Traveling Mexico With Kids
It is definitely different when you travel with your kids. You are more cautious about everything, from where you explore to what you eat. And the late nights in the cantina are not happening, but neither are the brain-thumping hangovers or the embarrassing karaoke performances. Seeing the country filtered through your kids, noticing what they find important, is like discovering it yourself all over again. Here are some great tips and how to do it. http://www. simplebites. net/tips-for-how-to-travel-to-mexico-with-kids/
View full post on Mexico Premiere
March 5th, 2013 at 1:02 am
It is definitely different when you travel with your kids. You are more cautious about everything, from where you explore to what you eat. And the late nights in the cantina are not happening, but neither are the brain-thumping hangovers or the embarrassing karaoke performances. Seeing the country filtered through your kids, noticing what they find important, is like discovering it yourself all over again. Here are some great tips and how to do it.
http://www.simplebites.net/tips-for-how-to-travel-to-mexico-with-kids/
March 5th, 2013 at 1:23 am
FORT WORTH, Texas, Feb. 28, 2013 /PRNewswire/ – American Airlines announced today that it will launch new service this summer to San Diego and Mexico from its hubs in Miami (MIA) and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), respectively. This new service further strengthens American’s overall route network and provides additional options for its customers.
“We continue to expand our network to offer more travel choices and more destinations for our customers,” said Chuck Schubert, American’s Vice President – Network Planning. “These new routes will provide our customers with more access to Mexico as well as more choices for travel from Miami, and they underscore our commitment to meet our customers’ travel needs.”
More choices from Miami and San Diego
Beginning June 12, American will offer more choices for travel from its Miami hub with the addition of daily service between Miami and San Diego International Airport (SAN). This flight will be operated with a Boeing 737-800 aircraft with 150 seats. With the addition of this route, American and American Eagle will now serve San Diego from each of its five hubs, with a combined total of 25 daily flights.
The schedule for the new service between Miami and San Diego will be as follows:
With the addition of this route, American will serve 115 destinations from Miami with more than 300 daily flights.
New Service to Mexico
Also beginning June 12, American Eagle will begin service between DFW and two new destinations in Mexico – Ignacio Pesqueira Garcia International Airport in Hermosillo (HMO) and General Leobardo C. Ruiz International Airport in Zacatecas (ZCL), pending government approval. Flights between DFW and HMO will operate once daily, and flights between DFW and ZCL will operate on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. The flights will be operated with a 44-seat Embraer ERJ-140 aircraft.
The schedule for the new service to Mexico will be as follows:
*all flights begin June 12, 2013, pending government approval
With the addition of flights to Hermosillo and Zacatecas, American and American Eagle will serve a total of 20 destinations in Mexico.
About American Airlines
American Airlines focuses on providing an exceptional travel experience across the globe, serving more than 260 airports in more than 50 countries and territories. American’s fleet of nearly 900 aircraft fly more than 3,500 daily flights worldwide from hubs in Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami and New York. American flies to nearly 100 international locations including important markets such as London, Madrid, Sao Paulo and Tokyo. With more than 500 new planes scheduled to join the fleet, including continued deliveries of the Boeing 737 family of aircraft and new additions such as the Boeing 777-300ER and the Airbus A320 family of aircraft, American is building toward the youngest and most modern fleet among major U.S. carriers. American’s website, AA.com®, provides customers with easy access to check and book fares, and personalized news, information and travel offers. American’s AAdvantage® program, one of the most popular frequent flyer programs in the world, lets members redeem miles for flights to almost 950 destinations worldwide, as well as flight upgrades, vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and other retail products. The airline also offers nearly 40 Admirals Club® locations worldwide providing comfort, convenience, and an environment with a full range of services making it easy for customers to stay productive without interruption. American is a founding member of the oneworld® alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest airlines in the world, including global brands like British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Iberia Airlines, Japan Airlines, LAN and Qantas. Together, its members serve more than 840 destinations with some 9,000 daily flights to nearly 160 countries and territories. Connect with American on Twitter @AmericanAir or Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation. AMR Corporation common stock trades under the symbol “AAMRQ” on the OTCQB marketplace, operated by OTC Markets Group.
