Travel with Stan

Seals, Seabirds Star on Winter Creature Cruises with Norwalk Maritime Aquarium

2012-02-03T10:01:00.000-08:00

Some of us may find the winter temperatures around Long Island Sound too cold for comfort, but seals who live in even chillier climes don’t agree. Every year harbor seals and gray seals come down from northern waters to winter in the Sound, where open waters guarantee food. Some have come from as far away as the Arctic Circle.

They often can be spotted happily hanging out on the exposed rocks and shoals on and near the Norwalk Islands on Winter Creature Cruises from the Norwalk Maritime Aquarium in Connecticut’s Fairfield County.

This unusual winter outing aboard the Aquarium’s research vessel Oceanic sails from Norwalk Harbor into the Sound from mid-December through April 1. Marine science educators are on board to point out the seals as well as other life on the water in the colder months, including hardy seabirds such as buffleheads and mergansers. The narrators paint a full picture of what happens in winter on the Sound, who migrates in, who migrates out and who stays put.

The Aquarium is a leading research facility and passengers are invited to help with their cruise’s plankton and water-chemistry samplings. Data collected during the cruises is added to the Long Island Sound Biodiversity Project, which is an ongoing census of the Sound’s animal species.

When the cruise ends, a close-up look awaits at the Aquarium’s permanent harbor seals pool especially during feeding time, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 and 3:45 p.m. daily. There is plenty more to see inside the Aquarium, including playful river otters, rays, sharks, giant sea turtles and all manner of colorful frogs, as well as the Marine Lab where baby jellyfish and seahorses are being raised. The intertidal Touch Tank offers a real feel for some of Long Island Sound’s interesting creatures, a chance to touch critters like a green crab or horseshoe and finding out what the surface of a sea star feels like. Coral Reef Adventure and Born to be Wild are the current exciting nature offerings on the giant I-Max screen.

The 21/2-hour Winter Creature cruises, recommended for ages 8 and older, are timed for low tide when seals are most likely to be seen, though sightings are not guaranteed. Cruises are scheduled for Feb. 18 at 1 p.m., March 17 at 1:30 p.m., March 31 at noon and April 1 at 1 p.m.

The Aquarium suggests bringing binoculars and cameras and, since there is limited cabin space, warm clothing is a must. Tickets are $20.50. Advance purchase is strongly recommended; walk-up tickets will be sold only when space is available. Tickets can be ordered by phone during weekday business hours at (203) 852-0700, Ext. 2206, or online at maritimeaquarium.org.

For more information about the cruises and other winter activities in the nearby Fairfield County area, including a free copy of the Fairfield County Getaway Guide, contact the Western Connecticut Visitors Bureau, PO Box 968, Litchfield, CT 06759, (860) 567-4506, or visit its web site at www.visitwesternct.com.

Float Mom Down the Grand Canyon for Mother’s Day With VIP Treatment

2012-02-03T08:15:00.000-08:00

A grand way to gift a favorite mom this Mother’s Day is to put her on a raft and float her down the Grand Canyon.

Rafting pioneer Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) has such an experience up its sleeve on two six-day, ive-night departures May 8 and 9.

“Beyond the gift of gazing up at surreal scenery from the comfort of Western’s custom J-Rig raft, exploring hidden waterfalls, delighting in delicious riverside meals and sleeping under endless stars, each mom will be treated like royalty with a number of special surprises and a complimentary ‘Canyon Gift’ on both Mother’s Day launches. The entire trip promises to be a gift she’ll never forget and one that will bring the whole family together in an amazing way,” said Brian Merrill, CEO.

See: http://www.westernriver.com/trips/grand6day/mothers-day.php.

The pros of rafting in May include mild daytime temps (in the 70s and 80s), blankets of spring flowers, thundering waterfalls and more consistent, drier weather. The J-Rig raft assures dry seating if desired plus pontoon seating for the gung-ho who live in the thrill of getting wet.

The Grand Canyon is Western River Expeditions’ signature trip conquering more than 60 major rapids during a 187-mile run in six or seven days. Per person rates for 2012 begin at $2,495. There is also an option to do a shorter three- or four-day trip covering 100 river miles starting at $1,145 to $1,560 per person, respectively.

Traditionally Grand Canyon trips book full more than a year in advance. “The year is somewhat of an anomaly,” explained Merrill. “Our Mother’s Day departures still have lots of room while the rest of the season is pretty much booked to capacity.”

Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).

Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah rafting, Oregon and Idaho rafting trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. Today it pursues a “guiding green” philosophy and belongs to some of the top environmentally conscious organizations in the world: Grand Canyon River Outfitters Association, American Rivers, Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics, Utah Rivers Council, America Outdoors, and National River Cleanup Week.

Rescue for Mexicana?

2012-02-03T08:09:00.000-08:00

Felipe Consuelo Soto, the judge presiding over the Mexicana airlines bankruptcy proceedings said, a new set of investors has deposited $300 million to recapitalize Mexicana Airlines, which could return to the skies next month. Spanish hotel group Med Atlántica, which claims to be 80 percent controlled by Mexican investors, has shown it has the necessary funds and is now the best option for rescuing the beleaguered carrier, the judge said. If not, the airline may be declared insolvent before the end of this month and its holdings sold to pay off creditors.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Pedal Power in Death Valley

2012-02-03T07:57:00.000-08:00

There are 785 miles of roads in California’s Death Valley National Park, and most of them can be pedaled.

Furnace Creek Resort offers mountain bike rentals as well as two bike packages that make it easy for visitors to get out of the car and into the fresh air while taking in the other-worldly desert landscape of this 3.3-million-acre park.

Furnace Creek Resort offers bike rentals as well as two packages that include rentals and accommodations at the Ranch at Furnace Creek, one of the resort’s two lodges. One package features a guided 10-mile downhill ride from 2,200 feet above sea level back to the resort some 200 feet below sea level; the other allows visitors to explore the park on their own. The packages are available Feb. 10 through May 12 and again Oct. 12 through Dec. 19. Bike rentals are available year-round, but Furnace Creek Resort advises summer-season visitors to limit cycling to early morning hours to avoid the daytime heat.

“Cycling on the park’s paved and dirt roads provides our active visitors with virtually endless ways to see the park’s strange and stunning landscapes,” said Phil Dickinson, director of sales and marketing for Furnace Creek Resort. “There is a road to suit everyone’s adventurous sensibilities, from short routes on flat, paved roads to incredibly challenging routes on hilly, dirt and gravel roads.”

The National Park Service offers a complete list of suggested easy, moderate and difficult routes on its website.

Dickinson said he always reminds visitors to be safe by drinking plenty of water — at least a gallon a day — being aware of weather and temperature, traveling with companions and paying attention to car and bus traffic. “Cycling is a relatively safe and fun activity, but visitors should remember they are in the wilderness, and they should be as prepared as any Boy Scout for emergencies and unpredictable situations,” he said. “Talking with a National Park Service ranger about current conditions and safety tips can make a huge difference and we always suggest travelers stop at the NPS Visitor Center before embarking on a cycling adventure.”

Bikes can be rented at the Ranch at Furnace Creek. Rates are $10 per hour, $34 for up to five hours and $49 for up to 24 hours. Children’s bikes are available for $5 per hour.

The Scenic Downhill Bicycle Tour package features two nights of accommodations in a standard or deluxe room at the Ranch at Furnace Creek, use of specially designed Worksman bicycle equipped with dual drum brakes, helmet, transportation to drop-off point, guide, water and energy bar. The 2½-hour tours depart daily from the Furnace Creek Resort at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and proceed to the start of the ride at “Hells Gate.” This package is only available to guests 18 years and older, and departure times are subject to change. Starting rate for this package with a standard room is $543 per couple Feb. 10 through May 12 and $495 Oct. 12 through Dec. 19. Guests should use the promotional code DOWNBIKE when reserving this package.

The Mountain Bike Adventure package features two nights of accommodations in a standard or deluxe room at the Ranch at Furnace Creek, helmet, bicycle equipped with 24 speeds and hydraulic disc brakes, water and energy bar. The helmet and bicycle may be used from dawn until dusk. Children’s bikes are available for an additional fee. Starting rate for this package with a standard room is $543 per couple Feb. 10 through May and $484 Oct. 12 through Dec. 19. Guests should use the promotional code MTNBIKE when reserving this package.

Some blackout dates apply to both packages. Rates include taxes and resort fee.

Furnace Creek Resort also offers the Death Valley Explorer package, featuring Jeep rentals, accommodations and more; and the Stay & Play golf package, with accommodations, unlimited golf, cart rental and club storage.

To reserve any Furnace Creek Resort package or for more information visit www.furnacecreekresort.com or call toll-free (800) 236-7916 or (303) 297-2757.

Death Valley National Park is the largest national park in the continental United States, with more than 3.3 million acres. Only 2 percent of the park is developed leaving huge areas open for exploration. There are several hundred miles of unimproved roads that can best be accessed by four-wheel-drive, high-clearance vehicles. Vehicles are not permitted to drive off roads within park boundaries.

