Nestled in a valley between the Maya Mountains of Belize’s Cayo District, Ka’ana Boutique Resort & Spa opened its doors in April,.
Ideally located just outside San Ignacio near cultural, historical and eco-adventure attractions, Ka’ana Boutique Resort & Spa offers breathtaking scenery and luxurious accommodations. The boutique resort features 15 first-class cottages with spacious sitting area, LCD TV, large private bathroom and peaceful veranda.
Luxury resort amenities include La Ceiba, the resort’s fine dining restaurant; The Frieze Lounge and Wine Cellar, a popular attraction to both guests and local residents; and Ka’ana’s petite spa, which offers an assortment of massages and treatments to help guests relax and unwind.
Catering to those seeking both world-class accommodations and adventure, Ka’ana Boutique Resort & Spa also offers guests fully guided excursions to nearby rainforests, Mayan ruins and nature reserves. Tours include hiking, canoeing, bird watching, caving, horseback riding, mountain biking, etc. and can be tailored to fit the preferences of each guest.
With a perfect balance of luxury, adventure and relaxation, Ka’ana Boutique Resort & Spa is a haven for travelers seeking the ultimate Belizean experience. Located just 70 miles outside of Belize City, Ka’ana Boutique Resort & Spa offers 15 first class cottages, a swimming pool, gourmet restaurant and petite spa.
offers guests the rare opportunity to discover three pristine water sources all in one place. The three waters that converge here are: seawater from the Pacific Ocean, hot spring water bubbling up from the very core of the earth, and pure, crystalline water flowing abundantly from the falls near the lodge. At the all inclusive Puyuhuapi Lodge and Spa enjoy full body water treatments, skin treatments such as the Thalatherm, and three types of full body messages including the famous Puyuhuapi Massage, which incorporates various techniques such as, Thai, Quiro, or Indian with added aroma therapy to solidify the sense of spiritual and physical well being. Puyuhuapi Lodge & Spa is situated in a tranquil sea inlet of the Ventisquero Sound, accessible only by sea within the protected shore of Dorita Bay, in Southern Chile. Despite its extreme remote location, the lodge offers all that is expected from a small luxury hotel: fine cuisine, comfortable accommodation and friendly service. Patagonia Connection offers an all inclusive four night “Body and Soul” Spa package.
In the solitude of the Americas, in a land yet to be tamed, and where nature is still pristine, find an unexpected destination…Puyuhuapi Lodge & SPA. Travel along the Austral Road, winding through a landscape of unique beauty cradled in the ever-present Andes Mountains. Upon arrival settle into a choice of 32 rooms and cabins which have been carefully designed and crafted from local timber, most with balconies and panoramic views of the bay or forest. Venture into an uninhabited space of wild beauty, rivers, waterfalls, and mountains, where birds, porpoises, and sea lions roam. Walk through the dense forests, visit the Queulat National Park with its Hanging Glacier, ride bicycle along the Austral Road, or explore the Dorita Bay in a boat or kayak. Spend a day on a Sea adventure aboard the luxurious Patagonia Express catamaran through the austral fjords, which lead to the San Rafael Lagoon, home to millenarian glacier. The complete spa offers a large hydro-massage pool, Jacuzzis, spring-water fountain, steam sauna, thalassotherapy sessions, relaxation massages, facials, and other treatments.
Patagonia Connection offers five amazing adventure packages.
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Puyuhuapi Lodge and Spa delivers experiences in a place of wild beauty. Its unique fly fishing program provides access to pristinely clear, gin colored salt and fresh waters that are rarely fished. The extensively trained professional fly fishing guides of Patagonia Connection can deliver rainbow and brown trout as well as salmon. In a land yet to be tamed, and where nature is still pure, travelers find an unexpected destination in Puyuhuapi Lodge & SPA, which is surrounded by fjords, native forests, waterfalls, mountains and glaciers. .
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Experience the amazing Solitude of Patagonia with Patagonia Connection’s PC4 Package-Puyuhuapi's Secret. The four night, three day tour begins in the Aysen Region with the crossing of the Patagonian pampas to reach the city of Coyhaique for a quick lunch. The tour continues along the Austral Road with its extraordinary landscapes of ever green forest, great diversity and very few inhabitants. Here guests begin to understand the unique solitude this adventure provides. For the next two days discover Puyuhuapi Lodge & Spa, surrounded by lush vegetation, and accessible only by sea, this remote lodge is where understated luxury and well planned simplicity combine to create a unique atmosphere. The lodge offers a variety of fascinating excursions in the rainforest and the Queulat National Park. Guests can wind down in the outdoor hot spring pools at the edge of the sea or in a full-service spa which includes a hydro massage pool. For the last full day board the Patagonia Express catamaran for a seven hour journey through the austral fjords on the way to the San Rafael Lagoon, home to a millenarian glacier.
For more information, check web site www.patagonia-connection.com.
An old steam locomotive sits silently on the edge of a majestic jungle. Remnants of the past remain in Golfito, but so do the building blocks for a promising future. The quiet town of Golfito, once a bustling port for Chiquita Banana, is moving out from behind the shadow of the now-gone banana company days to become the next adventure frontier in Costa Rica.
Jim Lynskey, Miami native and visionary developer, knows this to be true. During visits to the area, Lynskey was struck by the intense beauty of Golfito. The thriving rainforest, thickly forested hills, pristine beaches, calm waters and fresh, clean air enchanted him, later inspiring his selection of the town as the site for Bahia Escondida Bayside Residences, Marina Village and Yacht Club. Now in collaboration with Las Vegas-based developer Great American Capital, construction of this environmentally conscious community is underway, with its initial phase set to debut in early 2009.
Located on the country's South Pacific Coast, Bahia Escondida is set in the midst of one of the most bio-diverse areas on the planet, as recognized by National Geographic. The beautiful nature surrounding the site, with its rich wildlife and adventure opportunities, summons eco-travelers and sport fishing enthusiasts alike. World-class fishing is a prime attraction, with an abundance of Pacific sailfish, marlin, dorado, tuna and in-shore species to be found in the local waters.
With only 450 residential units and a state-of-the-art, 217-slip marina, Bahia Escondida aims to preserve all that makes the area special by having a low-impact on the surrounding environment.
Looking Back
Built in the late 1930s by the United Fruit Company, now known as Chiquita Brands, Golfito enjoyed a magnificent heyday as the centerpiece of the banana production industry during much of the 20th century. Over ninety percent of the country's banana exports, in fact, were grown and distributed from Golfito's quiet shores during the 1950s.
Chosen by United Fruit executives for its calm, deep waters, Golfito provided a safe, natural harbor for loading the fruit company's Great White Fleet of banana boats, aptly named for their fresh white paint, which reflected the sun?s hot, tropical rays.
As United Fruit witnessed continued success in its Golfito operations, the company invested heavily in the construction of new roads, homes, schools, banks and hospitals, and with the help of the Atlantic Railroad, a project originally started in 1871 by one of United Fruit's founders, Golfito was transformed from a vast wilderness to a true banana republic.
In 1984, more than four decades after United Fruit made Golfito its home, the prosperous banana producer closed its facilities, which led, in turn, to economic hardship throughout the area. Subsequently, in 1990 after almost a century of service, the Atlantic Railroad was indefinitely suspended, due to further financial losses.
Moving Towards a Bright Future
The future of Golfito is now closely tied to the development of the new Bahia Escondida. The project will not only provide a unique luxury retreat for tourists but will also benefit the town financially by revitalizing its local economy. Jim Lynskey, the original visionary and president of Bahia Escondida's holding company, Hacienda El Dorado, says it best: "My mission is to help preserve and develop the area and to show the world all that Golfito has to offer, while simultaneously generating a source of income for the local people."
The first phase of the project, spanning a total of forty acres, will offer a new, high-tech marina and an enchanting waterfront village of shops, galleries and restaurants, all reminiscent of an authentic tropical plantation town. Also along the waterfront, luxury residential units will overlook the bay, where residents will enjoy first-class amenities such as the private yacht club, spa, fitness center, and sparkling pools.
It's a delightful scene to picture. The village's grand wraparound porches look out over a serene blue harbor. Palm trees sway softly in the light wind, while sport fishermen board their vessels for yet another excellent day of fishing. Gabled roofs and angled bay windows greet visitors at every turn. This peaceful atmosphere is the heart of Bahia Escondida and the embodiment of the Costa Rican mantra "Pura Vida," or "Pure Life."
Residents and visitors can enjoy life's simple pleasures at their own pace.
Future phases of the project will bring construction of the final 300 residential units. These one- to three- bedroom units will be set along a centrally located park, surrounded by priceless views of Costa Rica's lush, tropical rainforest and towering verdant mountains dotted with banana trees.
With a concierge service ready to coordinate excursions, airport transport and other exclusive conveniences for the residents and slip members, pleasure yachters and adventurers alike will surely be drawn to this charming retreat.
For more information, please visit www.becostarica.com or call 1-866-50-BAHIA.
Newly renovated in 2006 with a new spa set among the hot springs, Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort is also a new member of Leading Hotels of the World and a recipient of the four-leaf designation for Sustainable Tourism. The only "Leading Spa of the World" in Central America and a winner of Luxury SpaFinder's Reader' Choice Award, the Grand Spa has 11 outdoor treatment bungelows, a Yoga Studio, and an extensive menu of indigenous treatments including treatments in outdoor thermal river pools.
A three-unit Temazcal surrounded by the energy of the nearby Arenal volcano is overseen by the resort's own shaman. Individual bungalows; couples bungalows; and a special 'all-day bungalow' for adults or families, including meals and treatments, are offered. The resort's new Mexican chef shines with his signature private Gala Dinner in a private rainforest bungalow.
