This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 
This hotel stay was hosted as a part of a press trip to Chihuahua, the DMO did not review or approve this story.

The Vibe & Shared Spaces 

Hotel Misión de Cerocahui is also home to Vinos Misión, a small sample vineyard belonging to one of Chihuahua’s biggest wine producers. The hotel lobby shares space with the wine bar and dining room, split by a grand fireplace. The wine bottles are everywhere – on the shelves, on the barrels, and on the accent wall setting the mood at the communal table.

An exterior gate or one of the doors in the main building will lead you into the interior courtyard. Weaving around guest rooms the yard opens up on a shaded jelly bean-shaped pool, lined with sunbeds and umbrellas. A short walk past the pool and its surrounding gardens bends into a small vineyard with an arched bell doorway housing another set of guest rooms. Standing in the centre of it all, surrounded by sunkissed vines and heritage architecture the atmosphere is reminiscent of the Italian countryside, similarly charming and welcoming but uniquely Mexican in its heart.

A pleasant afternoon can be spent by the pool enjoying regional wine and cocktails with a good book or in good company.

The signature bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon honours the Tarahumara people on the label.

Vinos Misión & Hotel Misión de Cerocahui

To fully appreciate this wine region it is important to briefly discuss its turbulent history. In the 17th century, the King of Spain expelled the Jesuits from Mexico and ceased wine production to protect the Spanish wine industry. The vineyards were burnt to the ground but a few secretly planted cuttings behind José María Sánchez’s house survived. Her family cared for the grapes for decades but 25 years ago the last Sánchez died without descendants. Sanchez’s gardener, Sergio Gutiérrez, who worked at the Balderrama Family’s Mission Hotel took it upon himself to preserve the vines by planting cuttings on unused land nearby. Balderrama family was highly invested in caring for their own vineyard and granted Sergio a gastronomic studies scholarship which he completed in 2013. Sergio has been in charge of the Cerocahui vineyards ever since.

Today, this vineyard is the centrepiece of Hotel Misión, growing freely on its fruitful soil with minimal intervention. The wine is served at Balderrama hotels (Misión and Hotel Mirador) and can be purchased at the hotel shops along with other locally made goods like clothing and jewellery.

The warm climate makes the region ideal for growing Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Tempranillo, and Chardonnay. The red wines are characterised by their intensity and complexity. The winery produces a single white wine, Plethora, known for its fresh and versatile palette with a crisp feel created by the 6-month steel tank fermentation. 

Dining & Wine tasting 

The small dining room at Hotel Misión de Cerocahui overlooks the Jesuit mission and offers a fresh rotating gourmet menu. Each day the chef’s offerings include a carefully chosen 3-course menu for both lunch and dinner. Our group had the pleasure of tasting fresh soups, shrimp main, a decadent ratatouille for dinner, and blueberry mouse cake, just to name a few of the available options. Each morning at Hotel Misión begins with a hearty breakfast ideal for a long day of exploration.

The meals can be accompanied by a wine parking or you can opt-in for a guided wine tasting. The lobby bar is open daily and also serves cocktails and beers but there is also an entirely separate room available for tastings and private events. 

Inside the Suite 

The guest suites are all on the ground floor with individual entry. Your options include double and king rooms, all with a fireplace, spacious bathroom and plenty of storage space. The suites are decorated with a traditional Mexican Hacienda style highlighting warm colours, wood and clay finishes and locally sourced art.

Hotel Misión follows a motel-style setup with a seating area by each room to accommodate afternoon relaxation. The garden rooms enclose the small vineyard, creating a very relaxed and meditative atmosphere in the morning light. 

Tours & Activities 

The hotel team can also arrange a handful of activities for you and your group. Visitors are invited to explore the vineyards, go horseback riding, visit the Cerocahui Waterfall, or venture out to the Barranca de Urique viewpoint.

A popular destination from here is Urique Canyon Hill. Urique Canyon Viewpoint, standing at 7,500 feet above sea level, is arguably the most impressive view of the Copper Canyon. Make sure to inquire with the hotels about their current offers some of which include complimentary tickets for Chepe Express. 

* * *

Hotel Mision de Cerocahui
Room prices starting at $340 CAD for a standard 2-bed suite
Domicilio Conocido S/N, Centro, 33421 Cerocahui, Chih., Mexico
Book directly on thelodgeatcreel.com or with your favourite booking website: Expedia | Booking.com | Hotels.com | TripAdvisor 

The post Let Chihuahua surprise you at the vineyard Hotel Misión de Cerocahui appeared first on Paths to Travel.

With its on-site restaurant and micro-brewery, The Lodge at Creel is a gathering spot in town and an ideal overnight stay. The owners of the Lodge studied hospitality in Canada and brought that Canadian wilderness feel into the property, moose antlers included.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 
This hotel stay was hosted as a part of a press trip to Chihuahua, the DMO did not review or approve this story.

Hotel exterior at night and early morning. All images by Kateryna Topol.