The Furnace Creek Resort has been welcoming guests since the 1930s. Open from mid-October through mid-May, the Inn at Furnace Creek is an AAA Four Diamond-rated property featuring 66 rooms and two suites with a full array of amenities, fine dining, tennis courts and a spring-fed pool. Open year-round is the Ranch at Furnace Creek. Situated adjacent to the golf course, the Ranch features 224 rooms in a casual setting, general store, spring-fed swimming pool, tennis courts, horseback riding and the Borax Museum.

Interjet flying high

2012-02-01T09:53:00.000-08:00

Six-year-old, low-fare Interjet now claims to be the leading domestic carrier in Mexico, with a quarter share of the market. Aeroméxico Connect has only 20 percent. However, Aeroméxico with Connect, its subsidiary, has a 40 percent share. Interjet benefitted from the financial troubles that grounded both Mexicana and Aviacsa nearly two years ago. Interjet took over temporarily abandoned routes plus space at Mexico City International, increasing its ticket sales by 56 percent. Legally, there remains the possibility that both grounded airlines someday will fly again.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Chiapas gets the big boats

2012-01-31T09:27:00.000-08:00

While cruise ship arrivals declined last year, Puerto Chiapas is doing better than ever. The port is close to Tapachula, which in turn is just a few miles from the Guatemala border. One volcano straddles the international line. Archaeological sites and coffee plantations are among the attractions in the area. This season, 19 ships are expected to arrive and with them some 25,000 passengers.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

1,600-year-old Byzantine bathhouse exposed outside Jerusalem

2012-01-30T10:06:00.000-08:00

Remains of a 1,600-year-old Byzantine bathhouse were exposed last week during an excavation project by the Israel Antiquities Authority near Moshav Tarum, outside of Jerusalem.

The 65-by-65-foot bathhouse includes the frigidarium (cold room), tepidarium (warm room) and caldarium (hot room), as well as a courtyard attached to its northeast section. The bathhouse is believed to have been used as an inn situated on an ancient road running along Nahal Harel through the southeastern Ayalon Valley, or as part of a wealthy country estate.

“Bathing in bathhouses during the Byzantine period is a continuation of the Roman tradition,” said Dr. Rina Avner, excavation director, Israel Antiquities Authority. “Similar bathhouses were found in the past at Latrun and Caesarea.”

“This remarkable new discovery will serve as a valuable addition to Israel’s vast collection of archeological treasures,” said Haim Gutin, Israel Commissioner for Tourism, North and South America, “and will provide some additional excitement to historic-minded travelers arriving in Israel this year.”

For more information on travel to Israel, visit www.goisrael.com.

Yellowstone Institute announces summer line-up of learning adventures

2012-01-30T09:23:00.000-08:00

The non-profit Yellowstone Association Institute will offer 73 field seminars — including 23 new programs — this summer. The organization, Yellowstone’s official partner for education, offers educational opportunities for park visitors and began accepting registrations Jan. 18.

Field seminars are educational park outings taught by experts focusing on topics such as Yellowstone’s animals, geology, history and more. Most courses last from one to four days and are limited to 13 participants. They are offered from early April to mid October.

“One of our goals of the field seminars is to offer a variety of topics that will appeal to many people,” said Jeff Brown, executive director of the Yellowstone Association. “Those with an interest in science, for example, tend to gravitate toward topics covering geology, wildlife behavior, plant life and the effects of fire in the park. Hiking-based programs are more appealing to people who want an active visit. Workshops covering photography, writing and other topics will be geared to people with a more artistic approach.”

New this year: Lamar Wildlife Getaways are offered every month and include three days of wildlife watching and hiking, catered meals, and lodging at the Lamar Buffalo Ranch, some of the best wildlife habitat in North America.

New wildlife courses include a June bear class that looks at grizzly/human interaction, an August raptor course that meets up with the Yellowstone Raptor Initiative, a September pika study that looks at habitat patterns of this elusive creature.

New hiking courses include a backpacking expedition around the base of Electric Peak and another through the heart of Yellowstone’s canyon country, as well as day-hikes off-trail on the northern range and through lake country.

Additional new topics include making your own Yellowstone video, wilderness route-finding, fly-fishing for families, and more.

Many Field Seminars are held at the Institute’s Lamar Buffalo Ranch Field Campus, where simple and comfortable log cabins are available for $30 per person per night. The Yellowstone Overlook Field Campus in Gardiner, Mont. features two three-bedroom, two-bathroom modern log cabins for up to 12 people and a two-bedroom, one-bathroom cabin for up to five people.

In addition to its Field Seminars, YAI offers Private Tours and Lodging & Learning programs. Private Tours are tailored for families and small groups and tours typically focus on wildlife watching, natural history and geology, thermal features and hiking. Lodging & Learning programs are offered in partnership with lodge operator Xanterra Parks & Resorts and combine daily field trips with comfortable lodging in park hotels at night.

Reservations for field seminars, private tours and cabins at the Yellowstone Overlook Field Campus and Lamar Buffalo Ranch can be made by calling (406) 848-2400. For Lodging & Learning program reservations, call (866) 439-7375. For more information about any Institute program visit www.YellowstoneAssociation.org or FaceBook.com/YellowstoneAssociation.

For information about becoming a member visit www.yellowstoneassociation.org/membership/.

Hunting for Hunters

2012-01-30T09:21:00.000-08:00

Texas alone has issued more than 900,000 hunting licenses compared to only 40,000 for all of Mexico. What is a billion-dollar segment in the USA generates at most $30 million in Mexico. Those who would like to see more hunters hunting in Mexico will be meeting in Monterrey this week to see what can be done.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Lodging Investment

2012-01-27T11:04:00.000-08:00

Among those attending the Americas Lodging Investment Summit in Los Angeles this week was Enrique Carrillo, director of Fonatur, Mexico’s National Fund for Tourism Investment. Carrillo hoped to attract interest in Fonatur’s new master-planned project at Playa Espiritu near Mazatlan and in a new marina being built in Cozumel.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Real Inns

2012-01-25T09:13:00.000-08:00

That is “Real” as in “Royal,” by the way. Camino Real, which recently purchased the even more upscale Quinta Real chain, now plans to introduce Real Inns for less prosperous travelers. Goal is to open 23 of these during the next three years. Each will require an investment of about $9 million.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Plea to Cruise Lines

2012-01-24T09:13:00.000-08:00

American and Canadian residents of Mazatlan have addressed an open letter to cruise ship lines stating that their port city is quite safe for foreigners. Some lines have canceled visits due to reports of violence. Overall, nearly a million fewer cruise passengers visited Mexico last year, leading many lines to shift itineraries.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Golden Gate Bridge Turns 75

2012-01-23T09:46:00.000-08:00

Name of Experience/Event: Golden Gate Bridge 75th Anniversary with “75 Tributes”
Location (City): San Francisco
Dates: Year-round
Description: May 27 marks 75 years for the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay Area is making big plans to honor the history, beauty and ingenuity of this famous span. The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District and the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, in cooperation with the National Park Service and the Presidio Trust, are developing a 75th anniversary program that will include a “75 Tributes” program beginning as early as this month (January) and yield permanent enhancements to the Golden Gate Bridge experience.

A two-day celebration is being planned May 26 and 27. Located along the San Francisco waterfront, the event will tell the story of the Golden Gate Bridge. The free celebration will feature exhibits, memorabilia, historic artifacts, music, entertainment, guided walks and a spectacular surprise finale. On the evening of Saturday, May 26, there will be a free screening of a popular film that prominently features the bridge. The bridge will not close to vehicles as it did for the 50th anniversary celebration in 1987.
Website: http://goldengatebridge75.org/

Isla Mujeres Megaproject

2012-01-23T09:37:00.000-08:00

Activists dismissed by some as tree huggers are protesting a proposed $1.4 billion planned development for Isla Mujeres. The island, five miles by sea from Cancun, until now has been a sleepy, laid-back alternative. It may stay that way. Developers are said to be contemplating opening 9,600 hotels rooms, two marinas and a golf course during the next 12 years. But all this would be on the mainland part of a municipality headquartered on the island. Even so, opponents remain opposed.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Maya Fortunes

2012-01-20T09:03:00.000-08:00

This being the final year in the Maya calendar, Maya destinations are expected to attract more than 50 million domestic and international tourists who will leave behind as much as $15 billion, according to projections by the federal Tourism Ministry.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Mexico City tourism chief quits

2012-01-19T14:43:00.000-08:00

Alejandro Rojas has resigned as director of the Mexico City (technically Federal District) tourism office. Rojas apparently disagrees with the method by which his Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD) will select its candidate to govern the district. Election takes place in July. The PRD has ruled Mexico City ever since the capital became self-governing a few years ago. Statistics show that more foreign tourists arrive in Mexico City than anywhere else in the country. Few stay very long.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mesxico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Discover France Valentine Combines Chocolates with Chateaux

2012-01-18T09:21:00.000-08:00

Mais oui, ma cherie! Come with me to a secret vineyard in a chauffeur-driven French vintage car to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

This is actually possible thanks to a new itinerary arranged by a French company, Discover France (http://www.discoverfrance.com), to rescue suitors who at the 11^th hour remember that Feb. 14 is around the corner.

