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Mexico: This summer, a sales tax rebate for visitors
Starting this month, foreign shoppers can get a refund on Mexico's 15 percent VAT (value added tax). Claim your refund by picking up a form at at a VAT booth at one of the following airports: Cancún, Guadalajara, Los Cabos, Mexico City, and Puerto Vallarta. At Mexico City's main airport, for instance, there are currently nine booths.

Thursday, June 5, 2008

5 Post Graduation Getaways for Grads
Cancun, Mexico - Since most graduates are notoriously short on cash, you'll be relieved to know that you can do Cancun on a limited budget - and still have the time of your life. Besides being a part of a non-stop party, there's plenty to do and see in Cancun. Spend a day exploring the Mayan ruins in Talum or checking out Chichen Itza.

Monday, June 2, 2008

Tropical Storm Arthur over Yucatan
CANCUN, Mexico, May 31 (UPI) -- Tropical Storm Arthur was over Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula Saturday, prompting warnings from Cabo Catoche to the Belize border.

The storm was expected to weaken over land as it moved toward the west-northwest near 8 mph, the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami said.

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Cancun: Setting the Global Standard for Premium Tourism
Only one word is needed to convey the feeling of being transported to a different and magical world: Cancun.

Magnificent turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, awe-inspiring natural wonders, a variety of entertainment complexes with endless possibilities, luxury resorts, professional golf courses and exquisite cuisine that combines culture, flavor and beauty in every dish. Cancun has something for everyone.

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Mexico to cruisers: Shop here, and we'll refund your taxes
Good news, cruisers: It'll soon cost you less to go on a shopping spree in Mexican ports. Industry watcher Travel Weekly reports that Mexico soon will begin reimbursing the 15% value-added tax (VAT) that cruisers and other tourists pay when buying goods in the country.

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Despite housing crunch, boomers still buying in Mexico
The baby boomer generation continues to drive the search for second homes, not just in the United States but in Mexico and throughout Latin America as well. According to a new survey from the National Association of Realtors, vacation- and investment-home sales declined with the overall market in 2007, but still accounted for 33 percent of all existing- and new-home sales.

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

How to fly Mexico's budget-friendly skies
While U.S. airlines have been dropping like flies (or at least grounding their planes and filing for bankruptcy), Mexico's discount airlines have been steadily adding new destinations. Rather than suffering an interminable bus ride, now you can start your vacation in Guadalajara and zip over to Cancún to end it on the beach for about $120.

Tuesday, May 6, 2008


Saddle up in old Cancun
When my teenage daughter, Sarah, persuaded me to go horseback riding in Cancun a few winters ago, I don't think she knew what she was getting us into. I know I didn't.

Monday, May 5, 2008

5 Places in Mexico to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo
If you're looking for a weekend getaway that won't break the budget, consider one of these Mexico vacation spots for places to playa (playa means "beach") this Cinco de Mayo. During this traditional day of festivities, margaritas and tequila shots taste even better in Mexico. Besides the wild nightlife, these hot Mexico vacation spots offer plenty to do and see during the day. Or you can just sit back and relax on the beach or by the pool at your own private villa rental.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Over 500 Top Leaders to Gather in WEF Cancun
MEXICO CITY - The World Economic Forum (WEF) released on April 9, 2008 more details during a press conference on the eve of its regional meeting in Latin America.

The World Economic Forum on Latin America, scheduled to take place in Cancún, Mexico, April 15 - 16, 2008, will bring together over 500 top global leaders from business, politics, government, academia, civil society and the media from 46 countries.

Under the theme “Securing a Place in an Uncertain Economic Landscape”, the meeting will be co-hosted by the Government of Mexico under the patronage of President Felipe Calderón, who will be participating in the event.

Saturday, April 12, 2008

Royal Holiday or Royal Headache?
If you think buying a timeshare in Mexico sounds like more trouble than it's worth, the Royal Holiday Vacation Club has a deal for you. It offers something completely different -- let's call it the un-timeshare.

Thursday, April 10, 2008


Over 500 top leaders to gather in Cancun, Mexico
Mexico City, April 9th.- The World Economic Forum released today more details during a press conference on the eve of its regional meeting in Latin America. The World Economic Forum on Latin America, scheduled to take place in Cancún, Mexico, from 15 to 16 April 2008, will bring together over 500 top global leaders from business, politics, government, academia, civil society and the media from 46 countries.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Cellulite Beware at Mexico's Bikini Bootcamp
When I first read about the six-day Bikini Bootcamp at Amansala, a remote beach off Tulum, Mexico, all I could conjure up were images of toned swimsuit models gracefully sprinting over the white sand, with me lumbering behind them looking distinctly un-sylph like. The pictures on the Web site confirmed my suspicion: this was a camp for beach babes. My friends agreed; they weren't going either.

