Travelore Report, Monthly In Print Since 1971: TRAVELORE DESTINATION REPORT: Puerto Vallarta, Mex...

Travelore Report, Monthly In Print Since 1971: TRAVELORE DESTINATION REPORT: Puerto Vallarta, Mex...: Puerto Vallarta is a colorful resort town on Mexico's Pacific coast, in Jalisco state. It is best known for its friendly Engl...

Merida Named One Of The Best Cities In Mexico At Travel + Leisure 2019 World’s Best Awards

The historic city of Merida, capital of Yucatan, has once again been named one of the top cities in Mexico by the readers of Travel + Leisure Magazine as announced this morning by the publication. Merida is the entry point to the State of Yucatan and a key part of its Six Tourist Regions which include the Yucatan Riviera, Costa Flamingo, Center, Pucc and the Maya World. The city offers a unique visit to Mexico as it exemplifies the region’s rich with culture and history, here, visitors will find a fusion of the Maya with French, German and the fusion of the Spanish-Moorish culture. Merida’s Historic Center shows off this richness in its many colonial buildings, museums, galleries, theaters, outdoor cafes, bars, traditional clothing, parks, hotels, restaurants with national and international food standards. The city is a great starting point to visiting Mexico’s next “it” travel.  The state of Yucatán is the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula. There are more than 19 archaeological sites open to the public. There are cenotes, haciendas, cultural cities, virgin beaches and nature. The perfect cross-section of everything Mexico has to offer, from beautiful beaches and ancient ruins to cutting-edge gastronomy, architecture, art, cultural cities and more. “We are excited to see that Merida has been included in Travel + Leisure’s prestigious World’s Best Awards as one of the Best Cities in Mexico,” said Michelle Fridman, Tourism Secretary for Yucatán State. "T+L’s readers are well-traveled and with Mexico being the number one international destination for Americans, we are sure they have made their selections carefully. We congratulate all the destinations that have ranked and invite T+L readers to travel to the other regions of our state.” The U.S. edition of T+L, which launched in 1971, is the only monthly consumer travel magazine in print in the U.S.; has an authoritative website, TravelandLeisure.com; and has an extensive social media following of more than 13 million. Travel + Leisure also encompasses newsletters and media collaborations. Every year, the magazine asks readers to identify their favorite travel destinations and hotels across the world. Readers are asked to share their opinions on top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas and airlines that they have experienced. The hotels recognized in the World’s Best Awards are rated on their facilities, location, service, food and overall value. The city of Merida has been included in the World’s Best Awards for the 4th year in a row, coming in atnumber 4 in Mexico in 2018, in 2017 it placed 7th in the Best Cities in Mexico and Central and South America and 5th in 2016 under the same category. For more information on the State of Yucatan, please visit www.yucatan.travel