The Vibe & Shared Spaces 

Pulling into the Lodge you are greeted by the main log building. Fully committed to cabin decor the lobby has a fireplace, comfortable sitting and a few animal heads high up on the wall. The guest rooms are spread across multiple cabins throughout the property, surrounded by pines and shaded resting areas.

Throughout the grounds, guests will find sitting areas, picnic tables, outdoor games, and swinging benches near individual suites. Creel dogs and cats will keep you company or show you around town if you choose to take a stroll to shop and sightsee.

The team offer a range of tourism services including tours, Chepe Express train tickets, and local transportation. 

Inside the Suite 

The accommodation options include double rooms, a honeymoon suite with a jacuzzi, an accessible unit, and king rooms. All rooms are heavy on handcrafted wooden decor with hot red and orange accents. Some king suites have fireplaces and all have separate bathroom and washroom areas. With a separate desk corner and a large wardrobe, there is plenty of space to put away your things for the duration of your stay. 

Dining & Entertainment 

All restaurants are located in the main Lodge. To the right is the restaurant El Meson De García serving fresh daily breakfast and lunch. To the right is La Taberna Del Abuelo serving up regional cuisines and beverages like Sotol, regional and international wines. On the menu are all regional staples like heartwarming soups and juicy beef tacos which pair perfectly with in-house brewed beer. The cosy country atmosphere of the space is accentuated with laidback decor, a pool table, and various vintage decor pieces. 

Through a door at the back of the taberna is La Martina Pizza shop and Micro-brewery. Set with cheerfully colourful furnishings and communal tables in front of the beer stills La Martina’s wood-burning pizzas are a local favourite. 

Wellness & Fitness 

The service loop at the Lodge is completed with gym and spa services. The gym is equipped with all the necessary basics including a cable machine. The Spa menu includes aromatherapy massages, relaxation, hot stones, reflexology and magnets. While this short stay did not include a spa treatment the early morning gym experience was a wonderful way to start the day peacefully building up energy surrounded by the quiet of Mexican nature.  

* * *

The Lodge at Creel
Room prices starting at $235 CAD for standard 2-bed suite or King Room
33200 AV. LOPEZ MATEOS, Adolfo López Mateos 61, Centro, 33200 Creel, Chih., Mexico
Book directly on thelodgeatcreel.com or with your favourite booking website: Booking.com | TripAdvisor 

The post Find a slice of Canadian countryside at The Lodge at Creel, Chihuahua appeared first on Paths to Travel.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 
All photos by Kateryna Topol.

Sightseeing in Puerto Vallarta

Walking towards the city centre, you will cross Isla Rio Cuale, a small inland island with art installations, a few fun pubs playing live music, and a cat shelter. A way of the island is a mosaic staircase that offers a fantastic view of the city from the top. Following the rural streets into the centre, you’ll end up in the footsteps of Our Lady of Guadalupe. A beautiful old church that leads into the Plaza Principal de las Arms – the city gates.

Over the years, the vibe of the city has changed quite a bit. Puerta Vallarta has gentrified significantly since the pandemic, and a good half of it (to the left of Isla Cuale facing the ocean) feels like an ultimate retiary spring break destination and heaven for the LGBTQ+ community. If the party strip energy is what you’re looking for then this is the place. To the right of Isla Cuale, things calm down a bit. Here you will find even more art galleries and quite a few elevated restaurants. Make sure to pick up a few printed guides at the airport, one of them includes a walking tour of the city’s art galleries.

The waterfront pathway stretches quite far and is also filled with touristy restaurants, ice cream shops, and street vendors. Downtown is the main location for Día de Muertos celebrations with regional Ofrendas and Catrinas. One of the Catrinas is so tall she can be seen from the scenic viewpoints in the hills, especially from the Faro de la Calle Matamoros lighthouse. A quick hike up the lighthouse steps offers you a great 360 view of the city.

Where to eat & Drink in Puerto Vallarta

Café des Artistes is an upscale restaurant I visited twice, four years apart, and even during my last visit, it was one of my favourite meals in Vallarta. The main floor is a small maze of tables covered by white tablecloths. The upstairs patio is a beautiful forest buzzing with laughs and dinner chatter. Once seated, the first menu given to you is a cocktail list, the main menu is only handed after and has an option for Chef’s menu with wine pairings. The portions are quite generous and very filling, and the cocktails are spectacular. Reservations are required, and the dress code is in effect, this is a place where you come to see and be seen. The restaurant is located across the street from Jovian Fine Art, which I strongly recommend popping into before dinner.

Tuna Azul Zona Romantica is a fairly new spot getting some attention from the local critics and press. Here they serve all kinds of fresh fish dishes and hand-made tostadas, tacos, and fancy stacks with fresh fruit and vegetables. There is a covered interior and a large sandy patio, great for people-watching.

Top: Tuna Azul Zona Romantica
Bottom: Makal, Purto Vallarta

Makal, it seems, is a place where other chefs come to eat. They have an elaborate, elevated menu and are already winning awards. The space is bright, open, and casual with colourful paintings on the walls reflective of their exciting dishes.

