Cancun Airport Eliminates The Fee Associated With Multiple Electronics - What Travelers Need To Know

Officials in Cancun, Mexico have done away with a controversial rule that has been plaguing unsuspecting tourists arriving to the popular resort city.

In a video posted to Facebook on Friday, Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama announced that tourists passing through Cancun International Airport will no longer be charged a fee for bringing more than one larger electronic device, including laptops and tablets.

The change is effective immediately.

"We managed to eliminate the charge for bringing more than one computer or electronic tablet into your personal luggage, within the #Cancun International Airport, with the support of Mexican Customs," Lezama said on her Facebook page.

"I am here to inform you that as a result of various uncomfortable and inconvenient situations detected at customs in the Cancun International Airport which have affected our destination's image such as not allowing international and domestic tourists, as well as residents, to bring more than one device be it computer, laptop or tablet, we visited the area and reviewed the criteria used to allow tourists through customs and thanks to the support and consideration of the Agencia Nacional de Aduanas de México (National Customs Agency of Mexico), we reviewed the procedure to reactivate the tourists flow through customs and eliminate this criteria."

"We had a roundtable with the Agencia Nacional de Aduanas de México and as a result of this meeting and thanks to their support, the decision was reached to eliminate the criteria in place. This was an old franchise regulation that no longer aligns with these times of technology, home office, in addition to the key tourism sector who travel to our destination to attend conferences, conventions and professional meetings," added Lezama.

"We are thankful to the authorities for their sensibility and for listening with the goal to adapt to this new era, and beginning today, this charge has been eliminated for both National and International travelers."

Recent reports have been circulating of tourists being charged an average of $190 for traveling with multiple larger electronic devices.

Those unable or unwilling to pay the fee have had items confiscated by customs agents.

Tammy Levent, President of Elite Travel Group, has been vocal about her disconcerting experience with the rule earlier this year and went so far as to set up a time to meet with officials and share her concerns.

She believes her input was instrumental in bringing about these welcome changes for visitors to Cancun.

https://www.travelpulse.com/bio/patrick-clarke

Cancun Airport Project Successful In Reducing Entry Wait Times From Nearly 3 Hours To 7 Minutes

The entry of tourists arriving to Mexico has been expedited by the use of modern technologies. The Secretary of Tourism of the Government of Mexico says these modern technologies in Cancun has made it possible to reduce wait times from nearly three hours to just seven minutes.

Tourism Secretary Miguel Torruco Marqués said in response to a demand from the sector, they have proposed modifying Article 35 of the Migration Law to allow the use of technological tools in all major airports to speed up the entry of tourists.

He explained that the reform was published in the DOF on April 29, 2022 at which time, a pilot project was implemented at the Cancun Airport. That pilot project reduced the wait from 2 hours and 45 minutes per person, to just seven minutes during peak hours.

Torruco Marqués said under instructions from President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, he was tasked with providing a solution to expedite entry into the country and avoid the recurring “bottlenecks” at the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) and Cancún, as well as those in Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, Guadalajara, Monterrey and Tijuana, which represent 90 percent of the in-bound arrivals.

Various agencies including the Ministries of the Interior, Foreign Affairs, the National Migration Institute (INM) as well as the President of the Hotel Association of Cancun, Puerto Morelos and Isla Mujeres, were asked to present the proposal to modify Article 35 of the Migration Law with the purpose of allowing the use of automated technological tools to expedite and facilitate entry.

This proposal was sent through the then president of the Tourism Commission of the Chamber of Deputies, Luis Alegre Salazar (RIP), which was approved unanimously by both Chambers and published in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) on April 29, 2022, thus addressing a widespread demand from the sector for more than 25 years.

He indicated that from then, meetings were held with the INM to monitor progress, the Operation Manual was drawn up and the pilot plan was achieved at the Cancun airport where the wait was reduced.

He stated that starting in December 2022, the INM implemented Autonomous Migration Filters (FMA) at the International Airports of Mexico City and Cancun. Starting in May 2024, at the Los Cabos International Airport and at the Guadalajara International Airport starting in August 2024. They are also already operating at the Puerto Vallarta International Airport.

Torruco Marqués stressed the importance of an initiative from Sectur that has given way to modernity in the country’s airports, leaving only Tijuana, operated by Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP), and Monterrey, managed by Grupo Aeroportuario Centro Norte (OMA), the latter being urged to implement these measures so that it is the same in all airports.

The Secretary of Tourism reported that, in 2023, the Cancun Airport received 10.4 million international tourists, being the main air destination in the country. From January to July 2024, 6.2 million international tourists arrived at the Cancun Airport, exceeding by 0.9% what was registered in the same period of 2023.

