Tag Archives: Stay

British Virgin Islands, Caribbean, Play, Stay, Trip Ideas

Five Best Snorkel Resorts in the British Virgin Islands

July 25, 2017

The British Virgin Islands are ringed in colorful coral reefs. But getting to many of these snorkel-worthy sites will require a boat ride, which means showing up on time, and getting in and out of the water on a time table. Wouldn’t it be great if you could just wade in from shore, make a short swim to the reef, then stay as long as you like? At these select beachfront resorts, that’s exactly what can happen.

Bitter End Yacht Club

This landmark property is a favorite with both visiting yachtsmen and shore side guests, who enjoy sweeping views of Virgin Gorda’s North Sound from hillside cottages. The resort bustles with activities that include sailing regattas, dive excursions and fishing charters. The resort offers 15 weekly snorkel trips to area reefs and more distant sites such as the Baths and Anegada. Guests can use one of the resort’s Boston Whalers to create their own snorkel cruise, or simply walk down the beach to Wedding Point to discover a reef line where colorful tropical fish hide among the corals and rocks close to the shore. A swim into slightly deeper water provides a chance to see stingrays, turtles, and silver-sided tarpon. Keen-eyed snorkelers may even catch a glimpse of relics from the days of sail such as anchors and cannon balls, now encrusted within the corals of the reef.

Bitter End Yacht Club operates a snorkel boat that makes regular trips to the reefs around Virgin Gorda. This stable and spacious vessel has ample room for families and groups. Photo: Bitter End Yacht Club

Mango Bay Resort

On a quiet beach on the west coast of Virgin Gorda, the private villas of Mango Bay Resort overlook a large coral reef that begins less than 50 feet from shore, and stretches the entire length of Mahoe Bay. The waters are rich in fish life, but not accessible by boat, so resort guests have the reefs all to themselves. The property includes six villas, two located directly on the beach, and four more tucked into a tropical garden just inland. Interiors feature upscale Italian contemporary furnishings, with studio to five- bedroom floor plans that allow for flexible groups. Each unit includes kitchens, living and dining areas and expansive outdoor terraces with BBQ grills and outdoor showers.

The Mango Bay Resort is located right on the beach at Virgin Gorda’s Mahoe Bay, giving guests exclusive access to one of the island’s best coral reefs. Photo: Kent Smith/Flickr

Peter Island Resort & Spa

Each of the five beaches on this private 1800-acre island resort has its own personality, from the lively water sports scene at Deadman’s Beach to the intimate seclusion of Honeymoon Beach. To find the best snorkeling reefs, guests can check out complimentary equipment from the water sports center, follow a footpath over a low hill to White Bay and settle in to a beachfront tiki hut. The reef is just a short swim away, and the fish life is abundant. With more than 70 percent of the island left in its natural state, guests have miles of trails to bike and stroll, plus a variety of active pursuits that include beach volleyball, tennis and morning yoga. Accommodation choices include ocean view rooms, beachfront suites and private hillside villas. The spa offers 10 indoor treatment rooms, two outdoor pavilions and a couple’s suite, all with spectacular views of Big Reef Bay.

A split level view of the shoreline at Peter Island’s White Bay reveals corals growing on the rock formations that begin right at water’s edge, and provide habitat for tropical fish. Photo: Armando Jenik/Peter Island Resort

Marina Cay Hotel

Just off the eastern shore of Tortola, the green speck of land known as Marina Cay sits within a coral-rimmed lagoon. Snorkelers can wade in from most any point on the white sand beach that rings this eight-acre private island, and a few fin strokes will bring them to reefs swarming with a wealth of colorful fish life. The boutique resort offers just eight hillside rooms, decorated in a casual island style with wicker furniture, louvered windows and verandas that provide expansive views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. The resort is owned by the Pusser’s Rum company, and is a favorite stopover for sailors, who come to shop in the Pusser’s Company Store and dine at the on-the-beach restaurant, which specializes in traditional West Indian-style and Caribbean dishes like conch chowder, spicy jerk chicken, and cod-and-potato fish cakes.

An aerial view of Marina Cay shows the large area of coral reef that begins just offshore of the island. Snorkelers can spend hours exploring this formation. Photo: Martin Ronchetti/Flickr

Cooper Island Beach Club

Sitting on the northwest shore of its namesake island, the Cooper Island Beach Club is a family owned eco resort that delivers a lifestyle of tropical barefoot luxury. Ten beachfront guest rooms sit nestled among palm trees and tropical flowers, with expansive views of Sir Francis Drake Channel and the islands beyond. Interiors blend whitewash timbers with the warm tones of recycled teak furniture and the elegance of gauze-shrouded canopy beds. With mask and snorkel in hand, guests can enter the water at the resort’s dingy dock and swim along the shoreline to a u-shaped reef that holds schools of blue tang, butterfly fish and snapper, along with passing eagle rays. Sea turtles are also a common sight, and the resort sponsors a turtle tagging and conservation program. After returning to shore, guests can freshen up and take in the sunset at the resort’s rum tasting room and on- site microbrewery. Order the signature Turtle IPA and a portion of the sale will go towards turtle conservation.

A large tarpon cuts through a massive school of silverside minnows swarming on a reef that is located just offshore of the Cooper Island Beach Club. Photo: Alex Fox/Cooper Island Beach Club

Africa, Islands, Seychelles, Stay, Trip Ideas

The Seychelles Most Romantic Resorts

July 25, 2017

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It would be hard to imagine a more romantic destination than the Seychelles. Water doesn’t get any bluer. Sand doesn’t get any whiter. And nowhere else on Earth will you find ancient granite monoliths rising from garden-like settings of palms and flowering trees. Often lauded as the most scenic islands on the planet, the Seychelles are also a sanctuary for rare and exotic plants and animals. And then there are the beaches, which always make the “top-ten” and “best of” lists. This truly is the once-in-a-lifetime destination, ideal for honeymooner, second honeymooners or any couple looking to celebrate and share a special event. Such experiences are worth a splurge on a truly world-class resort. There are a number of premier and utterly romantic properties to choose from, and here are the three we consider the best of all.

Banyan Tree Seychelles

On the island of Mahe, Intendance Bay is known as one of the most breathtakingly beautiful beaches in the Seychelles. And considering the competition, that’s saying something. With emerald green slopes rising above powder fine white sands, and imposing granite formations to accent the surf washed shoreline, it’s understandable why actor Peter Sellers and Beatles member George Harrison once chose this location for private retreats. In the years since, their bay front properties have been transformed into the Banyan Tree Seychelles resort, with 60 Creole-style villas spread across a landscape of palms and takamaka trees, offering both privacy and spectacular water views. The resort’s central buildings are styled to resemble a colonial plantation, with a spectacular beach view pool, award winning spa and the chef-acclaimed Au Jardin d’Epices restaurant, which pairs Creole-fusion culinary innovation with glamorous views of the ocean.

The granite boulders and rock formations that line Intendance Bay at the Banyan Tree resort are more than 750 million years old. They are thought to be the remains of an ancient super continent. Photo: Banyan Tree

There is 24-hour cart service to connect villas to the resort’s central amenities and the beach, but once guests settle in to their private oasis of calm, they may not want to leave. Each villa is tucked into the jungle but also positioned for water views. Private terraces and pavilions include outdoor living and dining areas, and personal infinity edge plunge pools. Interiors are finished in a contemporary colonial style, feature floor-to– ceiling windows that add sense of spacious drama, and include couple centric features such as an indoor sunken bathtub and a king-sized bed. For the ultimate stay, guests can choose one of the resort’s five Intendance pool villas, which are located high on a rocky outcrop at the northern end of the beach.