El Colibrí is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar located just about a block away from the main waterfront strip, not far from the Puerto Vallarta Malecón. This bar is dark, moody, with good music, and the drink menu was so good we came two nights in a row and endured the insane heatwave for these jungle-inspired craft cocktails. Not too far is Ofelia’s Wine Bar, a small family-owned wine bar focusing on what’s open and available that day. There is nothing fancy about the decor, but the building is cool with open brick and an arched entry. What you come here for is good conversations and fun wines.

Tip: Do try the local ice cream, the sticks are my favourite. But, do not drink water, or even fresh lemonade, unless you’re certain your stomach is well acclimatised.

Back in 2019, the local brewery, Los Muertos Brewing Company, PV’s first craft brewery and pub, was one of my highlights. To maximise our experience, a flight of 8 beers seemed necessary – all those available plus a seasonal Ale. The beers were a nice range from light to dark, some more interesting than others. Naturally, there was also something very local: Anillo De Fuego, aka Chilli Ale. This slightly spicy beer finishes with subtle heat that catches you by surprise and slightly sets your throat on fire. The brewery has two locations and has amassed quite a bit of popularity since. These days, the brewery is a fast-paced, busy spot, frequented mostly by tourists, but if you do happen to walk by and try the domestic brews, you just might enjoy it.

El Andariego Restaurante is situated a bit out of the centre towards the hotel zone. A fairly large family restaurant celebrating 30 years El Andariego offers traditional Mexican cuisine, and a lot of it. Our afternoon experience included a couple of bottles of cold Modelo, table-side guacamole, and a couple of taco plates. Which inevitably came with beans and corn, all very delicious, and some tequila on the house. The space itself is quite interesting: the upper deck has a full wall mural and a hip-high shelving unit with small square pockets – tequila storage for the regulars.

Above and below: El Andariego Restaurante

Where to stay when visiting Puerto Vallarta

Hotel Boutique Luxury Patio Azul

For our second visit, the idea was to stay closer to the city core, somewhere with a pool and a view. This took us to Hotel Boutique Luxury Patio Azul, located up the hill from the city centre. It is a small boutique hotel spread across multiple levels with scenic rooftops. The rooms are authentically decorated, comfortable, and spacious. There is a pool bar which serves drinks during the day, breakfast and afternoon snacks. For dinner, you will need to venture out into town.

Starting at $135 per King
Book on Expedia

Buenaventura Grand Hotel Puerto Vallarta

Another luxurious waterfront property in the city centre. This all-inclusive resort is a beach spa retreat with spacious rooms and a high commitment to sustainability and environmental practices.

Starting at $325 per 2 Doubles, All-inclusive
Book on Expedia

Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel

On my wish list for my next visit is the all-inclusive Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel, an adults-only romantic getaway just outside of the city centre. This is a luxury resort set right on the beach with a few luscious pools breaking up the space between the main buildings and the sandy shore.

Starting at $455 per King, All-inclusive
Book on Expedia

Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta

Fiesta is where I stayed during my first visit. It is a large, all-inclusive, adults-only hotel and spa. The property has one of the best beaches in the Hotel Zone and many various pools, including an infinity pool deck. The full review can be found here.

Starting at $577 per King or 2 Double room, All-inclusive
Book on Expedia for a great member price discount (55% as of July 3, 2024)

Above and below: images from Hotel Boutique Luxury Patio Azul, Puerto Vallarta

Find more hotel options in Puerto Vallarta

The post A quick guide to Downtown Puerto Vallarta appeared first on Paths to Travel.

Side note: If you are traveling this summer, Toronto Pearson International Airport currently hosts a stunning collection of images from the region as seen by the Take Your Seat photojournalist duo, Randy and Spencer VanDerStarren. See the exhibition in Terminal 1 now until August 31, 2024.

All images by Randy and Spencer VanDerStarren from Take Your Seat.

Sinforosa (Copper) Canyon & The scenic El Chepe train

The Sinforosa, better known as Copper Canyon, is one of the largest canyon systems in the world known for its dramatic vertical cliffs and tall waterfalls. The canyon can be explored in a multitude of ways including hiking, mountain biking, and camping. Among the activities in the canyon is a large, eco-friendly, adventure park with a 3km cable car ride, 7 astonishing zip lines, and a scenic glass-floor restaurant. 

The most popular way to see this majestic natural wonder is the El Chepe train (Chepe Express) which goes from the coastal town of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, to Creel, Chihuahua, at the top of the canyon. The train has two classes (executive and tourist), a restaurant, and two bars one of which is a covered terrace. Each stop offers a range of regional activities from beaches to cities, scenic hikes, and cultural experiences. Learn more on chepe.mx.

Food & Drink of Chihuahua

Chihuahua climate is ideal for livestock so naturally, quite a few of the regional dishes are made with beef. Due to the harsh climate and short harvest season, the basis of Chihuahuan cuisine is dehydrated vegetables, fruits, and grains. Some of the most popular local dishes are fried mojarra (fish), burritos, beef broths, chicken pies, grilled meats, chile, empanadas, and tacos. Cheese is also a common find in Chihuahua, the most typical kinds are soft, golden yellow cheese and fresh Asadero cheese. 