March 5th, 2013 at 2:16 am
From President Enrique Pena Nieto
At the start of my administration, I pledged to respect each and every one of the voices of society. I presented the Consultation Process for the National Development Plan 2013-2018 at the National Palace today so that Mexicans’ good proposals will be able to guide the government.
I invite citizens to participate; you are all invited to construct the National Development Plan, to shape the future of our country. We all have something important to say and experiences to share.
As from today, you will be able to participate in the consultation through the new digital media. I invite you to express your views in order to transform and improve Mexico. Let us encourage the proactive, constructive spirit that distinguishes us as Mexicans.
We are defining a plan to move Mexico. This joint effort will be reflected in a National Development Plan that will combine all the voices of the country in a single goal: enabling Mexico to achieve its full potential.
In these six years, we will work with determination, courage and passion to transform Mexico. Let us express our views in order to transform and improve Mexico.
March 5th, 2013 at 2:17 am
DALLAS, Feb. 26, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) and wholly owned subsidiary AirTran Airways began offering for sale new nonstop service international flights between Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and San Jose Del Cabo/Los Cabos International Airport in Baja California, Mexico.
AirTran daily service on the new route begins June 1, 2013, and is open for sale now at airtran.com with introductory fares as low as $227 one-way. These fares must be booked by 11:59 p.m. PST on March 1, 2013, for travel between June 1, 2013, and August 10, 2013. See full fare rules below.
The carrier announced late last year that it would begin service between Denver International Airport and San Jose Del Cabo/Los Cabos International Airport in early March. AirTran currently serves San Jose Del Cabo/Los Cabos International Airport with nonstop flights to Orange County.
ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.
In its 42nd year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by nearly 46,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest is the nation’s largest carrier in terms of originating passengers boarded, and including wholly-owned subsidiary, AirTran Airways, operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world to serve 97 destinations in 41 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and six near-international countries. Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for its commitment to the triple bottom line of Performance, People and Planet. To read about how Southwest is doing its part to be a good corporate citizen, visit southwest.com/citizenship to read the Southwest Airlines One Report™.
Southwest Airlines
From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel quantified by the U.S. Department of Transportation as “The Southwest Effect,” a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic wherever the carrier serves. On every flight, Southwest offers Customers the first two pieces of checked luggage (weight and size limitations apply) and all ticket changes without additional fees. Southwest’s all Boeing fleet consistently offers leather seating and the comfort of full-size cabins, many of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi connectivity and a new, eco-friendly cabin interior. With 40 consecutive years of profitability, the People of Southwest operate more than 3,100 flights a day and serve communities around 78 airports in Southwest’s network of domestic destinations. Southwest Airlines’ frequent flights and low fares are available only at southwest.com.
AirTran Airways
AirTran Airways, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Southwest Airlines Co., offers coast-to-coast and near-international service with close to 600 flights a day to 54 destinations. The carrier’s high-quality product includes assigned seating and Business Class. As Southwest continues to integrate AirTran’s People, places, and planes into Southwest Airlines, Customers of both carriers may book flights at airtran.com and exchange earned loyalty points between both AirTran’s A+ Rewards® and Southwest’s Rapid Rewards® for reward travel on either airline.
Fare Rules
One-way fares may be purchased today through March 1, 2013, 11:59 p.m. for the respective time zone of the originating city. Travel must take place between June 1, 2013, and Aug. 10, 2013 and requires 14-day advance purchase. International blackout dates include July 2, 4, and 6, 2013. All fares are for nonstop one-way travel. All fares are non-refundable and a $75 fee per person applies to any change made after purchase, plus any applicable increase in airfare. Displayed prices include all government taxes and fees (see *footnote below). A first bag may be checked for a fee of $25 each way and a second bag may be checked for a fee of $35 each way. Reservations may be made via AirTran Airways’ Telephone Reservations Center for a fee of $15. Reservations may also be changed via AirTran Airways’ Telephone Reservations Center for a $15 fee plus any applicable change fees and fare differences. Fares may be combined with other AirTran Airways combinable fares. If combining with other fares, the rules of the more restrictive fare apply. When combining fares, all rules and restrictions apply. Seats are limited, subject to availability, and may not be available on all flights. Fares, routes, and schedules are subject to change without notice. Fares may vary by destinations, flight, and day of week and won’t be available on some flights that operate during very busy travel times and holiday periods. Fares are nonrefundable but may be applied toward the purchase of future travel on AirTran Airways after applicable change fees and fare differences. Fares are not available through the Group Desk. Any change in the itinerary may result in an increase in fare. Fares are valid on published, scheduled service only.