In turn, AICM received 4.2 million international tourists in 2023, reaching second place in the country.

In 2023, Los Cabos airport received 2.3 million international tourists occupying third. From January to July 2024, 1.4 million international tourists arrived. During 2023, 1.8 million international tourists arrived at the Puerto Vallarta airport, and from January to July 2024, it attracted 1.2 million.

In 2023, the Guadalajara airport received 1.3 million international tourists and 847,251 from January to July 2024.

The Secretary of Tourism emphasized that the modernization of technology to speed up the entry of international tourists to Mexico also translates into greater economic benefits and per capita spending, benefiting the local population and in compliance with the instruction of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador to make tourism a tool for social reconciliation.

https://riviera-maya-news.com/category/travel

United Airlines Becomes The Latest US Carrier To Announce Flights To Mexico's New Tulum International Airport

Services will launch in March, with United Airlines bulking up its Cancun schedule through the winter travel season.

US legacy carrier United Airlines might just have your winter travel plans covered. From 2024, the airline will bulk up capacity to a range of destinations across the Caribbean, Central America, South America, and Mexico.

A Mexican excursion

Launching on March 31, just in time for a much-needed break from that late winter/early spring chill, United Airlines will add direct services to Mexico’s new Tulum International Airport (TQO) from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). Located on the idyllic Yucatán Peninsula, the airport serves as a gateway to popular resorts, including Cancún and Playa del Carmen, as well as pre-Columbian heritage sites such as the Mayan Chichén Itzá.

In a statement shared by United Airlines, Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Alliances Patrick Quayle explained the airline’s decision for its southerly expansion, adding, "Tulum is at the top of a lot of travel lists – great beaches and restaurants, and a region featuring a rich history and spectacular natural beauty. Our new direct flights help people get there faster than ever, giving them even more time to enjoy one of Mexico's most unique destinations."

The carrier currently operates direct services to Cancun International Airport (CUN) and Cozumel International Airport (CZM); however, the soon-to-open Tulum Airport is set to provide enhanced connectivity for tourists hoping to explore the Riviera Maya region.

Can’t wait until March? Through the winter travel season, United Airlines will offer over 200 weekly departures between eight of its US and Cancun, utilizing its Boeing 777 jets on certain services to meet demand for the popular destination. Flights to Cozumel will run 11 times a week from Chicago, Houston, and Denver International Airport (DEN).

American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Spirit Airlines are also gearing up to launch operations at the new airport. Services are scheduled to launch on December 1, with Viva Aerobus and Aeromexico to be among the first airlines to inaugurate Tulum Airport.

Alongside services to Mexico, United Airlines has announced it will bolster capacity on routes into Latin America and the Caribbean by up to 25% through the winter travel season. The capacity growth will cement United Airlines’ place as the largest US airline in Central America, with destinations including San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and Liberia International Airport (LIR) in Costa Rica, El Salvador International Airport (SAL), Belize City’s Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE), and La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City

Latin America has proven an incredibly trendy destination for North American tourists; in May, the Latin American & Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA) confirmed that the region had exceeded its pre-pandemic traffic numbers, posting 0.6% passenger growth between 2019 and 2023. Mexico, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic were the largest passenger markets, recording three-year growth of 21%, 14%, and 109%, respectively. The region is also expected to exceed its pre-pandemic financial levels by the end of 2023. As reported by Travel Pulse, tourism in Latin America is predicted to contribute around $319.5 billion to the regional economy this year, a 1.2% increase on 2019's figures.

BY MOLLY RUSSELL

New Theme Park Opening In Cancun This March To Give Tourists A Unique Peek Into Mexican Culture

There is no shortage of things to do when visiting Cancun, where you can spend hours on the beaches, lay by the pool, explore Mayan ruins, snorkel, swim in a cenote, take a tour through the jungle, eat good food, shop, go to a club, and more. But while all of these activities are a lot of fun, most of them do not really give visitors much of a cultural experience. A new theme park opening in Cancun this March, though, will give tourists a unique peek into Mexican culture.

Luchatitlán – A Theme Park Dedicated To Lucha Libre

The new theme park, Luchatitlán, will be dedicated to the art of freestyle wrestling, Lucha Libre, which is popular in Mexico. The term Lucha Libre means “free fight.” The unique style of wrestling was introduced in the early 20th century and has been growing in popularity throughout the country since.

