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.”
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.
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.”
“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.
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
Expects Record Tourist Numbers for Celebration, Continues to Diversify Tourism Portfolio
Mazatlan welcomes more than 300,000 domestic and international tourists to participate in the 115th annual Carnival to celebrate the city’s longstanding traditions and vibrant culture. Ranked by Forbes as one of the world’s biggest celebrations – third to Rio and Mardi Gras – Mazatlan’s Carnival brings together local and regional musicians, dancers and entertainers in a week-long, costume-filled festival, from February 7-12.
This year’s Carnival expects to draw record tourist numbers, demonstrating that Mazatlan continues to diversify and strengthen its tourism product and offering far beyond its world-class beaches to its strong cultural portfolio.
“Tourism to Mazatlan continues to grow as the destination launches new programs and initiatives to appeal to a variety of tourists,” said Carlos Berdegue, President and CEO of El Cid Resorts, and vice president of the Mazatlan Hotel Association. “There is increasing demand for air service to our destination, particularly for meetings and conventions.”
Thus far in 2013, airline load factor on incoming flights from Mazatlan from the U.S. and Canada have improved an average of 20%, year on year. In December of last year, U.S. and Canada based airlines reported high passenger load factors to Mazatlan, all reaching air seat capacity over 75%: U.S. Airways (94.67 percent); Alaska Airlines (91.26 percent); Sun Wing Airlines (90.52 percent); WestJet (89.54 percent); and American Eagle (75.24 percent.
Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism recently appointed El Rosario, a colonial town nearby Mazatlan, as a Magic Town – a distinction for highly cultural places in Mexico which appeal to tourists – and Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History recognized Las Labradas, volcanic rocks nearby the village of Chicayota 51 km north of Mazatlan, as an archaeological monument zone.
Later this month, on February 28, Mazatlan will host the NAFTA Golf Tournament for the second consecutive year and welcomes more than 150 professional and amateur golfers from United States, Canada and Mexico.
About Mazatlan Mazatlan is a thriving cultural destination in southwest Mexico known to many as “the Pearl of the Pacific.” Set at the foot of the Sierra Madre Mountains on a peninsula that extends into the Pacific Ocean, Mazatlan is one of the Mexican Riviera’s premier resort areas and has become a popular retreat for the national and international community of 440,000 inhabitants. Named Travelocity’s “Best Family Beach in Mexico” amongst fierce competition, the city of Mazatlan is divided into two main areas: Old Mazatlan, or Centro Historico, and the Zona Dorada connected by a 7-mile Malecon along the beach.
Recognized for its world-class beaches, golfing, gastronomy and cultural offering, Mazatlan is an ideal vacation getaway for all ages on the Mexican Riviera: you can see The Lighthouse (El Faro), the second-tallest natural light house in the world; you can experience the famous Angela Peralta Theater nearby the charming Plazuela Machado; and you can taste the exquisite gastronomy, whether a local pastry shop in Old Mazatlan or the world-famous seafood at The Shrimp Bucket. So, come try it all yourself. Go Mazatlan.
* All images courtesy of the Mazatlan Hotel Association
And there is lots more to do while you are in town. World-class restaurants attracts locals and celebrities, or just stop by a street stand for a fresh fish taco.
Here is an announcement from President Enrique Pena Nieto on a new Forestry Program. This is a great move for the environment and the people of Mexico.
Today I returned to the city of Las Palmas, the capital of the beautiful state of Colima.
Colima is a state where virtually all forestry activities are conducted in marginalized areas, using subsistence practices with low productivity and high environmental costs. However, it is a state with great potential for the development of sustainable forestry.
So I came to this land to present the new National Forest Program (PRONAFOR), designed to improve the social and economic conditions of those living in forests and protect them.
The program will be operated by the National Forestry Commission (CONAFOR), which this year will have a budget of 6,937 million pesos. The goal for 2018 is to practically double the timber production achieved in 2011 from 5.5 million 10.7 cubic meters.
Our forests and jungles generate large benefits: they prevent soil erosion and loss; generate water; purify the air; capture carbon and produce timber. If we exploit them rationally and sustainably, forests can be a great source of wealth for those who live in them.