The Creole-Colonial style villas at the Banyan Tree blend indoor and outdoor spaces, and place personal pools on the outer edge of elevated decks to create an additional element of drama. Photo: Banyan Tree

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

On the west coast of Mahe Island, the expansive grounds of the Four Seasons Seychelles spread across more than 170 hillside acres, and overlook the calm waters of a private cove. Here, the island’s iconic granite formations are scattered across a landscape of cinnamon trees and frangipani. To take full advantage of the setting, the resort created a collection of unique villas that combine the fantasy of tree house living with unforgettable vistas of a tropical island paradise. These villas deliver plenty of private personal space for couples, with terraces that include outdoor showers and a large plunge pool. Creole-inspired interiors are studies in elegant simplicity, with plush white bedding providing a counterpoint to the warm tones of natural wood. Even more spectacular are the resort’s two and three-bedroom suites and residence villas, which blend large outdoor areas with opulent furnishings.

The staff at the Four Seasons Seychelles resort can fulfill personal requests and organize a range of special events. Here, the beach becomes the memorable backdrop for a destination wedding. Photo: Four Seasons

In addition to powder fine white sand, the beach at the Four Seasons is blessed with calm waters ideal for swimmers and snorkelers. The resort offers a variety of water sports, and unlike some other high-end properties in the Seychelles, the Four Seasons is a family-friendly resort, with dedicated youth programs. With or without the youngsters, couples can indulge in pampering treatments at the hilltop spa, which commands the best views on the property. Sunset views of Petite Anse beach and the Indian Ocean can also be enjoyed at the Zez Lounge. Memorable dinners for two await at the adjacent restaurant, or at the oceanside dining room of Kannel, which serves premier seafood, Creole and Asian cuisines. The Four Season earns top marks for service that is both personal and unobtrusive. Guests often comment that though the property is expansive, the amenities and staff create an atmosphere with the feel of an intimate boutique resort.

With balconies suspended on stilts to rise above the surrounding landscape, the hillside villas at the Four Seasons resort were created to evoke impressions of living in a tree house. Photo: Four Seasons

Le Château De Feuilles

Small, secluded, spectacular and utterly romantic. With just nine rooms, and a fully attentive yet low-key service ethos, this boutique retreat has the feel of a good friend’s vacation home. And that friend has immaculate taste and a flair for the dramatic, as the Château De Feuilles perches high on the granite peak of Point Cabris, delivering panoramic views the Bay of St. Anne below. The garden-like grounds brim with oleanders, frangipani trees and bougainvillea, all sculpted to accentuate the unique forms of the island’s iconic rock formations. Villas continue the nature first theme, with exposed stonewalls, driftwood accents and furnishings, and palm-thatched rooms. The true wow factor is the view, and each room takes maximum advantage of the elevated surroundings with floor plans that blend indoor and outdoor spaces with a seamless flow.

Seychelles Le Chateau De Feuilles Bungalow

The main pool at Le Château De Feuilles sits high on a hillside, providing guests with a relaxing garden-like setting along with unobstructed views of island and ocean. Photo: Le Château De Feuilles

Le Château De Feuilles is located on Praslin Island, near the Vallée de Mai. This UNESCO Heritage site is home to the rare coco de mer palm. The island is reached by short commuter flights from the international airport on Mahe, or by helicopter directly from the hotel. The relaxed and discreet setting makes the hotel a favorite with celebrities, but all guests are treated like stars. Complimentary car service gives on-call access to the beach, and the front desk can arrange activities such as diving, fishing, golf and day trips to Grande Soeur, which is a private island available only to hotel guests. The hotel’s Balinese spa sits at the peak of a hill, and includes an outdoor soak tub with 360-degree views of the island. As would be expected from a member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux brand, the chefs at Le Château De Feuilles take dining to an art form. Fruits, vegetables and eggs come from onsite organic gardens, and local meats and seafood are incorporated into an innovative international cuisine that pays homage to local flavors. Dinners are particularly memorable, as four- and five-course meals are served by candlelight in an open-air setting that takes in sea and sky. It would be hard to imagine a more romantic setting anywhere.

Central America, Guatemala, Stay, Trip Ideas

Lake Atitlán’s Best Lakeside Lodges

July 25, 2017

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Guatemala’s Lake Atitlan has been called one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the world. Ringed by volcanic peaks, and more than 1,000 feet deep, this high altitude lake is one of the country’s most popular resort destinations. It’s a particular favorite with the backpacking crowd, and lakeside villages are filled with hostels and modest pension-style accommodations. But there are also several boutique lodges and hotels that blend upscale comforts with regional authenticity. Here are three of our favorites.

Laguna Lodge

A stay at the Laguna Lodge begins with a boat ride, because this nine-room eco-luxe lodge can only be reached by water. Tucked into a private 100-acre nature preserve, the lodge rises from the shore in terraced levels of thatch- roofed rooms, each positioned to provide unobstructed views of the lake. In keeping with its sustainable ethos, the lodge was created by the owners using a combination of recycled materials and renewable resources. The structure integrates materials such as volcanic stone, palm wood and adobe bricks made on site. Each room has sliding glass doors that open to waterfront balconies. Inside, king-sized beds are covered in Guatemalan textiles and rooms feature locally made furnishings and handicrafts.

Rooms of the Laguna Lodge are designed to showcase lake views and the surrounding natural environment. Touches such as solar hot water add to the property’s eco-chic appeal. Photo: Laguna Lodge

The rambling multi-level terraces of the lodge offer a number of private sun decks and thatch-roof relaxation pavilions furnished with day beds, hammocks and couches. A stone terrace by the water offers a hot tub, and an on-site spa. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a bar and lounge. Guests can use the lodge’s kayaks to explore the lake, follow hillside paths into the nature preserve, or take a bit longer walk into the nearby village of Santa Cruz La Laguna. The dining room at the lodge’s award-winning Zotz restaurant delivers panoramic views by day, and is bathed in the warm light of a stone fireplace and antique candelabras at night. The gourmet vegetarian menu is based on items grown at the on-site organic garden, or locally sourced from small farms.

The bright colors and earth tones of the lounge at the Laguna Lodge were chosen to complement the greens of the surrounding nature reserve, and the blue waters of the lake. Photo: Picasa/Laguna Lodge

Casa Palopo

Perched on a hillside above Santa Catarina Palopo village, this former private estate has been transformed into one of the most luxurious and eclectic boutique hotels in Guatemala. The ambiance blends rustic and chic in equal measure, with rough-hewn beam ceilings, native stonework and brilliantly hued adobe walls that provide a backdrop for colonial-era antiques and original artwork. Guests mingle around the open fireplace of the drawing room, or straddle vintage barber chairs in the Martini Bar. The open-air Palopo 6.8 restaurant sits on a terrace high above the lake. It is a favorite dining destination for visitors from around the lake, and a gathering point for sunset socials. Another favorite gathering spot is the infinity edge pool, which perches dramatically on a bluff above the lake.

The intimate social area at the Casa Palopo is decorated with an eclectic mix of antiques and artifacts from around the world, including Asian sculptures, original art and a confessional booth. Photo: Casa Palopo

Guest rooms are tucked away on lakeside terraces and within sequestered courtyards, each uniquely finished in rich woods, tiles and bright adobe, and furnished with unique Colonial-era antiques. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors usher in light and views, and there are no televisions or other distractions to intrude on the mood. In addition to seven rooms, the Casa Palopo offers a two-suite villa atop the hill, with a private pool, and full-service kitchen. Guests can schedule day trips to a number of unique lakeside villages. San Marcos is a center for meditation, yoga, and massage, while Santiago and San Juan are filled with art galleries and crafts markets. A more ambitious trip awaits those who arrange for a climb on the volcano behind the village of San Pedro. And for the ultimate in upscale adventure, guests can soar over the landscape as they arrive at Casa Palopo aboard the hotel’s six- passenger helicopter.