The Luchatitlán theme park project began back in 2021, with funding for the project provided by the Fibra Uno real estate trust. The trust provided 130 million pesos for the project, which is nearly 7 million U.S. dollars, that includes a space of more than 30,000 square feet. Within that, 30,000 square feet will be not only an arena that fits 580 people but also a food and beverage venue, a bar, or cantina, that fits 220 people, and a wrestling hall of fame.

The Purpose Of The Theme Park

While the main purpose of the new theme park is to provide entertainment for visitors and locals, it is also a way to promote Mexican culture. The general manager of Fibro Uno, Gonzalo Robina, explained this when he said that “The idea is to bring Mexican popular culture closer to international tourism that arrives in Cancun. It is designed to [attract] people who go to the beach and are looking for activities. Let everyone who visits this destination experience the verbena del ring.”

Luchatitlán Theme Park Location

The Luchatitlán theme park will be at the La Isla shopping village, located in the popular, bustling Cancun Hotel Zone on Kukulcan Blvd. The shopping village is an open-air complex that is home to unique clothing stores, restaurants, a movie theater, attractions, a tequila museum, and even a Hilton-branded hotel. There is also a giant ferris wheel located at the property that offers unbelievable views of Cancun and the Caribbean Sea.

Luchatitlán Theme Park Details

The Luchatitlán theme park will be open for business sometime in March, though an exact date has not yet been disclosed. There will be two afternoon shows every day, but the times have not been announced yet. Ticket prices will range between about $69 and $109 per show.

A Little About Lucha Libre

Lucha libre wrestling involves staged performances in which the outcome is already determined prior to the start of the performance. Wrestlers wear bright-colored masks that losers of contested matches must permanently remove, but otherwise, wrestlers keep their masks on whenever in public. Wrestlers, also called luchadores, are usually part of a larger extended family of wrestlers.

Mexican Lucha Libre was declared on July 21, 2018, as an intangible cultural heritage of Mexico City. The new Luchatitlán theme park in Cancun will be an honor to that cultural heritage that all who visit the city can enjoy.

Source: https://thecancunsun.com/

Mexico’s Cancun Starts Re-Opening Cautiously From Lock-Down

(AP) — Mexico’s Caribbean coast resorts of Cancun and the Riviera Maya have welcomed their first tourists, after more than two months when almost all the hotels were shut.

But the few dozen tourists who showed up Monday at the 41 hotels that have partly reopened are a mere symbolic trickle compared to the 23 milllion that crowded the coast last year, bringing about $15 billion to the local economy.

It’s a slow start; hotels will only be allowed to reach 30% of their capacity to avoid crowding. More capacity will be allowed later with some hotels hoping to reach 50% of capacity in July. Before the pandemic, occupancy rates of 85 percent were not uncommon.

Gibran Chapur, the vice president of the Palace resort chain, said his company welcomed about 300 tourists on the first day, 70% of them from the United States.

Hundreds of employees formed human welcoming chains at the Moon Palace resort south of Cancun as the first tourists drove up to the lobby, where they were welcomed with mariachis. Chapur said the Palace resorts were already receiving a lot of reservations for July and November, and that many were eager to get out of lock down and enjoy the outside world again.

“We have to activate the economy, but putting people’s health first in order to save lives,” said Carlos Joaquin, the governor of Quintana Roo state, where Cancun is located.

Tourism accounts for about 50% of all economic activity in the state, which has a total of about 107,000 hotel rooms. To date, the state has had about 2,235 coronavirus cases and 427 deaths. But the worst of the local outbreak appears to be over, and Cancun is one of the parts of the country where reopening has been authorized.

Chapur said some things will change due to the virus, like disinfecting all luggage and shoes; buffets and paper menus at the resorts’ restaurants are probably a thing of the past.

Mexican Caribbean Launches Clean & Safe Check Certification Program, Assuring Travelers Safety For June 4th Start Of Reopening.

Mexican Caribbean Launches Clean & Safe Check Certification Program

CANCÚN, Mexico The Governor of Quintana Roo, Carlos Joaquin Gonzalez, announced the tourism industry will start reopening June 8. In preparation for the planned reopening for tourism activity in Quintana Roo, the Secretary of Tourism and state health officials together with the support of specialists in the sector have launched the Mexican Caribbean Clean & Safe Check Certification, which aims to maintain the highest sanitary measures for the prevention and containment of COVID-19 and generate confidence among guests, partners and the community.

