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After arriving at the Zacatecas airport we took about a 45 min. bus ride to the city of Zacatecas. I had never been there or heard of this city before, but was told I would like it a lot, and I did. In fact, it was my favorite trip this year. The city is fairly small, with a population around 1.5 million, but you can see most the attractions in a day. One of the things I liked the most were the narrow winding streets and alleys of cobblestone. It’s a look I really like a lot. The energy there is very peaceful and laid   back, much like many of the smaller cities in Mexico and something you find more as you get closer to coastal cities.

Our concert was on the 1st night there, and after the show we had one day free to wonder about the city. This was such a treat for me because many times I visit a new place, I fly in for the concert, then leave the next day, with very little time for sight-seeing.

We started our day off taking the cable car or Teleferico to the top of the mountain overlooking the city. The city is known for its silver and copper mining, and the area surrounding the city is pretty desolate. After that we walked down the mountain on a road which led us directly to the city center. There we spent the day wondering through the streets and alley ways, visiting art galleries, and hanging in the centro park.

The churches and architecture are really something to see here, as it is in much of Mexico. But here they were exceptionally beautiful. The city has policies about keeping everything historical looking. So, although you will find a Starbucks, on the outside you will not find the typical commercialized logos. Another point that I like very much.

We continued our journey on foot, because everything here is very close, until we ended up at the Quinta Real. Although I did not stay at this hotel, it is the premier hotel in the city. The hotel is a converted bull fighting ring, completely remodeled into a gorgeous hotel, and I mean gorgeous. As we walked through the hotel there was lots of beautiful art and details that really make it a worthwhile visit or stay while there.

Earlier this year, there was a lot of conversation and fear being spread over the outbreak of the H1N1 virus, also known as the Swine Flu, in Mexico City and surrounding areas.  There were many advisories about traveling to Mexico and its many vacation spots, and tourism dropped drastically for awhile.

There were some truths that were left out of much of the discussion concerning Mexican travel, and some of those thoughts are still persisting.  Travel to Mexico is still somewhat sluggish, but is starting to pick up as the weather is changing and people are looking for a warm place to go.  Let’s talk about some of these things.

First, swine flu did not start in Mexico.  It’s been traced to Asia, though no one is still sure which country it started in.  The reason it was so prevalent in Mexico City is because it’s a huge city with a very heavy population.  Around 11,000 people had the swine flu at its peak at one time.  In Mexico City, which has around 9 million people, that comes to less than .12% of the population.  So, it seems like a high number until you compare it to the population in general.

Second, the country with the second highest number of swine flu cases is the United States.  That’s because more Americans go to Mexico on vacation than anywhere else.  However, Americans also travel to Asia often, including India.  CNN’s health expert Sanjay Gupta caught the swine flu virus in Asia.  In general, you can pretty much get swine flu anywhere in the world, not just Mexico.  Many schools across this country, especially colleges, have numerous cases of this disease.  While Mexico City has stemmed the tide and is showing decreasing numbers, ours are growing; it may be safer visiting Mexico than staying home.

And third, there’s been a lot more talk about some of the drug battles going on in some cities that are considered vacation spots.  Although violence is always scary, once again, it’s been overblown a little bit.  For instance, one of the areas where there was a lot of violence was occurring along the border of Ciudad Juárez, Mexico and El Paso, TX.  However, the people who live in that area weren’t overly concerned, as the bridges there still show an average of 60,000 people a day crossing both ways.  Like any other city, there are areas you don’t want to go in, while everywhere else is usually pretty safe.

If you’ve been holding off on visiting any vacation spots in Mexico, go ahead, visit, and have fun.  As always, be careful and don’t put yourself into any dangerous situations.  That’s the same advice you’d get in your own hometown if you weren’t familiar with it.  Enjoy yourself.

Are you interested in vacationing in Mexico? If you are, have you already made your vacation plans? If not, you will have to start making those plans soon. When it comes to scheduling a Mexico vacation, you have a nubmer of different ways to make your reservations. You may be wondering which method is the best.

Booking a Mexico vacation is similar to booking a vacation anywhere else in the world. Before making reservations, you will have to select a vacation destination. Mexico is a large area that has a number of popular tourist attractions. If you are interested in vacationing at a well-known resort, booking your vacation may be easy. The most well-known vacation destinations in Mexico include beach resorts and golf resorts.