The terrace at Casa Palopo’s villa delivers expansive views of Lake Atitlán. This hillside retreat can accommodate families and groups in a pair of fully appointed suites. Photo: Al Argueta/Casa Palopo

Hotel Atitlán

The largest and most elegant hotel on Lake Atitlán sits on a prime piece of waterfront that was once the estate of a family owned coffee plantation. Hotel Atitlán is set within a botanical garden filled with roses, orchids, bougainvillea and azaleas. Each of the hotel’s 60 rooms and suites provides lakes views from a private balcony, and some include fireplaces. Interiors showcase a design and décor that reflect the elegant Spanish colonial style of an 18th century Guatemalan plantation. Each room is individually decorated with artisan-crafted furniture, hand woven fabrics and authentic original artwork drawn from local Guatemalan villages. Floors are made from traditional tile and covered with beautifully hand-woven area rugs. Modern conveniences include complimentary Wi-Fi Internet, cable television and spa-style baths with plush towels and deluxe bath products.

Hotel Atitlán is surrounded by meticulously cultivated botanical gardens and a butterfly reserve that is home to more than 2,000 plants and 25 species of butterfly native to Guatemala. Photo: Hotel Atitlán

The hotel sits in a quiet oasis of greenery, but is just minutes away from the town of Panajachel. The restaurant is a favorite dining destination within the Lake Atitlán region, both for the food and the view. The cuisine is a fusion of regional and international specialties, based on fresh fruits, vegetables and produce sourced from nearby farms. Guests may dine in one of the two indoor dining rooms or out on the poolside terrace — with all three settings offering uninterrupted lake and volcano views. The main dining room is finished with elegant terracotta appointments, and features large bay windows. The intimate mahogany trimmed bar area is a favorite gathering spot at happy hour, and the sunsets over the water are not to be missed. Another favorite gathering area is the hotel’s infinity pool and hot tub deck, which feature an equally memorable view of the lake, along with poolside food and beverage service.

Sunset silhouettes the profiles of Atitlán, Toliman and San Pedro volcanoes, as seen from the pool deck at the Hotel Atitlán. This setting is a favorite venue for weddings and other events. Photo: Hotel Atitlán

Cancun, Mexico, Plan, Stay, Trip Ideas

Mexico’s Lost City Resorts

July 17, 2017

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Mexico’s ancient cities draw visitors from around the world. Most will arrive at these sites by tour bus, follow their guide on a standard route through pyramids and temples, and then clamber back aboard in time to hit a nearby gift shop. But there’s another way. Some of the country’s most popular and impressive archeological sites are served by nearby hotels. Stay at one of these properties and you can visit the ancients early, or stay late to take in the surroundings without the crowds.

Explorean Kohunlich at Kohunlich

This adventure-themed resort is tucked into the Yucatan jungle 20 miles west of the coastal town of Chetumal. It is an upscale all-inclusive, but with a difference. Luxury meets nature in a collection of thatch-roofed guest bungalows and cabanas that showcase the indigenous flora and fauna, and pay homage to the region’s historic Mayan culture. Also unique to the Explorean brand is daily-guided activities offered as part of the all-inclusive rate. Billed as soft adventures, these vary daily, and include everything from jungle treks and rope courses to night kayak tours and bike rides to the archeological sites.

The elevated pool deck at the Explorean Kohunlich resort gives guests an up-close view of the lush jungles of the Yucatan lowlands. Photo: Explorean

Kohunlich Ruins

The must-do activity at Explorean is a visit to the ancient city of Kohunlich. This site dates back to the Early Classic Mayan period, and was thriving as a regional trade center as early as 500 B.C. The ruins remain surrounded by jungle, and echo to the cries of howler monkeys. A highlight of any site tour is the Temple of the Masks, a 2,500-year-old pyramid with a central stairway decorated with a collection of eight-foot-high human masks that remain remarkably well preserved. The site is also noted for it’s extensive network of water channels, which represented an amazing feat of hydraulic engineering. The best views are found by climbing the platform known as 27 Steps, which rises above the surrounding jungle. Though sometimes visited by tour busses, the grounds of Kohunlich usually see relatively few visitors.

For more than 1,500 years, the Mayan city of Kohunlich remained an important stop on the trading routes that crisscrossed Central America. Photo: Fredtruck/Flickr

Hotel Chan-Kah Resort Village at Palenque

The Chan-Kah Resort Village is the closest full-service hotel near the Palenque archeological site, but that’s not the only reason to stay at this unique property. The hotel’s 76 stand-alone casitas are tucked into a 50- acre ecological reserve, and each includes a pair of window walls that showcase the lush jungle foliage just outside. Buildings, patios and pathways make extensive use of native stonework, and there are three lagoon-like pools also built with native rock to resemble the region’s natural cenotes. The open-air dining area enjoys sweeping forest views, and there is a full- service spa on site. In addition to the ancient city that is practically next- door, the surrounding area offers a number of refreshing waterfalls, including the famous cascades of Agua Azul.

Stone pathways connect the individual casitas of the Chan-Kah Resort Village. The resort’s 50-acre grounds showcase native foliage and are a haven for bird life. Photo: Rob Young/Flickr

Palenque Ruins

The ruins of Palenque are one of the most popular attractions in the Mexican state of Chiapas. The soaring pyramids of this medium-size site contain some of the finest sculptures, carvings and building architecture of any Mayan city. Walls filled with well-preserved hieroglyphics have provided historians with detailed insights into the history and traditions of the city’s residents and rulers. Any visit should include the Temple of Inscriptions, which houses the second longest glyphic text from the Maya world. Also in the temples is a hidden passageway that leads to the tomb of Pacal the Great, Palenque’s most powerful king. Other highlights include the Temple of the Cross, Temple of the Sun, and Temple of the Foliated Cross, each of which are adorned in sculptures and intricate bas-relief carvings.

Almost 90 percent of the city of Palenque remains covered in jungle. The excavated portion includes impressive pyramids and temples. Photo: Carlos Galindo/Flickr

Mayaland Hotel and Bungalows at Chichen Itza

This landmark property remains the premier address for visitors to the archaeological site at Chichen Itza. Created in 1923, the hotel’s architecture is representative of the Yucatan region’s 19th century haciendas, with Moorish and Spanish influences. Family owned and operated throughout it’s history, Mayaland is known for integrating the Mayan culture’s storied past into its identity. Each hotel associate is of direct Mayan ancestry, there is a resident anthropologist versed in the traditions and culture of the region, and Maya is the hotel’s official language. Although a stay at Mayaland is very much a cultural immersion; it is also a luxurious retreat providing personal service and excellent cuisine. The lushly landscaped grounds include the outdoor pools and luxurious bungalows inspired by Maya casitas, each with private outdoor gardens. The hotel has an on-site spa, and offers a range of outdoor activities such horseback rides on jungle trials. As an added perk, guests have a private entrance to the archeological park.

For almost 100 years, the Mayaland Hotel has been a favorite with visitors to Chichen Itza. The resort is now operated by the descendants of the founder. Photo: Graeme Churchard/Flickr

Chichen Itza Ruins

Chichen Itza is considered one of the most important cities of the Mayans, and for more than 150 years, it has also been one of the most visited. A number of the site’s iconic pyramids and structures have been meticulously excavated and in some cases restored to provide an impressive glimpse at the city’s former size and design. The most recognized attraction is the Temple of Kukulkan. This 100-foot-high pyramid is aligned with the sun’s path to create shadows said to resemble a creeping serpent. Other highlights include the ball court, celestial observatory, and the Chac Mool altar at the Temple of the Warriors.