Typical beverages are Tejuno (corn beer), Sotol (typical alcoholic spirit), tepache (fermented pineapple), fresh chia water (Izquiate), coriander Atole, and milk with pinole (corn, cinnamon, and sugar-based beverage). The mountainous ranges also allow for grape growing so Chihuahua also has a healthy wine production spearheaded by Gilberto Pinoncély’s Bodegas Pinesque winery in Chihuahua City.

Indigenous cultures of the region

Chihuahua is home to Rarámuri, Pimas, Tepehuanes, Guarijíos, and Mennonites. The Rarámuri ethnic group, living up in the canyon, is the largest community and values the community over individuals, some of their activities are open to visitors. Take Your Seat, for example, were witness to the “The Ceremony of Rain: A traditional ritual performed by the Indigenous Rarámuri (Tarahumara) people seeking to invoke rain and ensure the fertility of their lands, showcasing their deep connection to nature and ancient cultural practices in the heart of the Sierra Tarahumara”. 

Archaeological zones

Paquimé archaeological region is an ancient city considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in the foothills of the Sierra Madre Occidental range it contains “ 2,000 rooms in clusters of living rooms, workshops, and stores, with patios”. This region also houses a hot spring, Laguna Rodolfo Fierro, the infamous Pot Cave built by Casas Grandes Culture, Casas Grandes River, and many operational architectural artefacts. 

Dunes of Samalayuca

Located in the Chihuahuan Desert in the northern part of the state Samalayuca is a large white Dune Fields popular with adventure visitors. Aside from taking in the breathtaking views during hikes, the visitors can go sandboarding, off-roading, and mountain biking. Fun fact, a few notable movies were filmed here including Conan the Destroyer with Arnold Schwarzenegger, and David Lynch’s Dune.

Where is Chihuahua: The state of Chihuahua is situated in Northern Mexico bordering New Mexico and Texas on the USA side and Coahuila, Durango, Sinaloa, and Sonora on the Mexico side. 

When to travel to Chihuahua: the colder Canadian months are ideal for visiting Chihuahua, this season avoids the hot summer heat but still has a lot of greenery and comfortable warm temperatures you can enjoy. 

How to get to Chihuahua: Aeromexico flies to Chihuahua from Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal daily. All flights connect through Mexico City. These are new aircrafts with Premier, AM Plus+, and Main Cabin tiers. All tears receive a complimentary on-board meal!

The post Five reasons to visit Chihuahua, Mexico appeared first on Paths to Travel.

Tequila is often referred to as Pueblo Mágico, the magical town. The town is quite small with beautiful, colourful architecture, casual terraces and restaurants, and many small vendors selling souvenirs. Even if you are not a tequila connoisseur, a visit to a Tequila is a great overnight alternative in Jalisco because agave culture (and therefore tequila) is considered a part of Mexico’s national identity. Here are a few ideas on how to spend 24 hours in Tequila.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here.  

A couple of quick tips:

• Bring local cash, quite a few family-operated businesses here might not take credit cards and generally speaking using local money is better for the economy. 
• Stay connected with an eSIM like AirAlo (more on that here).
• Pack comfortable walking shoes and light, breathable clothing with some layers in case the weather cools down for the evening. 

The images below and above are from Casa Salles Hotel Boutique

Getting to Tequila from Guadalajara

The town of Tequila is located just a bit over an hour from Guadalajara. If you are already renting a car this is a beautiful drive, the closer to the town you get the larger and the more beautiful the agave fields get. We avoided renting a vehicle on this trip and took an Uber, which cost about $70 CAD. There is public transit available which will cost much less but, will increase your travel time to about 3 hours with two transfers.  

Check in at the Casa Salles Hotel Boutique

Casa Salles Hotel Boutique is located in the heart of Tequila and is a hotel adjacent to El Tequileño distillery. The hotel is a clean and modern, luxury retreat. There are 25 guest rooms many of which have balconies looking out into the farm fields. The rooms are spacious and comfortable with all the necessary amenities and a lot of storage space. The property also has a full-service restaurant, cocktail bar, an outdoor pool, and a spa. 

The interior spaces are thoughtfully decorated and generously air-conditioned. The exterior yard is a lovely garden with large trees, plants, and flower beds creating shade around the pool and dining areas. It is worth noting that Tequila is generally a safe town and very walkable but if peace of mind is needed Casa Salles is a gated property with 24/7 security at the gate. 

Book directly on casasalles.com or through your favourite partner: Booking.com | Expedia | TripAdvisor

Begin with a hearty lunch 

Drop your luggage off at the front desk and have lunch at Mango Cocina de Origen at the hotel. Your dining location choice is the interior lounge or the outdoor terrace. The restaurant has a fairly extensive menu highlighting Mexican classics and regional specialities. My eyes were drawn to the chilaquiles with eggs to line my stomach before the tequila tasting.