* Government-imposed taxes and fees are now included in the advertised fare. To comply with new government regulations, all airlines must include government-imposed taxes and fees in advertised air fares.
airtran.com
March 5th, 2013 at 3:02 am
Costalegre, Mexico: Over Easter and spring break, spend quality time with your family at Las Alamandas (www.alamandas.com) – the luxury hideaway made for family bonding and fun together − with the boutique haven’s special, affordable all-inclusive
package.
Las Alamandas has it all for families: Balmy weather, warm water for swimming and water sports, numerous
activities and facilities, exceptionally spacious and luxurious accommodations that are ideal for families, and a
secluded ambiance set within its own 1,500-acre private nature reserve that is ideal for family bonding, spending intimate time together and creating lasting memories. Families stay in a beautiful suite by the Pacific, in a gorgeous and relaxed tropical haven, enjoying everything from a family beach picnic and boat excursions to surfing, horseback riding and kayaking.
The Easter Special at Las Alamandas combines:
Rates start at just $3,678.00 plus tax and service. Offered March 15 – April 15, 2013.
For reservations: Tel. +(52) 322 285-5500; toll free in U.S. and Canada 888-882-9616;
or info@alamandas.com.
About Las Alamandas:
Las Alamandas is an all-suite, self-contained boutique resort accommodating up to 42 guests in an unspoiled tropical paradise located midway between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo along Mexico’s famed Costalegre. The resort is ideal for multiple generations who want both privacy and togetherness time while on a family vacation. The 17 extraordinarily spacious and beautifully appointed suites are located within seven villas with vibrant contemporary Mexican chic décor. The suites are designed for casual indoor-outdoor living with spacious terraces and patios, panoramic views, and most with a private Jacuzzi.
Families may dine on terrace of their suite, al fresco at the Oasis Restaurant or oceanside at La Palapa Beach Club. The sophisticated, delicious and healthy cuisine is prepared with seafood freshly caught by local fisherman, meats and free-range eggs and chicken raised by local farmers, and vegetables, lettuces, herbs and fruits grown in the resort’s own organic gardens.
There are activities for every member of the family including: lighted tennis court, beach volleyball, half basketball court, croquet, lawn chess, mountain bikes, 60-foot swimming pool, fully equipped air-conditioned gym, ping-pong, horseback riding, bird watching, kayaks (doubles and singles), hiking, surfing and boogie boarding. A Kids Club offers a program of games, arts and crafts, and activities. A lounge with a big-screen TV is an ideal family gathering spot to watch movies together.
Las Alamandas boasts one of the most beautiful natural environments of any resort. It is nestled on its own private sweep of white-sand beach, with a rocky cape at both ends, amid verdant gardens of towering palms, flowing fountains, expansive lawns and flowering plants – including the resort’s namesake yellow La Alamandas, also known as the Copa de Oro. All around are untouched beaches where sea turtles lay their eggs, lagoons and streams that are habitats for numerous species of birds, jungle terrain traversed by trails that are ideal for biking and hiking, and lookout points with dramatic panoramas of the coast.
March 5th, 2013 at 3:28 am
by Ron Mader
Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca – Planeta.com is organizing its most ambitious, innovative social web workshop March 19-22 titled All Travel is Local (Todos Viajes Son Locales).
The workshop will contribute toward the movement toward local travel in all its forms — conscious travel, indigenous travel, cultural travel, eco travel, responsible travel — using the social web and face-to-face encounters.
The workshop coincides with two important events: the anniversary of Benito Juárez’s birthday (March 21) and the Lent celebration of Friday of Sorrows (Viernes de Dolores) which rivals Muertos in the construction of elaborate altars.
No sit-down classroom seminar can rival the success of learning in a more stimulating environment with hands-on training. Participants receive practical tips for using the social web and an opportunity to meet locals in a World Heritage city.
We showcase good practices in Oaxaca’s public parks, traditional markets and world heritage sites which will be of interest to locals, Mexican nationals and foreigners. By structuring the event as a series of games and rallies, participants will learn how to make practical and responsible use of their smartphones.