The iconic Temple of Kukulkan at Chichen Itza. Each night, it is the site of a spectacular sound and light show that tells the story of the ancients. Photo: Ramos Andrade/Flickr

Uxmal Resort Maya at Uxmal

If tour buses and crowds aren’t your thing, you can book a room at the modern Uxmal Resort. From there, you can make a short drive or a half-mile morning walk to the archaeological site, getting there well ahead of the day trippers arriving from Merida or the Cancun area. The hotel’s 82 well- appointed rooms offer a full range of modern amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi and flat-screen televisions, along with an on-site spa, pool, 24-hour fitness center and a well-regarded restaurant. A highlight is the view from room balconies, which takes in the jungle and the ancient city. To get into the spirit of the local culture, guests can also experience a purifying temazcal ceremony in the resort’s traditional Mayan sweat lodge.

The Uxmal Resort Maya is a four-star property that provides sweeping views of the jungle, a Mayan sweat lodge and the Uxmal archaeological zone is just a half-mile away. Photo: Uxmal Resort

Uxmal Ruins

Uxmal was one of the most powerful cities in the Mayan empire. It was still inhabited at the time the Spanish arrived, and though abandoned soon after, its impressive buildings, pyramids and roads were never fully lost to the jungle. The site has attracted international visitors since the early 19th century, and benefits from ongoing repair and restoration work. Uxmal’s most impressive structure is the 130-foot-high Pyramid of the Magician, which is unique among Mayan structures, as it incorporates rounded sides, and an elliptical base. This and other ceremonial structures are said to represent the pinnacle of late Maya art and architecture. A number of buildings are adorned with likenesses of Chaac, the Maya rain deity, and history says that when an incantation to the god was uttered during a visit from England’s Queen Elizabeth II, it immediately began to rain.

At Uxmal, the Pyramid of the Magician rises nearly 120 feet above the jungle. The structure takes in five different temples built one atop the next. Photo: Douglas Dreher/Flickr

Papaya Playa Project at Tulum

Part hotel, part beach club and fully committed to eco-conscious principles, the Papaya Playa Project is undoubtedly the most eclectic address in a beach town known for its bohemian, new age vibe. The 13-acre property sits on a 20-foot high limestone ledge overlooking a spectacular half-mile stretch of beach. The owners point out that while the site could support a 1,500-room resort, they have limited development to just 80 eco-friendly casitas, leaving more than 90 percent of the grounds in their natural state, or planted in cashew orchards and banana and coconut groves. Their commitment to sustainability includes things such as low-energy and low impact water treatment systems, extensive use of natural and locally- sourced materials and organic produce, and a pledge to become a zero emissions and zero contamination community by June 2018.

Coconut trees shade an eco-themed casita at the Papaya Playa Project. Set on a bluff above the Caribbean, these structures are positioned to take in refreshing sea breezes. Photo: Papaya Playa Project

Tulum Ruins

Just up the beach is the historic city of Tulum. This ancient settlement was established as a seaport, trading mainly in turquoise and jade. It is unique, as it is the only Mayan city built on the coast, and one of a very few protected by walls. These 20-foot thick ramparts run for a half mile on three sides of the site, with the east side left open to the ocean. Many of the buildings within this walled compound have been reduced to stone outcroppings, but a number of important structures remain. The most prominent is the iconic Castillo, which perches on a rock bluff 35 feet above the beach. Another highlight is the Temple of the Frescoes, which houses a large mural depicting the three worlds of the Mayan universe. No visit to the site is complete without taking the stairway from the Castillo down to the water, where rock outcroppings create hidden coves that are the perfect place for a swim.

The Castillo at Tulum was once thought to be a temple, but was actually a lighthouse and navigation beacon for Mayan cargo canoes traveling the coast. Photo: Guillen Pérez/Flickr

Caribbean, Jamaica, St. Lucia, U.S. Virgin Islands

Yoga Retreats in the Caribbean

July 10, 2017

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The search for balance and inner peace becomes a lot easier in the right setting. Especially if that setting is a Caribbean beach. You can begin your personal path to enlightenment with a yoga and wellness retreat offered at several of the Caribbean’s premier beachfront resorts. Here’s what to expect.

Cleanse Retreat, The Buccaneer Resort, St. Croix

Think of it as a tune up for both body and soul. During the week of July 17 to 24, holistic fitness coach Stacey Stone and board- certified health coach Karin Del Maestro host a Cleanse Retreat at St. Croix’s Buccaneer resort that will leave you detoxed, refreshed and vibrant. Each day, participants will learn new ways to build a healthy body and develop a long-term vibrant healthy state. Karin will lead daily cleanse and wellness workshops, while Stacey provides one or two daily movement, yoga and meditation classes. Participants will also enjoy a special daily meal plan based on seasonal foods that will help cleanse body and mind.

The Buccaneer’s Mermaid Beach is the perfect place to relax after daily yoga sessions. Guests seeking solitude can also visit secluded Whistle Beach or sail to the wildlife refuge at Buck Island. Photo: Buccaneer

In addition to daily coaching support, yoga, movement and mediation sessions, participants can enjoy all the recreational amenities of the Buccaneer, including the use of snorkeling gear, paddleboards, kayaks, and exclusive access to the resort’s three spectacular beaches. Two packages are offered. A four-night session is $2742 single and $2117 double per person. Or plan to take in the entire week for the seven-night package with rates of $3951 single and $2858 double, per person. The package includes room and tax, daily cleanse and wellness workshops, movement classes, all meals and more. Both Karin and Stacey are available for additional one-on-one sessions for an additional fee. www.TheBuccaneer.com

Yoga and Tai Chi Weeks, Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa, Jamaica

Whether you are new to yoga and energy work, or an avid devotee looking to enhance your practice, these Jamaican retreats are for you. On the shores of the Caribbean Sea, you will join celebrated yoga teachers and holistic nutritional lectures for a week of restorative activities and a full slate of classes. The program includes multiple daily yoga sessions, with offerings for those new to yoga, along with total-immersion programs such as Yoga for Life or Yin Yoga for those looking to enhance their practice. Classes range from guidance in align and flow to cooking classes and mediation sessions, along with movement-based programs in Pilates, dance, spinning, aquacize and nature and power walks.

Jamaica’s Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort is an ideal setting for a sunset session of yoga on the beach. This all-inclusive property places an emphasis on health and fitness. Photo: Jewel Paradise Cove

The Paradise Cove Beach Resort is chic adults-only resort located on the shores of Runaway Bay, and in addition to yoga and wellness activities, guests can enjoy a wide range of resort perks that include all meals and snacks at seven on-site restaurants, access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, and daily activities such as boat tours and snorkel trips. Yoga weeks are offered on August 13-19, 2017 and December 10-16, 2017. Rates start at $150 per person, per night, based on double occupancy. Visit www.jewelresorts.com/yogajournal or call 888-310-6182.

Yoga Month at Body Holiday, St. Lucia

Each fall, the Body Holiday dedicates October to yoga. During the month-long program known as Octoba Yoga, the resort becomes the ultimate yoga retreat, with sessions from sunrise to sunset that include Hatha, Ashtanga, Shanthi and Katti yoga and meditation classes. These programs are created to accommodate everyone from beginners to the more advanced, and are led by the resort’s resident Yogi, Natascha and Kestin, who will be joined by Yogi Master Doug Swenson who’s unique approach to yoga has evolved into a holistic presentation that includes enhanced nutrition and cross training.