Tour and tasting at the El Tequileño distillery 

Reservations are strongly recommended. You can choose to do tasting only or tour and tasting. Since you are already in Tequila, tour and tasting is the recommended route. Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you through the El Tequileño distillery exposing the inner workings of the tequila-making process. You will see the different states of agave plants (green, trimmed, toasted), walk the distilling facility and witness how this magical liquid comes to life (and it is, alive), and then end the tour in the tasting room. The tasting is also guided by a local expert who will talk you through the tasting best practices and how to tell the different tequilas apart.

A few fun facts about tequila:

• How is tequila made? In a nutshell, Tequila is made using agave plants, the core of which is called piña. This bit is roasted and juice is extracted from it. That juice is then fermented in barrels with yeast. The next steps of course are distillation, aging, and bottling.
• The best tequila is made with 100% blue agave, the label will indicate the % of agave used. It is more pleasant to drink (even sip) and doesn’t give you violent hangovers like blended “tequilas” might.
• There are 5 types of tequila: Reposado, European or American-made barrel aged for up to a year; Joven, less common and includes aged and unaged tequila; Blanco, also known as Silver tequila, made with blue Weber agave grown in Jalisco, which is where you are for this trip; Añejo aged in American or European barrels for at least a year and Extra Añejo, which must be aged for at least 3 years, this ageing process creates more complex, rich flavours and golden colour, both of these types are great for sipping.

Walk around & Dine in the town centre

Unpack in the room, change for dinner and stroll through this historic town on foot. Wander into the small shops, take in all the colourful houses, take a peek inside the church, and have ice cream in the public square. 

For dinner, there are a few options. La Antigua Casona, for example, is an elevated restaurant concept located in Solar de las Animas hotel. There is a scenic terrace and a large beautiful courtyard. We opted for Fonda La Martina, a small family-owned traditional restaurant across the street. The service is great, the food is delicious, and something you will likely not find in other places. Their crispy taquitos, for example, are served in a cool broth, a welcome treat in the hot heat.

Post-dinner drinks

There is a famous local tequila cocktail called Batanga, quite ingenious in its simplicity: tequila, lime juice, Coca-Cola, and a salt rim. The drink was invented by La Capilla owner Javier Delgado Corona in 1961 so La Capilla is where you got to enjoy the said drink. This casual, dusty bar is an institution with a row of awards nested on a tall shelf, covered in dust. People hang out, read, mingle, and play cards at this bar, it really is the most chill way to end the evening. 

Rise & Shine 

Begin with breakfast at the hotel followed by time by the pool before heading back to your next destination. Grab a fresh juice or a cocktail, spread out on the sunbed with a book, and enjoy that hot Mexican sun. If time permits, add a tasting at Tequila Arette (which you will need to request over email), Casa Sauza, or Tequila Fortaleza, both of which require reservations as well.

Restauratn Mango Cocina de Origen at Casa Salles Hotel Boutique. The pool area at the hotel is below.

The post How to spend 24 hours in Tequila appeared first on Paths to Travel.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 

About the islands 

Islas Marietas is uninhabited and protected. Only a small number of people are allowed to be in the area per day. No one is allowed to dock or step foot on land. The secret beach, which fronts the Instagram posts and tour brochures, is technically forbidden and can only be accessed by boat during low tide. Some tours, however, can take you there on an excursion. The original island formations were volcanic and rich with marine and land life.

In the 1900s Mexican military conducted a series of bombing tests on the islands. These explosions created new caves and rocky formations. After the national outrage, the government decided to close the island and protect it against any fishing, hunting, or human activity in order to preserve the corals and sea life. The island is stunning to look at from a distance. But the boats do get close enough to notice some of the seabirds nesting on the coast.

About the group tour

To see Las Marietas we went on the Eco Discovery Tour early Friday morning. The tour is operated by Vallarta Adventures and was a bit of a mess organizationally. The agenda did not include a pickup and overall was not very clear. I had a rough idea of what we were doing and just sort of went with it as the day went on. To start, we had to find our way to the marina and then stand in line to get checked in and pay a couple of additional city fees. A half-hour or so later, we boarded the boat.

Ten minutes into the ride we stumbled upon a couple of whales – a mother and a baby whale. With the rising sun as a backdrop, it was a great way to start the day. The boat ride was very rocky and breakfast was served while we were on the waves. Navigating up and down the stairs to get food or drink was challenging. On more than one occasion I was fearful of being thrown off the boat. A few people got very nauseous. As we began to approach the island the waves soothed a bit and everyone geared up to get off the boat for snorkeling.

Our second stop got cancelled due to bad weather. To make up for a lost experience the tour crew decided to take us around Puerto Vallarta shore to see the coast while the members of the team put on a costume show on the boat front. There was no mention of the show in our vague agenda so we had no idea what to expect.

What we got was a set of short lip-sing and dress-up performances, and yet another lap dance for a birthday girl the crew picked out from the crowd. The birthday girl, let’s call her Brenda, had no hesitations in knocking down tequila shots with the dancers and took the tray of shots as a sign of an about-to-happen boat party. The rest of the audience, some still nauseated, sparingly took part in the tequila shooting but made no effort to move from their seats despite Brenda’s enthusiastic encouragement. We docked shortly and like strangers that we were people calmly found their way out of the marina.