Participants are asked to create accounts on the following sites: Facebook, Flickr, Foursquare, Google, Twitter, YouTube and WikiVoyage. Those with smartphones are asked to download the apps.
The workshop builds on a 10-year-plus history Ron Mader has in Oaxaca and nearly 20 years in Mexico. It also builds on the momentum generated in February during the fifth annual Responsible Travel Week.
Ron Mader has offered web workshops in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Oaxaca in Mexico as well as international clinics in Quito, Ecuador and Hyderabad, India, site of the recent Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity and Global Workshop for Indigenous and Local Communities organized by the Convention on Biological Diversity.
The workshop agenda reflects the values of Open Space Technology in which participants have ample opportunity to move their two feet toward a variety of local events. This is a mobile training session in more ways than one. The workshop manifests Open Space’s Law of Two Feet which states: “If people find themselves in situations where they are neither learning nor contributing, they are responsible for moving to another place — using their two feet to find a place where their participation is more meaningful.”
The agenda and registration information is updated on the Oaxaca Wiki: oaxaca.wikispaces.com/local.
March 5th, 2013 at 3:40 am
President Enrique Pena Nieto yesterday unveiled Mexico’s National Tourism Policy in the Riviera Nayarit. The administration’s tourism policy is designed to strengthen the sector and turn Mexico into a world class destination through four guiding principles, namely, legislative and sectorial transformation; innovation and competitiveness; development and promotion; and sustainability and social wellbeing.
President Pena Nieto said, “We will open Mexico to the world, and the world will visit Mexico. Tourism is a fundamental component of our economy and a key driver of national development.”
Tourism is responsible for close to nine percent of Mexico’s gross domestic product.
President Pena Nieto announced the formation of a select committee headed by the Federal Executive which will coordinate a multi-sector effort to grow the tourism industry in Mexico.
Competitiveness and the diversification of products and segments such as culture, health, meetings and conventions and eco-tourism will be achieved through innovation and competition.
The President said that through a policy of development and promotion, Mexico will boost confidence in current and potential investors in the country.
“Growth of the tourism sector is important for tourists and Mexicans alike. The opportunity to explore Mexico should be attainable by all Mexicans.”
Claudia Ruiz Massieu, Mexico’s Secretary of Tourism, said tourism is a priority as a driver of growth and employment. She also highlighted that Mexico sets the standard of the global tourism industry.
“I have no doubt that tourism is the future of Mexico. Under the President’s leadership, tourism will be used as an engine to drive development for all Mexicans,” she said. “Through intra-governmental collaboration and true partnership with the private sector, the tourism industry in Mexico will thrive.”
The governors of the states of Jalisco, Quintana Roo, Sinaloa, San Luis Potosi, Tlaxcala, Yucatan and the governor elect of Jalisco attended the presentation along with local ministers of tourism, representatives from the legislative and judiciary powers of the state, diplomats, businessmen and other special invitees.
March 5th, 2013 at 4:19 am
By Jeanine Kitchel
To coincide with International Women’s Day, which takes place March 8 each year worldwide, We Move Forward — a conference for women who value living life with passion and purpose — will stage their conference on Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, for the third straight year. The four-day conference begins March 5.
Isla Mujeres, which translates to island of women, was chosen partially because of its name and also so attendees could be surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, said founder Janeen Halliwell. ”It’s the perfect spot to celebrate International Women’s Day.”
Daily motivational speakers are the cement that binds this four-day conference together. Several of the speakers included in the line-up are Monica Parker, Jane Hatwin, Karen Sugar, Deborah Kimmett, Sunny Twelker, Paula Pyne and Bonnie Hamilton.
With the help of skilled facilitators, women will harness inspiration and make pathways forward in a direction that will serve them in their daily lives. Movement sessions, including yoga, dance, and pilates, will be available to all that attend.
Over the length of the conference, attendees will be immersed in experiences that encourage them to become clear on their passions, chart their way forward, and gain insight and self assurance. Along with this bucket list of life priorities will be the chance to enjoy all Isla Mujeres has to offer at the end of each day.
For every ten women who register, We Move Forward sponsors one local woman to attend the conference.