(February 1 , 2012) – The luxury all-inclusive Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit offers guests 20% savings on a stay now through April 30, 2012. Also, children under 12 stay for free and teens 13-16 enjoy a 50% savings rate. In addition to all-inclusive rate features, the promotion includes kids club activities, 10% discount on resort boutique and $50 credit that can be used toward golf or spa treatments.
While at the resort, hotel guests can take advantage of Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit’s special 10th Anniversary Spa Menu, where guests choose from the Spa’s 10 most popular treatments from the past 10 years and receive an additional 25-minute massage (Back, Legs, or Face & Head) for only $10. Offered through the end of December, treatments range from the Four Hand Samunprai Massage, to the Magnetic Diamond Treatment and Men’s Facial.
The Velas Resorts’ all-inclusive rates include suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a choice of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24 hr in-suite service, fitness center, taxes and gratuities, and more. All-inclusive rates start at $281 per person per night in double occupancy. For more information and reservations, please call Velas Resorts at 1-888-323-4294 or visit http://www.velasresorts.com.
About Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit: Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, an all-suites and spa resort located just 15 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay, is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and a recipient of the AAA Five-Diamond Award. The resort features 267 spacious ocean-view suites. The crown jewel of the resort and a member of Leading Spas of the World, the Spa at Grand Velas features 20 treatment rooms, over 60 spa treatments, gym and exercise room, spa boutique and beauty salon. The family-friendly resort also offers tiered three-temperature infinity pools, tennis court, 25,321 total sq feet of meeting space and a Kids Club. Nearby are championship golf courses, numerous options for soft adventure, and the charming town of Puerto Vallarta with its many shops, art galleries and nightlife. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has received numerous accolades within the industry, including most recently as one of Forbes’ 10 Coolest All-Inclusive Resorts
Yesterday was the birth date of Justo Sierra Mendez, a great man who was very important in founding of the National University of Mexico – better known as UNAM. You can read more about him here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justo_Sierra
February 17th, 2013 at 5:05 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.
February 17th, 2013 at 5:13 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.
February 17th, 2013 at 6:04 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.
February 17th, 2013 at 6:59 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.
February 17th, 2013 at 7:03 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/
February 17th, 2013 at 7:54 am
Expects Record Tourist Numbers for Celebration, Continues to Diversify Tourism Portfolio
Mazatlan welcomes more than 300,000 domestic and international tourists to participate in the 115th annual Carnival to celebrate the city’s longstanding traditions and vibrant culture. Ranked by Forbes as one of the world’s biggest celebrations – third to Rio and Mardi Gras – Mazatlan’s Carnival brings together local and regional musicians, dancers and entertainers in a week-long, costume-filled festival, from February 7-12.
This year’s Carnival expects to draw record tourist numbers, demonstrating that Mazatlan continues to diversify and strengthen its tourism product and offering far beyond its world-class beaches to its strong cultural portfolio.
“Tourism to Mazatlan continues to grow as the destination launches new programs and initiatives to appeal to a variety of tourists,” said Carlos Berdegue, President and CEO of El Cid Resorts, and vice president of the Mazatlan Hotel Association. “There is increasing demand for air service to our destination, particularly for meetings and conventions.”
Thus far in 2013, airline load factor on incoming flights from Mazatlan from the U.S. and Canada have improved an average of 20%, year on year. In December of last year, U.S. and Canada based airlines reported high passenger load factors to Mazatlan, all reaching air seat capacity over 75%: U.S. Airways (94.67 percent); Alaska Airlines (91.26 percent); Sun Wing Airlines (90.52 percent); WestJet (89.54 percent); and American Eagle (75.24 percent.
Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism recently appointed El Rosario, a colonial town nearby Mazatlan, as a Magic Town – a distinction for highly cultural places in Mexico which appeal to tourists – and Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History recognized Las Labradas, volcanic rocks nearby the village of Chicayota 51 km north of Mazatlan, as an archaeological monument zone.
Later this month, on February 28, Mazatlan will host the NAFTA Golf Tournament for the second consecutive year and welcomes more than 150 professional and amateur golfers from United States, Canada and Mexico.
About Mazatlan
Mazatlan is a thriving cultural destination in southwest Mexico known to many as “the Pearl of the Pacific.” Set at the foot of the Sierra Madre Mountains on a peninsula that extends into the Pacific Ocean, Mazatlan is one of the Mexican Riviera’s premier resort areas and has become a popular retreat for the national and international community of 440,000 inhabitants. Named Travelocity’s “Best Family Beach in Mexico” amongst fierce competition, the city of Mazatlan is divided into two main areas: Old Mazatlan, or Centro Historico, and the Zona Dorada connected by a 7-mile Malecon along the beach.