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

Clubs, bars Cancun's greatest Spring Break attraction
CANCUN, Mexico - At 32,000 feet in the air, it appears - a majestic blend of sapphire and azure water, seemingly endless, outside the porthole window. The plane lands and waiting just outside the airport doors is the welcome cantina bar, a fitting reminder of the location - Cancun, Mexico. College students have been flocking to this ocean-side locale for sun, surf and all the adult beverages they can get their hands on. Every year, this Spring Break Mecca welcomes its young crowd with open arms and open bars.

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Mainland Cancun is a slice of authentic Mexico
CANCUN, Mexico — “Beer Barrel Polka” bobs through the moist heat with a tropical, jack-in-the-box flair. The trio at the busy, open-air restaurant is a marimba band, and two of the musicians hammer away on their wooden cousin to a xylophone.

Saturday, March 1, 2008

Cancun UjENA Jam '08 Breaks the Records
Cancun (PRWEB) February 29, 2008 -- Participants came from all parts of the world to this one-of-a-kind convention of models and photographers united by a single theme: to get ahead in the highly competitive field of fashion photography. The mission was accomplished at the January 2008 Ujena Jam held on the streets, beaches and jungles of Mexico's premiere resort destination, Cancun.

The weeklong event, held January 13-22, attracted a record-setting number of aspiring models and photographers vying for $30,000 in prizes, scholarships, gifts and a career-defining break with UjENA or one of its prestige partners.

Friday, February 22, 2008


Sinkholes on Cancun Golf Courses Offer a Unique Twist
Today, when the PGA Tour follows up it first-ever south-of-the-border visit to Mexico and its Cancun/Riviera Maya region, players will have to contend with additional hazards that they don't normally find on courses here in the States: giant sinkholes.

Monday, February 18, 2008


Leave the tourist resort and take a 55-cent bus ride to savor the sizzle of the Yucatan
Mexico "Beer Barrel Polka" bobs through the moist heat with a tropical, jack-in-the-box flair. The trio at the busy, open-air restaurant is a marimba band, and two of the musicians hammer away on their wooden cousin to a xylophone.

They wear white short-sleeve shirts and matching pants, and could pass as barbers in the States. Because their featured instrument is the size of a park bench, they can't stroll among the tables. They use eyes and smiles to encourage diners to place pesos in their upturned hat.

Monday, January 28, 2008

Cancun, native style
CANCUN, Mexico - 'Beer Barrel Polka" bobs through the moist heat with a tropical, jack-in-the-box flair. The trio at the busy, open-air restaurant is a marimba band, and two of the musicians hammer away on their wooden cousin to a xylophone.

Mexico eco-parks: See wildlife and nature near Cancun
CANCUN, Mexico - Going wild in Mexico doesn't have to mean a tequila-fueled beach vacation dancing on tabletops surrounded by carousing spring-breakers. In fact, the big party destination of Cancun is a short distance from lush parks hosting wildlife of another sort.

Friday, January 25, 2008



The Canadian Press: Mexico's eco-parks let tourists see wildlife and nature near Cancun
CANCUN, Mexico - Going wild in Mexico doesn't have to mean a tequila-fuelled beach vacation dancing on tabletops surrounded by carousing spring-breakers. In fact, the big party destination of Cancun is a short distance from lush parks hosting wildlife of another sort.

Neon pink flamingos, howler monkeys, brilliant toucans and mysterious sea turtles are just a few of the locals you can meet by trading la vida loca for a more nature-friendly trip.

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

One of the Newest Cancun Golf Courses to Play on a Mexico Golf Vacation
If you've been considering a Mexico golf vacation, you've probably heard the name Playa Mujeres Golf Club buzzing around. An opulent Greg Norman design that opened in June 2006, it's one of many new Cancun golf courses that are elevating this area to true "golf destination" status. Here are a few handy tips if you want to make it part of your Mexico golf vacation: First, Playa Mujeres lies just north of Cancun's "hotel zone", but don't believe anyone who tells you that the course is just 15 minutes away. Not even Cancun's craziest cab driver can get there that quickly. Give yourself at least 30 minutes.

Tuesday, January 15, 2008


Cancun: From fishing village to tourist colossus
It’s hard to believe that Cancun, in the late 1960s, was little more than a small fishing village.

In 1972, though, things started to change when planners built the first hotel on a 14-mile strip now known as the Hotel Zone, a narrow spit of land that overlooks both the Caribbean Sea and Nichupte Lagoon.

Today, exponential growth spurred by tourism has pushed the full-time resident population to 800,000, the number of annual visitors to 4 million, the number of hotels to 140 and the number of hotel rooms to 26,000. Just as significant, 20 percent of the city’s hotels have a Gran Tourismo rating, Mexico’s highest grade, said to exceed a five-star rating.

Wonder what prompted these impressive figures?