Mar del Cabo Opens In Los Cabos, Mexico

Velas Resorts Expands Mexican Hotel Collection With First European Plan Boutique Hotel Property Los Cabos, Mexico  –Mar del Cabo debuts on Mexico’s Baja Peninsula with a new look after a $4 Million renovation of the former Marbella Suites. Located midway between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, the European Plan boutique hotel is now the sixth property of Velas Resorts and its only EP offering. Mar del Cabo is a stylish adaptation of the classic boutique hotel, designed to captivate and comfort with its space of unassuming and pleasing minimalism.  Created as a white canvas with touches of color and chic design, it is the deep blue of the Sea of Cortez and the golden beaches that add tone, depth and natural accents.  Mar del Cabo invites travelers to enjoy a stylish beachy vibe while still maintaining the high-end service and features expected with a property associated with Velas Resorts. Mar del Cabo has 46 one and two bedroom suites and two penthouses. Each unit has a king or two queen size beds, kitchenette with coffee maker and microwave oven, terrace with sitting area, separate living area with sofa, bathroom width step-in rain shower, and daily turndown service. A common denominator with Velas Resorts, the culinary delights do not disappoint, as organic cuisine inspired by local Baja dishes and coastal Mediterranean favorites will be served at the Encanto Restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  A bar, oceanfront spa, sleek and sensual ocean-front pool, as well as outdoor spaces to hold private events complete Mar del Cabo. Room rates start at $191 USD per night. For more information and to book, call 1.844.314.2352, email reservations@mardelcabo.com or visit https://mardelcabo.com/. About Velas Resorts: Velas Resorts in Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit and Los Cabos have earned 52 AAA Diamonds, including the prestigious Five Diamond Award. Other esteemed international awards for their services and facilities include Virtuoso’s “Best Spa,” Forbes’ “Coolest All-Inclusives,” Forbes’ Four Star Award, and TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame, among others. Offering unparalleled all-inclusive experiences, properties include the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas in Los Cabos, with dramatic ocean views and unique spaces infusing every area of the resort; AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, which enjoys a privileged natural setting with flowering, landscaped gardens beside a long stretch of pristine beach and a dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains; and AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya, located five minutes from Playa del Carmen, offering a sophisticated all-inclusive resort experience in the Caribbean with jungle and beach settings. In Puerto Vallarta, Casa Velas is a boutique adults-only hotel and ocean club located on the Marina Vallarta Golf Course, and Velas Vallarta, a family-friendly all suites resort and spa located on Banderas Bay. Mar del Cabo, a boutique hotel on Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, opens on December 5th as its only European Plan offering. Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, operates Velas Resorts with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. For reservations or more information, call 1-888-407-4869, email reservations@velasresorts.com  or visit https://www.velasresorts.com.

Velas Resorts Announces Black Friday And Cyber Monday Offers

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Whether guests are looking to arrange a festive escape, plan a special holiday for 2019 or snap up a spontaneous last minute sunshine break, Velas Resorts has announced that it will be offering additional savings and added values for Black Friday and Cyber Monday bookings on future travel. Additionally, spa credits, airport transportation, suite upgrades, unlimited golf, up to two kids complimentary, access to the resorts’ renowned hydrotherapy, and more are included at select resorts. For Christmas bookings, select Velas Resorts will be including savings on the insuite trees available for guests. Velas Resorts consists of Casa Velas and Velas Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta, and Grand Velas in Los Cabos, Riviera Maya and Riviera Nayarit.  At Casa Velas, an adults-only boutique hotel and ocean club in Puerto Vallarta, the Black Friday promotion features discounted suite rates starting at $232 per person per night for travel in 2018 and 2019. Up to $50 in spa credits, 25-minute massage, suite upgrade, $60 credit towards a private beach dinner and more are also offered over select dates. Additionally, a dinner for two at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is included with a 3-night minimum stay. Unlimited golf at Marina and Vista Vallarta Golf Clubs, complimentary city and cultural tours, and nightly activities are also included when staying at Casa Velas. At Velas Vallarta, an all-inclusive family resort on the beach in Puerto Vallarta, the Black Friday promotion features discounted suite rates starting at $160 per person per night for future travel. Up to a $500 resort credit per room, kids (ages 4 – 17) at 50% savings, early check in or late check out, and a private dinner for two with a bottle of sparkling wine on the beach are also part of the Black Friday promotion. The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya will have rates starting at $436 per person per night for the Black Friday promotion. Kids stay free, airport transportation (value of $90 each way), a $50 credit in the SE Spa, early check in, discount for teens and more are available on select dates. The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit’s rates during the Black Friday promotion start at $336 per person per night. A $50 spa credit for adults as well as 10% off in the resort’s boutique and $50 of golf credit are also included. The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Los Cabos’ rates start at $540 per person per night. During the Black Friday Promotion, a $50 spa credit, 10% off in the resort’s boutique, and access to the Water Ceremony, as well as suite upgrades are offered. Additional inclusions vary based on travel dates and resort property. For full details on Velas Resorts’ Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale, visit https://blackfriday.velasresorts.com/. About Velas Resorts: Offering unparalleled all-inclusive experiences, Velas Resorts in Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit and Los Cabos have earned 52 AAA Diamonds, including the prestigious Five Diamond Award. Other esteemed international awards for their services and facilities include Virtuoso’s “Best Spa,” Forbes’ “Coolest All-Inclusives,” Forbes’ Four Star Award, and TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame, among others. Properties include the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas in Los Cabos, with dramatic ocean views and unique spaces infusing every area of the resort; AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, which enjoys a privileged natural setting with flowering, landscaped gardens beside a long stretch of pristine beach and a dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains; and AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya, located five minutes from Playa del Carmen, offering a sophisticated all-inclusive resort experience in the Caribbean with jungle and beach settings. In Puerto Vallarta, Casa Velas is a boutique adults-only hotel and ocean club located on the Marina Vallarta Golf Course, and Velas Vallarta, a family-friendly all suites resort and spa located on Banderas Bay. Velas Resorts feature spacious accommodations, spas, a unique culinary experience at a selection of restaurants, 24-hour in suite service, fitness centers, personal concierge service, wedding inspections for couples, state of the art conference centers, extensive family programs, fully stocked mini bar and more. Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, operates Velas Resorts with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. For reservations or more information, call 1-888-407-4869, email reservations@velasresorts.com  or visit https://www.velasresorts.com.