For more information check web site www.tabacon.com or call 011-506-519-1900.
NatureAir, Central America’s newest airline, has launched its Adventure Club, allowing visitors unlimited domestic air travel for one low price.
"The value is outstanding considering the average price for a rental car is $75 per day, not including gas and insurance," he adds.
The program is easy to use. Consumers purchase their ticket, receive a confirmation code, then call anytime to book their flights during the promotion.
"Guests can surf a good swell in the morning in Puerto Jiminez and catch the same swell in Tamarindo at night," says Huntley. "This program encourages visitors to be spontaneous and adventurous."
Until NatureAir’s entrance into the Central American airline market in 2000 traveling in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Panama was tedious at best. Unreliable air service, poor road conditions, and the subsequent long journey by bus or car made it nearly impossible for visitors to explore some of the most desirable destinations in the country.
"Destinations that used to take eight hours to drive to can now be reached via NatureAir in only 45 minutes," Huntley says. "This program will encourage vacationers, visiting students, and locals that otherwise never would have flown to experience the thrill and ease of flying in Costa Rica."
For pricing, flight schedules, and a complete list of destinations offered by NatureAir, visit web site www.natureair.com or call 800-235-9272.
It’s not just the endless white sand beaches, the Pacific sunsets and the elegant luxury resorts that explain the buzz about romance in Riviera Nayarit. The essence of Mexico’s newest tourism destination is its originality - the perfect blend of world-class comforts and luxury with extraordinary natural beauty and uniquely authentic culture, traditions and history.
Whether the occasion is a wedding, honeymoon, anniversary or any other romantic occasion, what will be remembered – what will make the moment enduringly vivid – is that, in a world increasingly globalized, plasticized and homogenized, Nayarit was a wonderfully real place, with distinctive character, energy, even passion.
This is a place where a growing number of internationally acclaimed brand names - Four Seasons, St. Regis, Greg Norman, Jack Nicklaus are making their mark. But it is also a place where timeless fishing villages with waterfront cafes are as charming as the endless, white sand beaches are beautiful. Where ancient history is as fascinating as the surrounding wildlife sanctuaries, and where visitors are treated to hospitality and service that are the product of residents’ continuing pride and appreciation for their unique heritage. And, all this is reflected in a choice of romance packages offered by a variety of hotels and resorts.
The choices for special romantic occasions in Riviera Nayarit range from full-service resorts fully competitive with the finest luxury properties around the world to intimate, local-flavored B&B’s. Whatever the choice there’s plenty expert help to arrange the details. A wide range of options are available honeymoons and romantic vacations. The following are examples of some of the wedding packages offered in the destination:
Grand Velas Resort & Spa is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and a recipient of the AAA Five Diamond Award. A “Lounge Wedding Package” ensures total relaxation and enjoyment of the occasion by including a legal wedding ceremony; all preparations and floral arrangements; hot & cold hors d’oeuvres; a buffet menu for 50 people, including an especially prepared wedding cake; three hours of open bar and three hours of DJ entertainment. (Sample cost: 25-50 guests: US$13,940 + 15% tax).
Vallarta Palace offers an extra incentive to wedding couples with its “Free Wedding Package.” Designed with stylish, contemporary flair, the resort wedding features: use of the elegant beachside wedding gazebo; beverages during the ceremony; dinner reservations for the wedding party; a candlelit dinner and breakfast in bed for the bride and groom; special room amenities; and the services of a wedding coordinator – for free, with a minimum stay of three nights. And no minimum number of guests is required.
Palladium Vallarta Resort: Understanding the importance of eco-friendly tourism, the Palladium Vallarta Resort took into account its beautiful surrounding jungle environment when constructing the hotel – maintaining the indigenous flora and fauna. With this in mind, those seeking to marry and help protect the environment are offered the “Premium Wedding Package” which includes: wedding coordinator services; an upgrade to ocean view or Royal Suite for a nominal extra charge; decorations and floral arrangements; a wedding cake and beverage for up to 10 people; dinner in the a la carte restaurant, breakfast in bed the morning after and a special spa service for the wedding couple. (For 10 people: US$2,000).
Villa Varadero: For romantics looking for less frills and intimate coziness, Villa Varadero, with its B&B style, is certain to please. The hotel’s wedding package includes: on-site wedding coordinator; decorations such as a ceremonial arch, red carpet aisle, floral table arrangements; the bride’s bouquet and groom’s boutonniere; and a wedding cake. Dining and accommodations are arranged separately. (Cost: US$1,000)
Other ideal choices for romantic escapes in Riviera Nayarit include the Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita, for the ultimate in luxury; Marival Grand & Club Suites, with its distinctive lively character, and, opening this summer, the Riu Palace Pacifico, one of the destination’s newest full service resorts.
About Riviera Nayarit
Riviera Nayarit is Mexico’s newest travel destination stretching along 100 miles of pristine Pacific coast framed by spectacular mountains to the north of renowned Puerto Vallarta. Mostly undeveloped, the destination extends from the resorts of Nuevo Vallarta to the historic, colonial town of San Blas, including exclusive Punta Mita and the spectacular Banderas Bay. The region features luxury resorts and eco-tourism boutique hotels, world-renowned surfing, four professional golf courses, rare native wildlife including sea turtles and tropical birds, mountain and island adventures, shopping for local artwork and traditional Huichol handicrafts, charming fishing towns and miles of serene beaches.
For more information, visit: www.RivieraNayarit.com.
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ME Cabo is offering a Father's Day package for the entire month of June to celebrate all the wonderful dads out there. This gorgeous Mexican property is under the ME by Melia hotel brand, an experience-based personality brand with an atmosphere that is very sophisticated and sensual, and is equipped with an 'Aura Experience Manager' to make sure that each guest's stay is unforgettable.
ME Cabo package includes:
* Deluxe Room (Package fluctuates depending on room category)
* Daily Buffet Breakfast at Passion`s Restaurant
* Two rounds of Golf per stay at (Cabo Real or Club Campestre Golf Course)
* Two 50 minute massage per stay
* USD $75 F&B Certificate
Pricing/Conditions:
-Starts at USD $394 per room, per night (taxes included)
-4 night minimum
-Rate is per room, per night, based on double occupancy
-Booking Window: Untill June 10th, 2008
-Travel Window: Today to June 30, 2008
-Cancellation policy: 24 hrs. or one night penalty
-Book at www.mecabo.travel
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Planning a vacation that will satisfy the desires of the entire family can often seem an impossible task. While the adults prefer some private time and relaxation, the younger members of the group crave activity and entertainment. Teenagers are often reluctant to join in the family fun, and require enticing activities in order to revive their youthful enthusiasm.
Cabo La Estancia, a luxury beach resort and spa in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico provides the perfect solution to your travel dilemma. Featuring spacious and private villas perfect for families, Cabo La Estancia has all of the amenities you'd expect in a high-end resort for the adults, with plenty of activities, entertainment and adventures available for children and teens.
From the moment the family arrives at Cabo La Estancia, with its gorgeous panoramic views and luxurious ambiance, the stresses of life at home will fade - and the biggest question facing the group will be what to experience first. Located on Medano Beach, the only swimmable beach in Cabo San Lucas, the resort is in the perfect location for a dip in the cobalt blue waters, sunbathing, or fabulous water sports. The kids can dive into the resort's two breathtaking infinity pools while the adults enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the swim-up pool bars. A mini-mall located within Cabo La Estancia is perfect for some casual shopping or for picking up sundries or forgotten items. The full-service spa located nearby featuring a full menu of relaxing treatments will give mom, dad, and even teens the chance to take a break and get pampered, whether together or separately. Two fabulous restaurants are located within the resort: La Casona, for fine dining; and La Parilla, located poolside for more casual fare. Additional dining choices are located nearby.
When mom and dad desire some time alone for relaxation, a spa visit, or a quiet meal together, the resort features an outstanding program just for its younger visitors - "Kids in Paradise", located just next door at the property's sister resort, Villa del Palmar. Here, parents can elect to leave young ones ages 4-11 in supervised care for a full or half-day of fun and enriching activities designed just for them. Kids will take Spanish lessons, make piñatas, play mini-golf, splash in the pool, have an ice cream party, hunt for shells on the beach, and so much more as they interact with peers and create unforgettable vacation memories. Private babysitting services are also available at Cabo La Estancia and can be easily arranged. An additional charge does apply for both the Kids in Paradise program and private babysitting.
Beyond the resort, the Cabo San Lucas area offers so many exciting adventures for the family, and there is truly something here for everyone. Teens in particular will be charmed by many of these recreational options, which are a change from the typical vacation fare. Many of these tours are easily arranged at Cabo La Estancia; additional fees do apply. Some of the most popular choices for families include:
Horseback Riding - Commune with nature and choose from two available tours. On the one-hour ride, the family will delight in watching local animals in their natural environment on the trail, then finish the tour along the magnificent Bocana Beach. On the two-hour ride, you'll visit the San Jose Estuary, a famed National Park and bird sanctuary, as well as Bocana Beach and Costa Azul Beach.
Snorkeling - Experience a three-hour underwater adventure of a lifetime at the famous Santa Maria Bay, once described as the "world's largest aquarium" by Jacques Cousteau. Families can snorkel or kayak around this magnificent inlet.
Whale Watching - January through March is the peak season for viewing migrating grey whales from Alaska. A truly awe-inspiring experience, this is something the family will remember forever. Many local tour companies arrange these excursions.
4x4 Desert Safari - Join in on an adventurous 4 x 4 off-road adventure into the heart of the Sierra Mountains and expansive Baja deserts. Throughout the day, amazingly knowledgeable and fun guides will allow you to explore and experience the natural flora, fauna and wildlife of the region.