The rate for Loire Valley Valentines Tour is 1,795 euros (about US$2,304.33 as of this posting) per person based on double occupancy for four nights accommodations in four-star superior class castle hotels, vintage car and driver, breakfasts and most dinners, chocolate tasting, wine tasting, cooking class, treasure hunt and local emergency technical support. Discover France also provides travel planning to add Paris hotels, car rentals, France hotels, trains, airport transfers, and more. See:

http://www.discoverfrance.com/regions/loirevalley_valentines.php.

Loren Siekman, Discover France director, says, “Valentine’s Day in France is romantic; this itinerary is unique and very personal and is being released just in time for those late planners. There is a romantic walk filled with riddles and surprises following a romantic track into an ancient French town, with stops to taste oysters in the market hall, sample Touraine wines, discover religious sites, secret gardens and cheeky shops.

Siekman added, “We call this tour a Valentine's Tour because of the romantic nature of the season, but couples can go most anytime throughout the year,” Siekman added.

Guests are on their own to arrive in Amboise to settle into the Hotel Le Choiseul for a gourmet dinner and views of the Loire. http://www.grandesetapes.fr/en/Chateau-hotel-choiseul/index.html. On day two guests are driven to Château de Chenonceau, crossing the Cher River before whisking to a surprise vineyard famous for sparkling wines in Montlouis or Vouvray. Vineyard hosts stroll with guests through the vineyards and troglodyte (cave). http://www.grandesetapes.fr/en/Chateau-hotel-artigny/index.html. This evening guests return to Hotel Le Choiseul for dinner and bonne nuit.

The third day combines an on-own self-guided walking tour of Amboise with suggested visits to the resident Villandry Castle and English-style park and a chocolate tasting at Chocolaterie Bigot. This afternoon guests transfer to Château d’Artigny in Montbazon for a spa treatment and gourmet dinner.

Day four yields visits to a romantic châteaux including the Sleeping Beauty’s castle (Rigny-Ussé) or the Château of Azay-le-Rideau well known for its water mirror and romantic park. Before lunch guests transfer to Tours, the main city of the Loire Valley where there is a private gourmet cooking workshop with a senior chef from Westminster Palace, House of Lords, at a local tea room. The workshop theme is a Chocolate Lovers three course menu that guests will later consume along with selected Touraine’s wines. The last night is at Château d’Artigny.

Discover France Adventures has been organizing bicycle tours and hiking tours in France since 1994 and has offices in both the USA and in France. Discover France Adventures award-winning tours are made up of their unique self guided tours and competitively priced guided tours including privileged access tours at the Tour de France. Discover France is one of only four licensed tour operators to the Tour de France.

Visit http://www.discoverfrance.com for all details or contact them by phone at (800) 960-2221 or by e-mail at contact@discoverfrance.com.

The Big Gay Train Returns

2012-01-18T09:11:00.000-08:00

Out In The Vineyard and the Napa Valley Wine Train announced the return of the one-of-a-kind-experience, The (Bigger) Gay Train, a food and wine event. On Saturday, March 31, local LGBT Winemakers will be pouring their wines paired with the inspired cuisine of Executive Chef Kelly Macdonald.

As the train departs, guests will enjoy a multiple course meal paired with wines from LGBT Winemakers found in Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino counties. Sarah Bennett, Navarro Vineyards; Greg Bjornstad, Bjorstad Cellars; Mark Lyon, Sebastiani Vineyards; and Jeff Durham and Joey Wolosz, Gentleman Farmer Wines, will be on board to meet and greet throughout the evening.

Due to last year’s overwhelming response a more expansive event has been created.

What: The Big Gay Train Dinner

A new multiple course menu designed by Wine Train Chef, Kelly Macdonald, and paired with LGBT Winemakers from Napa and Sonoma Vallleys

Where: On board the Napa Valley Wine Train

When: Arrive and check in 5:30 p.m.

Board Train 6 p.m.

Train Departs 6:30 p.m.

Tickets: $160 Gourmet Express Car

$175 VIP Vista Dome Car

More information is available at: http://winetrain.com/big-gay-train.

Reservations can be made by calling the Wine Train at: (800) 427-4124.

ExperiencePlus! hosts anniversary tour

2012-01-18T09:02:00.000-08:00

ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours in 1972 was the first North American company to offer bicycle tours in Europe (http://www.experienceplus.com/). This April it bring its cyclist-pleasing formula for fun to its hometown of Fort Collins, CO, to celebrate the company’s 40^th anniversary.

On April 28 and 29 this 40-year-old company will engage guests in two days of cycling that begins on day one with a 60-mile ride up to Horsetooth Mountain Park and a downhill into Eden Valley followed by a local brewery tour before a birthday dinner celebration and overnight at the Armstrong, a 1923 Historic Landmark Hotel located in Old Town Fort Collins. On Sunday, over approximately 25 miles cyclists will enjoy views of the Bellevue Valley, a loop popular with local cyclists.

The $100 per person rate includes van support, one breakfast, one Colorado gourmet dinner, snacks, a brewery tour and tasting and a custom-designed commemorative cycling jersey. Road and hybrid bike rentals are available at a local bike shop at $40 for the first day and $15 for an additional day. Add $100 for double occupancy overnight lodging. Go to:

http://www.experienceplus.com/tours/tours.html?tid=2776.

Interjet adds Miami

2012-01-18T08:42:00.000-08:00

Interjet, one of the largest of the new low-fare airlines, plans to initiate daily flights to Miami next week. This will be its second U.S. destination. Internationally, Interjet also flies to Guatemala City and Havana. Founded six years ago, the airline now has a fleet of 33 Airbus A320s serving 40 routes and 28 destinations.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Violence Scares

2012-01-16T09:04:00.000-08:00

The perception that it is dangerous led to a 52 percent decline in arrivals in Acapulco last year, according to airport figures. Other cities reporting a decline include Tijuana (24 percent), La Paz (14 percent), Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo (11 percent) and Mazatlán (6 percent). Poor economic conditions abroad also get part of the blame.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Gourmet Getaway at Hassler Roma

2012-01-12T13:14:00.000-08:00

Hotel Hassler Roma, owned by President and Managing Director Roberto E. Wirth, invites guests to experience the exquisite cuisine offered at its Michelin-starred Imágo restaurant with a new Gourmet Experience package, featuring a chef’s tasting menu and wine pairings, from January through December 2012.

The package includes:

Three nights in a deluxe double room
“Menu degustation” for two at the Michelin-starred Imágo restaurant
Two Italian wine-tasting workshops (one per day)
Daily breakfast at the Salone Eva or Palm Court restaurants

Priced from 1,650€-2,100€ (approximately US$2,150-US$2,740), the package is valid through Dec. 20, 2012.

For more information on the Gourmet Experience package at the Hotel Hassler Roma, visit www.hotelhasslerroma.com.

Mexico City Tourism Fair

2012-01-12T08:49:00.000-08:00

Speaking of trade shows, the International Tourism Fair in Mexico City is being reorganized. The first three editions were marred by disorganization and poor attendance. The next one is scheduled to start Nov. 15, two weeks before the current local and federal administrations are replaced by new ones. It will have a new name (Mexico City Tourism Fair) and be held in a new location (Banamex Center). It remains to be seen whether the fair itself will survive until 2013.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Major renovation leads to rebranding

2012-01-11T12:28:00.000-08:00

The completion of a major renovation of The Tides Riviera Maya has elevated the resort to a new level of luxury, and with these significant improvements Viceroy Hotel Group has added the property to its luxury Viceroy Hotels and Resorts portfolio.

The property is now the Viceroy Riviera Maya (www.viceroyrivieramaya.com).

Tianguis

2012-01-11T10:24:00.000-08:00

According to the Tourism Ministry, 80 percent of the available exhibit space for this year’s Tianguis trade show has been sold and at least 50 percent more buyers are expected compared to last year. The even gets underway on March 25 in Puerto Vallarta and the neighboring Riviera Nayarit. This is the first time the show has not been held in Acapulco and it is the new venue that is credited with attracting fresh interest.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

1s for Vallarta

2012-01-09T09:36:00.000-08:00

A Hilton and a Holiday Inn Express are in the works for Puerto Vallarta, according to the local hotel association.

AM Resorts plans to inaugurate a Dreams and a Now Amber while Posadas de México (Fiesta Americana, etc.), is looking at opening a low-priced One in the resort area. And all this before 2012 draws to a close.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Jerusalem kicks off Opera Festival in June

2012-01-09T08:46:00.000-08:00

Jerusalem will host its Second Annual International Opera Festival, featuring performances by world-renowned vocalists and musicians taking place around its Old City historic sites, in June and September.