If you are interested in staying a resort, it is likely that the resort will have an online website. Many popular resorts in Mexico allow you to make and pay for your reservations online. If you are pressed for time or are looking for a simple way to book your Mexico vacation reservations, you may find this method of booking the best.  

While beach and golf resorts are popular in Mexico, they are not the only place that you can stay while on vacation. Many individuals prefer to stay at a traditional hotel. Staying at on offshore hotel or dinning at an offshore restaurant is a cheaper alternative to vacationing at a resort. To book online reservations at these locations, you will have to find a well-known restaurant or a well-known hotel. The more popular a facility is, the more likely they will be to allow the online booking of reservations.  

In addition to making your reservations online directly with a hotel, restaurant, or resort, you can use the services of an online travel website. Many online travel websites are also known as discount travel websites. This is because many of the sites offer valuable savings and discounts to internet users. Popular travel websites include Obtitz, Expedia, and Travelocity. With a discount travel website, it may be possible for you to book your travel accommodations and overnight accommodations all at once.  

Many individuals enjoy booking their own vacations because it gives them the ability to have some freedom. While there are a nubmer of benefits to planning and scheduling your own vacation, it is often a time consuming process. If you are interested in seeking assistance, you may want to obtain the services of a travel agent. Travel agents can not only offer you Mexico vacation suggestions, but they can also make all of your reservations for you.

If your vacation destination is centered in an area that is not known as a tourist attraction, you may have a more difficult time making your reservations. This is because many unknown hotels, restaurants, golf courses, and resorts do not allow the online booking of reservations. To make a reservation you will most likely have to contact the golf course, restaurant, or hotel directly. If you are unable to find the information, you may want to obtain the services of a professional travel agent.

Whether you book your own reservations or you use the assistance of a travel agent, your vacation can be scheduled with ease. Once you make the appropriate reservations, you can begin preparing for your Mexico adventure.

All around the world, senior traveling is increasing in popularity. A large number of senior citizens are making the decision to get out and travel. If you are one of those individuals, you have likely examined a number of popular vacation destinations. If so, was Mexico on your list?

Mexico is an amazing place to vacation. It is ideal for individuals of all ages. A large number of senior citizens travel to Mexico, each year. Despite what many believe, the United States and Europe are not the only vacation destinations that are ideal for senior citizens. If you are able to take the time to examine what Mexico has to offer, you will likely want to schedule your next vacation there.  

As with any other vacation destination, Mexico has a wide range of activities. Many of these activities are perfect for senior citizens. Just a few of the many activities found in Mexico include relaxing at the beach, taking a boat cruise, or going on a guided tour. If you are only able to select a few of these activities, you will want to examine each activity and determine which one brings you the most excitement.  

One of the most preferred activities, in all of Mexico, for senior citizens is guided tours. When you think of a guided tour, what first comes to mind? Many individuals assume hiking or biking through rough terrain, but that is not what Mexico guided tours are all about. It is true, you may find guided tours that require a large amount of walking, but additional alterative are available.

Popular guided tours, that are ideal for senior citizens include, ATV tours, bus tours, and boat tours. ATV tours are ideal for those who wish to have a little bit of freedom and excitement while touring Mexico. For those that wish to relax while seeing what Mexico has to offer, boat tours or bus tours may be best.

Similar to guided tours, boat cruises are also available. Many senior citizens consider Mexico boat tours similar to travel aboard a cruise ship. Instead of taking an extended cruise, most boat tours only last a few hours. The length of your tour may be a deciding factor in whether or not you wish to take a boat cruise.

While boat cruises are often used to sightsee, there are many that serve other purposes. Many boat cruises offer exciting onboard activities. These activities often include a night of dinner and dancing. With a little bit of research, it may be possible to find a boat cruise that is designed specifically for senior citizens.

Mexico is most known for their beautiful, fun, and exciting beaches. If you are interested in relaxing at the beach, you have a number of options to choose from. Due to Mexico’s popularity, many public beaches are overcrowded, especially in the spring and summer months. If you would prefer to stay away from large crowds, you may want to consider scheduling your beach vacation at a beach resort.  