The Body Holiday blends the amenities of a luxury beach resort with a range of active sports and wellness programs designed to rejuvenate both body and soul. Photo: Debbie Snow

In support of Octoba Yoga, the resort will offer a dedicated menu of yogic foods and teas served at restaurants throughout the property, as well as an array of special massage and therapeutic treatments at The Wellness Centre. In addition to yoga, guests can partake in a full range of water sports and other resort activities and sports as part of Body Holiday’s all-inclusive plan. Rates vary according to room type and location. www.thebodyholiday.com/theme-months/themes/octoba-yoga

Islands, Oceania, Stay, Tahiti, Trip Ideas

Bora Bora’s Top Snorkeling Resorts

June 26, 2017

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The sparkling waters of Bora Bora’s lagoon are a paradise for swimmers and snorkelers. Entering this aquatic paradise is as easy as wading in from a beachfront room, or dropping in from the deck of an overwater bungalow. But some locations are better than others, and we’ve found three resorts that offer the best underwater scenery and fish life, along with the easiest access to the water.

Conrad Bora Bora Nui

A stay at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui begins with a boat ride, because the resort is located on Motu To’opua, an unspoiled islet off the west coast of Bora Bora. This 114-room resort, formerly known as the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa, underwent a multi-million dollar renovation before reopening in March of 2017. Much more than deco update, this renewal includes room enlargements, new decks, the addition of floor-to-ceiling windows and new bathrooms with oversized soak tubs. The over-water bungalows are among the largest and most luxurious in the Islands of Tahiti, and range up to a two-story presidential suite with 3,000 square feet of living space. The property now includes a full-service spa, kids club, mini-golf course, fitness center and several dining options.

Many of the recently renovated overwater bungalows at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui now include private plunge pools and catamaran decks suspended over the lagoon. Photo: Adam Bruzzone/Conrad Bora Bora

Unlike some over-water properties, which perch over stark sand bottoms, many of the bungalow rooms at Bora Bora Nui follow the contours of a reef line that provides shelter for a range of marine life. Guests can get a preview of what awaits below through glass floor panels, then enter right from their private deck. Insiders say the best snorkeling is from bungalows in the 300 wing. There are more reefs awaiting discover at points all around the resort’s private island, along with regular excursions to nearby sites where snorkelers can swim with stingrays and turtles, or participate in a shark encounter. Families with younger children may want to schedule a trip to the Bora Bora Lagoonarium, which is a private snorkeling park where marine life encounters take place in a controlled environment.

The Conrad Bora Bora Nui is located on a small island to the west of Bora Bora, where guests can enjoy a private white sand beach, or follow trails into the island’s wooded hillsides. Photo: Adam Bruzzone/Conrad Bora Bora

Le Méridien Bora Bora

Water is a key element of this landmark resort, which straddles a barrier island between the blue Pacific Ocean and Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon. The property can only be reached by boat, and rooms perch over the water, or overlook a white sand beach, with sunset views of iconic Mount Otemanu. The setting is that of a traditional Polynesian village, with plenty of thatched roofs and native woods, but the amenities are fully modern. The resort’s signature Le Tipanie restaurant sits on the banks of a sheltered interior lagoon, while the Le Te Ava restaurant allows guests to dine with their feet in the sand. The water sport center’s range of water sports includes kayaks, wave runners, parasailing, waterskiing, deep-sea fishing and excursions in traditional outrigger canoes. An on-site spa and wellness center offers a range of relaxing and therapeutic treatments.

At Le Méridien Bora Bora, the Le Tipanie restaurant sits on the banks of the resort’s private lagoon, which is a natural body of water that is home to a wide variety of fish and marine life. Photo: Ben Thouard/Le Méridien

Le Méridien has a reputation as one of the best resorts for snorkelers in Bora Bora. As expected, there are things to see right below the over-water bungalows, but that’s just the beginning. The property’s sheltered lagoon is filled with colorful tropical fish, and home to a turtle sanctuary and coral nursery. Guests are able to explore these calm and sheltered waters with mask and snorkel, which is an especially good option for novices and children. Highlights include a school of resident eagle rays and several colonies that house colorful clownfish. More experienced snorkelers can venture to a more exposed reef line on the ocean side of the resort, and the truly adventurous can ask directions to an area known as shark hole, which is a nursery where black tip reef sharks give birth.

Sea turtles are a common sight in the waters around the overwater bungalows at Le Méridien Bora Bora. The resort has created an on-site sanctuary where rescued and injured turtles can recover. Photo: Le Méridien

Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort

It’s not surprising that the setting has a cinematic quality, because this beachfront resort was originally built by filmmaker Dino de Laurentiis as a set for his film Hurricane. Today, the property includes 37 traditional French Polynesian bungalows with pandanus leaf thatched roofs, each tucked into a lush tropical garden fronting a stunning white-sand beach. Another 13 bungalows sit on pilings in the lagoon, and a ferry connects guests to a nearby private island that holds an additional 20 overwater rooms. Rich woods and bright colors set the tones in the overwater bungalows, where glass panels in the floor reveal tropical fish swimming below. Each offers a king size bed, luxurious bathroom and a private terrace, where breakfast can be delivered by outrigger canoe.

The overwater bungalows at the Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort are just a short swim away from a colorful reef, where snorkelers can see angelfish, butterfly fish, eagle rays and turtles. Photo: Sofitel

Marara Beach is located within a sheltering cove on Bora Bora’s southeast coast. This location ensures calm waters for snorkeling on scattered coral heads that begin less than 100 feet from shore. Guests staying in garden bungalows can wade in directly from the beach or enter from the resort’s dock. Access is even easier from over-water bungalows, which include entry ladders on waterfront decks. The greatest numbers of tropical fish are found on the more defined reefs at the eastern end of the beach, and in the area between the resort and Sofitel’s private island. For more snorkeling adventures, guests can paddle a canoe or kayak to the reefs surrounding a nearby deserted island.

Wood tones and warm accents provide a counterpoint to views of turquoise waters in the bedroom of an overwater bungalow at the Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort. Photo: Sofitel

Bahamas, Bahamas-Out Islands, Caribbean, Stay, Trip Ideas

Best Out Island Resorts in the Bahamas

June 26, 2017

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There are no cruise ships. No high rises. No tourist clogged straw markets. Welcome to the Out Islands. This is a very different side of the Bahamas, one where traditional fishing villages are served by the weekly mail boat, cell phones may not work, and the stars can be seen each night from beaches far, far away from streetlights. If this is your idea of an ideal vacation, there are properties where you can indulge your desires for Out Island isolation while still enjoying a few upscale luxuries and plenty of exciting activities. Here are four of our favorites.

Abaco Club on Winding Bay

If you love the Abacos, join the club. That’s the opportunity offered to guests of this exclusive enclave. The Abaco Club is not a resort, but a private club where members can get away to golf, swim, play tennis and enjoy fine dining. Here, you are isolated from the outside world, as the property is set on a private peninsula on the southeastern shore of Great Abaco Island, overlooking 2.5 miles of deserted beaches and clear water. Members enjoy a wide range of water sports from paddle boarding, kayaking, Hobie Cat sailing, windsurfing, snorkeling and fishing. For the active minded, there are beach boot camps, a fitness center and tennis courts, and the on-site spa offers a full range of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments. The club’s attraction is the Scottish-style links course, created by renowned British golf course architects Donald Steel and Tom Mackenzie.