In collaboration with the Israeli Opera, the festival will include a selection of opera, vocal and classical musical concerts in the Sultan’s Pool beneath the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem, including:

Verdi’s La Traviata in Zedekiah’s Cave, June 6-14: A 60-minute performance highlighting Verdi’s legendary work featuring members of the Israeli Opera and local musicians.

La Bohème, Sept. 6: A performance of Puccini’s most popular opera featuring international soloists, including Ira Bertman, Roberto Aronica and Boaz Daniel, as well as the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra and a children’s chorus.

Pretty Woman Meets The Fifth Element, Sept. 8: A multi-media production featuring opera arias and duets accompanied by the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra and projected visuals from a variety of movies including “Pretty Woman,” “Moonstruck,” “The Fifth Element,” “Amadeus” and “A Room with a View,” among others.

Cantors and Tenors, Sept. 10: A concert featuring leading international cantors and opera tenors, including Dudu Fisher, Benzion Miller, Jacob Motzen and Yotam Cohen accompanied by the Jerusalem Great Synagogue Choir.

“The Jerusalem International Opera Festival will inspire travelers and music lovers from around the world to visit the Old City of Jerusalem," said Haim Gutin, Israel Commissioner for Tourism, North and South America. "The festival is sure to create an extraordinary musical environment unlike any other.”

For more information, visit www.jerusalem-culture.com/Opera_Festival%20. For more information on travel to Israel, visit www.goisrael.com.

A trip that’s green as well as grand

2012-01-06T12:53:00.000-08:00

Ditching the car and exploring Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park using alternative forms of transportation — including two-legged, four-legged and wheeled modes — is surprisingly easy and affordable.

“Car free can also mean stress free, because travelers who take alternative modes of transportation spend more time taking in the scenery and less time watching the road,” said Bruce Brossman, regional director of sales and marketing forXanterra South Rim and Grand Canyon Railway. “Between the National Park Service’s free shuttle system and Xanterra’s various transportation offerings, including Grand Canyon Railway, it is a simple matter to park the car and not return to it until the vacation is over.”

Parking is free, and there are numerous parking lots around the South Rim, including several centrally located in Grand Canyon Village as well as a variety of satellite lots. The National Park Service’s free shuttle system stops to pick up and drop off passengers every 15 minutes at a variety of shuttle stops throughout the park as well as the town of Tusayan during the summer season.

There is also a compelling environmental argument in favor of leaving the car behind. As a strong proponent of minimizing impact on the environment, Xanterra advocates visitors use mass transportation, bike or walk whenever possible to reduce air pollution as well as congestion on the roads.

Grand Canyon Railway

A fun and popular way to arrive at the Grand Canyon is by train. Grand Canyon Railway makes daily round-trip excursions from Williams, Ariz. some 62 miles south to the Grand Canyon Depot in the heart of the village. And visitors with an appreciation of history will enjoy learning that their arrival at Grand Canyon National Park is similar to the experience that visitors had more than 100 years ago, when construction of the Grand Canyon Depot — one of only 14 log depots ever constructed in the U.S. and one of only three remaining log depots — was completed by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway.

Train passengers bypass the park entrance and proceed directly to the depot, situated near El Tovar. Park fees are paid in advance.

Vacationers taking Grand Canyon Railway arrive at the South Rim just before noon. Some travelers opt to spend a few hours in the park, often having lunch at El Tovar and exploring Grand Canyon Village, before re-boarding the train for the return to Williams in the late afternoon. Many others choose to purchase a Grand Canyon Railway package that includes one or more nights at a lodge inside the park. Grand Canyon Railway passengers taking the roundtrip train in one day can opt for a special 90-minute motorcoach tour with an optional buffet lunch at Maswik Lodge.

Travelers can also choose the Railroad Express Tour. This trip includes a one-way van trip from Grand Canyon National Park in the morning to Williams, a Wild West shootout at the historic Grand Canyon Railway Depot and a return trip to the park aboard Grand Canyon Railway. The trip aboard the train includes strolling musicians who entertain in each car. Grand Canyon Railway arrives back in the park around lunchtime.

For more information visit www.thetrain.com.

Did you know?: Traveling via Grand Canyon Railway relieves the Grand Canyon of some 35,000 cars annually.

By Amtrak

Amtrak offers train service from Union Station in Los Angeles to Williams, where passengers are met by a Grand Canyon Railway shuttle for the 10-minute bus ride to the Williams Depot. From there, passengers can catch Grand Canyon Railway to the Grand Canyon. Prices vary depending on class of service. Travelers will have time between trains to enjoy breakfast at the Grand Depot Café, which serves made-to-order omelets as well as a variety of other breakfast dishes. The restaurant opens for breakfast at 6:30 a.m.

Long-eared taxis

Another way to see the Canyon is by mule, sometimes called “long-eared taxis.” Xanterra’s popular Abyss Overlook Mule Ride is a good option for travelers who desire a mule experience but cannot take the two-day mule ride that travels to Phantom Ranch on the floor of the Canyon. The Abyss Overlook ride lasts approximately two hours and 45 minutes and departs from the historic Grand Canyon Livery Barn. During the winter season the ride departs once each morning, and during the summer season — from mid March through late October — the ride departs twice daily. There are a maximum of 20 riders per tour. Cost of the ride is $120.65 per person. Water, snacks, bota bags and rain jackets are provided.

Riders must weigh less than 225 pounds fully dressed, be at least 4 feet 7 inches tall, understand English, be in good physical condition, and not be afraid of heights or large animals. Riders cannot be pregnant.

The ride follows a trail that heads along a section of Grand Canyon Railway tracks and then through the largest ponderosa pine forest in North America. The ride is approximately one hour and 15 minutes each way with a half-hour stop at the Abyss where riders can dismount to stretch their legs and shoot photos. This is the riders’ only opportunity to see the Canyon during the ride. The Abyss features a 3,000-foot vertical drop and views of many of the Grand Canyon’s colorful pinnacles, buttes and mesas. The rides return on the same trail.

Xanterra also offers two-day mule rides to the bottom of the Canyon with overnight accommodations at Phantom Ranch. Two-day mule tours are typically booked many months in advance so Xanterra advises travelers to plan ahead.

Did you know?: Mules have been a mode of tourist transportation in the Grand Canyon for more than a century.

Motorcoach tours

One of the most popular ways to view and learn about the Canyon is on a motorcoach tour. The drivers are well-trained and entertaining. For most tours there is no charge for passengers under the age of 16 when accompanied by a paying adult. Xanterra offers a two-hour tour to Hermit’s Rest along the West Rim; a three-hour, 45-minute tour to the Watchtower along the East Rim and 90-minute Sunrise and Sunset tours. All tours include extensive interpretive information offered by drivers and stops at scenic points along the way. Tours are conducted in comfortable, air-conditioned motorcoaches that allow travelers to sit back and relax while taking in the scenery. Rates for adults are $20.50 for the Sunrise and Sunset tours, $26 for the Hermit’s Rest tour and $45 for the Watchtower tour. Guests also may choose a combination tour, which includes the Watchtower tour and a choice of the Hermit’s Rest, Sunset or Sunrise tour. Grand Canyon Railway passengers taking the roundtrip train in one day can opt for a special 90-minute motorcoach tour with an optional buffet lunch at Maswik Lodge.

Tip: The combination tour offers the best value.

Bicycles

A concession operated by Bright Angel Bicycles offers rentals by the hour, and for half, full and multiple days as well as guided tours. Travelers can ride on portions of the park’s greenway trail system and on park roads. Bicyclists can take self-guided tours directly from the rental kiosk or take a free NPS shuttle to any drop-off. Shuttles can accommodate a maximum of three bicycles. The bicycle rental kiosk is at the National Park Service Grand Canyon Visitor Center.

Did you know?: Even a leisurely bike ride at a slow pace burns calories — as many as 250 calories per hour for the average adult male.

By foot

There are also a variety of tours and activities in Grand Canyon Village. For example, visitors to the Grand Canyon can take a self-guided walking tour of the historic district of Grand Canyon Village. Brochures providing interesting information about each of the stops are available at no charge from the front desk of each lodging facility. Interesting and historic sites within walking distance of Grand Canyon Village are the famed El Tovar Hotel, the Bright Angel History Room, Hopi House, Kolb Studio and Lookout Studio.

Tip: Don’t miss the Bright Angel History Room in Bright Angel Lodge where Harvey Girl uniforms, early El Tovar china, historic photos and other artifacts are on display. The Bright Angel History Room may be closed briefly this summer due to ongoing renovations at Bright Angel Lodge.

Visitors can book their rooms online by visiting www.grandcanyonlodges.com or by calling toll-free (888) 297-2757 or (303) 297-2757 from outside the United States. More information about Grand Canyon National Park can be obtained at www.nps.gov/grca or (928) 638-7888.