Recognized for its world-class beaches, golfing, gastronomy and cultural offering, Mazatlan is an ideal vacation getaway for all ages on the Mexican Riviera: you can see The Lighthouse (El Faro), the second-tallest natural light house in the world; you can experience the famous Angela Peralta Theater nearby the charming Plazuela Machado; and you can taste the exquisite gastronomy, whether a local pastry shop in Old Mazatlan or the world-famous seafood at The Shrimp Bucket. So, come try it all yourself. Go Mazatlan.
* All images courtesy of the Mazatlan Hotel Association
February 17th, 2013 at 8:41 am
Do you need another reason to head south? How about a day out in the blue Sea of Cortez with a line in the water. Or heck, you don’t even need to fish to enjoy this incomparable body of water – and they do practice catch-and-release. Here is a recent report from a local captain http://www.bdoutdoors.com/forums/baja-mexico-fishing-reports-discussion/358719-good-fishing-cabo-san-lucas.html
And there is lots more to do while you are in town. World-class restaurants attracts locals and celebrities, or just stop by a street stand for a fresh fish taco.
February 17th, 2013 at 8:59 am
Here is an announcement from President Enrique Pena Nieto on a new Forestry Program. This is a great move for the environment and the people of Mexico.
Today I returned to the city of Las Palmas, the capital of the beautiful state of Colima.
Colima is a state where virtually all forestry activities are conducted in marginalized areas, using subsistence practices with low productivity and high environmental costs. However, it is a state with great potential for the development of sustainable forestry.
So I came to this land to present the new National Forest Program (PRONAFOR), designed to improve the social and economic conditions of those living in forests and protect them.
The program will be operated by the National Forestry Commission (CONAFOR), which this year will have a budget of 6,937 million pesos. The goal for 2018 is to practically double the timber production achieved in 2011 from 5.5 million 10.7 cubic meters.
Our forests and jungles generate large benefits: they prevent soil erosion and loss; generate water; purify the air; capture carbon and produce timber. If we exploit them rationally and sustainably, forests can be a great source of wealth for those who live in them.
February 17th, 2013 at 9:41 am
(February 1 , 2012) – The luxury all-inclusive Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit offers guests 20% savings on a stay now through April 30, 2012. Also, children under 12 stay for free and teens 13-16 enjoy a 50% savings rate. In addition to all-inclusive rate features, the promotion includes kids club activities, 10% discount on resort boutique and $50 credit that can be used toward golf or spa treatments.
While at the resort, hotel guests can take advantage of Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit’s special 10th Anniversary Spa Menu, where guests choose from the Spa’s 10 most popular treatments from the past 10 years and receive an additional 25-minute massage (Back, Legs, or Face & Head) for only $10. Offered through the end of December, treatments range from the Four Hand Samunprai Massage, to the Magnetic Diamond Treatment and Men’s Facial.
The Velas Resorts’ all-inclusive rates include suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a choice of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24 hr in-suite service, fitness center, taxes and gratuities, and more. All-inclusive rates start at $281 per person per night in double occupancy. For more information and reservations, please call Velas Resorts at 1-888-323-4294 or visit http://www.velasresorts.com.
About Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit: Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, an all-suites and spa resort located just 15 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay, is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and a recipient of the AAA Five-Diamond Award. The resort features 267 spacious ocean-view suites. The crown jewel of the resort and a member of Leading Spas of the World, the Spa at Grand Velas features 20 treatment rooms, over 60 spa treatments, gym and exercise room, spa boutique and beauty salon. The family-friendly resort also offers tiered three-temperature infinity pools, tennis court, 25,321 total sq feet of meeting space and a Kids Club. Nearby are championship golf courses, numerous options for soft adventure, and the charming town of Puerto Vallarta with its many shops, art galleries and nightlife. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has received numerous accolades within the industry, including most recently as one of Forbes’ 10 Coolest All-Inclusive Resorts
February 17th, 2013 at 10:26 am
Yesterday was the birth date of Justo Sierra Mendez, a great man who was very important in founding of the National University of Mexico – better known as UNAM. You can read more about him here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justo_Sierra