My Vacation Escape part 1 of 2 - by Kelly Early
Winter
is finally upon us – the chill in the air, frost on the ground, heavy
coats out of storage, gloves, sweaters and warm hats all ready to go.
But in my humble opinion, I’d rather shed the layers and head to warm
and sunny temps to work on a winter tan!
Where to head, you ask?
With so many options, planning a winter family vacation can be
daunting. My winter destination of choice is anywhere along the
gorgeous coast of Mexico. Now, I know Mexico has gotten a bad rap
lately. Drug-related crime and violence has made headlines across the
nation. The U. S. State Department has issued a travel warning for
citizens considering a trip Mexico. However, millions of U.S. citizens
safely visit Mexico every year. Before you plan your Mexican vacation,
you owe it to yourself to be informed. “Mexico - Know Before You Go,”
gives visitors a good overview of what to expect at resort destinations
along with a good reminder not to leave your common sense at home while
on vacation.
My vacation plan of action is simple: if you do
your research (which, of course, we’ve done for you), and know where to
go, your worries will melt away like the ice in your margarita.
We
begin at the St. Regis Punta Mita, which opened in January of 2009.
Located 45 minutes from Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s stunning Pacific
Coast, this resort is exquisitely designed with sweeping ocean views.
All rooms have lovely views, are staffed with a butler to see to your
every need, and are located within a three-minute walk to the beach.
Could
you ask for more? Of course you can. The resort features superior
international cuisine, amazing outdoor showers and a weekly champagne
ritual, among other indulgences. There are separate pools for adults
and kids, the latter featuring a kid’s club facility for ages 5-12. The
vibe here is relaxation, not hustle and bustle—but there are amenities
for those that want to more action including a fitness center and a
remarkably peaceful spa for parents that want pampering. The St. Regis
is neighbored by two spectacular Jack Nicklaus Signature courses that
offer extraordinary ocean views and world-class play. The Pacífico,
with eight holes directly facing or playing alongside the Pacific
Ocean, features the "Tail of the Whale," an optional par-three hole
with the largest natural island green in the world. There are also some
great local towns to keep you busy. Bucerias is fantastic for shopping
and Sayulita is an off-the-beaten-path surf village, offering fun surf
lessons for the kiddos.
Next we move on to the hustle and bustle
of historic Mexico City. The St. Regis Mexico City boasts gorgeous
views of the surrounding city, with lushly-appointed rooms complete
with personalized butler service, the renowned Remede spa and fitness
center, yoga and pilates studio, and an absolutely amazing indoor pool.
This ultra-modern resort, designed by legendary architect Cesar Pelli,
is one of the tallest buildings in Mexico, rising above the fabled
tree-lined Paseo de la Reforma Avenue. It is located just steps away
from the iconic Angel of Independence and the historic Chapultepec
Castle.
Elegant aspects of Mexico’s famed capital city
surround the hotel, including the Polanco financial district, notable
historical sites, famous museums, celebrated shopping, fine dining and
night life options. One of our favorite sights included the Frida Kahlo
Museum, which is located in her home, known as Casa Azul, or “Blue
House.” Kahlo spent her childhood here, as well as the final years of
her life. The home was turned into a museum four years after the
artist’s death in 1954, and many of the rooms can be explored which are
still decorated in Kahlo’s unique style.
Mexico has an enormous
amount to offer to your family vacation. There are so many options when
it comes to picking your destination. Think about what you and your
family like to do, and go from there. Whether you’re looking for an
adventurous vacation or a week of doing nothing, Mexico has it all.
So,
when you at last return to the winter cold from your relaxing and
fulfilling family vacation in Mexico, you will still feel the warmth of
the sun and sand, the wonderful hospitality of the people, and the
amazing smells of the cuisine. Your memories will keep away the chill
of the season, and that wonderful tan will fight off the winter blahs.
And you just might have to whip up another margarita.
Resources:
 The St. Regis Punta Mita
www.stregis.com/puntamita
Lote H-4, Cond. Maestro Ramal
Carretera Federal 200, km 19.5
Punta de Mita, Nayarit 67374 Mexico
(52) (329) 291 5801
The St. Regis Mexico City
www.stregis.com/mexicocity
Paseo de la Reforma
438 Colonia Cuauhtémoc
Ciudad de Mexico, c.p. 06500
Mexico
(51) (55) 5228 1818
Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
www.rivieranayarit.com
Village of Sayulita, Mexico
www.sayulitalife.com
Bucerias, Mexico
www.buceriasmexico.com
Frida Kahlo Museum
http://www.museofridakahlo.org.mx
Londres 247
Col. Del Carmen
Coyoacain, c.p. 04000
Mexico
(55) 5554 5999
Coyoacan, Mexico City
www.mexicocity.com.mx/coyoa2.html
Mexico – Know Before You Go
US Department of State - Travel Bureau
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/spring_break_mexico/spring_break_mexico_2812.html
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