Epiphany

2012-01-06T09:32:00.000-08:00

Today is when lucky children in Mexico found gifts forgotten by Santa Claus left by the Three Wise Men, or Three Kings as they are known locally. Last night, families partook of 12^th Night Cake and whoever found a miniature Jesus in his slice is obligated to invite everyone for tamales and hot chocolate on Feb. 2. In other respects, however, the Christmas season is now over. It is time to start planning for Carnaval (Mardi Gras to you).

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Papal Visit

2012-01-05T14:51:00.000-08:00

Expect San Miguel de Allende and everyplace else in Guanajuato to fill up when the Pope arrives in León on March 23. He will limit his Mexico visit to one state, commemorating — without quite saying so — the outbreak of the Church vs State wars that began in the 1920s with the dedication of the Christ the King monument atop Cubilete Mountain. Peace has since been restored.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Diving training in the Galapagos

2012-01-05T08:58:00.000-08:00

Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges, http://www.redmangrove.com/, the region’s leading hospitality company for active adventure, suggests that recreational divers, novice to expert, consider Darwin’s magical archipelago as the destination for a wide variety of official PADI dive certification programs.

Hernan Rodas, founder and director of Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges reports that the Red Mangrove’s Dive Center accomplished more diver certifications in 2011 than any other operation in the Galapagos.

“In all of Ecuador there were 1,489 diver certifications issued in 2011. Red Mangrove’s team of licensed instructors and master divers accounted for 160 of them, making us the largest producer of diver certifications in the Galapagos,” Rodas said.

Rodas suggested that would-be divers seeking certification do classroom and required pool work at home, either with a local dive shop or recreation center or online through PADI’s website (accessed via Red Mangrove’s dive website: http://www.redmangrove.com/diving-in-galapagos/diving-classes/.)

To complete the third and final stage of the certification process divers are then required to perform open water check-out dives with an instructor.

“This is when many beginning divers look to warm and exotic waters so they can combine their requirements with an extended vacation,” explained Rodas. “We have packages with just that in mind, allowing a diver to be certified during the first two days of their stay and then enjoying all the islands have to offer during the rest of the week.

“We’re finding more and more dive instructors bringing their students here as a group for certification,” said Rodas, adding that a new instructor incentive program is being developed that will provide lodging incentives for the instructor who brings with him/her four paid students.

According to Rodas, many divers travel with non-diving companions and family members, which also makes Red Mangrove’s land-based multi-island programs attractive. Year-round certification programs and vacation packages can be combined to accommodate diver/non-diver groups. There’s a staff of five PADI approved dive instructors available with an equal number of dive masters to accompany divers on recreational outings. Two modern dive boats take guests to 45 dive and snorkel sites available off of Santa Cruz, Floreana and Isabela islands.

A popular package for beginner divers is Darwin’s Land and Sea Adventure, six days and five nights (with eight dives) priced from $2,291 per person, double occupancy. See: (http://www.redmangrove.com/diving/land-and-sea-adventure.html). Certification is extra starting at $350 per diver on up according to the type of program (PADI certifications include Open Water Diver / Referral, Advanced, Rescue Diver, Dive Master, Specialty Certifications and Emergency First Responder).

Another option for guests who have never been diving but would like to try it is to sign up for the PADI Discover Scuba Diving Experience for ages 10 and up. Guests will watch a 45-minute video followed by time in a pool with an instructor. When comfortable, participants then head out to a specially chosen spot with an instructor for an open water dive. A PADI instructor leads the course that is $250 per person including introduction, equipment and in-water instruction. http://www.redmangrove.com/diving/discovery-scuba.html

About Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges

Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges in 2007 introduced a land-based alternative to exploring the Galapagos that heretofore was a cruise-only destination. While it may be best known for its upscale lodging and dive operations in the Galapagos, recent expansion has made it a leader in mainland Ecuador hospitality as well. With upscale waterfront lodges strategically situated on Santa Cruz, Isabela and Floreana, it is the only company offering high quality, branded accommodations and services on multiple islands in the Galapagos and across mainland Ecuador. Because it is land-based, Red Mangrove can offer a more extensive roster of activities and more flexibility than traditional cruise options.

The customary way to experience Red Mangrove’s Galapagos hospitality is to spend a number of nights on each island accessed by small boat and/or aircraft. With 14 guest rooms, Aventura Lodge on Santa Cruz is distinguished by its architectural design, which blends its mangrove forest and seafront environments tastefully and responsibly. Separated from the ocean by a white-sand, palm-lined beach, Isabela Lodge offers eight rooms outside the fisherman’s village of Puerto Villamil on one of the most volcanically active islands on Earth. Red Mangrove Floreana Lodge is a gathering of 10 private pine cottages just a five-minute walk from the village of Puerto Velasco Ibarra (population 150). Red Mangrove Divers Lodge Santa Cruz has 11 rooms near the Red Mangrove Dive Academy. Red Mangrove Isabela Divers Lodge features five rooms adjacent to scenic Puerto Villamil. On the mainland coast of Ecuador Samai Lodge with 11 rooms is an inn-and-spa suited for recollection, relaxation and wellness surrounded by the sounds of the jungle and surf.

Mexico City Meetings

2012-01-04T09:24:00.000-08:00

Mexico City authorities are predicting that the local meeting and convention business will grow by 10 percent this year, bringing something like a billion dollars into the capital. The World Trade Center, Banamex and Bancomer centers, the Banamex center alone boasting a capacity for 50,000 people.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Experience Colorado beyond the ski slopes

2012-01-04T09:18:00.000-08:00

Renowned for its unmatched downhill ski slopes, Colorado also offers an array of winter activities visitors can enjoy off the slopes. From luxurious hot springs soaks and quiet snowshoe excursions, to hot air balloon rides and dog sledding adventures, Colorado is a wintertime playground for any age and thrill level. The Colorado Tourism Office has highlighted 13 unforgettable winter activities in store for Colorado travelers. For more information visit www.COLORADO.com.

Romantic Relaxation. Dunton Hot Springs is a 19th century mining camp turned luxe resort that combines old world charm with modern conveniences. It also provides opportunities to explore fresh powder beyond an individual cabin’s back door, including dog sledding, ice climbing, heli-skiing, avalanche education and more.www.DuntonHotSprings.com
Nordic Photography. Learn how to photograph winter using various techniques while accessing subject matter on Nordic skis or snowshoes. Six Nordic photography workshops are offered from January through March for $55 each, which includes the workshop and Nordic pass. www.CrestedButteArts.org
Dog Sledding Adventures For All Ages. Siberian and Alaskan huskies guide sleds through Colorado mountain trails. Full day “Mushing Madness” and half-day “Mush on the Brain” options guarantee exhilarating adventure and breathtaking beauty. With a guide on every sled, all participants have the opportunity to drive.www.DurangoDogRanch.com
Glide Across Grand Mesa’s Skyway and County Line. Discover 32.4 miles of some of the state’s best trails for cross-country skiing, skate skiing and snowshoeing. Athletes can enjoy free tree skiing and open meadows skiing and can even bring dogs along to County Line. www.GMNC.org
Ice Fishing in Diverse Waters. Try ice fishing on Colorado’s largest lake, Blue Mesa Reservoir near Gunnison, with local outfitters who make this winter activity effortless and fun. www.HighMtnDrifters.com
Snowshoe Across the Rockies. Follow in wildlife’s footsteps through Rocky Mountain National Park, where elk, coyotes, deer and other wildlife remain active during the winter. Some of the Park’s most beautiful snow-covered backcountry trails can only be reached on snowshoes. www.VisitEstesPark.com
Ice Climbing in the “Switzerland of America.” Novices and gurus alike can experience the exhilaration of ascending massive walls of ice in Ouray, aptly nicknamed the “Switzerland of America.” The Ouray Ice Park is the world’s first park dedicated exclusively to the sport of ice climbing, where local guides and instructors are available to beginners. www.OurayIcePark.com
Snowmobiling at Grand Lake. Travelers can snowmobile to remote locations in the snowmobiling capitol of Colorado, Grand Lake. Known for its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake is base camp for winter pursuits that take visitors off the beaten path. www.GrandLakeChamber.com
Wintertime Golf. Weather permitting, three golf courses in Montrose remain open all winter long. The Links at Cobble Creek features jaw-dropping views of the San Juan Mountains, the Bridges is a par-71, Nicklaus-designed course, and Montrose Black Canyon Golf Club offers both a park-style course on the front nine and a links-style course on the back. www.VisitMontrose.com/index.aspx?nid=130
Hot Air Ballooning. Get a bird’s eye view of three million acres of snow-covered national forest and wilderness areas surrounding Pagosa Springs with a winter hot air balloon ride. www.VisitPagosaSprings.com
History in the Backcountry. Many trails in Breckenridge’s snowy backcountry are preexisting paths and flumes used by miners in search of gold. On a snowshoe or Nordic ski outing, travelers will uncover restored dredge boats once used for gold mining, abandoned pioneer cabins and more. www.GoBreck.com
The Best of Fly-Fishing. Winter is the best time to fish Colorado's Gold Medal rivers. Carbondale is centrally located to access the big Roaring Fork, Frying Pan, Crystal and Colorado rivers. The local fly shops are open year-round to assist visitors. www.Carbondale.com/winter-base-camp
Scenic Jeep Tours. Step inside a mountain ATV vehicle to experience the spectacular views of the snow-capped Continental Divide. Travel along historic mining trails on an individualized and professionally guided wintertime tour.www.MileHiRafting.com