The one-bedroom cabanas at the Abaco Beach Club are available for rent. Each of these freestanding residences includes a screen porch, and easy access to the beach. Photo: Abaco Club

To share a taste of island life, the club welcomes visitors, who are free to enjoy all the club’s activities and amenities. Guests can choose from a range of rental accommodations that range from cozy one-bedroom cabanas and two to four-bedroom cottages, or even a grand oceanfront estate home. Private decks provide inspiring ocean views, and each fully equipped residence is positioned on the landscaped grounds to ensure privacy. Guests are provided with golf carts for easy access to all parts of the club’s grounds and facilities, and a dedicated staff is on call for any requests. The only requirement asked of guests is that after three visits, they must become a member or resident to continue to visit. For many, this seems a tempting offer after their first stay.

The Abaco Club’s club pool commands a prime site on Ocean Point ridge, with panoramic views of Winding Bay and the ocean. The neighboring observation deck is a favorite gathering point. Photo: Abaco Club

Resorts World Bimini

For decades, the small islands of Bimini were the exclusive playground of the boaters and big game fishermen. Most made the run from South Florida in private boats, and that changed with the opening of a large-scale resort complex on the island of North Bimini. The 750-acre development known as Resorts World Bimini includes private residences, villas, cottages and a 305-room hotel by Hilton. A centerpiece of the resort is the 10,000 square foot casino, which is the only one in the world with panoramic water views. There are four pools, including an infinity-edge rooftop oasis with panoramic views and full food and beverage service, to the family-friendly lazy river at ground level. Guests have nine restaurants and lounges to chose from, along with exclusive beach access to Paradise Beach, private cabana rentals, and numerous water sports activities to enjoy.

The five-story Hilton Hotel opened in 2016 as Bimini’s first large- scale, full-service resort. This family-friendly property includes a spa, a kids’ club, and a beachfront amphitheater. Photo: Resorts World Bimini

Guests arriving by water can dock right at the resort, which is now home to the largest marina complex in the Bahamas. There are actually two marinas. The one percent can dock their 200-foot showboats at the Mega Yacht Marina, while sport fishermen and family boaters will prefer the Fisherman’s Village Marina, which includes open air shopping venues and a dining promenade. No boat? No problem. Resort World is served by seaplane flights, conventional air service to the adjacent island of South Bimini and a daily fast ferry from Miami.

The rooftop infinity-edge pool at the Hilton looks out over the shallows of North Bimini Sound, which has long been a favorite destination for sport fishermen stalking bonefish. Resorts World Bimini

French Leave Resort, Eleuthera

The name of this unique resort comes from a traditional British expression meaning to escape without notice, which is what guests can do effortlessly when they arrive on the quiet island of Eleuthera. Here, it’s easy to fall into the lifestyle and openness of the Out Islands. The resort sits on 270 acres that includes an exclusive stretch of pink sand beach. Accommodations are limited to just 20 seaside cottages, which combine traditional Out Island architecture with a contemporary British West Indies décor. Each cottage includes all the amenities needed for a self-sufficient stay, including full kitchens and laundry facilities. But if cooking isn’t on the agenda, there’s also room service, and a personal golf cart to whisk you to the resort’s signature 1648 restaurant, or one of the eateries in the nearby village of Governor’s Harbor. A nice added touch is the in-room, on-demand iPad that allows for maximum beach and downtime, as guests can request everything from additional towels to lunches packed to go.

On the island of Eleuthera, the tidy Colonial-style cottages of French Leave Resort sit on immaculately landscaped grounds facing the Atlantic Ocean and the property’s private marina. Photo: French Leave Resort

Eleuthera is an island of deserted beaches and wild coastlines that are wonderful for long walks. There are small, authentic Out Island villages to explore, while activity seekers will find kayaks, snorkel gear and paddleboards on hand, right at the resort. So too is the marina that is the launching point for diving and fishing excursions. Two island favorites are horseback riding along the shoreline and cliff jumping into the clear water. For an authentic taste of Out Island life, guests can try the Friday night fish fry at Governor’s Harbour, check out the Historic Hanes Library or visit the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve for some inside history and background on the island. It’s easy to become a local on this island.

With separate living and dining spaces, the cottages at French Leave Resort are more home than hotel room, and include everything needed for a comfortable and self-sufficient stay. Photo: French Leave

Coral Sands, Harbour Island

Small, colorful and far away from the crowds, Harbour Island has long been the favorite hush-hush escape in the Bahamas for the wealthy and well traveled. Many visitors rent private homes or villas, and spend days relaxing on the island’s famous pink sand beach. Of the limited number of small hotels that are available, a favorite is the Coral Sands. Fresh from a three million dollar renovation, this boutique eight-acre property now includes several additional ocean view cottages and a new soaking pool. In addition to these high-level renovations, interiors were refreshed with a modern, island theme that complements the property’s British Colonial style. Guests can opt for individual rooms, suites or a spacious two-bedroom cottage, all providing direct access to the beach.

At the Coral Sands resort on Harbour Island, the imagined Latitude 25 restaurant complements sea views with an innovative menu that pairs fresh and organic local foods with a premier wine list. Photo: Coral Sands

The Coral Sands is home to the Latitude 25 restaurant, which is noted both for it’s food and the open air dining terrace, which delivers sweeping views of the beach. At night the lights are dimmed, candles flicker, and Chef Ludovic Jarland serves Caribbean cuisine with a French flair. The resort is just steps away from the colorful cottages and small shops of Dunmore Town, and those who are able to resist the sirens song of the beach can venture to the west side of the island to charter a fishing boat, book a diving or snorkel trip, or just join the locals relaxing at the town dock. Getting to Coral Sands will require an island hopping flight, a taxi ride and then a boat trip across a sheltered lagoon. But as anyone who has visited this charming Out Island can attest, the reward is well worth the journey.

The new beachside cottages of the Coral Sands resort set rich wood tones and bright geometric accents against white walls and large windows, all designed to complement the water views. Photo: Coral Sands

Belize, Central America, Guatemala, Honduras, Stay, Trip Ideas

Central America’s Best Eco Lodge Deals

June 12, 2017

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This summer, try something different. Head for the rainforests and waters of Central America, where a collection of unique eco-themed lodges puts guests in touch with nature and active adventure, while at the same time delivering the civilized comforts of good food, fine dining and relaxation. As an added incentive, each of these five premier properties is offering special rates on summer and fall stays.

The Lodge at Chaa Creek, Belize

Guests can stay rustic or go eco-luxe at Chaa Creek, with choices ranging from the off-grid seclusion of the Macal River Camp to comfortable thatch- roofed bungalows and the resort’s latest addition, the Ix Chel Villas. These stunning hillside residences sit on a forested bank overlooking the Macal River Valley, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and doors that offer spectacular views of the surrounding jungle. Upscale touches include private verandas enclosing personal plunge pools, Jacuzzis, al fresco showers and the services of a personal butler. The resort’s Mariposa restaurant features farm-to-table cuisine sourced from an on-site organic farm, and guests enjoy spa services and a wide range of daily adventures and indulgences. This summer, travelers can experience Chaa Creek for less with special rates for stays between June and August 2017. This $139 nightly rate provides luxury cottage accommodations and access to all of the resort’s amenities and activities. www.chaacreek.com

The Macal Cottage at Chaa Creek blends stylish simplicity and elegant furnishings that bring in the rainforest backdrop. Outdoor terraces provide a private Jacuzzi and views of the Macal River. Photo: Chaa Creek