Boat Cruises and Sailing Charters - Visit the marina to choose from a variety of charter companies to arrange your personal tour. From Catamarans to luxury yachts, there is a rental here to meet your family's budget and size.
Sport Fishing Packages - With over 650 different species of fish swimming through these beautiful waters, Los Cabos is the sport fishing capitol of the world. Whether you are on your first fishing trip or a world class angler, the ultimate sport fishing experience awaits you here in paradise.
World-Class Golf - Natural desert terrain, abundant wildlife and the dramatic ocean backdrop make Los Cabos one of the world's most beautiful and challenging places to play golf. Your choices include championship courses developed by the most renowned designers in the game. Aficionados of the game say the ocean-side courses here are among the finest anywhere.
Water Sports - El Medano, the most popular and only swimmable beach in Cabo, offers an array of recreational activities for the entire family. Cruise through the sapphire waters together on Jet Skis or Wave Runners, or take in the view from above while parasailing. Take a kayak for an invigorating row to the arch at Land's End, grab the family and play a game of beach volleyball, visit the walking vendors to discover new treasures, or simply relax in a lounge chair and let the sounds of the waves soothe you.
Other options include renting an ATV, hiking, mountain biking, scuba diving, outback expeditions and so much more. The possibilities are limitless.
After a long day of adventure and activity, the family will look forward to retreating to the private villas at Cabo La Estancia, complete with all of the comforts of home. Each spacious villa offers plenty of room for the family to spread out and get comfortable, and features impeccable décor and high-end amenities. Choose the villa that best accommodates your group:
Two Bedroom - Three Bath Villas - These luxurious 2100 square foot villas are perfect for a family of four. Mom and Dad will love the spacious master bedroom with ensuite bath featuring an oversized Jacuzzi whirlpool tub. The additional bedroom features two double beds, and the kitchen features a wonderful tiled breakfast bar.
Three Bedroom - Four Bath Villas - With 2900 square feet of breathtaking elegance, the three-bedroom, four bath villas comfortably accommodate six people. The villa offers two master-bedrooms, each with is own romantic sitting area and ensuite bath featuring oversized whirlpool Jacuzzi tub, separate shower, make up area and dual vanities. The third bedroom has two queen beds, and the kitchen includes a tiled counter top with a breakfast bar.
Penthouse - Pamper yourself and seven guests with approximately 5,500 square feet of pure elegance in the penthouse, comprising the entire eighth floor at Cabo La Estancia. Two master bedrooms feature breathtaking ocean views and a deluxe private bath. The third bedroom has two queen beds and an ocean view with private bath and dressing area. All bedrooms include luxurious linens and state-of-the-art DVD/TV technology. The gourmet kitchen features marble counter tops, top-tier cookware, table settings and stainless steel appliances. A private hacienda style patio offers an full kitchen including gourmet gas grill, sink, refrigerator, teak dining tables and outdoor stereo system, as well as fireplace. Relax and unwind in your fabulous hot tub on the deck with views of the water. The penthouse also includes an English-speaking concierge, who arrives daily except Sundays.
Cabo San Lucas is convenient and easily accessible with several airlines providing daily service. Cabo La Estancia is located on Medano Beach, the most popular and only swimmable beach in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
For more information on planning your family's vacation to Cabo La Estancia, or to book the winter/spring special, call 310-577-8600 or visit web site www.cabolaestancia.com.
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With a cluster of villa properties located on a prime beach location in Cabo San Lucas, The Villa Group complex has created a selection of special packages. The trio of properties is situated in a private enclave overlooking El Médano Beach with an unobstructed view of El Arco at Land’s End.
Fresh from a $2.25 million renovation, the family-friendly Villa del Palmar offers homey conveniences in its air-conditioned junior suites and collection of 463 spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom suites – all with private balconies and complete kitchens. For recreation, the property features three tiered swimming pools, a whale waterslide, a spa with fitness center, two lighted tennis courts, a putting green, the year-round Kids in Paradise Club and daily activities held poolside or on the beach.
Dining options include nightly themed dinner shows at Las Tortugas or the fusion of Californian and Italian cuisines at Bella California. Villa del Palmar’s Family Fun Escape covers three nights in a one-bedroom suite sleeping up to four, daily breakfast buffet at Bella California, one themed dinner show per person, daily activities, two aromatherapy massages and in-room amenities (cookies or snacks and drinks) from $1,150 (USD). Additional nights are available from $254 each (room only). “Villa del Palmar is tailored to families,” noted Ricardo Orozco, Director General for The Villa Group Resorts Cabo San Lucas. “We're on the safest, best swimming beach in Cabo San Lucas, with all ocean recreation available right off our shore. And we feature an on-site shopping center with grocery store, deli, video rental and medical clinic. So everything is easy.”
A Romantic Escape package features three-night accommodations in a one-bedroom suite, fruit basket and bottled water upon arrival, sparking wine with strawberries, in-suite moonlight massage for two and a romantic dinner for two from $1,475 (USD). At the ultra luxurious residence-style Villa La Estancia, a three-night Gold Honeymoon package with the same inclusions plus in-suite check-in is from $1,875 USD, while the upscale, family-friendly Villa del Arco’s three-night Perfect Romance Package provides the same plus a certificate for a complimentary night on an anniversary stay from $1,770 USD.
The distinctive 156-suite Villa La Estancia is known for its ultra-spacious accommodations with wellappointed furnishings, generous amenities, gourmet cuisine and unrivaled hospitality. Lushly landscaped grounds with a freeform swimming pool, dancing fountains and whirlpool spas make this tranquil property a favorite with adults. Each of the one-, two- and three-bedroom units is stylishly decorated with marble floors, granite countertops, whirlpool tub, complete kitchen and spacious balconies.
Deluxe studios and spacious penthouses are also available. Villa del Arco Beach Resort & Spa offers 231 deluxe oceanfront one-, two- and three-bedroom suites with full kitchens, plus deluxe studios. Two large outdoor pools feature waterfalls, spa tubs and children’s areas. One pool contains a full-sized replica of a Spanish galleon “anchored” for casual snacks, lunch and cocktails. Kayaks, boogie boards, snorkels and motorized personal watercraft are available at the on-site water sports center. Dining options at the two properties include La Casona - the only restaurant in Los Cabos to feature Kobe and Angus Certified Beef – the casual poolside La Parilla, the gourmet La Perla, El Faro tapas and tequila bar, and the pirate boat themed El Bucanero.
Coming this summer, The Spa will offer The Villa Group guests a vast menu of indulgent and invigorating treatments. From signature facials and body wraps to relaxing massages and therapeutic services, the facility will fine-tune mind, body and soul. The Spa will offer ample work out opportunities with its state-of-the-art fitness center featuring cardiovascular equipment, weights, a large variety of classes and trained fitness professionals. All Cabo San Lucas packages are available through Dec. 19, 2007. Rates are subject to 13% federal tax and 10% service charge.
About The Villa Group
The Villa Group is one of Mexico’s leading privately owned hotel, resort and real estate development companies. Their portfolio includes beachfront destination resorts, exclusive fractional and full ownership luxury real estate developments, and a secluded mountain top boutique spa retreat. The collection includes: Cabo San Lucas – Villa La Estancia, Villa del Arco, Villa del Palmar and Hotel Santa Fe; Puerto Vallarta – Villa del Palmar; Nuevo Vallarta – Villa del Palmar Flamingos and Villa La Estancia (scheduled to open in late spring 2007); Sierra Madre Mountain Range – Sierra Lago Resort & Spa. Additionally, Villa del Palmar and Villa La Estancia multi-property developments are scin Cancun (2008) and Loreto (2009).
For more information or reservations, call toll free from U.S. & Canada (877) 845-5247 or visit web site www.villagroupresorts.com.
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The holidays are a time for family and friends – plan an escape to beautiful Cabo San Lucas and experience the joys of togetherness this holiday season. Surround yourself and your loved ones in luxury and elegance with warm ocean breezes and sunshine. Head south for the holidays and retreat with the Holiday Family Escape at Cabo La Estancia.
Cabo La Estancia, a beach resort and spa in Cabo San Lucas Mexico, offers spacious, private villas; all featuring impeccable décor. The Holiday Family Escape includes private ground transportation, an exciting “Swim with the Dolphins” family activity for four people, one meal prepared by a private chef in your villa and two relaxing one-hour massages.
Choose from three types of villas that best accommodate your family:
Two Bedroom - Three Baths
Enjoy 2,100 square feet of impeccable décor - with all the luxuries you can imagine. These villas feature huge master bedrooms with ensuite baths that offer an oversized Jacuzzi whirlpool tub – perfect for the ultimate in relaxation. The additional bedroom features two double beds and the kitchens all have tiled breakfast bars. Gorgeous chandeliers hang above the large dining area that provides seating for six. A washer and dryer are also in each villa. On the spacious private balcony enjoy a full wet bar with a sink and refrigerator. A family of four can be comfortably accommodated in two-bedroom three-bath villa.
Three Bedroom – Four Baths
The three-bedroom, four bath villas feature 2,600 square feet of breathtaking elegance. The two master-bedrooms offer romantic sitting areas and the ensuite baths have an oversized whirlpool Jacuzzi tub, separate shower, make up area and dual vanities. The third bedroom has two queen beds and the kitchen includes a tiled counter top with a breakfast bar. The elegant dining room seats up to eight people in style and comfort. On the spacious private balcony enjoy a full wet bar with a sink and refrigerator. This villa comfortably accommodates six people.