TRAVELORE DESTINATION REPORT: Yucatan Peninsula Of Mexico, A Selection Of Highlights Of Recommended Places To Visit.

We recently had the opportunity to expereince an exceptional array of highlights of  Yucatan experiences that will become lifetime memories. 

Tulum

 Tulum, dating from 1200-1400, was an important Mayan port for trade. This well preserved walled city is a good introduction to the Mayan culture and the importance of trade.

 Xcaret is a beautiful ecco-ecological part in Playa del Carmen. An outstanding dinner show depicting Mexican history is recommended.

The Mayaland Hotel and Bungalows in Chichen Itza, built in 1923, is the first resort built within an ancient site. Our bungalow was very comfortable and, on your Land and Cruise Safari you will have the opportunity to view the ancient site in the evening during the spectacular evening light and sound show and during sun up with a private tour explaining the amazing understanding of astronomy. We even learned that women played an important role in studying the stars in the Mayan culture,partially dure their internal cycles.

84 year old Don Antonio, ambassador to the Hacienda Sotuta de Peon, a working plantation that makes rope from an agave plant. Since childhood he has done every job on the plantation. Your visit includes a horse drawn train ride tour of the plantation, demonstration of how the rope is made and a delicious lunch. Pictured is my mahi mahi entree.

Your visit to Nolo may become one of your more memorable travel experiences, a high energy place that the Dalai Lama was drawn to visit and left  a small statuette designating it to be a spiritual place.  Here you will have the opportunity expereince a spiritual cleansing ceremony from a local shaman and have the chance to spend individual time with a second generation energy healer that was able to identify specific physical issues with each of the people in our group and adjusted our backs.   

A highlight in the beautiful state of Campeche is their evening light show on weekends




For more details about planning your trip to Mexico please visit: https://www.visitmexico.com/en

Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort Los Cabos Is Open

Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort, Los Cabos is opening September 1st, occupying a coveted 34 acres overlooking the Sea of Cortez, midway between the bustling vacation city of Cabo San Lucas and the quaint historic town of San Jose del Cabo. This will be the first hotel in Baja California Sur for The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts brand.

From its inception, the 128-room luxury resort was meant to pay tribute to Baja California, both in its design and guest experience, as it celebrates the magnificent landscape and exquisite cultural marvels endemic to the region. The team collaborated with the very best Mexican talent – from artists and architects to chefs, to ensure a truly authentic experience. Some standout features include:

• Accommodations – Sophisticated and modern, each masterfully designed guest room and suite at Solaz Resort feature a private entrance and patio, contemporary furnishings, original art and Bluetooth technology that will set the room ambience, with touch screen remote control access to the curtains, lighting and music. Floor plans blur the lines between indoor and outdoor space, as private terraces provide unobstructed views of the sea. The resort’s location, nestled between two natural rockbeds, offers guests one of the only swimmable beaches in the area.