The certification program, launched May 18, is available to travel agencies, food & beverage establishments, car rental companies, water and activity parks, golf courses, hotels and resorts, spas, transportation companies, tour operators, among other tourism and hospitality companies. Tourism service providers who wish to earn the complimentary certificate must apply online at the Secretary of Tourism's website and declare compliance with criteria related to the implementation of health security measures. Once registered, applicants will access and complete a form in accordance with certificate guidelines only available to companies registered on the portal.

"In the first days since launch, over 3,000 companies have applied for the certificate, illustrating the dedication our destinations have to keeping the Mexican Caribbean safe and welcoming," said Dario Flota Ocampo, director of Quintana Roo Tourism Board.

Applications will be evaluated by a technical committee comprised of tourism and health authorities; the committee will also conduct random inspections of establishments to verify each certificate holder is meeting criteria. Once companies meet the criteria, they will be accredited with the certificate in digital format and online via the official websites of the Secretary of Tourism and Quintana Roo Tourism Board. The certificate will be valid through December 31, 2020.

In addition to general spaces, criteria will be evaluated by the following service areas according to each company:

• Service and operation areas
• Management
• Reception
• Housekeeping
• Laundry
• Food & Beverage (restaurants, bars, nightlife)
• Meetings & Conventions
• Special areas and services (kids' areas, gym, spa, etc.)
• Pool and jacuzzi(s)
• Rest areas
• Maintenance
• Training & awareness
• Equipment
• Healthcare
• Staff transport
• Guidelines for suppliers
• Guidelines for partners and transport providers (taxis)

Certificate holders, and the state of Quintana Roo, will gain multiple benefits from the program, including the guaranteed implementation of good practices in the field of health safety; the correct definition of hygiene processes and procedures; increased customer trust and loyalty; health discipline in staff; assured job security. The state aims to reduce health risks; increase the arrival of tourists and visitors through greater confidence in the destination; competitiveness in the Mexican Caribbean and internationally.

Multiple hotels and tour providers have also launched internal safety programs, including AM Resorts, Palladium Hotel Group, UNICO S.A.F.E. plan, Riu Hotels Preverisk program, Palace Resorts 'Purely Palace' program, Xcaret Xafety program, among many others. Hotels, resorts and tour operators' new advanced health and hygiene programs include enhanced safety measures and protocols across all points of contact including common areas, restaurants, kitchens and bars, guest rooms, activities, fitness centers, spas, transportation and all behind-the-scenes operations to ensure guests' safety and peace of mind.

ASUR airports are fulfilling standards in collaboration with the Communications and Transportation Ministry, Federal Agency for Civil Aviation, international health authorities and in partnership with the state government and municipal authorities. Specific actions include sanitation and deep cleaning of all areas, protective screens on counters, permanent monitoring of social-distance measures, permanent temperature checks for all passengers, and risk-factor identification questionnaires for travelers. For a full list of airport measures, click here.

For additional information on the Mexican Caribbean Clean & Safe Check Certification guidelines and protocol, please visit https://qroo.gob.mx/cppsit

About Quintana Roo
Part of the stunning Mexican Caribbean, the state of Quintana Roo is one of Mexico's top tourism producers including destinations both world-renowned and off-the-beaten-path. From Cancun, Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen to Isla Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Holbox, Tulum, Maya Ka'an and Grand Costa Maya, Quintana Roo is known for its idyllic landscape, diverse activities, unique cuisine and the incomparable beauty of its Mayan ruins. The destinations that make up Quintana Roo have options for all kinds of travelers, from ultimate luxury in five-star resorts to close encounters with nature including swimming with whale sharks and cenote diving and international music, sporting, and gastronomic events.

SOURCE Mexican Caribbean

Travelore News: Southwest Airlines To Fly Nonstop From Los Angeles To Cancun, Los Cabos, And Puerto Vallarta

DALLAS, TX - Southwest Airlines today announced new international service between Los Angeles (LAX) and three airports in Mexico's coastal resort regions: Cancun (CUN), San Jose del Cabo/Los Cabos (SJD), and Puerto Vallarta (PVR).

The service is scheduled to begin December 4, subject to approvals of the Mexican government. In celebration of the new flights, Southwest® is offering special fares (purchase today through August 21, 2016, 11:59 p.m. in the time zone of the originating city) for travel December 4, 2016, through March 2, 2017. Please see below for blackout dates, valid travel days, and complete terms & conditions for fares listed in this news release.

New nonstop service beginning Dec. 4, 2016 from Los Angeles (LAX) to:

Cancun (twice daily)
San Jose del Cabo/Los Cabos (twice daily)
Puerto Vallarta (once daily)

"Southwest's approval from the DOT to operate these new routes made history as the first authorities granted in a new agreement between the U.S. and Mexico to allow more service between the countries," said Paul Cullen, Vice President and Executive Sponsor of Los Angeles for Southwest Airlines. "We are able to do what we have done for decades in California and in cities across the country: enter a nonstop market, bring low fares with unmatched value, and connect people in a more affordable way with places that are important in their lives."