A few tour options for your next visit

Expedia: Marietas Islands Discovery Tour

Expedia: Puerto Vallarta Islas Marietas Eco Discovery

A range of tour options can be found on Viator

The post Islas Marietas by boat or No more tequila for Brenda appeared first on Paths to Travel.

The public bus from the hotel took us directly to the top of Boca de Tomatlan, where the trail starts. Going down the road through the village a few people tried to sell us a boat tour, a taxi ride, and a few other things. Eventually, a nice man noticed my sister’s hiking shoes and pointed us toward the trail start. At the center of the area, water flows inland like a river, and a small sandy pathway across it is used by people to tan and rest; boats docked on the riverbank and along the shore.

The hike is well-marked with maps and directional signs throughout. Quick five minutes into it I had to change out of the flip-flops into hiking shoes. Another few minutes up the hill the hair went up and the sweat began to form. It is not a complicated hike but it ain’t no beach walk: up and down steep stairs, hills, climbing over rocks and trees, down to the sandy beaches, and back up again. And again and again.

The route takes you to Colomitos, a small hidden beach otherwise only accessible by boat. A couple of street vendors make food on land but the Ocean Grill Vallarta restaurant, across the bridge, seemed like a great idea. Sadly, it didn’t quite turn out as expected and resulted in mild food poisoning. Back up and around the hill, past a couple of smaller beaches, the path takes you to Cabo Corrientes. This is a stunning beach with tall palm trees, volcanic rocks, and waves gracefully crashing into the sand.

Near what looks like an eco-resort is a fun bar that I desperately wanted to relax in and cleanse my palette after that terrible lunch. But sadly we were running out of daytime. Up the road from the bar, a man watering the plants agreed to sell us a coconut from a neat pile near him. Filled to the top with clear coconut water this was the most delicious and reviving sip of liquid I’ve ever had and still cannot stop thinking about. Best 3 dollars ever spent.

The trail ends at the Las Animas beach. Being the most popular stop on the hike this beach is packed with shops and restaurants. Crowds are flocking to the dock in search of a ride home. There is no organization or order here, it’s a kind of a free-for-all. Anything that looks like a line is likely a tour or a cruise ship crowd waiting for their ride. Boat taxis swim up and call out various destinations, including Boca, one of those will take you home for cash money.

What I loved most about the hike was nature. The trail gives you an opportunity to spot less populated beaches, wildlife, smaller and more interesting resorts, and stunning views of the ocean. It’s different here, quiet, almost tranquil.

Quick link to trail details here.

The post Puerto Vallarta’s Boca de Tomatlan trail: five points for the hike, ten points for the coconut appeared first on Paths to Travel.

Grand Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta is an adult-only, 4.5 start all-inclusive that promises paradise, and for the most part, it is. As soon as you enter, a large open-air lobby welcomes you with a breath of cool, fresh air. The decor is modern and bright, a mix of wood and fabric with a little bit of thick yarn and a pop of fresh flowers. The view from pretty much everywhere is stunning – pools weaving through the hotel grounds, rows of umbrellas lined into a ribbon, and a sandy beach. If you are lucky, a whale in the distance. Everywhere you look is something pretty to see and nice to sit on.

If you book through Expedia a few extra perks are added because Grand Fiesta is a VIP+ rated resort. Some of these perks included:

• Private check-in
• Daily SPA discount
• Access to the VIP Lounge on the 13th floor

The best perk perhaps, is the 13th-floor VIP Lounge. The lounge has indoor and outdoor seating, a serene environment, stellar service, and various meals offered throughout the day. This, mostly white and green, space became an extension of our room. Here we had breakfast, ate macaroons, and lived our best champagne life.

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All rooms have a balcony with a couple of wicker chairs, a side table, and a view of the ocean. The shower is spacious and all glass with a window looking into the room. The fridge was stocked daily with snacks, beers, and pop. As a welcome on day one, the table was set up for wine service with a bottle of red. As a staple in each room is a set of slippers, a robe, and a really handy beach bag which nearly everyone at the resort used. The sleep quality, however, could use some improvement. The beds are very hard with heavy blankets and despite the constant daily relaxation I slept terribly the entire time – perhaps why that half of the 5-star is missing.

Unlike some resorts, where the promise of all-inclusive comes with conditions of your inclusivity level, at Grand Fiesta Americana* everything that’s promised is actually included: room service, kayaks, paddleboards, yoga classes, and all other pool-side activities. Things that come at additional cost are certain cabanas, poolside bottle service, and non-house wine.

Eating at the resort can be a little tricky: some restaurants are closed on various days of the week, and the buffet is closed a couple of times during the day. There is nowhere to get food 24/7 so if you’re hungry after 10 pm room service is the only way. The average wait was 30-40 min so there were times the last person standing had to finish dinner for two. On certain nights the dinner is served outside in a fun and festive style with a Mexican buffet and a show. The restaurants located inside all have dress codes so flip-flops are only okay on the pool level.