Mexico beach resorts come in all different sizes and styles. As with most popular beaches, many beach resorts quickly fill up with tourists. Aside from large, well-known resorts, Mexico offers a number of smaller resorts that have a focus on relaxation and privacy. If you are interested in spending your vacation in a private and intimate setting, you may want to consider these types of resorts.  

Relaxing by the beach, taking a boat cruise, or going on a guided tour are just a few of the many activities that you can participate in while on a Mexico vacation. Additional activities may include, but should not be limited to, boating, fishing, snorkeling, or horseback riding.  

Before participating in a certain activity, you are encouraged to examine your health and your ability to participate. This is not something that is limited just to senior citizens. All individuals are encouraged to examine their ability to complete and participate in certain activities. It is advised that you enjoy your vacation, not push yourself to the limits.

Mexico is most often well-known for its amazing beaches.  Each year, millions of tourists flock to Mexico in hopes of vacationing on some the “hottest,” beaches in the world.  While most tourists are vacationing at overcrowded beaches, you could be enjoying your vacation at a Mexico golf resort.

As with all other popular vacation destinations, Mexico has a large number of golf resorts to choose from.  In fact, there are so many golf resorts to choose from that you may be wondering exactly how you will be able to narrow down your search.  Your first step should be to examine some of the most well-known golf resorts in the area.  Below is an overview of five top rated golf resorts that you can find in Mexico.

(1)  The Isla Navidad Golf Course, Marina and Resort is not only one of the most popular golf resorts in Mexico, it is one of the most popular and top rated beach resorts. The resort is located in Manazanillo. What is most attractive about the Isla Navidad Golf Course, Marina and Resort is that it is as secluded as you can get in Mexico.  

The Isla Navidad Golf Course, Marina, and Resort offers an unlimited nubmer of activities that are geared towards the mature crowd.  Popular activities, aside from golfing, include boating, swimming, playing tennis, and more.  The Isla Navidad Golf Course, Marina, and Resort is an ideal vacation destination for those who love golf and even for those who don’t.

(2)  The Casa del Mar Golf Resort and Spa is located in Cabo San Lucas.  Despite being a small golf resort, it is one of the most popular in all of Mexico.  The small resort setting often makes it a popular vacation destination for those who are looking for privacy.

The Casa del Mar Golf Resort is most famously known for their Robert Trent Jones golf course. In addition to their well-known golf course, additional facilities include beaches, spas, beauty salons, pools, and tennis courts.  As with most other golf resorts in Mexico, the Casa del Mar Golf Course caters to those who enjoy golfing and those who would rather be relaxing along the beach.

(3)  The Westin Regina Golf Course and Beach Resort is located in Los Cobas.  This modern resort offers a large number of activities and attractions to visitors. Of course, they are well-known for their golf course packages, but you are likely to find onsite activities for those who would rather be spending their time off the golf course.

As with most other golf courses and beach resorts, the Westin Regina Golf Course and Beach Resort offers traditional beach activities.  These activities include sunbathing, swimming, and boating.  In addition to beach activities, the Westin Regina Golf Course and Beach Resort is well-known for its horseback riding adventures.

(4)  The Melia Cabo Real Beach and Golf Resort is located in Los Cabos.  Vacationers looking for a popular golf resort should examine this one.  It is known as one of the largest golf resorts Mexico. The onsite golf courses are well-known because they were developed by two of the most popular golfers in the history of the sport.  

Vacationers, who are interested in spending time away from the onsite golf courses, have a nubmer of options. Being right by the shoreline, the Melia Cabo Real Beach and Golf Resort is perfect for those who wish to spend their vacation relaxing by the beach. Popular beach activities include snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing.  

(5)  The Avandaro Golf and Spa Resort is located in Valle de Bravo.  Unlike the above mentioned golf resorts, the Avandaro Golf and Spa Resort is not located along the beach. Instead it is in the Sierra Madre Mountains. While vacationing at the resort, private cabin rentals or hotel accommodations are available.

In addition to onsite and nearby golf accommodations, the Avandaro Golf and Spa Resort is most well-known for its unbeatable spa treatments.  Onsite swimming pools and tennis courts also make the Avandaro Golf Resort and Spa ideal for all who are vacationing in Mexico.