• Art & Design – Designed by renowned Mexican architectural firm Sordo Madaleno, the resort's cascading terraces blend desert vegetation with quarry stone, granite, marble and wood to create a literal architectural work of art. Celebrating the distinctive endemic landscape of Baja, the property features a sustainable lush “dry jungle” featuring only endemic species and flora. This unique design puts Solaz Resort in a class of its own; however, it’s not just the creative landscaping and architectural beauty that set the resort apart from other luxury locations. Celebrating art at every turn, Solaz Resort features original works throughout the property — all masterfully created by famed Mexican artist César López Negrete, who travelled throughout Baja for years studying the region’s land, water, history and folklore. Negrete’s research inspired him to create thoughtful sculptures and specialty crafted furnishings, fostering a transformative experience for visitors. El Gabinete “Del Barco” is the resort’s indigenous gallery, showcasing regional artifacts such as a 43-foot-long whale skeleton and a historical map collection.

• Experiences – While other hotels may claim that they are inspired by the surrounding area, Solaz Resort has truly captured the region’s authenticity and incorporated this into every aspect of the resort, including its guest programming. The property has a large selection of tailor-made, exclusive experiences that are sure to touch the soul of each guest. From private helicopter trips to explore the rare Cave Paintings of Baja and swimming with whale sharks, to Baja-inspired culinary classes and enjoying a heartrending night under the desert stars, visitors can be immersed in a destination unlike any other with these locally inspired, luxury expeditions. Each room will have a dedicated Artisan butler who will help create these one-of-a-kind, tailor-made experiences.

• Gastronomy – Culinary offerings at Solaz Resort are as authentically inspired as the property itself, with four unique restaurants and lounges designed for visitors with discerning palates. Mako, one of the resort’s restaurants, will offer a trendy al fresco dining experience during the day, featuring clean food options such as salads from local biodynamic farms and artisanal wood-fired flatbreads, and at night the Mako Dinner Grill menu will include dry aged steak, local live lobsters and the sea’s freshest fish prepared in house by Executive Chef Pedro Joaquin Arceyut and his team. All of the resort’s restaurant menus have been developed to incorporate the captivating stories of local farmers that grow organic produce, fishermen that supply fresh and sustainable seafood, and the local artisanal craftsmen who specialize in traditional cheeses. Those looking for lively libations can enjoy the property’s impressive wine cellar at La Cava, offering a selection of more than 2,500 vintages, many of which are local to the region. The resort is also home to Xocolatl, a modern chocolate shop and ice cream boutique that sells organic and indigenous chocolate from Mexico’s diverse region.

• Meetings – Solaz Resort offers the largest meeting space at any luxury hotel in Los Cabos, with 20,000 sq. feet of meeting, wedding and event space that can accommodate more than 1,000 guests and includes a 3,500 sq. ft. ballroom and 11,000 sq. ft. outdoor deck. A team of expert event planners ensures attention to every detail for intimate or grand-scale event.

Source: https://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/news-articles/solaz-a-luxury-collection-resort-los-cabos-to-open-september-1st 

AAA Inspector's Best of 5 Diamond Awarded to Grand Velas Los Cabos

Resort Received a Rating of 5.4 out of 5 by the Inspector, Putting it in the Top 20% of All Five Diamond Inspected & Approved Properties

CABO SAN LUCAS, Mexico, -- Grand Velas Los Cabos has been distinguished among the best of the best by AAA, now named among the AAA Inspector's Best of 5 Diamonds collection. Less than 2 years after opening, the resort received a rating of 5.4 out of 5 by the inspector, putting it in the top 20% of all Five Diamond Inspected & Approved properties. Resorts recognized by Five Diamonds have demonstrated "ultimate luxury, sophistication and comfort with extraordinary physical attributes, meticulous personalized service, extensive amenities and impeccable standards of excellence" to an anonymous inspector according to the AAA website.

Grand Velas Los Cabos offers the next generation of all-inclusive amenities and facilities including a selection of gourmet specialty restaurants led by top chefs, including two star Michelin chef Sidney Schutte; oversize designer suites, some with plunge pools; a world class spa; staff ratio of 3 to 1; exceptional meeting facilities, and a commitment to the environment. The beachfront property has enhanced signature facilities and services of Grand Velas resorts including duplex wellness suites with juice bars, wine-based features inspired by the proximity to the region producing Mexico's fine wines, and dramatic ocean views and unique spaces infusing every area of the resort.