Penthouse
Pamper yourself and seven guests with 5,500 square feet of pure elegance on the entire eighth floor at Cabo La Estancia. This penthouse features two master bedrooms with breathtaking ocean views and a grand private bath. The first master bedroom has one king size bed, the second master bedroom has two queen beds. The third bedroom has two queen beds and an ocean view with private bath and dressing area. All bedrooms feature luxurious linens and state-of-the-art DVD/TV technology. The kitchen is a gourmet chef’s dream come true with marble counter tops, top of the line cookware, table settings and stainless steel appliances. Step onto your private hacienda style patio to entertain like a celebrity and enjoy the outdoor stereo system. Cozy up to the fireplace in the covered outdoor living space. Prepare a feast in the patio kitchen complete with gourmet gas grill, sink, refrigerator and teak dining tables. Or, relax by one of the several fountains or at the infinity edge pool. Make your biggest decision - what type of furniture to relax on - lounges, futons or the sofa. An English-speaking concierge arrives daily except Sundays.
Pricing for the Holiday Family Escape begins at $1,800 per night for the two-bedroom three-bath villa. This villa is perfect for a family of four.
All bookings must be a minimum of one week. Prices are subject to availability and include tax.
With so much to do in Cabo San Lucas, there is something for all ages. The more adventurous may enjoy getting whisked away thru the top of the rainforest canopy tour or rent an ATV and explore the surrounding desert, visit the spectacular underwater world that snorkeling and diving have to offer or go whale watching. For those just wanting to just sit back, let the infinity pool or Desert Spa relax away your stress. For the more active minded guests, try your swing at an invigorating game of tennis or golf.
Cabo San Lucas is convenient and easily accessible with several airlines providing daily service. Cabo La Estancia is located on the most popular beach and the only swimmable beach in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Mendano Beach.
For more information on Cabo La Estancia or the Holiday Family Escape call 310-577-8600 or visit web site www.cabolaestancia.com.
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The Villa Group has opened the Villa del Arco Beach Resort and Desert Spa is open in Cabo San Lucas. Stretching along the white sands of El Médano Beach - the safest swimming beach in the popular Baja destination - the upscale, family-friendly property lies adjacent to the ultra-luxurious Villa La Estancia and active Villa del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa in a gated, private enclave owned and operated by The Villa Group.
“Villa del Arco is the perfect complement to our Villa La Estancia and Villa del Palmar properties already in the destination,” remarked Ricardo Orozco, Corporate Director for The Villa Group in Cabo San Lucas.
“With the grand opening of the Desert Spa, The Villa Group guests at these three beachfront properties will be able to enjoy in one place fine dining, upscale accommodations and services of Baja’s newest and largest themed spa,” said Orozco. “We’ve reached our goal of providing everything our guests need to help them relax and rejuvenate on their vacation.”
This new Villa del Arco offers 231 deluxe oceanfront suites. Each of the one-, two- and three-bedroom suites features stylish contemporary decor with private entryway, marble floors, granite countertops, whirlpool tub, walk-in shower, large walk-in closet and spacious balcony. Deluxe studio and penthouse suites are also available.
Studios feature a kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator, stovetop, microwave, toaster, blender, coffee maker, dishes, cookware and utensils, while larger suites include a complete kitchen with full-size refrigerator.
Other in-suite amenities include individually-controlled air conditioning, ceiling fans, satellite TV with movie service, direct dial telephone with voicemail, wireless and high speed Internet access (surcharge), electronic safe, hair dryer, iron with ironing board, clock radio, washer/dryer (two- and three-bedroom suites), wet bar, daily maid service, turndown service (on request) and in-room dining.
Two large outdoor pools feature waterfalls, spa tubs, children’s areas, and views of the sea and offshore rock formations. One pool contains a full-sized replica of a Spanish galleon “anchored” for casual snacks, lunch and cocktails. Kayaks, boogie boards, snorkels and motorized personal watercraft are available at the on-site water sports center.
Other diversions include tennis courts and a year-round, award-winning Kids Club. A complimentary activities program for all ages includes beach and water volleyball, pool games, Spanish lessons and bartending classes.
In addition to the pirate ship themed El Bucanero, dining options include the gourmet La Perla with its elegant menu of fresh seafood, steaks and international cuisine presented in a gracious fine dining atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy El Faro, featuring oysters, sushi, fresh fish and a large selection of tequilas overlooking El Arco and the Sea of Cortez.
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Opening in conjunction with the new property, the Desert Spa offers guests a vast menu of indulgent and invigorating treatments. From signature facials and body wraps to relaxing massages and therapeutic services, the facility indulges The Villa Group guests by fine-tuning mind, body and soul.
Designed in Mexican hacienda style, the Desert Spa complements its natural setting with earth tones, ample natural light, and the scents and flavors of Baja. Among its many attributes are generous hydrotherapy centers for men and women including a spacious Jacuzzi, cold plunge pool, cold pressure showers, body temperature pool, steam room and sauna.
“We are pleased to make available this elegant new facility to our guests at Villa La Estancia, Villa del Arco and Villa del Palmar,” noted Orozco. “The Desert Spa has been designed to offer the ultimate experience through its tasteful design, upscale menu of treatments, state-of-the-art services and tranquil atmosphere.”
In addition, 17 treatment rooms, two exclusive VIP suites with private Jacuzzi and shower, a full-service beauty salon and extensive menu of exotic treatment services will set the stage for the Desert Spa to be a haven for health, beauty, decompression and rejuvenation.
Within the Desert Spa, a 4,500 sq. ft. fitness center features seven treadmills, four elliptical bikes, three stationary bikes, 10 strength training stations, a multi-purpose station, four free weight stations, a Yoga/Pilates studio with classes, lockers and showers.
Using a line of desert-inspired products created exclusively for the Desert Spa, therapists wrap, bathe and pamper guests with extracts of agave, lime, cactus, melon and vanilla. By blending fruit and herb extracts native to the Baja California area, the Desert Spa's natural body products have been selectively developed specifically for the restorative and nutritive powers they possess as well as for the enjoyment of the guests.
“Our spa director, Francois Cimon-Kingsley, has given utmost attention to detail at every level to assure that the Desert Spa is among the top facilities in Cabo San Lucas,” Orozco added. “We feel that our guests will find the service and atmosphere will exceed their expectations.”
For more information or reservations, call toll free from US & Canada (877) 845-5247 or visit www.TheVillaGroup.com
Canyon Travel has helped native residents in and around Copper Canyon to become naturalist guides, thus offering its travelers more in-depth explorations of the Sierra Madres, Urique Canyon, Fuerte River, local communities, and more.
After learning English and being trained by field scientists, Canyon Travel’s guides are able to give great insight into one of the most bio-diverse and scenic areas in the country. This region is classified among one of the richest endemic bird areas of the world—it has the highest number of winged creatures that live nowhere else. Close to 40 endemic bird species can be viewed, including; Rufous Bellied Chacalaca, Elegant Quail, Lilac-crowned Parrot, Mexican Parrotlet, White-striped Woodcreeper, Black-throated Magpie-jay, Sinaloa Crow, Happy Wren, Sinaloa Wren , etc. Endangered birds include; Thick billed Parrot, Military Macaw, Eared Trogon, Golden-cheeked Warbler and others. All guides are armed with a trained eye, spotting scope, tripods, binoculars and field reference books to aid them and visitors in getting the most out of the adventure.
Warm and gracious, these well-trained guides share personal insights into the ancient culture and local communities. With an advantage as lifetime residents the guides offer guests of Canyon travel the opportunity to observe ceremonial dances, pottery firings, fields being cultivated with plows made of oak limbs, corn grinding on stone metates, and even sample tasty home made corn tortillas hot off the grill.
• Chal Gamez, the guide in El Fuerte, can identify some 80 species of birds by song and has great abilities with a spotting scope. Gamez has researched and explored the petroglyphs site and uncovered buried glyphs while assisting archaeologists. This particular guide also has extensive knowledge of medicinal uses of the regions flora.
• Part Tarahumara, Mario Munoz is an avid birder and knows all of the residents from Bahuichivo to Urique. Munoz teaches to local communities, is interested in learning about watershed restoration, and enjoys playing guitar for the guests.
The guides are not the only unique part of Canyon Travel—its remote lodges are built in partnerships with local communities and families. This affiliation has enabled the lodge settings to be built on land not available for commercial development, thus offering privacy away from mass tourism with the best possible views. All rooms have two double beds, tiled bathrooms, and fine bed and bath linens including terry-cloth robes. The lodges are environmentally friendly, yet comfortable with all the amenities.
For more information on Canyon Travel’s itineraries, call 1-800-843-1060, or check web site www.canyontravel.com.
Explore Cabo from deep sea to outer space with an "Adventure-a-Day" offered by Marquis Los Cabos Golf, Spa & Casitas Resort. The resort's new year-round activity program offers soft and hard adventures for both laid back and active guests, from scuba diving to star-gazing on the beach with a professional astronomer, swimming with dolphins to horseback rides in the desert, and from riding the waves to eco tours in the Sierra Mountains. For those whose idea of adventure is yoga or Pilates, individual and group classes are offered.
The activities range from $15 (Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo) to $220 (Fox Canyon Tour with personal Hummer) per person, and may be booked in advance in conjunction with suite reservations.
Suite rates through May 31, 2008 start at $470 per night, and through October 10, 2008 at $380 per night, plus applicable tax and service charge. Included in the room rate is continental breakfast, delivered daily to a private alcove in the suite.
For more information or reservations, call ll 877-238-9399 or visit www.marquisloscabos.com.
