If you’re in the mood for a quick and easy getaway, but still want to go international, you really can’t beat Mexico right now. There are no vaccination or testing requirements to enter the country, although you do have to test before re-entering the United States. Plus, many US destinations offer nonstop flights to these cities, making them perfect for a long weekend or short trip!
Boasting 345 days of sunshine a year, the Riviera Nayarit is a great destination. For many parts of the US, there are nonstop flights to Puerto Vallarta. It takes about 45-60 minutes to reach this resort from the airport. By next year, a new highway will cut that to 30 min!
Every single one of their villas is a standalone unit, and every single one has its own pool! This is the ultimate in privacy and luxury. Yet- there are also 5 pools scattered throughout the resort, which sits on 33 hectares of cliffside land, with some of the most spectacular coastal rainforest in Mexico.
In many resorts, being oceanfront is ideal. But at the One&Only, some of the most spectacular views are located in the highest villas. Also, the private balconies and patios that are nestled in the jungle are truly amazing. There are few properties that I’ve seen which have so expertly woven together the natural environment with stunning architecture.
Yes, “that” Tequila. Less known than the drink is the fact that this is an adorable, and easily approachable small town! I visited several years ago, and learned of it because it’s one of the “Pueblos Magicos”, or “magic towns” of Mexico. Towns receive this designation when they have preserved their local flair, and have history and authenticity. From this hotel right in the Centro, or town center, you can easily visit some of the neighboring tequila distilleries and agave fields, and get a first hand look at the process. There is also a pyramid not far out of town, called Guachimontones, where you can visit often nearly alone, and enjoy the views.
This lovely hotel could be added-on to a One&Only Mandarina trip, since it’s only 4 hours to the Riviera Nayarit. Also, it is one hour and 45 minutes from Guadalajara airport, which has many nonstop flights from the U.S.
Since it’s so close to Guadalajara, you could simply make this a long weekend getaway of 3-5 days. And prices per night start at $170, making this a wonderful budget option for anyone! Winters can be too chilly to swim, so if you’re tempted by the pool, I would go in early fall. Also, since this is a small hotel right in the center of town, it would make for a wonderfully immersive experience in the local culture and flavor of course, of Tequila!
The St. Regis is located close to a lot of tourist attractions, which matters in a city as large as Mexico City! It’s the only hotel in Mexico City with butler service for all room categories. It has a heli-pad, which is a nod to the fact that this hotel is very popular with celebrities, and it has its reception on the 3rd floor for added security and privacy.
Not only do they have lots of dining and bar options in house, but this is Mexico City- one of the world’s food meccas! This hotel is centrally located to be able to enjoy lots and lots of food off site- both high end (and there’s plenty!) but also local markets and little hidden gems.
There really isn’t much of a high or low season for visiting Mexico City. Rates can fluctuate during the year, depending on whether there are holidays or festivals, weekdays or weekends.
On the north side of the city are the Teotihuacan pyramids, a favorite of mine, since it was the first pyramid that I ever climbed 😊 Visit the Frida Kahlo museum, explore the Xochimilco canals, and of course, visit the Zocalo with so many museums nearby.
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Southeast Asia has long been one of my favorite destinations! Since my dad moved to Thailand, way back in 2000, I have probably visited nearly 14 times. I adore Thailand, but Vietnam and Cambodia are new favorites as well. See which locations look exciting for you!