Rates at Grand Velas Los Cabos' all-inclusive resort start at $582 per person per night in double occupancy. Rate includes luxury suite accommodations, 24-hour in-suite service, gourmet, premium branded beverages, nightly entertainment, taxes, gratuity, and more. For reservations or additional information, please call 1-888-407-4869 or visit https://loscabos.grandvelas.com/.

About Grand Velas Los Cabos:
The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Los Cabos on Mexico's Baja Peninsula offers the next generation of all-inclusive amenities and facilities with dramatic ocean views and unique spaces infusing every area of the resort. Located between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, the beachfront property features 304 ocean view suites, all over 1,180 sq. ft. with private terraces and some personal plunge pools. Duplex wellness suites have designated fitness amenities, a personal Wellness Concierge and healthy food and beverages in suite. Grand Velas Los Cabos features five gourmet restaurants led by top chefs, including two star Michelin chef Sidney Schutte, complemented by an extensive beverage program and wine based features inspired by the proximity to Mexico's fine wine region. A staff ratio of 3 to 1; 16,370 sq. ft. convention center with the capability for 20 breakout rooms; 35,000 sq. ft. Se Spa with 16 treatment rooms and hydrotherapy facility; three pools; and pool and beach concierges are available. Rounding out the list of amenities and services are a Technogym Fitness Center with personal trainers, exercise programs, yoga, Pilates and meditation; recreational activities program; separate teens' and kids' club facilities and activities program; 24-hour personal concierge service; baby concierge; and 24-hour in-suite service. Opening soon, a gallery of contemporary art will continue the company's commitment to bringing the art, fashion and culture of Mexico to guests. The curved, half-moon design of the hotel catches eyes along the corridor with an iconic grand entrance that's open air, three stories high and over 300 ft. above sea level. All of this beachfront, just 35 minutes from the Los Cabos International Airport which directly services over 40 destinations in the United States, Canada and Latin America. A member of the Virtuoso Hotels & Resorts Program, Grand Velas Los Cabos was built and is operated by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. For reservations or additional information, please call 1-888-407-4869 or visit https://loscabos.grandvelas.com/.

SOURCE Grand Velas Los Cabos

Puerto Vallarta’s Historic Center Declared A Cultural Heritage Of The State of Jalisco

Puerto Vallarta – Puerto Vallarta’s Historic Center is now a protected Cultural Heritage of the Mexican State of Jalisco. The declaration was made by the state’s Department of Culture on July 21 via the official journal of Jalisco and makes the center of the city a protected area, with all the rights and privileges of a heritage protected by state and federal laws. The recognition includes the area from the beginning of the Malecon — where the oldest hotel in Puerto Vallarta, the hotel Rosita, stands — and continues to the cobblestoned Romantic Zone and up to the historic Conchas Chinas neighborhoods. Each area is of special historical significance to Puerto Vallarta,Jalisco and Mexico, as well as the essence of the port city, which is in the midst of celebrating its centennial.   According to the State of Jalisco, this proclamation is a step to further preserve the architectural elements of patrimonial value and image and essential characteristics of the typical town on the seashore, one of the unique qualities of Puerto Vallarta, known as the “most Mexican” beach destination.    “Puerto Vallarta’s historic center is the heart of our city and a major attraction to our visitors and, like all world heritage sites, it must be recognized as an irreplaceable part of our legacy,” said Javier Aranda Pedrero, Director of the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board. “We applaud the actions taken by Jalisco’s Department of Culture and welcome everyone to enjoy this iconic part of the city.”   The center of Puerto Vallarta is much loved by the people of Vallarta and appreciated by visitors, as it retains authentic characteristics of a traditional Mexican town, in its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. Of particular interest is the Church of the Virgin of Guadalupe, the city’s central plaza, Los Muertos Pier and colonial homes that date back hundreds of years. Puerto Vallarta’s historic center is a place full of life where neighbors coexist and mix with tourists who enjoy strolls along a boardwalk lined with sculptures, paintings and other works of art.   At dusk, the center is full of locals out for a stroll, heading for church services or dinner. Mixing with them, visitors can soak in the most beautiful sunsets on the Pacific; gaze at bobbing sailboats and the emblematic Marigalante pirate ship; and dig into roasted corn, mangoes with chili, cakes, tuba water and many other appetizers and desserts. All these attractions are located on the boardwalk and neighboring downtown streets, which for many reasons already was — official proclamation or not — a cultural heritage jewel of Jalisco.  About the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board The Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board is responsible for promoting the destination in national and international markets. Nestled between the rugged, tropical Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay — Mexico’s largest natural bay and second largest on the American continent — on Mexico’s balmy Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is easily accessible from the U.S. and Canada. The city enjoys a warm tropical climate year-round, with average daytime temperatures of 80°F and cooler evening temperatures in winter months. Located 4 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta, Gustavo Diaz International Airport receives more than 4 million visitors annually. The destination is home to 300,000 residents and offers an estimated 12,400 hotel rooms, with more than half in 4-star-plus properties.