“We Move Forward brings together one hundred women who have lived one hundred unique lives,” says Halliwell. “There are universal milestones all women share, and the natural bond between women transcends geography, culture and status. It feeds our resolve and broadens the boundaries of what we think is possible. It provides momentum for moving forward.”
To enroll in the conference, see the website http://www.wemoveforward.com. Cost is $555 USD for four days. For details, contact founder Janeen Halliwell at janeen@wemoveforward.com.
March 5th, 2013 at 4:24 am
“Million-Star” Resort Excited About Increased Tourism to Baja Peninsula
Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto, the newest member of Villa Group Resorts and Baja’s first “million-star” resort, today announced that it is rolling out the red carpet for guests when Alaska Airlines begins daily flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Loreto on February 24, 2013.
The resort, which abuts one of the most pristine coastlines in the world and unobstructed nighttime views of “a million” stars, has become a popular tourist destination for travelers from the West Coast of the United States, especially for those who are looking to disconnect from their daily hassles and reconnect with one another. With new daily flights to and from the Islands of Loreto, that’s sure to bring even more tourism to the area.
Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto has created a series of air-inclusive packages with air travel provided by Alaska Airlines. Subject to availability, promotional air-inclusive packages start at just $149 per person, per night, based on double occupancy, plus taxes. Details are available by calling toll free to 866-209-0726.
These dedicated packages include airfare provided by Alaska Airlines to the Islands of Loreto via Los Angeles International Airport and originating in multiple destinations including Seattle; Portland; Vancouver, B.C.; the San Francisco Bay Area and the Los Angeles area.
“We are thrilled to have Alaska Airlines expand its number of flights and begin daily service next month, and we know our guests will love the flexibility this new schedule provides, as well,” said Owen Perry, owner and president of Villa Group. “Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto provides unique beauty, authentic culture, and access to truly unparalleled sporting opportunities. We look forward to sharing those experiences with a whole new set of travelers and showing them what we mean when we say ‘Your Story Starts Here.’”
The Islands of Loreto, located on the east coast of the Baja California Peninsula on the Sea of Cortez, is known for its quiet beaches, scenic vistas, rich history and astounding natural habitats. The region caters to adventurous travelers looking to explore the many outdoor opportunities including snorkeling, hiking, fishing, diving and mountain biking, as well as people looking for a getaway where they can enjoy the beauty and authentic culture of the region without the commotion of heavily-trafficked Mexican destinations. The destination is fast becoming an alternative for travelers looking for a slower pace with all the options and amenities they have come to expect from a vacation in Mexico.
For more information about Villa del Palmar and its Alaska Airlines packages, or to book, contact your preferred travel professional, visit http://www.villadelpalmarloreto.com/ or call 866.209.0726 from the U.S. or 855.440.5590 from Canada.
ABOUT VILLA DEL PALMAR
Baja’s First Million Star Resort
Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto is a self-contained destination resort on the Sea of Cortez, off the eastern coast of the Baja peninsula overlooking Danzante Island (one of five in the region). It features 181 new, spacious, beautifully appointed Deluxe Ocean View, one, two and three bedroom Suites with balcony or terrace, stunning ocean views, mountain views, outstanding restaurants, an attentive English-speaking staff, five swimming pools, a 39,000 square feet Spa, two tennis courts , beautiful beaches and a mild and warm climate year-round. The New York Times lists Loreto in its Top Ten Places to go in 2011. The travel article featuring the Islands of Loreto, Baja California South, Mexico ranked first among readers.
Guests can enjoy scuba and snorkeling tours in the protected Marine Park within the five prominent Loreto Islands, horseback riding, swimming, world-class fishing (catch a Dorado and bring it home to have a Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto chef prepare it for you), paddle boarding, kayaking, whale watching and mountain biking. With complimentary shuttle service, guests can explore the historic town at the Islands of Loreto and visit the 1697 mission that made the town famous. The area is also known for its wildlife, including the 900 species of fish off the coast and in an area that has been declared a World Heritage Site. Hotel perks include a spa and fitness center, massages, salsa dance lessons and movie nights for children.
March 5th, 2013 at 4:49 am
Our friend Elizabeth Helsley tells us about the new changes in Mexican auto insurance liability requirements. This is essential news for anyone driving into Mexico
http://www.mexipreneur.com/2013/02/major-change-in-mexico-auto-liability-insurance/