Blancaneaux Lodge, Belize

Once the personal family retreat of film director Francis Ford Coppola, this 20-room luxury lodge sits on the banks of a jungle stream deep in Belize’s Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve. Each of the resort’s upscale cabanas is nestled into a garden-like setting where bird songs mingle with the sounds of waterfalls. Vaulted thatch roofs set the tone in guest rooms decorated with unique native art, regional antiques and local textiles. Upscale options include two luxury cabanas with plunge pools and outdoor showers, and the two-bedroom Coppola Villa, which showcases the family’s personal art and antiques and includes an open-air deck overlooking the tumbling waterfalls and deep rock pools of Privassion Creek. Fine dining is a hallmark of Blancaneaux Lodge, and the Montagna Ristorante features classic Italian cuisine based on Coppola family recipes. More indulgences await at the Waterfall Spa, and daily adventures can include everything from horseback rides, mountain bike tours and jungle hikes to cultural activities and tours of Mayan ruins. To encourage guests to linger and enjoy more of the lodge’s pleasures, every fourth night is free for any stay before December 16, 2017. www.thefamilycoppolahideaways.com/en/blancaneaux-lodge

Native materials and rustic design create a relaxing atmosphere within a riverfront villa at Blancaneaux Lodge, where the sounds of a rushing creek carry into the rooms. Photo: Gundolfo Pfotenhauer/Blancaneaux

Indura Beach & Golf Resort, Honduras

If you like your eco-consciousness with an extra helping of luxury, Indura is the place to go. This new $133 million, 1,800 acre resort is located within a national park on the coast of Bahia de Tela, on the unspoiled northern coast of Honduras. Suite-style accommodations at the development’s 60-room hotel embrace sustainable materials, including bamboo floors, walls made of local pine, and decorative accents of Guanacaste wood. Footpaths lead through the garden-like grounds to a pristine beach, and the Meso- American Barrier Reef lies just offshore. In addition to beach time and water sports, there’s hiking, kayaking and birding to enjoy in nearby forests, or day trips to nearby Pico Bonito National Park. But Indura is also a five-star property that is home to the premier Maina Spa and a championship Gary- Player-designed golf course. To get the word out on this landmark new property, Indura is now offering special rates that begin at just $165 per room. www.induraresort.com

Guest suites at Indura Beach & Golf Resort are set in 15 buildings inspired by indigenous designs, spread across landscaped grounds facing Honduras’ Bahia de Tela. Photo: Craig Ambrosio/Indura Beach

La Lancha, Guatemala

Many have commented that they feel more like family friends than hotel guests when they stay at La Lancha. That’s understandable, because almost every detail of this intimate lodge was personally selected by the Coppola family, from the hand-made furniture and Guatemalan fabrics to the locally made carvings that adorn each room. A total of just 10 individual casitas perch on a wooded hillside above Guatemala’s Lake Petén Itza. Sleeping and sitting areas open to covered decks offering hammocks and lake views. Guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation can experience an authentic temazcal sweat lodge, indulge in spa treatments or spend quiet time at a waterfront palapa. Just across the lake are the cobblestone streets of the colonial-era town of Flores, which is home to lively open-air markets, galleries and cafes. More adventurous pursuits include lake excursions, jungle walks, horseback tours and trips to the ancient Mayan city of Tikal. With so much to see and do, there’s reason enough to stay longer, and to encourage this, La Lancha is offering a special promotion that provides each third night free for stays before December 16, 2017. www.thefamilycoppola.com

The open-air restaurant at La Lancha features authentic Guatemalan cuisine. After dinner, guests can take in lake views from a new rooftop bar located just above the dining room. Photo: La Lancha

Turtle Inn, Belize

This intimate beachfront retreat epitomizes the phrase “going tropical.” You can step barefoot from the verandah of your thatch-room bungalow onto a white sand beach lined with swaying palms, and then wade into azure waters that stretch to the horizon. Set on a barrier island in southern Belize, the Turtle Inn combines rustic charm with indulgent luxury. The resort’s 25 native-style wood-and-thatch cottages blend seamlessly into the garden-like grounds, but surprises await inside, where hand-carved doors open to spaces with soaring ceilings and warm-toned Balinese furnishings. Guests can savor fresh seafood dishes with at Italian flair at the open-air dining room of Mare, or sample authentic regional fare at Auntie Luba’s Kitchen. Days can be filled with paddling, snorkeling, diving, fishing or exploring the forests of the Maya Mountains, all followed by spa time and a visit to the resort’s 1,200-bottle wine cellar. All this can be had for a bit less for guests who visit before December 16, 2017, thanks to a special offer that gives the sixth night of a stay for free. www.thefamilycoppolahideaways.com/en/turtle-inn

Guests at Belize’s Turtle Inn can relax by a pool set in a tropical garden, while the beach, coral reefs and Caribbean waters are just steps away. Photo: Gundolfo Pfotenhauer/Turtle Inn

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, Stay, Trip Ideas

Mexico’s Top Summer Vacation Deals

June 8, 2017

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This summer, why not ditch the usual road trip or lake cottage and add some excitement to the season with a trip south of the border. Beachfront hotels all across Mexico are offering some sizzling seasonal specials, and now is the time to save and savor the sun, sand and surf.

CasaMagna Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa

June is a great time to visit Puerto Vallarta. The winter crowds are gone and the summer rainy season is yet to come. And a great place for an impromptu getaway is at the CasaMagna Marriott. The hotel offers direct access to the golden sands of Salado Beach, and just across the street is the Marina Vallarta and its top- rated golf course. The hotel’s infinity-edge pool provides a relaxing oasis, with magnificent views of Banderas Bay and the Sierra Madre Mountains. In addition to four on-site restaurants, the CasaMagna offers the Ceviche &Tequila Bar, serving up more than 180 varieties of this iconic libation, including some made at an on-site distillery. After indulging, guests can detox and renew at the Ohtli Spa, where treatments and healing traditions are inspired by ancient Huichol healing arts. Save 25 percent with the Sand Dollar Vacation Package, which includes a $50 daily resort credit. Use promo code S29 that is valid seven days a week through December 22, 2017. Rates from $104.00 to $219.00 per night. www.Marriott.com

The CasaMagna Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort is close to downtown attractions and the Marina Vallarta, where guests can book sailing excursions and seasonal whale watching cruises. Photo: Marriott Puerto Vallarta

Thompson Playa Del Carmen

Mexico’s coolest beach town is still on the vacation hot list, and the hippest place to be is at the corner of La Quinta Avenida and Calle 12. There, in the center of Playa’s vibrant restaurant and trendy club scene, the boutique Thompson Hotel provides a chic oasis of downtown luxury, with a rooftop playground featuring an infinity pool, panoramic ocean views, luxury cabanas and two dining venues that include famed Manhattan culinary concept CATCH. Beach lovers can book into the nearby Beach House, a sister property with 27 oceanfront rooms, and exclusive pool, private cabanas and an oceanfront restaurant. Both properties are offering special summer packages: when you book in for two nights, the third night is on the house. Summer rates start at $200.00 per night for the Fifth Avenue property and $270.00 per night at the Beach House. www.thompsonhotels.com

After the sun sets, the rooftop pool deck at the Thompson Playa del Carmen is transformed into a nightlife hot spot, with DJs and live music keeping the party going. Photo: Thompson Hotels

Papaya Playa Project

The beachside enclave known as Papaya Playa has long been the hippest spot in Tulum, and the resort’s new casitas take the eco- chic vibe to a whole new level. Built from stone, reclaimed and recycled wood and a clay-like composite substance containing an extract of the chuckun tree, these spacious dwellings are furnished and decorated with items created by local artisans. Casitas set in the jungle are elevated on stilts for minimal environmental impact, and large front terraces, plunge pools and roof decks rising above the trees. Oceanfront casitas sit mere feet from the surf, with high ceilings and large windows to catch the sea breezes and sounds of surf and jungle. To promote these new accommodations, Papaya Playa is offering a pay for 4 stay for 5 promotion for stays between June 26 and September 17, 2017. www.papayaplayaproject.com