Located on the southernmost tip of the Baja California peninsula, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, the all-suite Marquis Los Cabos is close to the village of San Jose del Cabo as well as Baja's environmental treasures of desert plains, fossil-lined canyons, natural springs and waterfalls. The resort is located near the 18-hole Cabo Real golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones II, and just 10 minutes from the 18-hole Cabo del Sol Ocean course designed by Jack Nicklaus.
Marquis Los Cabos pays homage to its location with a profusion of water features including a 36-foot waterfall cascading from the lobby into the central pool, infinity pools overlooking the ocean with pods for sunset gazing, and a total of 40 pools.
The Marquis Los Cabos is an "art hotel," featuring an extraordinary collection of Latin American contemporary sculpture and painting, and a Michelin-starred chef renowned for his culinary art. Suites feature Bulgari bath amenities, Frette linens, hydromassage tubs, and private balconies with ocean views.
Guests dine at the refined, 20-seat Canto del Mar, where two-star Michelin Chef Thierry Dufour prepares a daily prix fixe menu. Casual dining on seafood, Mexican, European and resort specialties is served in the Vista Ballenas and Dos Mares restaurants.
The only member of Leading Spas of the World in Los Cabos, the resort's Spa Marquis is a full service spa and fitness center featuring ten treatment rooms, private dressing rooms, open-air Jacuzzis and steam baths.
is Mexico's premier adults-only, all-inclusive beachfront resort for couples, honeymooners and newlyweds. Luxuriously romantic, stretching along a secluded beach, it provides indulgences from gourmet cuisine, to hot tubs and hammocks in every junior suite, to a full service spa. (Guests aged 18 and older are considered adults at this resort.) The resort boasts 9 swimming pools, spa, fitness center, sauna, steam rooms, beauty center, Jacuzzis, bicycles, car rental, shopping arcade, dry cleaning/laundry service, recreational activities, sports center, watersports, scuba diving, nightly entertainment, deep sea fishing, 6 restaurants, 6 pool bars, 10 bars/lounges, concierge, tour desk, currency exchange, medical services, shuttle to Cancun Clubs. (Please note that certain activities and services are available for an additional cost.)
Room amenities include air conditioning, ceiling fans, private bath, shower, color satellite TV, private terrace with a hammock and amenity kit, mini-bar with soft drinks, radio/alarm clock, safety deposit box, hairdryer, iron/iron board, and coffee maker.
The El Dorado Royale offers the following restaurants:
El Cocotal Restaurant - Elegant air-conditioned restaurant with additional outdoor dining opportunities. Serving breakfast, Brunch Saturday & Sunday and dinner. Chef's menu changed daily. Dress code required: Pants or Bermudas, t-shirt with sleeves, any kind of shoes except beach sandals.
La Isla Restaurant - A la carte International Cuisine. Open-air Palapa restaurant. Features continental breakfast, international breakfast, lunch and Dinner a la Carte. Reservations are required and there is a dress code.
La Carreta Restaurant - Authentic Mexican Cuisine. Open for dinner a la carte. Non-smoking restaurant. Dress code required: semi-formal pants or Bermudas, t-shirt with sleeves, any kind of shoes except beach sandals. Reservations are required.
Ditalia Restaurant - Contemporary Italian Cuisine. Open for dinner. Air-conditioned and outdoor dining opportunities. Non-smoking restaurant. Dress code required: semi-formal pants or Bermudas, t-shirt with sleeves, any kind of shoes except beach sandals. Reservations are required.
Kampai Restaurant - Fine oriental Cuisine. Outdoor dining. Open for dinner. Smoking and non-smoking section. Dress code required: semi-formal pants or Bermudas, t-shirt with sleeves, any kind of shoes except beach sandals. Reservations are required.
Jo Jo's Caribbean Seaside Grill - Lunch services and afternoon grills. Caribbean delights served from late afternoon. Dress code required: pants or Bermudas, t-shirt with sleeves, any kind of shoes except beach sandals. Reservations are required.
La Cabana Pizza - Wood oven pizzas served to order with your choice of toppings, and a selection of Angus burgers, kosher hot dogs and freshly tossed Caesar salad.
Fuentes - Take 5 open kitchens, plasma TVs showing footage from cameras all over the kitchens, expert chefs with rotating menus of grill, pasta, seafood, tapas and stir fry. Add oversized teak tables and fine china and a beach view and you've got the most interactive dining experience under a 90-foot vaulted palapa roof. Guests are invited to interact with expert chefs at each open kitchen, and learn from recipes on display and cooking techniques for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Opening mid-April 2006.
24-hour room service available
A multitude of Bars are also available, including:
Bar Los Papagayos - This bar is open from 9am until 2pm. This is a swim-up bar nestled among the Casita Suites section serving up your favorite drink.
Healthy Bar Los Cotorros - This bar is open from 9am until 4pm. Enjoy fresh tropical fruit drinks, fresh fruit and healthy treats at this delightful bar with swings. Located at the relaxing pool across from the saltwater pool.
Swim-Up Bar Los Pericos - This bar is open from 9am until 5pm. This is a swim-up bar with swings, located at the Casita Suites section. Feel the fresh seaside breeze at this bar as you enjoy your preferred cocktails.
Bar Los Pelicanos - This bar is open from 9am until 5pm. This swim-up bar with swings, located at the Casita Suites section.
Bar Los Tucanes - This bar is open from 9am until 5pm. This swim-up bar located between the lobby and La Isla Restaurant.
Beach Bar - This bar is open from 9am until 11am. Located at the beach near the main pool. The Beach bar is a popular hangout throughout the day but really gets going in the evenings. It is perfect for an after dinner drink or just for relaxing with friends while enjoying the soothing sounds of the waves.
Swim-Up Bar La Isla - This bar is open from 7am until 6pm. This bar is located at the main pool.
Swim-Up Bar Colibri - This bar is open from 9am until 5pm. Swim-up bar with swings located at the Casita Suites section.
Lobby Bar - This bar is open from 10am until 2am. Serving premium beverage selection. Spectacular view of the Caribbean Sea.
Bar Las Guacamayas - This bar is open from 5pm until 2am. Swing Bar. Located in between La Carreta and La Fontana for cold Mexican beers, cheladas, exotic cocktails with tropical music under a traditional palapa.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
For more information, call 1-800-680-2858.
It's been said the only thing certain in life is change. Whether positive or negative, major life changes can put a great deal of stress on anyone, resulting in tension in both the mind and body. Now, at Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort, a tranquil retreat located just 20 minutes from Cancun Airport, you can experience a unique escape designed to rejuvenate both mind and body - the Spa Renewal Program. This escape, in combination with the resort's other unique attributes, will have you feeling ready to face the world with a fresh outlook. From personalized spa treatments using Bio-tensor technique, to the cleansing Temazcal Ceremony, to the resort's private meditation palapa, Ceiba del Mar offers the ultimate opportunity to revitalize your spirit - and handle the stresses that life's changes can bring about.
Ideally situated on a stretch of secluded powder-sand beach, at the edge of a picturesque fishing village, this hidden gem in paradise features an ambiance of luxury and comfort, beautiful Mexican and Mayan architecture and warm hospitality. Ceiba del Mar combines unspoiled white beaches, relaxing Caribbean waters, and a stunning natural landscape with suites offering ocean views, a unique holistic spa and unparalleled amenities and service.
The cornerstone of your life-enhancing getaway is the resort's aromatherapy Spa. Surrounded by the beautiful sapphire Caribbean Sea and the deep green of the surrounding jungle landscape, the Spa is the ideal refuge to harmonize mind, body and spirit. Ceiba del Mar offers the ultimate personalization of services during your renewal escape. Using Bio-tensor technique, the spa therapist chooses the most relaxing and healing of more than 50 essential oils to use during each treatment to best suit your personal needs.
A unique concept of the Spa at Ceiba del Mar offers the best of the Holistic approach to wellness. Treatments and state of the art equipment work together to offer therapeutic benefits to restore vitality, youth and harmony in guests. Ceiba del Mar Spa now features state of the art Vantage Bio Energetic Evaluation equipment. This new equipment conducts a comprehensive evaluation of a person's energetic health and balance. This process involves electrical conductivity points (meridian points) on the skin typically on the hands and feet. This completely non-invasive method is helpful in gaining valuable information about the body's vital function and provides feedback to help restore each system and meridian to an appropriate balance. The Vantage Bio Energetic Evaluation equipment is an excellent tool to measure the improvements in your wellness during your stay at Ceiba del Mar.
If peace of mind and revitalization is the goal of your escape, you will not want to miss participating in Ceiba del Mar's unique Temazcal Ceremony. This ancestral indigenous ritual is performed in efforts of communicating with nature to ask for cleansing and renewal of the senses. In a terracotta hut at sunset on the beach, volcanic stones and aromatic herbs are used to create a naturally rejuvenating steam bath perfect for purifying your mind, body, and spirit.
Perhaps a bit of meditation, to reach a higher level of tranquility is desired. Stroll down a wooden walkway, surrounded by beautiful and peaceful Mangroves, to Ceiba del Mar's high-platform meditation palapa. View the colors of the sunset as you are surrounded by the singing birds, and reflect on the paradise surrounding you. As you commune with nature, you will feel the effects of the experience, bringing harmony to soul and spirit.