Cullen discussed the new flights with the carrier's LA Basin Customers and Employees at a Viva Mexico! party taking place today at a Southwest Beachfront Porch set-up in Santa Monica Place near the Pacific Coast Highway and Santa Monica Pier. Traditional Mexican dancers commemorated news of the first Mexico service from LAX by Southwest, the largest carrier of air passengers to, from, and within the Golden State, based on the most recent data provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Southwest serves ten major commercial airports in the state, five of which are in the LA Basin.

"Los Angeles and Mexico share an unbreakable bond, and today our cultural and commercial connections become even stronger," said Mayor Eric Garcetti. "These new Southwest flights from LAX to Mexico will expand L.A.'s global reach, bring Angelenos closer to the people they love, and help our city's economy continue to grow."

Late last month, the carrier received U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) approval to fly between Oakland International Airport and both Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta. Also subject to Mexican governmental approval, this new service in Northern California would begin on Feb. 12, 2017.

Southwest already flies daily between LAX and Liberia/Guanacaste, Costa Rica, and the five new daily flights to and from Mexico will be flown in addition to the carrier's international service offered at John Wayne Airport in Orange County. The carrier continues to plan for available seat mile (ASM) growth in the 5-6 percent range in 2016.

6 Travel Deals for April and May Starting At $90

Pool/Facebook.com/ArizonaInn

After a winter of record high and low temperatures, we’re looking forward to spring — especially with great deals on travel. Here’s where and how you can save in April and May.

From $90: Hotel Allegro (Chicago, IL)Fresh off a major makeover that channels 1920s glam, this Kimpton property in Chicago’s Theatre District is celebrating the 90th anniversary of Route 66 by offering $90 rates for Sunday night stays through the end of the year. Sunday night rates are usually from $188 — so the savings are at around 50 percent. (Blackout dates for the offer include April 3, May 22, June 5 and 12, September 11, October 16, and November 6 and 27.)

From $129: The Arizona Inn (Tucson, AZ)To celebrate its 85th anniversary, this Tucson mainstay — which has hosted celebrities like Frank Sinatra, the Kennedys and Katherine Hepburn on its 14-acre property — is rolling back rates to as low as $129 per night. While we could only find the $129 rate for standard rooms on May 30 and 31, the $179 rate for the nights of May 15-30 is still a steal when you consider rates in March are from $299.

From $232: JW Marriott El Convento Cusco (Cusco, Peru)If you can manage a spring trip to this luxe property — whose high season starts in June — rates are around $232 if you pay in full in advance. Those can be nabbed for the nights of May 1-3, while the price jumps to $254 May 4-6; later in the month, it spikes to $280-$314. With pre-Inca walls and historical items throughout the property, history buffs will be right at home here.

From $290: Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa (Tuscany, Italy)Here, the Tuscan Wine and Culinary Experience package includes goodies like daily breakfast, wine tasting, a trip to a local market and culinary experience with the resort’s chef, diplomas, and souvenir aprons. Rates are from $290 per night in a classic guestroom.

From $416: Hyatt Ziva Cancun (Cancun, Mexico)Until April 30, this new all-inclusive property is offering 50 percent off rates for stays through December 20. After taking a peek at dates in April and May, we found nightly rates from $416-$436. Even though the price sounds steep, keep in mind that there are 18 restaurants on property, and there’s the bonus of this being a months-old resort.

From $448: Santa Catalina Island Company (Catalina Island, CA)Just off the coast of Long Beach, life slows down on Catalina Island. The Santa Catalina Island Company’s Unlimited Fun package includes unlimited access to activities and tours on the island (such as a glass-bottom boat cruise and a ziplining tour), lodging at one of three hotels, $100 dining credit per person, and round-trip boat transportation. The offer is valid on two-night stays, and runs from $224 per person, per night — or $448 for two guests.

