Mexico News
This week, I’ll highlight 10 of the top-selling all-inclusive resorts in Mexico that are open now. The upfront promotional rate at each property includes meals, snacks, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, entertainment, and non-motorized water sports. The first six resorts are on the Yucatan Peninsula, followed by four on the Pacific coast.
Ocean Riviera Paradise (5 stars), Playa del Carmen—This sprawling resort with 974 suites features a Mediterranean-inspired design and five pools, 10 restaurants and cafes, about a dozen bars, a bowling alley, and an on-site diving center. Junior Suite from US$179 per night.
Occidental at Xcaret Destination (4.5 stars), Playa del Carmen—A private cove, seven swimming pools and recreational offerings like tennis, miniature golf, and windsurfing are featured at this 762-room property. The staff can arrange excursions to nearby Xcaret eco-park, where you can snorkel through ancient caves and underground rivers, swim with dolphins, and more. Deluxe Garden room from US$194 per night.
Hotel Riu Palace Peninsula (4.5 stars), Cancun—This 562-room resort is edged on both sides by white-sand beach and turquoise water. Four swimming pools, a spa, gym, kids club, and several dining options round out the on-site amenities. The Villas accommodations are designated as kids-free; guests in this enclave have access to an exclusive restaurant and pool. Junior Suite Garden View from US$169 per night.
Iberostar Selection Paraiso Lindo (4 stars), Playa del Carmen—Six restaurants, seven bars, a lazy river, wave pool, and five additional swimming pools are highlights of this 446-room hotel. Children can play in the kids club and splash park while parents relax in beach hammocks, indulge in spa treatments, or enjoy a round of golf. Double Garden View room from US$212 per night.
Sandos Playacar Beach Resort (4.1 stars), Playa del Carmen—This 819-room resort has fun attractions for families, such as miniature golf, free bicycles, a children’s program, and a teen club. But if you’re traveling without kids and want a quiet getaway, consider staying in the exclusive no-kids Select Club section. From US$197 per night for Riviera Family Junior accommodations.
Golden Parnassus (3.5 stars), Cancun—This 214-room no-kids property is tucked between the Nichupté Lagoon and Caribbean Sea. Snorkel in its crystal-clear waters, relax in the steam room, indulge in a signature massage at the spa, or mingle over drinks at the Tiki Bar. Deluxe Lagoon View room from US$178 per night.
Hotel Riu Santa Fe (3.5 stars), Los Cabos—With over 1,000 rooms and perched on the Baja Peninsula, this resort features an enormous, infinity-edge pool facing the sea, where you can order tropical drinks at a swim-up bar, stretch out on a tiled lounger immersed in the water, or grab a spot under one of the nearby sun umbrellas. Double room from US$130 per night.
Sunscape Puerto Vallarta (4 stars), Puerto Vallarta—Six dining venues, four bars, and the complimentary use of water toys like Hobie Cats and kayaks are among the amenities of this 344-room hotel. The Explorer’s Club provides activities for kids ages 3 to 12, while the Core Zone for teens offers a dedicated lounge. Deluxe Partial Ocean View from US$136 per night.
Secrets Puerto Los Cabos (5 stars), Los Cabos—This 500-room no-kids haven pampers guests with pool and beach service and spacious all-suite accommodations. Watch movies on the beach, take a Pilates class, or participate in a wine or tequila tasting. Junior Suite Garden View room from US$149 per person per night
Iberostar Selection Playa Mita (4.5 stars), Puerto Vallarta—Prime attractions at this 452-room property include three pools, 24-hour room service, and a rooftop bar overlooking the ocean. Among the accommodations are spa rooms with upgraded bath amenities and access to a private sanctuary with whirlpools. Golfers can play the Greg Norman-designed Litibu Golf Course. Double room with garden views from US$214 per night.
International News
U.S. State Department lifts global travel advisory
The U.S. State Department has lifted the global travel ban put in place more than four months ago, citing changing conditions in the coronavirus pandemic.
The Department is returning to its previous system of country-specific levels of travel advice “in order to give travelers detailed and actionable information to make informed travel decisions,” according to a press release.
The Level 4 global health advisory, the highest alert level, was issued on March 19.
While the U.S. has decided to relax its universal advisory, many nations are restricting U.S. citizens from entering because of the high number of coronavirus cases still being reported within U.S. borders.
Some of the most popular travel destinations for U.S. tourists, including Canada, Mexico, and the European Union, have imposed strict restrictions. Travelers going to Europe are advised to check the relevant U.S. embassies or consulates for information, as the European Union has extended its travel ban on Americans.
Dozens of countries remain under the State Department’s Level 4 travel advisory for issues ranging from the coronavirus to terrorism.
You can find a revised list of country-specific travel advice and warnings on the State Department’s website. U.S. State Department: travel.state.gov.
Travelers are urged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts in case of an emergency.
Words of the Wise and Well-Traveled
“If I’m an advocate for anything, it’s to move. As far as you can, as much as you can. Across the ocean, or simply across the river. The extent to which you can walk in someone else’s shoes or at least eat their food, it’s a plus for everybody. Open your mind, get up off the couch, move.” –Anthony Bourdain
Judy Newell, an international travel consultant since 1971, heads Perfect Journeys and specializes in unique travel experiences to destinations around the world. She custom designs journeys that are tailored to suit your interests, physical abilities, and budget. Please contact Judy for further information on Travel News topics and around-the-world travel. Cell phone 415 111 8765; Vonage 949-300-3682; email judynewell@perfectjourneys.net.
Sources: VAX, Travel Market Report, NPR