Sailing Away

2012-01-03T15:13:00.000-08:00

Holland America ships will not be putting in at either Mazatlan or Acapulco during the next few months, scared away by threats of violence. This year, 117 cruise calls have been canceled in Mazatlan while Acapulco saw 33 visits called off. Acapulco has also suffered by a 70 percent decline in international arrivals at the airport. And now Disney has canceled four sailings from Los Angeles to Mexico’s Pacific Coast ports. No reason was given.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

More Flights

2012-01-02T10:40:00.000-08:00

More flights to Mexico — and higher fares — are a feature of this new year. Virgin America now serves Puerto Vallarta as well as Cancun and Los Cabos. Interjet has gone international with flights to Mexico City from San Antonio while Viva Aerobus flies from San Antonio to Monterrey. Aeroméxico’s new flights are too numerous to mention. And Southwest’s Air Tran has several routes planed come spring. All this makes Mexico easier to reach, but getting here will be a bit more expansive, too.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

New Zealand a Remarkable Country

2011-12-19T12:08:00.000-08:00

“Lord of the Rings” scene shot on this Mt. Victoria spot.

Dogs herding sheep at Wharekauhau Lodge.

Peter Jackson’s Park Road Post Production in Wellington.

Wellington trolly bus.

Story & Photos By Stan Wawer

New Zealand is so far removed from that wild and crazy world in the Northern Hemisphere that it might be the main reason why its people are so darn friendly and happy. Going through airport security is remarkably uncomplicated. And, even more remarkable, New Zealanders refuse tips.

New Zealand is one of the last landmasses in the Southern Hemisphere north of Antarctica and the last discovered landmass on earth. That’s way down under. The country offers chains of stunning mountains, volcanoes, lakes, fiords, native forest and tidy beaches. Add to these award-winning vineyards and cuisine, a rapidly growing film industry and world-leading efforts in conservation and you have yourself a pretty neat place to visit.

The unique indigenous Maori culture is evident everywhere throughout New Zealand. The Dutch in 1642 were the first Europeans to check out the land of the Kiwi. But it was James Cook, a Brit Royal Navy officer, who rediscovered New Zealand 120 years later. The European hordes followed.

The British and Maori people signed a treaty in 1840 in the Bay of Islands, which established British law in New Zealand, while guaranteeing Maori authority over their land and culture.

New Zealand, population 4.3 million, has a vibrant economy with dairy, meat, engineering, wine and the film industry leading the way. The country has 60 million sheep, almost 15 for every NZ citizen. It’s no wonder New Zealand has become known for producing premium outdoor clothing, especially high-quality Merino wool. Merinos are regarded as having some of the finest and softest wool of any sheep.

Surprisingly, New Zealand is expensive. Even with the advantage of the US dollar (about NZ1 to US82 cents), everything in New Zealand appears overpriced. It is now summer in New Zealand, but when my wife and I visited in November it was the end of spring and sales items were higher than regular prices in California for similar merchandise.

We spent six days in and around Wellington, known as “the coolest little capital in the world.” Wedged between steep hills, the rippling waters of Wellington Harbor and the tempestuous seas of Cook Strait, Wellington is, with a population of about 180,000, the southern-most city on New Zealand’s North Island. Auckland, its largest city, is at the north-end of the North Island. Christchurch is the main hub for the South Island. Wellington as the nation’s capital is the seat of government and also has a lively art scene.

Peter Jackson has brought a new fame to Wellington and New Zealand with his Oscar-winning “Lord of the Rings” trilogy. The city has become known as “Wellywood,” which created a great controversy. There was a movement to place a Wellywood sign (ala the Hollywood sign) on the side of a hill overlooking the bay. It went to a vote in late November and was overwhelmingly defeated.

I took a tour of Middle Earth filming locations on Mt. Victoria only a short distance from central Wellington. A “Lord of the Rings” expert, who shared behind-the-scenes insights, hosted the tour. Phillip played six different character roles in the film. Highlights of the tour include the outskirts of the Shire, the Gardens of Isengard, River Anduin, Helm’s Deep and Minas Tirith. We strolled where the hobbits raced to the ferry and hid from the Nazgul, through the elf kingdom of Rivendell and alongside the Fords of Isen. Jackson is filming “The Hobbit,” which is scheduled for a 2012 release.

The tour also included a visit to Jackson’s post production studio (not included on the regular tour). Park Road Post Production is a California-style Craftsman building where we viewed the trailer for “TinTin,” which was released in December. It was directed by Steven Spielberg and produced by Jackson.
A Maori heritage tour immersed us into Aoteroa’s (New Zealand’s) unique culture. We were greeted at the Waiwhetu, Lower Hutt City, cultural center by touching noses. The tour included demonstrations of Maori arts and crafts, an opportunity to create something special for ourselves and to view work from Leading Maori artists.

When visiting Wellington, do not leave town without riding the cable car — it’s iconic, it takes a great picture and there are great views at the top. Peruse the views from the top of Mount Victoria — it’s gorgeous up there. Sample the three C’s: coffee, cocktails and cuisine. Taste the wines — especially Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc.

It’s a long way to Tipperary and even longer to New Zealand, but it should be high on your travel list. The country will leave a lasting impression, especially the people.

If You Go

Air New Zealand flies non-stop to Auckland twice daily from LAX. It is a 12-to-13-hour flight and crosses the international dateline. Air New Zealand partners with United Airlines.

Where to Stay

InterContinental Wellington: Only internationally branded 5 Star hotel in Wellington. Adjacent to the waterfront. Walking distance to a number of attractions. Excellent rooms, fitness center, spa, business center. Fee for wireless connection. www.intercontinental.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/wellington.

Museum Art Hotel Wellington: A 165-room luxury hotel in the center of Wellington opposite New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa. Fitness center, sauna, indoor heated pool, spa pool and day spa. The hotel boasts a total of 66 original artworks from 55, mainly local, artists. www.museumhotelart.co.nz/

Amora Hotel Wellington: Overlooks the harbor and just across the road from the Wellington Convention Centre and a two-minute walk to Te Papa. www.wellington.amorahotels.com.

All information is accurate at the time of publication but prices, dates and other details are all subject to change. Confirm all information before making any travel arrangements.

And the winner is...

2011-12-19T09:12:00.000-08:00

For the eighth consecutive year, the Riviera Maya has been selected “best destination in Mexico” by readers of the trade publication Travel Weekly. The Riviera extends along the Caribbean shore of Quintana Roo south of Cancun all the way to Tulum, some 60 miles distant. It is dotted with many lavish — and some not so lavish — all-inclusive resorts. Playa del Carmen is the only town of any size in the area.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Former tourism chief moves up

2011-12-16T10:47:00.000-08:00

Some will remember Pedro Joaquin Coldwell, who served as tourism minister from 1990 until 1994. He recently took over as chairman of the PRI, the Party of the Intuitionalized Revolution. The PRI governed Mexico for 70 years and is expected to elect the country’s next president. Joaquin Coldwell is the son of a hotelier and tourism pioneer in Cozumel. Young Pedro went on to serve as governor of Quintana Roo, then congressman and is now a senator.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Poor Showing

2011-12-15T09:17:00.000-08:00

Mexico’s earnings from international tourism declined 3.3 percent and the number of visits by nearly 2 percent, this year, according to figure published by the UN’s World Tourism Organization. The rest of Latin America did much better, led by Uruguay (53 percent), Peru (20 percent) and Colombia (14 percent). Mexican officials blamed their country’s poor performance on poor economic conditions in the United States, source for the vast majority of visitors to Mexico.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Mariachis

2011-12-14T08:22:00.000-08:00

The U.N educational and cultural agency, UNESCO, has added mariachi music to its intangible cultural heritage list, along with 232 items from 70 countries. Mariachi music, which features guitars, violins and trumpets, originated in and around Guadalajara, the bands supposedly getting their name because they were invited to play at marriages. Mariachis wear the charro costumes favored by Mexican cowboys because this is the way movie directors wanted them to dress.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Paris’ Hotel Fouquet’s Barrière Introduces ‘Fouquet’s Kids’

2011-12-13T08:37:00.000-08:00

With the rising popularity of high-end family travel, Hotel Fouquet's Barrière, always considered “family-friendly,” has now gone a step farther and introduced the “Fouquet's Kids” program — a combination of fun workshops and shows taking place at 3 p.m. on afternoons through May 2012. The events include:

Lilli’s Trip to Balloon City (Dec. 29): This show introduces young visitors to Lilli, who has just returned from Balloon City where everything is made out of balloons. Having lost her photo album she enlists the help of children to recreate the balloon experience.