The above mentioned golf resorts are just a few of the many that can be found in or around Mexico.  To select the perfect golf resort you are encouraged to consider what you want out of your trip to Mexico and what the others traveling with you want. Searching for golf resort destinations based on your needs is the best way to ensure you get everything you deserve out of your Mexico vacation.

Are you interested in vacationing in Mexico? If you are, have you already made your vacation plans? If not, you will have to start making those plans soon. When it comes to scheduling a Mexico vacation, you have a nubmer of different ways to make your reservations. You may be wondering which method is the best.

Booking a Mexico vacation is similar to booking a vacation anywhere else in the world. Before making reservations, you will have to select a vacation destination. Mexico is a large area that has a number of popular tourist attractions. If you are interested in vacationing at a well-known resort, booking your vacation may be easy. The most well-known vacation destinations in Mexico include beach resorts and golf resorts.

If you are interested in staying a resort, it is likely that the resort will have an online website. Many popular resorts in Mexico allow you to make and pay for your reservations online. If you are pressed for time or are looking for a simple way to book your Mexico vacation reservations, you may find this method of booking the best. While beach and golf resorts are popular in Mexico, they are not the only place that you can stay while on vacation. Many individuals prefer to stay at a traditional hotel. Staying at on offshore hotel or dinning at an offshore restaurant is a cheaper alternative to vacationing at a resort. To book online reservations at these locations, you will have to find a well-known restaurant or a well-known hotel. The more popular a facility is, the more likely they will be to allow the online booking of reservations.

In addition to making your reservations online directly with a hotel, restaurant, or resort, you can use the services of an online travel website. Many online travel websites are also known as discount travel websites. This is because many of the sites offer valuable savings and discounts to internet users. Popular travel websites include Obtitz, Expedia, and Travelocity. With a discount travel website, it may be possible for you to book your travel accommodations and overnight accommodations all at once. Many individuals enjoy booking their own vacations because it gives them the ability to have some freedom. While there are a nubmer of benefits to planning and scheduling your own vacation, it is often a time consuming process. If you are interested in seeking assistance, you may want to obtain the services of a travel agent. Travel agents can not only offer you Mexico vacation suggestions, but they can also make all of your reservations for you.

If your vacation destination is centered in an area that is not known as a tourist attraction, you may have a more difficult time making your reservations. This is because many unknown hotels, restaurants, golf courses, and resorts do not allow the online booking of reservations. To make a reservation you will most likely have to contact the golf course, restaurant, or hotel directly. If you are unable to find the information, you may want to obtain the services of a professional travel agent.

Whether you book your own reservations or you use the assistance of a travel agent, your vacation can be scheduled with ease. Once you make the appropriate reservations, you can begin preparing for your Mexico adventure.

When we talk of popular tourist destinations, Mexico is probably one of the most exciting tourist destinations in the world. With much of its tourist industry centered on its fine beaches and beautiful countryside, it also has its share of ancient ruin sites. Most of local as well as foreign tourists frequent these spots to spend exciting holidays amidst it natural and picturesque sceneries. Just to learn more about how to make the most of your time spending holidays in Mexico, try reading the new Mexico travel guide book- 50 Things You Must Know Before You Travel To Mexico

You must understand that knowing nothing about Mexican culture or any Spanish word for that matter robs you of the chance make the most of your time visiting the country. Being adept of the basic skills which a traveler must have can be at your disadvantage. The book 50 Things You Must Know Before You Travel To Mexico provides just the kind of information that you need to start with your Mexican adventures.

To kill the frustrations and confusions that come with visiting foreign lands, it focuses in discussing 50 important points that every tourist must know before visiting Mexico. Its comprehensive format and straightforward discussions include a rundown of practical tips such as in using credit cards and techniques in handling communication barriers or language barrier for that matter, without any need for a personal tourist guide. Reading the book enables both tourists and immigrants to know the how to’s and what’s not to do in the beautiful country of Mexico.

50 Things You Must Know Before You Travel To Mexico includes a number of vital information, which your travel agent and favorite travelogues or online travel sites will surely fail to mention. For one, it will lead you to the best place to enjoy fastest and cheapest services in changing money. In money transactions, it features discussions on when to use peso or dollar in some payments, what credit card is best to be used and how to avoid getting your credit cards blocked.