By Kristine Hansen
- See more at: http://blog.shermanstravel.com/2016/from-90-six-travel-deals-for-april-and-may/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Escapes%20Newsletter:%2004.02.16&utm_term=National:%20Bulletin%20/%20Trip%20Ideas%20/%20ROS#sthash.Xg7c5jfW.dpuf

Top Reasons To Travel To Mexico In 2016

 Ring the New Year by exploring new destinations in Mexico and rediscovering the ones you’ve already been to by taking off the beaten path adventures. Whether travelers decide to embark on a winter getaway to a colonial city or a pristine beach, they will find all year-round perfect weather, friendly locals, world-class services and amenities, and an unbeatable shopping experience. From local crafts and jewelry to luxury clothing and international brands, visitors traveling to Mexico will encounter a great variety of shopping offerings. But did you know with MONEYBACK you can receive a refund on the total amount you spend when you shop in Mexico? No more excuses for not bringing back home the perfect souvenir.

Top reasons to travel to Mexico in 2016

1. Receive a refund when you shop- MONEYBACK, Mexico’s leading tax-refund company, offers shoppers a rewarding shopping experience by refunding 8.9% of the total amount they spend when shopping in Mexico at any of the participating stores. Receiving your money back is fast and convenient. Submit your invoices along with the shopping incentive refund form, credit card vouchers, copy of your passport, cruise ID or immigration form and boarding pass at any of MONEYBACK’s 55 service locations and your 8.9% will be refunded directly to your card in 45 days.

2. Explore hot destinations- It’s no surprise some of the most sought-after and popular destinations in Mexico are its beaches. Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Los Cabos and Riviera Maya offer the ideal getaway to start the year. Whether you select a beach destination or a city for your next trip, with over 55 service locations throughout the country, covering 98% of all the points of departure, travelers can submit their forms in a matter of minutes at cruise ports, shopping malls and airports before leaving the country. MONEYBACK modules are located at major tourist destinations including Cancun, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Cozumel, Puerto Escondido, Mazatlán, Guadalajara, Puebla, Queretaro, Guanajuato and Mexico City.

3.  Get more value for your money- With the strong dollar and wide selection of luxury products and items to choose from, international travelers get more value for their money. Items including jewelry, clothes, electronics, alcohol and handcrafts among others are eligible for a tax-refund. With over 6,000 participating stores, including Diamonds International, Louis Vuitton, Costco, Sears, Coach, Nine West, MAC, Kenneth Cole and many more travelers can find international brands and luxury items for a better value and at the same time receive a refund on their purchase. For the complete list of participating stores visit: http://moneyback.mx/shophere-taxback.html)

To learn more about MONEYBACK, participating stores and locations please visit:http://moneyback.mx/

Lufthansa Adds Three New Long-Haul Dream Destinations – Direct flights to Cancun, Malé and Mauritius

Even at Lufthansa, it doesn’t happen very often that three new long-haul destinations from Frankfurt are added to the network in a single week. Now, Lufthansa passengers have the opportunity to fly directly, with Europe’s biggest airline, from Frankfurt to the dream destinations of Cancun, Mexico, Malé (in the Maldives) and Mauritius.

The first flight kicked off on December 8, when flight LH 514 departed Frankfurt for Cancun. This was followed on Wednesday, December 9, with flight LH 704 to Malé. The week was rounded off on December 10 with flight LH 708 to Mauritius.

Lufthansa has tailor-made these flights to suit private travelers, which has paid off: the inaugural flights were very well booked and the advance bookings for the upcoming holiday weeks look promising.

Cancun, Malé and Mauritius are just three of several new holiday destinations Lufthansa has added to its network in the last few months, with Tampa, Florida and Nairobi, Kenya being added in late September and late October respectively. In March 2016, flights to Panama City, Panama will begin.

The aircraft used for these flights – equipped with a FlyNet broadband connection – is the Airbus A340-300, with seats offered in three different travel classes. Out of a total of 298 seats, 18 are in Business Class, 19 in Premium Economy and 261 in Economy Class.

For further information and/or bookings visit LH.com or call +1-800-645-3880.

About Lufthansa

One of the world's largest and most prestigious airlines, Lufthansa, serving 21 North American gateways, currently flies to 198 destinations in 77 countries. The air carrier offers hubs in Frankfurt and Munich. With the Lufthansa Group acquisition of Austrian Airlines, SWISS and a stake in Brussels Airlines, additional hubs include Vienna, Brussels, and Zurich. The entire Group flew a total of 106 million passengers in 2014 and currently serves 261 destinations in 101 countries worldwide. Lufthansa, along with its Group members and Star Alliance partners, serves over 1,300 destinations worldwide. An industry innovator, Lufthansa has long been committed to environmental care and sustainability, operating one of the most technologically-advanced and fuel-efficient fleets in the world. Its long-haul fleet to and from North America includes the Boeing 747-8 and the Airbus A380— the industries’ two most environmentally-friendly passenger aircraft. Lufthansa is the largest European operator of the A380 and was also the launch customer for the new Boeing 747-8. By 2025, Lufthansa will receive 272 new aircraft worth about €38 billion in list prices on order. Known for its premium services, Lufthansa continues to build new or upgrade existing lounge facilities across its worldwide network and will spend over €3 billion in new products and services by 2016. In 2014, Lufthansa introduced its new Premium Economy Class which offers further comfort and more personal space. By the end of 2015, Lufthansa’s entire long-haul fleet will feature all new onboard products in each class– bringing Lufthansa one step closer to becoming the first five-star airline in the Western Hemisphere. Additionally, nearly the entire Lufthansa long-haul fleet is equipped with its onboard broadband wireless Internet service, FlyNet. For more information or reservations, visit www.LH.com.