When booking the Ceiba del Mar Spa Renewal Program, everything you will need to experience the ultimate relaxing getaway is provided, including:
· 7 nights accommodations (various room categories available)
· Welcome cocktail upon arrival
· Fresh fruit basket in room/suite
· In-room complimentary continental breakfast daily
· 6 SPA treatments per person, per stay:
o Fango Massage (70 minutes)
o Mayan Goddess Body Scrub (40 minutes)
o Deluxe Facial (90 minutes)
o Top Nik' Te Masaje (90 minutes)
o Mayan Balsamic Massage (90 minutes)
o Scalp Muk Pol (60 minutes)
· Spa gift and one bath robe per person
· Access to gym, bicycles, kayaks and snorkel equipment
· Access to Temazcal Ceremony and meditation palapa
· Fitness program daily (Yoga, Pilates, Aquafit)
· Lodging 12% tax and 5% service (spa gratuities not included)
This escape is available now, for bookings through June 30, 2008. Prices vary according to lodging selected and length of stay and range from $3,807 - 10,152 for suites that accommodate three guests.
When selecting your accommodations for the Spa Renewal Program, you'll choose from 88 luxury rooms, including 37 suites and 7 penthouses, all with breathtaking ocean views. All of the rooms feature fabulous amenities including private balcony or terrace, international cable TV and DVD/CD player, enhanced turn-down service, cotton robes and slippers, twice-daily maid service, mini-bar, ceiling fans, and exclusive bath amenities.
If you feel the urge for more active endeavors, there is plenty to satisfy your urge here. Take a dip in one of the two outdoor pools or Jacuzzi. Indulge in one of the daily Yoga, Pilates or AquaFit classes. Hit the tennis courts for a spirited game, or rent one of the resort's bicycles for a scenic ride. Rent a kayak to explore the beauty of the sea. Two fabulous restaurants, exclusively for Ceiba del Mar guests, are on-site: Xtabay, offering an expansive breakfast buffet and creative Mexican-inspired cuisine for dinner; and Arrecife Grill & Lounge, featuring grilled and wood-fired oven specialties for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. The resort's Terrace Lounge offers a selection of sushi, carpaccio and tartars as well as a fully stocked bar and music for after hours entertainment.
Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort was created by architect Luis Segura, who fell in love with the secluded, white sand beaches of the fishing village Puerto Morelos. The hotel originally opened in 2001, and was later fully renovated after Hurricane Wilma. This exclusive resort features 88 units, including 37 suites and 7 penthouses, all with ocean view. The unique holistic SPA, two restaurants, the Terrace Lounge and two bars compliment the resort, located just 20 minutes from Cancun Airport.
For more information on Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort, or for a complete listing of accommodations and pricing for the Spa Renewal Package, visit web site www.ceibadelmar.com or call +52 (998) 872-8060.
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Ideally situated on a stretch of secluded powder-sand beach, at the edge of a picturesque fishing village, lies a hidden gem in paradise - Ceiba Del Mar Beach & Spa Resort. This tranquil retreat, located just 20 minutes from Cancun Airport, features an ambiance of luxury and comfort combined with beautiful Mexican and Mayan architecture and warm hospitality.
Combining unspoiled white beaches, relaxing Caribbean waters, and a stunning natural landscape with suites offering ocean views, a unique holistic spa and unparalleled amenities and service, Ceiba del Mar promises the ultimate getaway. Now, with the resort's Romance Package, you and that special someone can experience an escape designed to rejuvenate both mind and body.
The Ceiba Del Mar Romance Package is designed for two guests and includes:
Accommodations for two people for 4 or 7 nights, depending on room category selected;
Welcome cocktail upon arrival
Fresh fruit basket in room/suite
In-room complimentary continental breakfast daily
Ala carte dinner daily
One special romantic dinner with bottle of wine served on the beach or in the privacy of your room
$250 or $300 spa credit per person, depending on length of stay
Spa gift
Private transportation to and from the airport
Access to gym, bicycles, kayaks and snorkel equipment
Fitness program daily (Yoga, Pilates, Aquafit)
Lodging 12% tax and 5% service (spa gratuities not included)
The package is available now, for bookings through December 22, 2008. Prices vary according to lodging selected and length of stay and range from $3,082 up to $10,180.
When selecting your accommodations for the Romance Package at Ceiba del Mar, you'll choose from 88 luxury rooms, including 37 suites and 7 penthouses, all with breathtaking ocean views. All of the rooms feature fabulous amenities including private balcony or terrace, international cable TV and DVD/CD player, enhanced turn-down service, cotton robes and slippers, twice-daily maid service, mini-bar, ceiling fans, and exclusive bath amenities.
Outside of its luxurious accommodations, Ceiba del Mar offers a wealth of opportunities to maximize relaxation on your romantic getaway. The resort's unique holistic and aromatherapy Spa is surrounded by the beautiful sapphire Caribbean sea and the deep green of the surrounding jungle landscape, and offers the ideal refuge to harmonize mind, body and spirit. Featuring a full range of treatments at the hands of trained professionals, the Spa uses a selection of more than 50 essential English oils, the majority organic, in its unique and personalized services.
Perhaps a bit of meditation, to reach a higher level of tranquility, is desired. Stroll down a wooden walkway, surrounded by beautiful and peaceful Mangroves, to the resort's high-platform meditation palapa. View the colors of the sunset as you are surrounded by the singing birds, and reflect on the paradise surrounding you. This unique feature of Ceiba del Mar will aid in the cleansing of both mind and spirit for you and your partner on your romantic escape.
If you feel the urge for more active endeavors, there is plenty to satisfy your urge here. Take a dip in one of the two outdoor pools or Jacuzzi. Indulge in one of the daily Yoga, Pilates or AquaFit classes. Hit the tennis courts for a spirited game, or rent one of the resort's bicycles for a scenic ride. Rent a kayak to explore the beauty of the sea. Two fabulous restaurants, exclusively for Ceiba del Mar guests, are on-site: Xtabay, offering an expansive breakfast buffet and creative Mexican-inspired cuisine for dinner; and Arrecife Grill & Lounge, featuring grilled and wood-fired oven specialties for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. The resort's Terrace Lounge offers a selection of sushi, carpaccio and tartars as well as a fully stocked bar and music for after hours entertainment.
Outside the resort, you'll find a world of recreational opportunities located within easy reach of Ceiba del Mar. The most significant Mayan archeological sights, as well as a vast underground network of rivers and over 100 "cenotes" (sacred pools of clear, calm water) are located nearby. The pleasures of cave diving, scuba diving and snorkeling on the Great Maya Reef, and deep sea fishing are all available within a short distance of the resort.
Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort was created by architect Luis Segura, who fell in love with the secluded, white sand beaches of the fishing village Puerto Morelos. The hotel originally opened in 2001, and was later fully renovated after Hurricane Wilma. This exclusive resort features 88 units, including 37 suites and 7 penthouses, all with ocean view. The unique holistic SPA, two restaurants, the Terrace Lounge and two bars compliment the resort, located just 20 minutes from Cancun Airport.
For more information on Ceiba Del Mar Beach & Spa Resort, or for a complete listing of accommodations and pricing for the Romance Package, please visit the web site at www.ceibadelmar.com or call +52 (998) 872-8060.
Villa Premiere & Spa, the award winning boutique beachfront retreat on Puerto Vallarta’s golden sand beach on the Bay of Banderas, invites golf enthusiasts to sample three of the region’s top courses with its new golf package.
The Tee it Up package starts at $410 USD per person, per night and includes:
o 4-nights/5-days accommodations in a spacious premiere oceanfront guestroom with Jacuzzi
o One green fee at Vista Vallarta Golf Club
o One green fee at Marina Vallarta Golf Club
o One green free at El Tigre Country Club
o One 50-minute Therapeutic Massage
o All meals and drinks
o Welcome glass of champagne
The 83-room and suite Villa Premiere Hotel & Spa features ocean views, a full service spa, whimsical vibe with eclectic décor and warm, personalized service. Guests will the convenient location within walking distance of the colonial district and its famous boardwalk. New amenities include: pillow menu for extreme comfort, butler service for the ultimate in pampering and a rejuvenating Oxygen Bar.
The ‘Tee it Up’ Package is based on double occupancy and is priced at $410 USD per person, per night valid for travel from now through October 31, 2008. Package includes all hotel taxes and tips. Reservations for each golf course must be made three days in advance. Green fees include 18 holes of golf, shared cart and range balls. The package is subject too hotel availability and may not be combined with any other offers.
Rates include accommodations, chilled towels and champagne upon check-in, a relaxing five-minute anti-stress massage on neck and hands at check-in, special in room hotel amenities, complimentary use of gym, yoga lessons, reflexology lessons, meditation workshops and access to the sauna and steam room at Villa Premiere Spa.
For reservations, call 1-877-886-9176, email reservations@premiereonline.com.mx or visit www.premiereonline.com.mx.
About Villa Premiere Hotel & Spa
Nestled on Bahia de Banderas, Villa Premiere Hotel & Spa is an inviting retreat located on a serpentine stretch of golden sand beach walking distance from downtown Puerto Vallarta. Recently awarded the AAA Four Diamond status. The hotel’s contemporary Mexican ambiance houses just 83, beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites come complete with Mexican furniture and art, private terraces, whirlpool tubs and sliding doors overlooking miles of Pacific blue. Designed as a tranquil place, reaching out to the region’s indigenous culture and customs to create a most distinctive sense of place, the Spa at Premiere offers a feast for the senses. Stone-patterned flooring, stucco walls, Tepescohuite tree beams and rope ceilings, and palm mats provide textural contrasts while flowering plants, hand painted murals of angels by local artists done in subdued colors, Huichol Indian handicrafts, tranquility fountains, and aroma candles create an inviting and relaxing setting. Visit www.premiereonline.com.mx or call 1-877-886-9176.
The Handwork Studio, a Kids' Needle Arts and Fashion Studio located in suburban Philadelphia, will be taking its highly-regarded Kids Handwork/Craft Camp "on the road" to the Sunscape Puerto Aventuras Resort in Riviera Maya Mexico, July 12-19, 2008.