Since you will be subjected to a culture that may be a lot diverse than your own, the book also guides you on how to mingle with the locals well. It comes with a simple lesson in local slang and commonly used words. In case you have a sudden brush with the police, it also offers discussions on what to expect and what to do. It also teaches how to call back to the U.S or Canada for free, just in case it would be necessary. Hence, the book gives out practical pointers in understanding what to expect, what to do and how can you make things work to your benefit, as you create your adventure in Mexico.

Although some of the Mexican travel packages seem to offer an exciting visit in the country, making arrangements for your holiday accommodations and making your own vacation itineraries will be easiest when you learn where to get the best deals in Mexico. Knowing what to expect and what to do in the country can effectively cut down your travel expenses while allowing you the freedom to explore Mexico at a whole new level.

Think about it; the book 50 Things You Must Know Before You Travel To Mexico is very helpful in relieving you of the pains of doing costly trial and errors. As it is written and created by someone who has been in Mexico for so long, it meets the reader’s expectations by providing in-depth and straightforward discussions on the ins and outs of the country. The book offers the easiest and most convenient and practical way of learning everything about Mexico.

Mexico covers a surface of 761 thousand quadrille miles and is divided sense 31 states and the federal district. At present time it has a rat race of well nigh 100 mass people. The country is bordered in the south by Guatemala and Belize and in the North Pacific Ocean by the United States of America. It is surrounded by 4 coasts, the Sea of Cortes, the Pacific Trivial amount, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.

Mexico is a diverse country and a millennial education with the Olmecan tribe being the first civilization that appeared around 1500 years BC.

Mexico is rich in history, taxonomy, art and religion offering a complete tourist infrastructure that guarantees a comfortable and secure glue of those cards its different destinations. Mexico has everything.

Mexico capital, Mexico City is the oldest metropolis in North America. Simply called Mexico, this sprawling whistle stop was discovered by the Aztec territory in the 1300. Today, Mexico City majestic fleapits and cathedrals rest on the clunker of Tenochtitlan, the former loose stools mortal sin. Mexico City, with its current general public soaring around 20 million, guards the political, life, perfect, art, urban and cultural fluctuate for the entire compass, pains poised keeping a tight hold on its rich GI’s workers.

Downtown San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

The Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego contains some of the most extensive and dramatically designed historic buildings in the area. Constructed between 1873 and 1930, these Victorian style buildings are truly a sight to behold.

The Victorian era buildings found in the Gaslamp Quarter are home to night clubs, restaurants, theaters, and shops. A simple stroll down 4th and 5th avenue will put you at the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter.

Also found in the Gaslamp Quarter is the Horton Plaza and Horton Plaza Park. The Plaza is the first place in the United States to feature a water fountain containing electric lights, a true tribute to the designer Alonzo Horton.

The Gaslamp Quarter received its name from the Gaslamp that were used in the area around the early 1900. During those times, Gaslamp were the main source of light for the area that is now the vision of Modern Day San Diego.

Now days, there are more than 130 stores and shops filling the Gaslamp Quarter. With everything from Macy to Mervyns, Gaslamp Quarter has plenty for you to see and do. In Horton Plaza, you can find a multi screen movie theater that is sure to please movie lovers.

For a wonderful experience, the Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego should not be overlooked. There is a lot you can do here, from fine dining to excellent shops. For a family vacation, San Diego has a little bit of something for everyone.

Efforts to promote Mexico’s tourism destinations are being heard half way around the globe. Mexico is ahead of many tourism destinations in courting the fast-growing Chinese market. For the second consecutive year in a row, the Mexico Tourism Board participated in what is now one of the most attended business-to-business outbound travel events in China, the 2007 China Outbound Travel and Tourism Market (COTTM), which took place at the China World Trade Center in Beijing on May 14 – 16.

As one of the 132 countries around the globe to be given the status of Approved Destination Status (ADS) by the Chinese government, Mexico, where tourism ranks as its second-highest source of foreign revenue, is especially eager to increase visitor influx and expenditure from this region. The 2007 COTTM, which attracted more than 200 exhibitors from 40 different countries across the world, was attended by Mexico Tourism Board’s CEO, Francisco Lopez Mena. As part of President Felipe Calderon’s agenda to stimulate the tourism industry in Mexico, Lopez Mena was an active participant in all promotional events that took place in Beijing.