Miami To Cancun $190 Round-Trip, Nonstop, On American Airlines

Fly nonstop from Miami to Cancun for $190 round-trip on American Airlines.

Searching AA.com, we found seats departing MIA on Wednesday, October 28, and returning from CUN on Sunday, November 1.

You'll find other dates available for travel through November 25.

Source: Tracy Stewart, www.airfarewatchdog.com

Dubai Ranked Ninth Most Expensive City For International Travelers

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - Visitors traveling to Dubai this summer are likely to spend about $1,523.82 or Dh5,500 in three days, higher than what they would spend in many other holiday destinations in the world.

The emirate has been ranked the ninth most expensive city for international travelers in the latest annual TripIndex by travel site TripAdvisor.

The priciest is Cancun, Mexico, followed by Zurich, Switzerland (2nd); New York City (3rd) ; London, UK (4th); Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (5th); Paris, France (6th); Tokyo, Japan (7th) and Toronto, Canada (8th). Singapore is the tenth priciest city for a summer holiday.

The index helps travelers discover destinations that offer the best value for their money by comparing the cost of a three-day trip during the summer in nearly 60 key tourist cities around the world.

The index factors a four-star hotel stay, an organised tour or activity at local attractions, a round-trip taxi ride, as well as lunch and dinner.

For those looking to take a summer escape outside the country, travelers will do their wallet a favour if they head to places like Hanoi, Vietnam, where a three-day stay can cost only $732 (Dh2,688), the cheapest in the world.

In Hanoi, a traveler will likely spend an average of $15.97 for lunch, $45.36 for dinner and $4.10 for a two-mile taxi ride.

Warsaw, Poland is the second cheapest city to travel to, with a three-day vacation estimated to be around $739.38.

In Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt, the third least expensive city to explore during the summer, a three-day stay will likely cost around $820.26.

Bangkok, Thailand, another popular destination among UAE residents, is the fourth cheapest city, where a traveler on a budget will spend around $822.36, nearly half of what they would spend in Dubai.

Taking the fifth spot is Mumbai, India, where lunch will cost around $20.88 per day or the overall three-day spending will be approximately $846 on average.

Also worth checking out are Lisbon, Portugal, which is the sixth least pricey city for summer travel, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (7th); Marrakech, Morocco (8th); Manila, Philippines (9th) and Berlin, Germany (10th)

Whale Sharks Return To Cancun, Underwater Adventures Begin May 15

Top-rated tour operator Cancun Whale Shark Tours announces beginning of tour season

- The Whale Sharks are returning to the tropical turquoise waters near Cancun. Cancun Whale Shark has earned Trip Advisors Certificate of Excellence Tours and is the Top Rated/Reviewed Trip Advisor Whale Shark tour operator. Tours commence May 15.

The Whale Sharks come to feed on the summer buffet of plankton, krill, and other microscopic aquatic organisms. The Whale Sharks in Cancun comprise the largest aggregation of these majestic marine animals on the planet thru September 17. Many days visitors can see/swim with more than 100!

Cancun Whale Shark Tours has conducted these amazing adventures for 10 years and has taken more than 30,000 people on the adventure. Roddrigo Sidney, the owner, has hosted adventure seekers from all 50 US states and more than 30 different countries from around the world.

"We offer the most experienced and capable crews, the fastest most powerful boats and the highest level of customer service in Cancun for this amazing adventure."

Cancun Whale Shark Tours offer both public and Private VIP Tours, which are ideal for professional photographers and journalists.

Their All Inclusive tours include roundtrip transfers from Cancun and Riviera Maya Resorts and Hotels to their private luxury marina.

There, tour participants receive a light breakfast, safety briefing, and Whale Shark orientation. All required professional grade snorkel and safety gear is provided. A fantastic lunch is served including gourmet sandwiches, fruit, shrimp ceviche, guacamole salad, salsas, crispy tortilla chips, water, soft drinks and beer.