For the first night’s dinner, we opted for Mexican at Rojo Corazón. It was a fantastic meal with tableside guacamole service, delicious steak tacos, cold margaritas on ice, and all kinds of other tasty goodness. On the far side of the beach is the Cevicheria. Marked by its blue umbrellas and chairs the cafe is framed by the hillside with a view of the ocean. Open only during the day Cevicheria offers a large selection of fresh seafood, homemade ice cream, and a few market-price items like lobster. Ideal for an afternoon snack, paired with bottomless mimosas, this quickly became our favourite spot.

Near the lobby is a Spanish tapas place called Serrano Station with a lovely open view of the sunset. The tapas here technicality means that everything on the menu is served as a single portion. You will get one crostini, one bite, and one spoon. The house drink special is a sangria-like compote that’s a little on the sweet side. 

Yuu, an Asian restaurant is precisely that – a variety of all types of Asian food from curry to sushi. Soy sauce is poured per person on request, and sashimi is basically grilled fish thinly sliced. On a different floor is the restaurant Gulietta. This is an Italian restaurant and one I liked the least: portions are very small and the menu is very confusing. The Buffet has a wide range of options from different cuisines with gluten and dairy-free alternatives. In the afternoon they make snacks by the pool and at night you can watch the show from the patio.

For cocktails, a few bars are scattered around the buildings: 

• Martini Lounge has a pool table
• Mojito Lounge has fun swings and a nice view
• Tequila Lounge, well I never found that one and instead watched the sunset from the 13th-floor Lounge.

The main late-night venue is Divina Skybar. Here the DJ plays after 11 to a small crowd of those who are drunk enough to dance and those still relaxing in the jacuzzi.

The nightly entertainment features a handful of dancers, some circus acts, live bands, and cultural performances. The Risky Show is what we saw on the first night and it ended with me getting a lap dance. In front of my mother – I was famous on the resort by the end of day one. When everyone forgot about that I brought a coconut to the pool which for some reason was almost as scandalously appealing as the sandwich lap dance. I guess getting your five minutes of fame on the resort is much easier than in LA (not that I was looking for it).

And then there is the Haixa Spa. With a large menu of services most of which, I found, cost more than those I can get at a 5-start hotel in Toronto. But the spa did offer a low-cost water circuit: dry and wet saunas, with cold showers in between, and cold and hot temperature pools with a hydrating water massage. And at the end, relaxation on a lightly heated ceramic lounge with a couple of cucumbers over your eyes, a cold towel, and a gentle face massage. This roughly came to $30 per person, took a couple of hours, and was worth every penny. I am now a Spa addict, sign me up for monthly service!

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Sian Ka’an

A biosphere reserve in the region of Tulum and an official UNESCO World Heritage site. Sian Ka’an is over 5,280 km of land, uncultivated ground, and the Caribbean Sea, including a section of coral reef. There are also around 23 archaeological sites in the area, including Muyil, a fairly small set of ruins with a rich history.

One of the key activities in Sian Ka’an is the canals: a small boat takes you through clear turquoise open water, through a tight man-made canal to a natural one, deeper into the “swamp” where you get to float with the current observing the beauty of the preserved natural habitat. It is fairly shallow, you can even walk, but the water will gently carry you forward. The plant life is amazing from deeply rooted trees to massive air plants shooting out strings over the water. The end of the floating tour is a boardwalk that takes the group back to the boat across the swampy field, around you as far as the eye can see, are waist-high greenery and an occasional heron strolling through the grass.

Viator (a TripAdvisor company) offers a range of tours to this site, both private and group. See them all here.

Laguna de Kaan Luum

Some people call this spot a secret. But really it is just less popular than other spots in the region. It is a clear, shallow lake, with spectacular turquoise water. There are a few swings, about bum deep in the water, multiple hammocks, and a dock people relax on. A single vendor will sell you a snack or a coconut for cash. Off to the side is a tall observation deck with a stunning view of the area. If you have a car, you can easily drive here, park outside, and then stroll down a short forested pathway to the water. There is a small cash-only admission fee. If you do not have a vehicle, don’t feel like taking a taxi, and would rather go with a tour here are a few options. In most instances, it would be paired with another cenote stop or Tulum.

Tulum Tour to Laguna Kaan Luum including 2 Cenotes and Playa Paraíso

Paddleboarding Snorkeling Tour in the Ka’an Luum Lagoon

Xel-Há

One of the bigger waterparks in the area. A large space your whole family can enjoy, a multitude of water activities from adventurous to lazy river kind. Great place to snorkel or layback and take a nap in a hammock. This is an all-inclusive park so your fee covers food and drinks. You can easily spend two days here so at least one full day is highly recommended.

Here is a selection of different tours from Viator as well.

Xcaret

An eco-archaeological and cultural heritage park. First thing first, this place is huge! There are over 50 attractions, a beautiful beach, a butterfly pavilion, giant turtles, various birds, live entertainment, dolphins, food, and drinks, I mean, the list can go on and on. You’ll need at least a day and I’d recommend staying for the evening show. I’ve been to this site twice and will go back again in a heartbeat. I have now been a couple of times and still love discovering new things.