The new oceanfront casitas at Papaya Playa Project are equipped with air conditioning, but designed to take advantage of natural cooling created by sea breezes from the Caribbean. Photo: Papaya Playa Project

Chileno Bay Resort & Residences

This new addition to the Cabo resort scene sits on the best slice of beach on the cape. With a year-round swimmable beach and infinity edged pool with direct ocean views, there are plenty of choices for those who want to get wet or float and relax. Golfers will delight in the 18-hole Tom Fazio designed course, which is reserved for members and guests of the resort. The Chileno Bay Resort & Residences features guest rooms and multi-bedroom villas with plenty of indoor-outdoor space for socializing with your group. Phase II of the development has added a new collection of two and four bedrooms villas located in a secluded area of the property, which affords stunning and expansive ocean views. Through December 20, 2017, the resort is offering a third night free plus daily full breakfasts for two at the resort’s signature restaurant, COMAL. Use booking code AUBERGE. https://chilenobay.aubergeresorts.com/

Oceanfront villas at the Chileno Bay Resort are furnished with large day beds, and overlook a private swimming cove set within a coastline of dramatic rock formations. Photo: Chileno Bay

Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos

This is the place to be if you want to get in some serious tee time this summer. Rated by Golf Digest as one of the top 50 golf hotels in the world, the Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa gives guests full access to the renowned courses of the Cabo del Sol Golf Club. The desert course is a Tom Weiskopt design in which each of the 18 holes is sculpted to complement the natural surroundings. The ocean course is a Jack Nicklaus Signature design that stretches along a mile of craggy coastline. After a day on the links, you can schedule a different kind of wine therapy at the SOMMA Wine Spa, where treatments tap into the antioxidant properties of wine and grapes. Choose a champagne mud wrap or a wine massage. Reward yourself with a summer getaway and save 40 percent on travel from July 7 to August 12, 2017. www.lacoleccionresorts.com

The grounds of the 526-room Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos include six swimming pools, including an adults-only area with elevated ocean views and waiter service. Photo: Fiesta Americana

Cancun, Cozumel, Mexico, Puerto Vallarta, Stay, Trip Ideas

Best Family Beach Resorts in Mexico

May 24, 2017

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The family is ready for a vacation, and everyone’s thinking beach. But as much as mom and dad love the little ones, they are ready for some personal time. And that’s fine with the kids, who also want to do their own thing. The answer is stay at one of Mexico’s family-friendly beach resorts. And for the summer season, a number of the best properties are offering special savings and incentives for families that stay together, but want to play apart.

Fiesta Americana Cozumel

This family friendly all-inclusive is about fun in the sun and time on the water. The resort’s private beach club provides easy access to on-site snorkeling and a convenient starting point to the island’s best dive sites. The hotel is set well away from the cruise ship crowds of downtown, but close to Chankanaab Natural Park, Mayan ruins and a number of the island’s premier attractions. Spacious guestrooms and suites include large private balconies or terraces with partial or full ocean views. Mid-century modern hardwood furnishings complement wood-grain porcelain tile floors and modern artwork, with fixtures that include LCD satellite TV and Wi-Fi Internet access. Families can upgrade to a suite for additional living space. The property includes seven restaurants, with cuisines ranging from Asian and Italian to traditional Mexican fare and fresh seafood. The special includes 30 percent off summer rates when you book and stay from May 9 through August 12, 2017. www.lacoleccionresorts.com

Following a three-year closure and a $17 million property-wide renovation, the Fiesta Americana Cozumel reopened as one of the island’s premier all-inclusive properties. Photo: Fiesta Americana

Club Med Ixtapa

This all-inclusive resort has all the ingredients needed for a perfect family vacation. Attentive child care and engaging youth programs allow parents to enjoy some away time without worries, enjoying everything from water sports, fitness classes and tennis to spa time and naps on the golden sand beach. Families can also come together for shared activities such as sailing lessons, stargazing and a unique circus school with flying trapeze lessons. Four on-site restaurants serving a variety of cuisines to please both simple and sophisticated palates, and three bars pour complimentary libations for the adults. All this would seem reason enough to stay as long as possible, but as a further enticement, Club Med is offering incentives for stays booked by June 21, for travel through December 23, 2017. Book 3 to 5 nights for a 45 percent discount, 6 to 7 nights to save 50 percent, and enjoy 55 percent off on stays of eight nights or more. www.clubmed/us

In addition to offering poolside relaxation, the Club Med Ixtapa is home to a large sports school staffed by experienced coaches and instructors. Photo: Alessandro Carpentiero/Club Med

Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta

There are a number of reasons why this landmark all-inclusive property in Puerto Vallarta’s popular North Hotel Zone is a family favorite. Rooms are well appointed and spacious—some can accommodate groups of up to six. Each has the added space of an open-air balcony with either ocean or mountain views. Eight on- site restaurants accommodate every taste from children’s favorites to elegant international cuisines. And then there are the programs, tailored to age groups ranging from preschoolers to teens, with a playground, supervised pool and beach games, arts and sports activities. The adults have a private beach and a sprawling outdoor pool with a swim up bar. They can also enjoy some pampering and personal time at Nakawe Spa, where treatments and the atmosphere are eco friendly. Take advantage of summer savings in July and August. You’ll receive 40% off when you book and travel from July 7 to August 12, 2017. www.lacoleccionresorts.com

In keeping with the resort’s inclusive but separate theme, the expansive pool at the Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta separates the swim up bar from the children’s swim area. Photo: Fiesta Americana

Grand Oasis Palm Cancun

This upscale beach resort goes beyond the usual definition of family friendly with a range of kid-centric features that will keep youngsters busy and engaged day and night. In addition to a separate pool with water slides, fountains and water trampolines, there’s a dedicated kid’s beach club that includes game rooms, a movie theater and dance club. Daily-supervised activities extend to evening entertainment and overnight camps. Several of the property’s 12 restaurants offer children’s favorites and the next- door sister property hosts a kid-centric buffet. While all this is going on, adults can spend the day at their own beach club or pools, make use of the on-site nine-hole golf course, relax in the Kin Ha spa, enjoy gourmet dining and take in a nightclub performance. During the summer vacation season, the resort is offering a “Kids Stay Free” deal where two kids 12 years old and under can stay and eat free when sharing the room with two adults. Rates start at $241per person, based on double occupancy. www.grandoasispalm.com

Cancun’s Grand Oasis Palm combines five-star amenities with a wide range of family-friendly features. Guests also enjoy reciprocal privileges at the Oasis Palm next door. Photo: Grand Oasis Palm

The Explorean Cozumel

This isn’t your average Caribbean beach resort. In fact, the Explorean Cozumel isn’t even on the water. Instead it is tucked into the jungles of Cozumel—though the ocean is just a short walk away through the grounds of the sister property, Fiesta Americana. The all-inclusive concept at this family-friendly property goes beyond buffets, bars and shows to include a range of daily guided adventures. Guests are invited to join in on activities that range from kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkeling trips to jungle treks, bike tours, archeology projects and horseback rides to Mayan ruins. Guests also have access to all the amenities at Fiesta Americana. This summer, guests can settle in and relax at the jungle pool or the private beach club, while saving 30 percent on stays through August 12, 2017. www.lacoleccionresorts.com

Stone, wood and earth tones help the Explorean Cozumel blend into its jungle surroundings. The property was designed as a relaxing alternative to large beachfront hotels. Photo: Explorean

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