Laugh Out Loud (Jan. 22): Juggling, jokes, slapstick comedy and music are all part of this circus clown act that is guaranteed to have children laughing throughout.

It’s Our Planet! (Feb. 12): How can bottles become fleece jackets? How can paper, plastic bags, bottle tops be reborn as brooches, rings and bracelets? Hotel Fouquet’s Barrière’s commitment to sustainable development is behind the buzz word of this workshop: recycle! At the end of this fun workshop, children will get to take home their “treasures.”

Fouquet’s Magic! (March 11): A magic show to remember. Audience participation is encouraged throughout this introduction to a collection of surprisingly funny and entertaining magic wands.

Guignol Saves the River (April 1): April Fool’s Day finds the uniquely French

marionette, Guignol, off to a picnic by the river. His plans for a day of fishing are thwarted when he discovers the level of pollution in the river. The audience will hold an active role in this show, focusing on water and wildlife preservation, as Guignol strives to restore order to the river.

Budding Gardeners (May 13): Hotel Fouquet’s Barrière

invites all budding gardeners to come and get their hands dirty — literally — at this springtime event. Children will learn about a variety of plants and create their own take-home herbarium.

Following the afternoon entertainment, young gourmets will be treated to pastries created for the occasion by Head Pastry Chef Claude Decrozet. Parents have the advantage of sampling these bites in advance at Bar Le Lucien while waiting for their children to finish their activities; and for those looking for even more pampering, there’s time for a visit to the renowned U Spa Barrière.

Events, which run 90 minutes or less, are open to children, ages 7 and up, and cost 45€ (approx. US$60) per child.

For more information, visit: www.fouquets-barriere.com.

Fairfield hits Los Cabos

2011-12-13T08:26:00.000-08:00

A Fairfield Inn has opened in Cabo San Lucas. The hotel is the first of 36 Fairfield Inns to be developed in Mexico. Next will be a 139-room Fairfield Inn in Guadalajara and the 120-room Fairfield Inn Queretaro next fall. The property in Los Cabos is in the downtown area, said to be a short walk from the beach and tourist attractions.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Yuletide

2011-12-12T08:26:00.000-08:00

Today is Guadalupe Day, anniversary of the date in 1532 when the Virgin Mary appeared to a native recent convert and asked that a chapel in her honor be built where the temple of the Aztec Goddess of Life stood. To convince the Spanish bishop, the Virgin caused her olive-skinned image to be imprinted on the convert’s cloak. The cloak can be seen in the basilica in Mexico City where millions began to congregate last night. Today also marks what some call the Christmas season, although decorations appeared weeks ago. But to many, Lupe-Reyes is the real season. Lupe refers to Guadalupe, Reyes to the Epiphany (Jan. 6), arrival of the Three Kings (aso known as the Three Wise Men) at the birthplace of Jesus some two millennium ago.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

New Caledonia: A place less traveled

2011-12-11T11:04:00.000-08:00

Drowned Forest in New Caledonia’s Blue River Provincial Park.

Nokanhui Atoll in the Coral Sea off New Caledonia.

Story & Photos By Stan Wawer

Today, New Caledonia is the place less traveled by Americans. That’s because Americans have little knowledge of this remote archipelago in the Coral Sea with its pellucid waters, white-sand beaches, rain forests and tropical temperatures.

New Caledonia, a French Territory and former penal colony, is the world’s second largest nickel producer and a diver’s nirvana. In 2008, The Caledonian lagoon, the world’s largest, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A 25-minute twin-engine plane ride takes you to Isle of Pines where you can snorkel, dive, swim, kayak or chill beneath the swaying palms.

The archipelago is Vanuatu, Fiji and Tahiti (French Polynesia) before mass tourism. Nouméa, the capital, is on a peninsula in the main island’s south region and a haven for kite and wind surfers. It is home to the majority of the island’s European, Melanesian, Indonesian and Vietnamese populations. Thirty percent of the island is tribal land, which no one can purchase.

“New Caledonia came into the 20^th century after World War II,” said Francois Tran, our guide (Caledonia Tours) and an encyclopedia of New Caledonia knowledge. He is a botanist, archeologist, geologist and historian rolled into one. “Many of the bridges were built by Americans during the war.”

The US had more than a million troops pass through New Caledonia over the duration of the war, with Nouméa serving as US military headquarters in the South Pacific. “Charles De Gaulle let the US use it as a base but told them they must leave after the war,” Tran said.

For those of you who have no clue, New Caledonia is east of Brisbane, Australia, northwest of New Zealand and southeast of Fiji and Tahiti in the South Pacific.

The unemployment rate is 2 percent. “If you want a job you can get one in New Caledonia,” Francois said. “Need a job? Come to New Caledonia.”

On my first day in New Caledonia, I got lost in the rain forest. I was on a Francois guided tour with a small group when I wandered off on my own to take pictures. I had a map but I left it back in my backpack along with my water. I followed a trail on my way back thinking it was a shortcut. I got to a trail head with a sign pointing left and right. I went left. If I had gone right, I would have been about 50 yards from camp. I kept taking different trails trying to find the high ground so that I could see the camp — a rain forest impossibility. I got farther and farther away from camp and where we originally hiked. After about an hour they sent out a search party, including the other six members of our group who turned out to be very concerned about my being missing in action.

I walked down treacherous trails and back up again. In all, I probably walked about 12 miles. It was very hot and humid. I was sweating like a stuffed pig and dehydrated but with no sense of urgency except that I was holding everyone up for a trip to lunch (which we never did make). I called out a few times but I was too far away from the search team. I finally decided to retrace my steps. After about three more miles, I came to an open space where a jeep was parked and a rescue team member sitting in the driver’s seat. The word went out that I was found and I was raced along a winding, treacherous path at about 40 mph.

None of the group was upset with me. They were all concerned and happy to see me. It took a little more than two hours to find me. I apologized for the missed lunch.

I went to another rain forest in River Blue Provincial Park in search of the elusive cagou, the national bird of New Caledonia and the fifth most rare bird in the world. I found not one, but two cagou. They are flightless and not at all shy. I was able to get within a few feet of the bird for a marvelous photo shoot.

River Blue Park also is home to the haunting Drowned Forest, leafless imprisoned trees in Yaté Lake, created when the Yaté River was dammed more than 50 years ago.

Francois cooked us a lunch of venison steaks, venison sausage, a veggie salad and bread. On our way out of the park, we observed a giant Kauri pine; its age estimated at 1,000 years. It is a little more than 131 feet height, with a diameter of nearly 9 feet.

Our overnight stay at Le Meridien on Isle of Pines afforded the group an opportunity to see and snorkel some of the most ridiculously beautiful beaches in the world. We took a 40-minute hike to a natural lake, sloshing through bush, mud and water to snorkel in chilled but beautiful water.

On our second day on Isle of Pines, we chartered a boat that churned and bumped over emerald and Tidy-Bowl-blue water to the white-sanded Nokanhui Atoll, which sits in the middle of nowhere in the Coral Sea. The charter, which included snorkeling and a lunch of spiny lobster and fish, could cost between 10,000 and 20,000 Pacific francs.

Cruise ships and tankers make their way into Nauméa’s harbor. Charters of all kinds also use the harbor as home base. While in the city, you can get a taste of French wines and chocolates made by chocolatier extraordinaire Patrick Morand at Chocolate Morand.

What is best in New Caledonia is its deserted beaches of fine white sand, coral, lagoons, clear waters and solitude found nowhere else in the South Pacific.

If You Go

There are no direct flights from LAX to New Caledonia. You have to fly to Sidney, Australia or Auckland New Zealand. Air New Zealand has daily flights that leave in the evening to Auckland and then a two-and-a-half-hour flight to New Caledonia. Air New Zealand partners with United Airlines and Aircalin

Where to Stay

Hotel Royal Tera opened in December of 2010. Apartment-style hotel on the beach. On Anse Vata Bay next to Le Meridien. It was once a Club Med. 108 rooms, all with balcony. Spa, beautiful pool, free Internet. E-mail: resa.royal@tera.nc or call +687 25 78 80. (www.starwoodhotels.com). Walk to downtown.

Le Meridien: Point Magnin. Phone: (687) 265000. Complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access. Business center. Large outdoor pool, scuba diving, health center, sailing, wind surfing. Walk to downtown.

Le Meridien (Isle of Pines): Reservations (687) 265000. Website: www.starwoodhotels.com. Beautiful infinity pool that looks out to a lagoon with white-sand beach. Comfortable bungalows. Nestled on Oro Bay, a natural lagoon protected by a colorful coral reef. No in-room Internet access. Fee for lobby Internet. A great honeymoon getaway. Flight from Nouméa’s Magenta Airport takes about 20-25 minutes.

Need to Know

The Pacific franc is about 100 to $1. Bring sunscreen and bug spray.

All information is accurate at the time of publication but prices, dates and other details are all subject to change. Confirm all information before making any travel arrangements.