Book directly on xcaret.com in advance or combine Xcaret and Xel-Há for an additional offer when booking directly. If you are staying at the Occidental Xcaret your park entrée is discounted.

Ek’ Balam

One of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Yucatan. Unlike the more popular archaeological sites (such as Chichen Itza) Ek’ Balam is fairly small, very green, and very accessible. Visitors are invited to hike up the ruins (with enough warnings) to observe their beauty up close and from up top. This site was populated from roughly 1200 BC to 1000 AD – a long period of time to keep a city occupied so the history is rich. There are many theories as to why the city was abandoned but it was re-discovered in 1800, actively excavated by the 1980s, and is still subject to ongoing preservation. There is a lot to see, a lot to climb, and a lot to wander about as you explore the many rooms of the many structures.

Find a selection of tours to this site along or multiple adventures here on Viator. Although generally speaking, I wouldn’t recommend hitting two historic sites on the same day, very time-restricting.

Tulum Ruins

Located near the town of Tulum, also a nice area to spend a few hours in. A fairly large, tightly situated complex of ruins and one of the most beautiful beaches on the coast. During the post-classic period, Tulum served as a seaport, trading mainly in turquoise and jade. As you explore the area you might come across an archaeologist or two working away on the ruin preservation and if you pay attention you might spot a four-legged structure that looks a bit like a horse in the center of the living area, whether or not it is a horse no one is fully sure. There is also an amazing small beach in the park, so make sure to bring your suit and a towel.

And here is a fun variety of tours to Tulum.

Note: If you are looking for a more comprehensive guide to Tulum you can find one on this blog.

Valladolid

A small Spanish colonial town not too far from Ek’ Balam. The interesting bit of history is that the town was built near a lagoon in 1543 by the Spanish settlers (hence the name) but the locals complained about the mosquitos so it was moved to where it is now, in place of an older town that was broken down and used as the brick foundation for what is Valladolid now. The town is colourful, with interesting architecture and surprisingly subtle attention to detail (such as doors). The center square is near a beautiful cathedral and everything around it is on a grid. There is an old library, plenty of restaurants and shopping, and a Convent of San Bernardino de Siena a bit out of the center (open only on Tuesdays).

Must try: Choco story chocolate shop, won’t lie I tried everything and left way more money behind than I’ve ever spent on chocolate. I will eat it slowly, to preserve and cherish the flavour for as long as I can. Located near the city square on the corner of Calle 39 and Calle 40, it might be called something else on the outside, just look for the word Chocolate.

Tip:  If you are shopping the quality of products in Valladolid is significantly better than in tourist-heavy areas near resorts. Yalat Arte Mexicano is a neatly curated shop with a beautiful yard in the back with small huts dedicated to specific products (such as honey). A portion of their profits is donated to the community.

Find a range of tours to Valladolid on Viator here.

Chichen Itza

One of the more popular destinations that most people visit during their vacation is the Riviera. A large and spacious complex of Mayan ruins with wonderful graphic stone carvings and the best-preserved Mayan ball court, among many other structures. Definitely worth a visit and is usually paired with a cenote stop as a tour.

Find a wide range of tours here, quite a few already include a cenote visit.

Tip:  Bring a hat, the area is very open and gets a lot of sun, like hot scorching, direct sun.

Cenotes & Adventure travel

Without a doubt visit at least one cenote which Mexico is well known for. Cenote is a natural pit – a sinkhole if you wish – that came about after a collapse of limestone bedrock which in turn exposed groundwater. Some of these wonders of nature can be wide open to the human eye. Others you might need to repel down into for the full effect.

There are also many active adventure opportunities, such as zip lining through a jungle. There are a lot of options to suit your activity level, swimming skills, or tolerance to cold (some cenotes are quite cold) so it’s more of a chose-your-own adventure.

You can book and drive to any of the adventures on your own. But if driving around Mexico is not your cup of tea here are some ideas:

• Cenote tours and other activities to check out from Cancun with Viator.
• ATV, Ziplines, and Cenote Tour at Extreme Adventure Eco Park Cancun with Viator

Cobá Ruins

A smaller complex but with a tall pyramid, Nohuch Mul, you can actually climb, all 130 feet of it to the tiny temple at the top. The stairs are steep and uneven, and the trip down is more challenging than the hike up. At its peak, Coba was one of the biggest and most powerful city-states in the northern Yucatán area and as you walk around you will notice that glory shows throughout the site. I am not 100% if you are still able to climb the stairs but even without it the site is worth a visit.

See a handful of tours to Cobá here.

Playa Del Carmen

A seaport and cultural hub for those who wander off the resort. The shopping area is filled with local goods and all sorts of more common shops, from Zara to Häagen-Daz, though if you walk a bit out of the store center you will come across much more interesting and natural ice cream flavours in smaller booths. There is also a handful of bars, including the legendary Señor Frog’s, a public beach, and a city square from which you can peacefully people-watch. Easily accessible by taxi from nearby resort areas.

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