Besides the sun, sand and family fun, The Handwork Studio's Kids Craft Camp will include:
* Four 5-hour handwork instruction sessions which will include knitting, embroidery, crafts, and hand- and machine-sewing - perfect for children ages 5-14
* An enchanting sunrise knitting circle on the beach
* A family-fun parent/child snack and craft hour
* Sunset beach fashion show and reception
* An introduction to regional, native handwork
* Fantastic age- and gender-appropriate crafts including bathing suit cover ups, decorated flip flops and embellished beach totes for girls; beach backpacks, shorts, and more for boys
* A great craft supplies gift bag - knitting needles, yarn, embroidery needles, thread and more
Laura Kelly, founder of The Handwork Studio, joined forces with VacationKids.com to develop and market the Kids Craft Camp Mexican adventure. "So often, kids and their families come back from a vacation with no more than sandy clothes and a few vague memories. By taking The Handwork Studio's Kids Craft Camp to the Sunscape Puerto Aventuras Resort, kids will come home with much more. They will have fun at the resort learning new crafting skills and then be able to take home this new expertise to further develop it on their own," says Kelly.
For more information on The Handwork Studio's Kids Craft Camp, July 12-19, 2007 at Sunscape's Puerto Aventuras Resort in Riviera Maya Mexico, please visit www.thehandworkstudio.com/mexico-2008.html
About The Handwork Studio: Located in Narberth, PA, The Handwork Studio, LLC., is an award winning Kids' Needle Arts and Fashion Studio for kids ages 4-16. Through after-school and weekend classes, birthday parties, summer camp and community service projects, students learn self-expression through the traditional arts such as knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting, embroidery, and fashion design in a fun, relaxed, and stress-free atmosphere. For more information, please visit www.thehandworkstudio.com.
About www.VacationKids.com: Founded in 2001, www.VacationKids.com is the online travel agency website dedicated to family vacations. Here parents can find all "must-know" details and advice about planning their family vacations not found in glossy travel brochures. Parents can book online or use the help of Family Vacation Experts available to help parents select and book affordable vacation packages appropriate for the life stages of their family.
The ultimate pairing for travelers with a penchant for cooking is at Sazón, the cooking school in an 18th century colonial mansion, and Casa de Sierra Nevada, the famed Orient-Express hotel.
At Casa de Sierra Nevada guests will enjoy one of 33 rooms housed in five “casonas” - colonial mansions -- each featuring five to seven guestrooms or suites, surrounded by cloistered outdoor courtyards with fountains, small gardens and al fresco corridors. Each guest room is architecturally unique and is furnished in its own individual décor. All capture the rich history of the area with decorative touches such as hand painted Talavera tiles, bovedas - curved or domed ceilings, canterra fireplaces, polished copper sinks or original paintings by local artists.
Sazón is a cooking school and retail store. The word derives from the verb “sazonar” meaning “to season or spice.”
The cooking school offers a variety of programs ranging from two hour cooking classes on local specialties and tours of the market to week-long culinary packages.
Sazón's retail space offers hand-blown glassware, vivid textiles, and artful pottery created exclusively for Sazón by Mexico's master artists. The store also offers traditional Mexican cazuelas, molcajetes, and signed folk pottery along with some of the latest kitchen finery and gadgetry.
A lavish central courtyard - just off the retail spaces - has a kitchen herb garden, a soothing fountain, and an open dining room with a massive stone fireplace.
To reach San Miguel de Allende fly into either Mexico City (a three and a half hour drive) or the Guanajuato-Leon Airport (one and a half hour drive.) The Guanajuato-Leon Airport has direct flights from Dallas, Los Angeles, Houston and Chicago.
For additional information or reservations from the USA: 011-52-415-154-7671 or toll-free 1-800-701-1561. To view on-line visit web site www.sazonsanmiguel.com or www.casadesierranevada.com.
About Casa de Sierra Nevada
Opened in 1952, Casa de Sierra Nevada, located a few blocks from the main city square of San Miguel, has 33 rooms spread among nine 16th to 18th century Colonial mansions including: Casa del Parque, a former fort in the 17th century which became a customs house catering to the silver trade; and Casa Principal, the former residence of San Miguel de Allende's Archbishop in 1580, now an official historical landmark. Centuries old architecture and individually designed buildings and guest rooms combined with genuine Mexican hospitality create a true residential feel.
About Orient-Express Hotels, Trains & Cruises
Orient-Express Hotels, Trains & Cruises is a hotel and leisure company providing luxury travel experiences for discerning travelers. Founded in 1976 when the company acquired the Hotel Cipriani in Venice, Orient-Express owns or has investments in 49 businesses: 39 highly individual hotels, two restaurants, six tourist trains and two river cruise operations, operating in 25 countries worldwide. For additional information, please call 1-800-237-1236 or visit www.orient-express.com.
The Hotel Cielo Rojo in San Pancho/San Francisco, a quiet beach town retreat just thirty miles north of Puerta Vallarta, offers pristine, clear water beaches for swimming, sunbathing and surfing. Natural beauty and old-world Mexican charm means donkeys share the cobblestone streets and roosters are your wake up call.
Featuring modern Mexican architecture decorated with art, photography and antiques, the hotel also has a restaurant -- Azucena -- serving healthy, Alta Mexican cuisine.
For more information contact Jennifer Gross at jennifer@evolutionarymediagroup.com
The Vision
The very intimate Verana hotel occupies an exquisitely serene setting perched above the Bay of Banderas amid the swaying palms of the Valle del Sierra Oriental, just south of Puerto Vallarta. So, it’s only natural to wonder what spa would befit this dramatic intersection of tropical splendor, chic-yet-rustic architecture and pampered luxury on the very roof of Mexico’s southwestern coast.
The answer is the Spa at Verana – and it rises to the challenge beautifully. Owners and creators Heinz Legler and Veronique Lievre have fashioned a destination oasis that perfectly embraces Verana’s blend of earthy simplicity and understated elegance, delivered with exquisite attention to detail and unabashed service. Taking their cue from the unadulterated setting and commitment to creating as natural and holistic a guest experience as possible, the two have crafted one of Mexico’s most remarkable places of personal respite.
Treatment Philosophy
The Spa at Verana’s striking indoor-outdoor orientation maximizes its jungle setting – as well as every guest experience. While many of the most compelling treatment spaces are outdoors, subtle design cues and lush plantings ensure complete privacy without detracting from the natural drama.
Also befitting the Spa’s locale, Legler and Lievre have pledged themselves to administering treatments and proprietary product inspired by indigenous ingredients grown on property or found naturally in the neighboring coastal jungles – including volcanic stone, coffee, coconut, banana, avocado, lemongrass and botanicals used in facials, body washes and scrubs. The result is a harmony of body, soul and nature simply unheard of at conventional spas.
Guests begin each Verana treatment with a soothing footbath ritual while sipping a custom blend of herbal tea amid ocean breezes and aromas of lemongrass, plumeria and other jungle succulents. From there, respite-seekers can opt for facials, scrubs, body washes, massages, yoga and a number of innovative treatment packages – or take advantage of a Spa at Verana exclusive: a Watsu massage, an experience similar to receiving a Zen Shiatsu in a warm water womb.
Facials and Scrubs
All treatment facials include a deep cleanse, exfoliation, masque, emolliating hand and foot massage. The Honey & Citrus Facial combines pure honey with citrus juice and a cucumber recovery to tighten and replenish, while the Banana & Avocado Facelift targets sun-damaged skin with a creamy, customized mask based on two of nature’s most vitamin-rich offerings. So natural is the Organic Facial, guests can actually see and feel the fresh fruit pulp, herbs and other indigenous ingredients in the mask as it cleanses, hydrates, exfoliates and nourishes.
Scrubs at the Spa follow the same emphasis on natural ingredients and are followed by an effleurage massage to ensure maximum relaxation. Options include the Salt Glow & Ginger Scrub, combining the warmth of ginger with exfoliating sea salt, and the Coconut & Sugar Scrub, culminating in a stimulating bath of warm coconut rinse leaving skin creamy, healthy and invigorated.
Body Washes, Massages and Baths
Body washes and massages begin with a soothing scalp and foot massage. The Banana De-tox Wash uses bananas to draw-out impurities and yogurt to tone and moisturize the skin, while the Cucumber Cooling Wash pampers guests who may have indulged a bit too much in the Mexican sun with a cucumber- and aloe-infused treatment designed to cool and begin the healing process.
Offering guests a true customizable experience, the Jungle Massage, administered in the Spa’s private massage hut, is an integrative experience blending the latest deep-tissue, Swedish, Shiatsu, hot-stone or Thai massage technique fused with aromatherapy. To maximize guest options, a 30-minute version is also offered.
Baths at the Spa take on dramatic flair thanks to imposing stone walls that magically transform into a romantic backdrop of flickering candles and star-filled skies after sunset. The Healing Bath, given in the Spa's plein-air, Japanese-style soaking tubs, calls upon essential oils, bath salts and herbs to relax and release toxins, while the Starlight Aromatherapy Bath, a deep-water, nighttime experience creates the ultimate interlude for romantics; milk and honey infused water, illuminating candles and fragrant flowers offer a private sanctuary for couples seeking an alluring oasis.
Watsu Massage
Guests can enjoy the sublime art of Watsu massage—a soothing type of massage that takes place in waist-deep water, warmed to body temperature. Its name derived from a combination of the words “water” and “shiatsu.”
Floating into blissful states of relaxation, guests are held in warm water by a technician who gently twirls and massages the entire body, first one way then another, taking your body through a series of passive stretches and twists to accomplish deeply restorative and therapeutic effects on the body.