Visas

2011-12-09T08:08:00.000-08:00

The number of Mexicans visiting Canada has dropped from 280,000 annually to about 100,000, since that country began requiring that Mexicans obtain visas. Mexico has asked that the requirement be dropped, but Canadian officials reply that previously, about 10 percent of all Mexicans visiting Canada asked for asylum and a government pension. Meanwhile, the United States has been criticized for requiring Mexicans to use the services of a privately-operated Visa Application Center, which is said to be difficult to deal with.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Rocky Point

2011-12-08T08:28:00.000-08:00

In English it is known as Rocky Point, a good translation for its real name, Punta Peñasco. Up at the top of the Sea of Cortés, it also has been called Arizona’s beach, and it is in trouble. Real estate prices reportedly have fallen by as much as 70 percent, the result of bad economic conditions north of the border. Owners are trying to sell what they own, builders have stopped building and as many as a dozen developers are being sued for not developing.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Airport fees rise

2011-12-06T11:24:00.000-08:00

With the new year, airport user fees will rise, starting with Mexico City, where the hike is 3.5 percent. Domestic passengers will pay $15.43, those going abroad $18.99. The figures sound odd, but the fee is in dollars, not pesos. It can vary from airport to airport. Mexico City International — the busiest in the country — is federally operated. Most others are concessions run by private firms. The fee usually is bundled in with the ticket price.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

More Resorts for AMResorts

2011-12-05T09:23:00.000-08:00

AMResorts has revived its Sunscape brand, the first one being the renovated Dorado Pacific in Ixtapa. This weekend also saw the opening of a Secrets Resort in Huatulco and the conversion of the Marquis Los Cabos into another Secrets. The company manages all-inclusive properties using a variety of brand names, each aimed at a different market segment. Sunscape focuses on the young and young-at-heart wanting lots of activity.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Caribbean Express

2011-12-02T11:11:00.000-08:00

The neighboring states of Yucatan and Quintana Roo have announced plans to build a high-speed passenger railway that would connect Mérida with the Caribbean coast and would eventually extend from Cancun to Tulum. It might one day well run all the way to Campecheon the Gulf. Completion date has yet to be announced.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Socxiety of American Travel Writers

Airlines

2011-12-01T05:15:00.000-08:00

Although American Airlines has sought protection from its creditors under the bankruptcy law, this will not affect operations in Mexico. American now serves Loreto, La Paz y San José del Cabo (all in Baja California Sur), Chihuahua, Monterrey, Torreón, Mazatlán, San Luis Potosí, Aguascalientes, Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo,Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, Veracruz, Ciudad de México, Morelia, León, Querétaro, Cozumel and Cancún. Meanwhile, Mexicana, no longer operating, has until February to either find new investors or face liquidation.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

New Boss at Fonatur

2011-11-30T06:51:00.000-08:00

Enrique Carrillo Lavat is the new general director of Fonatur. Carrillo is the third person to hold this position during the administration of President Felipe Calderón (2006 to 2012). Fonatur is the agency that developed Cancun, helped with Los Cabos and hopes to get things moving at Huatulco, Ixtapa and especially at Loreto. Fonatur also is in charge of the yet-to-be-born master-planned resort at Playa Espiritu not too far from Mazatlán, the new Cozumel marina and more.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Oops!

2011-11-28T07:54:00.000-08:00

Just to set the record straight, in 2007, Mexico, according to the World Tourism Organization, was the 8^th most visited country in the world. In 2010 it had slipped to 23^rd place. The number of visitors fell by 13 percent, earnings in dollars were off by 8 percent.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Wreck of the Ocean Star

2011-11-23T11:59:00.000-08:00

The Ocean Star, first Mexican-owned cruise ship, lies in Manzanillo with its owners said to be looking for a buyer. The 40-year-old vessel was intended for cruising along the Mexican Pacific. Its market would be primarily Mexicans, especially those who did not qualify for a U.S. visa. Low prices were another allure, since no flights to foreign ports would be necessary. One mishap after another forced a cancelation of this year’s schedule. With 20 million in debts, the owners are not expected to weigh anchor in 2012

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Bargains up for grabs

2011-11-22T11:09:00.000-08:00

Sales of retirement homes for American baby boomers have fallen as much as 70 percent as a result of poor economic conditions north of the border plus concerns over criminal violence in Mexico. Hardest hit have been developments in border areas, but asking prices also are reported to have fallen by 50 percent in Los Cabos and in and around Cancun.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

New Era

2011-11-21T10:49:00.000-08:00

The world will not end on 21 December 2012, final date in the Maya calendar, but a new era may well begin. This opinion was expressed by experts attending the Seventh Palenque Roundtable. First date in the Maya calendar is 11 August 3114 BC.

Curious, I investigated to see what happened some 5,000 years ago. It seems to be that around then civilization began. The first dynasty emerged to rule a united Egypt and hieroglyphic writing appeared. The Minoans took over in Crete and the first structures were erected at Stonehenge. Things were happening in Mesopotamia (Iraq), China and in the Americas. So it may be that the end of next year really will be interesting.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Nada

2011-11-18T03:16:00.000-08:00

This has been a quiet week. Some people asked, “Where’s my Mexicogram?” Sorry. Why distract you when nothing is going on. And it looks like nothing will be. This is to be another long weekend, this time celebrating the outbreak of the Mexican Revolution on 20 November 1910. Those who can will take off starting either today, tomorrow or Saturday and should be back at work on Tuesday.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of AmericanTravel Writers

Day 1: New Caledonia

2011-11-16T11:03:00.000-08:00

I’m alive and kicking. Great adventure in the New Caledonia rain forest today. We were on a guided tour when I wandered off on my own to take pictures. I had a map but I left it back in my backpack along with my water. I followed the trail less traveled on my way back thinking it was a shortcut. I got to a trail head with a sign pointing left and right. I went left. If I had gone right, I would have been about 50 yards from camp. I kept taking different trails trying to find the high ground so that I could see the camp. Impossible in a rain forest. I got farther and farther away from camp and where we originally hiked. After about an hour they sent out a search party, including the other six members of our group who turned out to be very concerned about my being missing in action.

I walked down treacherous trails and back up again. In all, I probably walked about 12 miles. Very hot and humid. Sweating like a stuffed pig and dehydrated but no sense of urgency except I was holding everyone up for a trip to lunch (which we never did make). I called out a few times but I was too far away from the search team. I finally decided to retrace my steps. After about three more miles, I came to an open space where a jeep was parked and a rescue team member sitting in the driver’s seat. The word went out that I was found and I was raced along a winding, treacherous path at about 40 mph.

None of the group was upset with me. They were all concerned and happy to see me. Marybeth and Nancy had told everyone that I was in good shape and that I would find my way back. But everyone got really concerned after an hour. It took a little more than two hours to find me.

Great story; great for the blog but I think tomorrow I will stay with the group.

— Stan Wawer

Volaris adds flights

2011-11-15T03:39:00.000-08:00

While Interjet in five years has grown into Mexico’s second-largest airline, Volaris, which started about the same time, is much more international. The carrier now flies to Los Angeles, Fresno and San Jose in California, also Las Vegas, and has just inaugurated service to Chicago from Mexico City, with plans to add Chicago service from Zacatecas and Morelia. Most of its customers are what management calls ethnic, but anybody is welcome to buy a ticket.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Wyndham Expansion

2011-11-12T01:35:00.000-08:00

The Wyndham Group expects to open at least five more franchised properties in Mexico next year. Daniel del Olmo, managing director forLatin America, told a press group that Wyndham now has 32 hotels in the country, operating either as franchises or under management contracts. The group itself owns more than a dozen brands, including Ramada, Super 8, Days Inn, Howard Johnson and Travel Lodge. Del Olmo did not specify where the new ventures will be located.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Acapulco Film Festival

2011-11-10T09:49:00.000-08:00

Sophia Loren and Alain Delon have promised to be on hand for the opening of the Acapulco Film Festival, which starts next week. The festival is an on and off event, first held in the 1960s. It is being revived in an attempt to revive Acapulco’s reputation as a glamorous hot spot. The resort has been overshadowed by Cancun, Los Cabos and others and been troubled by narcotics cartels battling for control of the area.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Los Cabos convention center

2011-11-09T12:40:00.000-08:00

Work is scheduled to begin next week on a vast convention center that will house the annual G20 gathering next year. The Group of 20 takes in representatives of the top 20 economies in the world and Mexico is one of them. The center will cover 25,000 square meters and have seating for 9,000 people. Controversial, it is expected to change the profile of Los Cabos, a destination that until now has been regarded as exclusive and expensive.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers

Seeking the sick

2011-11-08T20:13:00.000-08:00

Six million Americans spent $100 billion obtaining health care abroad, according to Mexico City Mayor Marcelo Ebrard, who neglected to reveal the source of his statistics. What he did say is that Mexico City would like a bigger share of that market. Medical services, often provided by physicians and surgeons trained in the United States, cost anywhere from 30 to 50 percent less that in the United States.

Jimm Budd

Reporting From Mexico City

Member of the Society of American Travel Writers