“China’s emergence in the world market has significant implications for the global economy, and especially for the tourism industry,” said Mexico Tourism Board CEO, Francisco Lopez Mena. “We are quite ambitious about the Chinese market and are eyeing the potential it is representing already to our tourism economy,” added Lopez Mena.

According to the World Tourism Organization as many as 100 million Chinese will be traveling abroad annually by 2020, and the number of Chinese traveling internationally more than doubled in just four years. The International Forum on Chinese Outbound Tourism reports that the number of outbound departures rose from16.6 million in 2002 to 34.5 million in 2006. Although over 12,000 visitors traveled to Mexico from China in 2006, according to latest statistics from the Mexico Tourism Board, the annual growth rate is over 12% compared to 2005 figures. This best illustrates the potential upside for Mexico’s economy.

Sensing the outbound tourism potential in China and continuing the government’s agenda to strengthening relationships between the two countries, Mexico was able to change visa procedures for Hong Kong residents. Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) passport holders visiting Mexico now enjoy visa-free access for up to 90-day visit. This means greater convenience for Hong Kong travelers and helps promote trade, business and tourism relations between the two countries.

Mexico is China’s second-largest trading partner in Latin America after Brazil, and tourism plays an active role in strengthening cultural and trade relationships. Continuing on the smooth development of Mexico-China relations, the Mexico Tourism Board considers China as a friendly and cooperative partner, and expects to make joint efforts with China to promote the development of both countries mutual relations in an all-around way.

About the Mexico Tourism Board

The Mexico Tourism Board (MTB) brings together the resources of federal and state governments, municipalities and private companies to promote Mexico’s tourism attractions and destinations internationally. Created in 1999, the MTB is Mexico’s tourism promotion agency, and its participants include members of both the private and public sectors. The MTB has offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia and Latin America.

About Chichen-Itza, the World Wonder

Swiss-based New7Wonders Foundation is revising the original seven ancient wonders of the world, and Mexico’s Chichen-Itza in Yucatan State is one of 21 finalists to become a new Seven World Wonder. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998, Chichen-Itza is considered to have been one of the greatest Mayan centers of the Yucatan peninsula, and today is one of the largest and most impressive archaeological sites in Mexico. To vote for Chichen-Itza as one of the new Seven World Wonders, visit the “new7wonder” website.

FOR PRESS ONLY: For additional ideas, help with a story or general travel and tourism information about Mexico, please contact the MTB’s North American Press Room directly at 1-800-929-4555.

# # #

Erick Laseca

Mexico Tourism Board

312-228-0517 ext14

erick.laseca@bm.com

Planning to take a break with your family to one of the coolest holiday destinations, Mexico? Go for the all inclusive Mexico Holiday Packages. Many of these holiday packages to Mexico are also customized just to fit in your requirement.

People wish to take a break from their daily life in order to stress-out and recharge themselves. And even if then if you need to keep worrying about your hotel reservation, air tickets confirmation and other local expenses, what is the point in calling it a stress relieving break. But if your trip to the exotic land of Mexico through the Mexico Holiday Packages scheme, you do not only avail a hassle free trip for yourself, but you also get to save on some money.

Traveling to a place like Mexico, which is a popular travel destination is definitely not cheap and requires a good investment. But availing these packages where the travel agents generally club in some of the common features and offer a wholesome package to you, is much more reasonable and at a comparatively discounted rate too.

These holiday packages are so designed to fit into your requirement as and how you wish to have it. You can add or remove the number of days you wish to travel, include or subtract places you wish to visit in and around Mexico, choose your accommodation as per your budget and also select your means of travel.

Mexico is a place for all travelers, on one side you have the pleasure of relaxing on the sunny beaches, where as on the other hand you can go sight seeing the architectural remains of the place and the cultural heritage too. The Mexico Holiday Packages can be availed by both family travelers as well as young groups who are on an adventurous trip. Couples who are looking for a romantic getaway can also opt for the Mexico Holiday Packages, the place has quite a number of scenic destinations that are just perfect to lure your partner romantically.