The buoyancy and support of the water allows the spinal column to be moved in ways that aren't possible on land. Akin to Zen Shiatsu, this warm water therapy encourages emotional equilibrium while promoting trust and connection.
Yoga
Protruding from the hillside near the pool, the private yoga deck seems to float mid-air, proving a dramatic backdrop for personal exercises and mental escape. Accomplished instructors guide guests through a series of morning, afternoon and private poses for those seeking clarity and emotional harmony.
His and Her Packages
Customized packages offer something for every guest, whether seeking companionship or a solo escape. Designed for a romantic evening, the Romance package facilitates unencumbered languishing in the complete privacy of a striking candlelit, aromatherapy bath while stargazing amid the aromas of plumeria and lemongrass. Unlimited dips in the Watsu pool offer the finishing touches to restoring romance in this epic setting. Meanwhile, the Wellness package blends yoga with an organically inspired facial, wrap and Thai massage for the ultimate detox, while aptly titled Happiness delivers on its promise with an assortment of the Spa’s most deliciously popular treatments, including the Coconut & Sugar Scrub, Banana & Avocado Facial and Milk & Honey Bath.
For more information, check web site www.verana.com
There’s a great new destination in Mexico and now it has a name: Riviera Nayarit. With the launch of this exciting destination, comes an amazing transformation of 100 miles of Pacific coastline north of Vallarta which will take place in the next decade. Already this spectacular new destination has over 12,000 hotel rooms, two-thirds of which are four-star to five diamond; four major golf courses and protected ecotourism.
At Tianguis Acapulco on March 27, 2007, the Governor of the Mexican state of Nayarit, Mr. Ney González, officially named this new destination Riviera Nayarit, delineating its location from the Rio Ameca at Nuevo Vallarta to the colonial town of San Blas including the exclusive resort enclave, Punta Mita.
Riviera Nayarit’s official logo features its mascot, the sea turtle which is a protected species in the region.
Riviera Nayarit’s official web site, www.VisitRivieraNayarit.com will provide travelers with key information so that they can plan their vacation accordingly. Information on the web site will include features on the region’s attractions like eco-tourism and major events.
New developments that are taking place in Riviera Nayarit include:
A major new resort area called Litibu which will inaugurate a Greg Norman golf course in December
An elegant St. Regis Resort in Punta Mita
A second Jack Nicklaus designed golf course at the spectacular Four Seasons Resort in Punta Mita
A new marina and future resort development at La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.
Hugging 100 miles of Pacific coast north of Puerto Vallarta and protected by the dramatic Sierra Madre Mountains, Riviera Nayarit blends the timeless authenticity of Mexican culture and hospitality with the latest in tourism facilities and services. The Four Seasons and St. Regis are among the hotel companies bringing a new level of luxury; superstars like Greg Norman and Jack Nicklaus are redefining the game of golf here. An extraordinary abundance of wildlife from giant manta rays and whales to protected sea turtles and rare migratory birds draw both vacationers and experts from around the world. And, with ambitious plans for new resorts, hotels and recreational facilities, Riviera Nayarit is well on its way toward making a major impact on North American tourism.
For visitors, the gateway to Riviera Nayarit is Puerto Vallarta International Airport, only ten minutes away from Nuevo Vallarta. Most of the region’s current tourism facilities are located on Banderas Bay, one of the world’s largest bays, which is also renowned for its extensive variety of water sports from diving and snorkeling to sailing and deep sea fishing.
Riviera Nayarit is also fast-becoming one of Mexico’s foremost golfing destinations. Renowned professionals and designers such as Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Robert Von Hagge, Jim Lipe and Joe Finger have created aesthetically pleasing golf courses with varying degrees of difficulty. Among the highlights is the El Tigre Golf Club at Paradise Village designed by Von Hagge; the Jack Nicklaus designed course at the Four Seasons Golf Club in Punta Mita; and the Mayan Golf Resorts Vallarta by Lipe.
Ecological wonders abound on this “slice of heaven on earth,” like whale watching on a catamaran, viewing of sea turtle preservation efforts and snorkeling in crystal clear aquamarine waters to get closer to colorful coral reefs and underwater species. Precious ecological sanctuaries for rare birds are located in Islas Marietas and La Tovara National Park. In Las Caletas and Banderas Bay, visitors can even swim and interact with friendly seals. For outdoor adventurers the rich natural habitat that is Sierra Madre beckons culminating in a visual hike and 2,000 feet stop above sea-level.
North of Banderas Bay and Punta Mita are miles of seemingly endless white sand beaches, the somewhat bohemian surfing town of Sayulita and friendly fishing villages where new tourism facilities will be developed in the next decade. Driving along the thickly forested and scenic two lane highway north of Punta Mita to San Blas, visitors cannot resist stopping in colorful roadside markets to sample homemade candies, fresh juices and succulent tropical fruits.
Riviera Nayarit’s cultural history dates back thousands of years, encompassing four ethnic traditions, including pre-Columbian cultures and the Huichols. Nayarit’s excellent preservation of its culture can be seen in its native Huichol tribe who have preserved their rich culture and ancient beliefs through their art. The Huichols are renowned for the detailed bead sculptures that contain elaborate symbols borne out of their culture and shamanistic traditions. Mexcaltitan is a small island of floating mangroves that is reputed to be the birthplace of the Aztecs. Archeological sites with hundreds of petroglyphs and vestiges of ancient villages remain still waiting to become accessible to visitors.
For more information on Riviera Nayarit visit www.VisitRivieraNayarit.com.
About Riviera Nayarit
Riviera Nayarit is Mexico’s newest travel destination stretching along 100 miles of pristine Pacific coast framed by spectacular mountains which unfolds minutes north of the Puerto Vallarta International Airport. Mostly undeveloped, the destination extends from the resorts of Nuevo Vallarta to the historic, colonial town of San Blas, including exclusive Punta Mita and the spectacular Banderas Bay. The region features luxury resorts and eco-tourism boutique hotels, world-renowned surfing, four professional golf courses, rare native wildlife including sea turtles and tropical birds, mountain and island adventures, shopping for local artwork and traditional Huichol handicrafts, charming fishing towns and miles of serene beaches.
The extremely rare Long-whiskered Owlet (Xenoglaux loweryi), a species that wasn’t discovered until 1976, and until now was only known from a few specimens captured in nets after dark, has been seen in the wild for the first time by researchers monitoring the Area de Conservación Privada de Abra Patricia – Alto Nieva, a private conservation area in Northern Peru. The sighting is considered a holy grail of South American ornithology and has not been accomplished in thirty years, despite the efforts of hundreds of birders.
The species is among the world’s smallest owls. It is so distinct that it has been named in its own genus: Xenoglaux meaning “strange owl” on account of the long wispy feathers or whiskers that stream out from its wild-looking reddish-orange eyes. The owl inhabits the dense undergrowth of mountain forests in a remote part of northern Peru.
“Seeing the Long-whiskered Owlet is a huge thrill,” said David Geale of Asociación Ecosistemas Andinos (ECOAN) who was part of the research team. “Its population is estimated to be less than 1,000 birds, and possibly as few as 250. Due to the rapid destruction of its forest habitat and its tiny range, it is inferred that the species is in serious decline. Until recently, the owlet’s key habitat was completely unprotected.”
The Long-whiskered Owlet has previously been captured by researchers on at least three occasions, but until 2002 nothing was known of the bird’s natural history. At that point, calls were recorded from a captive bird, but its biology still remained virtually unknown. Last month, researchers Geale and Juvenal Ccahuana, rangers of Abra Patricia and monitors of the MNBCA program from Alto Mayo, encountered the owlet three times during daylight hours and recorded its calls frequently at night. Several photographs were also taken of a bird captured in a mist-net and later released onto a tree branch where it posed for photographs before disappearing into the night. These additional photos are available at www.abcbirds.org/whiskeredowlpic.htm.
“The creation of the Area de Conservación Privada de Abra Patricia – Alto Nieva, located in the Northern end of the Peruvian Yungas ecosystem, provides protection for the key site for the Long-whiskered Owlet,” said Hugo Arnal, American Bird Conservancy’s (ABC) Tropical Andes Program Director. “By establishing a reserve and protecting the owlet’s forest habitat, ABC and its partner ECOAN are giving many other species a chance to survive as well.”
The northeastern section of the Peruvian Yungas, comprises habitat for 317 resident bird species, of which 23 are considered globally threatened. The conservation area also protects much of the known habitat for the endangered Ochre-fronted Antpitta, and has been declared a priority by the Alliance for Zero Extinction. Other endemics in the area include the endangered Royal Sunangel (a hummingbird), the rare and recently-described Johnson’s Tody-Tyrant, and the endangered Ash-throated Antwren.
Several songbirds that breed in North America such as the beautiful Blackburnian Warbler also use these forests during the winter. Other migratory species include the Broad-winged Hawk, Swainson’s Hawk, Swainson's Thrush, and Alder Flycatcher. In total, 29 neotropical migrant species use this area, of which 13 are of conservation concern. Nearly 98% of the reserve consists of well-preserved stands of typical Yungas forests, and it is also considered a rich area for orchids.
ABC’s work in the region is supported by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Conoco Phillips, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and Robert Wilson. Birdwatchers wishing to search for the owl should contact Hugo Arnal at American Bird Conservancy (see: <http://www.abcbirds.org/>www.abcbirds.org). Access is strictly limited to small groups and the chances of success though better than in the past are still considered very low for anything but the luckiest groups.
American Bird Conservancy (ABC) is the only 501(c)(3) organization that works solely to conserve native wild birds and their habitats throughout the Americas. ABC is a membership organization that is consistently awarded a top, four-star rating by the independent group, Charity Navigator.
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