In addition to snorkeling with the oceans largest fish, the Whale Shark, tour participants also get to snorkel at a reef area close to Isla Mujeres.

The Whale Shark is the oceans largest fish. It's an endangered species needing additional worldwide protections.

Cancun Whale Shark Tours is a founding member of the Whale Shark Conservation Society, an organization dedicated to the conservation of ocean-going species like the Whale Sharks, Manta Rays, Sea Turtles, Dolphins and Sailfish. Preserving the majesty of the world's oceans is an important mission by which a percentage of all tour proceeds are dedicated to these efforts.

Travelore News: Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine & Food Festival Will Return March 12th-15th.

The Cancun Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) announced that the fourth annual Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine and Food Festival will take place 12 – 15 March 2015.

The four day extravaganza will be made up of 24 events comprising of gourmet dinners, cooking master classes, wine tastings and an exclusive celebrity yacht cruise. The festival is set to take place at several stunning locations throughout Cancun and will feature renowned regional and international chefs as well as distinguished winemakers and wine connoisseurs.

More than 5,000 guests are expected to attend with UK holiday makers invited to take part in all the fun. Notable chefs expected to attend include Spanish greats Juan Mari Arzak, Joan Roca and Eneko Atxa, and from France Bruno Davaillon, Hubert Keller, Laurent Cantineaux, Gregory Gourreau and Henri Charvet. This year’s festival will also pay homage to Mexico’s female chefs and will include the “Divas of Mexican Cuisine” Gala Dinner on March 14 at Secrets The Vine, home to a unique wine wall that holds as many as 3,000 varieties of wine.

“This event has grown tremendously since its inauguration in 2012” said Jesus Almaguer, CEO of the Cancun CVB. “We invite people to explore the many layers of Mexican cuisine found in Cancun, and celebrate the female Mexican chefs that are being honoured at the CRM Festival for the first time.”

The festivals most popular attraction, the Gourmet Tasting Village, will be located at Cancun’s Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort. Featuring international cuisines from visiting celebrity chefs, the tasting village will provide attendees with an opportunity to meet with the gastronomic stars as well as representatives from more than 35 Mexican and international wineries. The Gourmet Tasting Village will be situated in the property’s recently unveiled convention centre, Moon Palace Arena, which is capable of hosting up to 10,000 guests at a time.

MoneyBack Tax Return Company Refunds 8.9% on Personal Shopping Expenses In Mexico

International travelers shopping in Mexico can receive an 8.9% refund of the total amount they spend when shopping in Mexico through MONEYBACK. MONEYBACK, Mexico’s leading tax return company, refunds the value added tax when shoppers purchase at any of the 6,000 affiliated stores. There is no limit when paying with credit card, but the minimum purchase required is $1,200 pesos (approx. $83 USD). Purchases in cash don’t require a minimum but are limited to $3,000 (approx. $200 USD). With more than 50 offices in all major cruise ports, shopping malls and airports- including Mexico City, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, Acapulco, Cancun, Cozumel, Guadalajara, and many more- MONEYBACK covers 98% of Mexico’s air and maritime points of departure, providing cruise travelers and air passengers the fastest and easiest way to get their refund. To file a refund, international travelers must request a VAT itemized invoice at any of the 6,000 participating stores when making a purchase and submit it at the closest MONEYBACK office along with the shopping incentive refund form, credit card vouchers, copy of their passport, cruise ID or immigration form and boarding pass, before leaving the country. In less than 45 days international travelers will receive their refund directly in their credit card. MONEYBACK’s tax refund service is an initiative created along with Mexico’s Ministry of Finance to increase tourism and shopping in Mexico. All international travelers arriving to Mexico by cruise or air are eligible to receive it. To learn more about MONEYBACK, participating stores and locations please visit: http://moneyback.mx/ About MONEYBACK MONEYBACK is Mexico’s leading tax refund service provider for international travelers with over 50 service locations throughout the country, covering 98% of all the points of departure. MONEYBACK opened its doors in August 2008, offering tax refund services in Mexico City and Los Cabos. Since then, the company has expanded to Cancun, Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, among many other destinations in Mexico. Operated by travel industry professionals who understand the needs of international travelers visiting Mexico, MONEYBACK prides in offering fast and efficient tax refund services to leisure and business travelers. Mexico’s leading tax return company refunds 8.9% of shopping expenses to international travelers. MONEYBACK’s goal is to promote the best leisure and business shopping destinations in Mexico. For more information please visit: www.moneyback.mx.