Sen Lin at Grand Velas Riviera Maya Awarded Four Diamonds by AAA

Fourth Restaurant at Resort to Receive 4+ Diamond Rating ​ Riviera Maya, Mexico  – Grand Velas Riviera Maya’s Sen Lin was awarded the American Automobile Association’s (AAA) Four Diamond Award, the fourth restaurant at the resort to be so honored. With 22 Diamonds by AAA, Grand Velas Riviera Maya has set new standards in the All-Inclusive World – its food, creativity and presentation comparable to top restaurants in world capitals. In addition to Sen Lin, the AAA Five Diamond resort offers guests five gourmet offerings including the AAA Five Diamond Cocina de Autor and Frida and Piaf, rated Four Diamonds.  Sen Lin is founded on the culinary traditions of northeast and southwest Asia including China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia and Thailand.  At the helm of the restaurant is Chef Wayu “Light” Wattanakamin whose 14 years of culinary-industry experience and exploration of international cuisine keep traditional food and flavors of Asia in every dish. Sen Lin offers authentic Asian decor indoor and outdoor views from the terrace of the Yucatan’s lush jungle setting.  Signature dishes include bamboo-steamed buns filled with pork; pork wontons with pickled vegetables, Siam Pad Thai, and rack of lamb with Sriracha and grapes. Each year AAA reviews more than 31,000 restaurants. Only 2.1 percent make the AAA Four Diamond list. AAA Diamond Ratings for restaurants represent a combination of the overall food, service, décor and ambiance offered by the establishment. The descriptive ratings are assigned exclusively to establishments that meet and uphold AAA’s rigorous approval standards. A Four Diamond restaurant provides distinctive fine dining, creatively prepared, and skillfully served, amid upscale ambiance. Gourmet meals and premium beverages are included in the resort’s nightly rates. Rates start at $434 USD per person per night based on double occupancy and also include luxury suite accommodations, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, taxes, gratuity and more. For reservations or additional information, call 1-888-407-4869, or visithttps://www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com. About Grand Velas Riviera Maya: The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an ultra-luxury all-inclusive resort set on 206 acres of pristine jungle and mangroves and with the finest white sand beach in the Riviera Maya. Guests can choose accommodations among oceanfront, ocean view and a Zen-like tropical setting, embraced by the flora and fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula’s jungle. All 539 designer-like suites are exceptionally spacious, more than 1,100 square feet each, all with balconies, and some with private plunge pools. All feature fully stocked mini bars, L’Occitane amenities, artisanal mezcal, and Nespresso coffee machines. Bathrooms deserve special mention with walk in glass shower, deep soaking Jacuzzi tubs and marble interior. Eight restaurants, including five gourmet offerings, present a tour through Mexico, Europe and Asia. Cocina de Autor, at the hands of world renowned celebrity chefs Bruno Oteiza, Mikel Alonso and Xavier Pérez Stone, holds the AAA Five Diamond Award, the first all-inclusive restaurant in the world to win this prestigious distinction. Se Spa is the region's largest spa sanctuary at more than 90,000 square feet, known for its authentic Mexican treatments, offerings from around world and signature seven-step water journey. Other features include 24-hour Personal Concierge; 24/7 in-suite service; three swimming pools; two fitness centers; water sports; innovative Kids’ Clubs and Teens’ Club; baby concierge; Karaoke Bar; Koi Bar; Piano Bar, and business center. The resort offers more than 91,000 square feet of meeting space and outdoor areas for events inclusive of a 31,000-square-foot Convention Center, able to accommodate up to 2,700 guests. The resort has won numerous awards from Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, USA Today and several other magazines and major companies worldwide, including Virtuoso’s Best Spa and TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame. A member of the Virtuoso Hotels & Resorts Program, Grand Velas Riviera Maya was built and is operated by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. For reservations or additional information, call 1-888-407-4869, or visit https://www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya Launches First Spa Atelier Workshop

Riviera Maya, Mexico  – Se Spa at the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya has launched its Spa Atelier, workshops inspired by local Mexican culture and based upon the principles of ancient Ayurvedic medicine that center around self-discovery. The first offering at the resort is a workshop to make energy bites full of superfoods. Recipes will vary from Cacao and Matcha-Pistachio to Cranberry-Orange and Carrot. Superfoods are foods that increase energy and improve retention, as well as provide antioxidants, minerals and vitamins and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The Spa Atelier concept initially launched last year at its sister property Grand Velas Los Cabos. It features Mandala meditation, tea discovery, DIY body scrubs based on one’s Dosha and a Natura Bissé Facial Masterclass. The Energy Bites Workshop at Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an hour long, held every Thursday, July through September, for small groups of 3 – 6 people. The class costs $65 USD per person. For those who can’t make it to the resort to try out the class, Grand Velas Riviera Maya shares a recipe to make some of the energy bites at home. Cacao Energy Bites 1/3 cup            powdered cocoa 16                    dried dates 7 tbsp               honey 1 tsp                 coconut oil 1 tsp                 Maca root powder 1 tsp                 acai ½ cup               rolled oats 4 cups              cashews For toppings: amaranth, chia, hemp seeds and grated coconut Process: Chop the dates in a food processor before adding the cocoa, Maca, honey, coconut oil, oats, acai and cashews. Pour the mixture into a bowl and mix until well combined. Roll into balls a little under an inch and finish with topping of choice. Nightly rates start at $393 USD. Rates are per person based on double occupancy and include all tour arrangements and transportation, luxury suite accommodations, à la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, taxes, gratuity and more. For reservations or additional information, call 1-888-407-4869, or visit https://www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com. About Grand Velas Riviera Maya: The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an ultra-luxury all-inclusive resort set on 206 acres of pristine jungle and mangroves and with the finest white sand beach in the Riviera Maya. Guests can choose among three separate ambiances, including adults-only oceanfront, family-friendly ocean view and a Zen-like tropical setting, embraced by the flora and fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula’s jungle. All 539 designer-like suites are exceptionally spacious, more than 1,100 square feet each, all with balconies, and some with private plunge pools. All feature fully stocked mini bars, L’Occitane amenities, artisanal tequila, and Nespresso coffee machines. Bathrooms deserve special mention with walk in glass shower, deep soaking Jacuzzi tubs and marble interior. Eight restaurants, including five gourmet offerings, present a tour through Mexico, Europe and Asia. Cocina de Autor, at the hands ofworld renowned celebrity chefs Bruno Oteiza, Mikel Alonso and Xavier Pérez Stone, holds the AAA Five Diamond Award, the first all-inclusive restaurant in the world to win this prestigious distinction. Se Spa is the region's largest spa sanctuary at more than 90,000 square feet, known for its authentic Mexican treatments, offerings from around world and signature seven-step water journey. Other features include 24-hour Personal Concierge; 24/7 in-suite service; three swimming pools; two fitness centers; water sports; innovative Kids’ Clubs and Teens’ Club; baby concierge; Karaoke Bar; Koi Bar; Piano Bar, and business center. The resort offers more than 91,000 square feet of meeting space and outdoor areas for events inclusive of a 31,000-square-foot Convention Center, able to accommodate up to 2,700 guests. The resort has won numerous awards from Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, USA Today and several other magazines and major companies worldwide, including Virtuoso’s Best Spa and TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame. A member of the Virtuoso Hotels & Resorts Program, Grand Velas Riviera Maya was built and is operated by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. For reservations or additional information, call 1-888-407-4869, or visithttps://www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com.