Planning Your Destination Wedding in Mexico

06/02/2011 By


What do you need to know?

Destination weddings have become popular – and with good reason. They can be beautiful, romantic, and offer an exotic flair, if done the right way. With a destination wedding in Mexico, the “devil is in the details,” but it’s nothing that can’t be overcome if you go into it armed with the correct information, which is often provided by the resort where the ceremony is performed. Mexico is warm, culturally interesting, and can be inexpensive. There are miles and miles of beaches and many luxury resorts that cater to those planning a destination wedding.

 

Location, location, location

First you’re going to need to decide upon a location. Many hotels and resorts in Mexico offer wedding packages and you’ll want to look into what packages are available at what resorts and hotels. This is where price and availability will come into play. Obviously, you will need to work with the resort or hotel to come up with a time that you and your soon-to-be spouse, your guests, and the location are mutually available.

 

Some Resorts that offer Wedding Packages in Mexico


Riviera Maya

The Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita, located right on the silky white sands of the Riviera Maya, offers a location of extreme natural beauty that makes a romantic setting for a wedding and honeymoon. The resort has professional wedding coordinators that can plan every aspect of the wedding from the flowers, decorations, food, beverages, entertainment, guest accommodations to catching you up on the legalities of a Mexican marriage.

This luxury resort offers three packages: the “Wedding in Paradise Package,” and the “Love in Paradise Wedding Package.”

The Wedding in Paradise Package includes a wedding planner, a room upgrade for the bride and groom, unpacking for the bride and groom and preparation of their wedding attire, welcome amenities, a couples massage, a bouquet for the bride and a boutonniere for the groom, a wedding cake, sparkling wine for up to 17 guests, menu cards, up to an hour of photography, a judge or minister to perform the ceremony, a romantic dinner for the bride and groom during their stay, turn down service, and a complimentary anniversary night if the couple stays four nights or more over their first anniversary.

The Love in Paradise Wedding Package offers all of the above plus a romantic surprise dinner for the bride and groom, hairstyling and makeup styling for the bride prior to the ceremony, turndown service with rose petals, scented oil bubble bath, and champagne, a sparkling wine toast for up to 20 guests in Waterford champagne flutes, a live duo for one set, a specialty spa basket on the day of arrival,  a 10% discount (not including products) at the spa for the bride during the stay, and a cocktail party that includes canapés and a one hour open bar that includes premium liquors.

 

Puerto Vallarta

The Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is one of the most romantic destinations in Mexico. This resort offers beachfront view with crashing waves and lovely sunsets. This resort offers the “Crystal,” “Pearl,” and “Diamond Collections.”

The Crystal Collection includes a legal ceremony or religious ceremony with all of the needed paperwork, documents, and medical services, a bouquet for the bride and a boutonniere for the groom, a centerpiece for the minister’s table, rose petals for the aisle, a wedding cake, a bottle of sparkling wine and petit fours, breakfast in bed the day after the wedding, and the services of a wedding coordinator.

The Pearl Collection includes everything in the Crystal Collection plus a sparkling wine toast, a sound system for the ceremony, a violinist or saxophonist for the cocktail hour, cocktail set up, a premium bar and Hors D’oeuvres, transportation from the airport, and a 50 minute couples massage on the beach.

The Diamond Collection includes everything in the Pearl Collection plus a DJ and a dance floor with robotic lights and a bubbles machine, and a three course dinner from the all-inclusive menu.

 

Los Cabos

Palmilla One & Only Resorts hosts weddings in its historic chapel. The chapel is located on a hill overlooking the beautiful resort and the chapel is typically Mexican in style with whitewashed arched doorways and windows. The wedding couple may arrive at the chapel in a horse-drawn carriage.

This resort offers a Celebration Consultant who can arrange for a Justice of the Peace or a Minister. There will be a private beach cove for the day that includes floating daybeds and lunch. The wedding couple will have private dinners for two for four nights, breakfast daily for two, private roundtrip airport transfers in a Hummer H2, and special rates for parties of 30 rooms or more.

Included are floral arrangements for the altar, an altar runner, ceremonial candles, and the horse-drawn carriage with a coachman and footman.  Optional arrangements include music, pressing services, bridal bouquet and boutonniere, wedding cake and groom’s cake, personalized menus, private dining for the wedding party and guests, a photographer, and a celebration CD with photos of the ceremony.

The bride receives a manicure and pedicure, hairstyling and makeup by a professional stylist.

 

Legalities of Mexico Marriages

If both you and your future husband/wife are both foreign (not Mexican):

  • You will need both of your “Tourist Cards” that you were given at the airport
  • You will need both original birth certificates plus a copy of each
  • You will need to have had blood tests within 15 days of your wedding to check for HIV, Rh factor, and syphilis.
  • Both of your passports
  • If either one of you is widowed or divorced you need certificates of divorce or death certificates.
  • You will also need the originals and copies of identification for two witnesses.

If you are Mexican and marrying a Non-Mexican (or Vice Versa)

  • You will need the same blood tests as above.
  • The same information for the witnesses
  • A foreigner’s passport
  • The original and a copy of the Mexican party’s official identification including a photo
  • An original and copy of both birth certificates but the foreigners will have to have been translated into Spanish by someone proficient in the language.
  • You must have gotten permission from the Migration Office of the Secretary of the Interior.

 

What to wear

Many bridal shops now have special sections for destination weddings. Keep in mind that it’s warm and humid in Mexico and that you most probably will be married on the beach. You may want to look for light materials, and a dress with a shorter train (if you’re worried about dragging a train through the sand.) Hairstyles should be appropriate for a breezy beach and often veils just get in the way as they blow around. Shoes should be appropriate for walking on sand.

 

Things to remember…

  • Your wedding event is a vacation for the guests so plan events around the wedding. Research local areas of interest and you may even want to make up a brochure that tells the guests about things they can do before and after your wedding day.
  • You may want to provide small in-room gifts to welcome your guests that can include such things as lotions, soaps, candles, candy, or snacks.

And there you go! Now you’re ready for your perfect destination wedding in Mexico!

 

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Luxury Travel: Riviera Maya, Mexico

04/05/2011 By

What a fabulous place to visit – the Riviera Maya, Mexico! This beautiful, Mexican paradise offers something for everyone and especially for anyone looking for a luxurious, fantasy, beach vacation. Besides the obvious draw of the sun-warmed, white, silky beaches, there’s plenty to do here on the Riviera Maya.

  • Play golf while listening to the songs of the tropical birds on one of the many golf courses. Don’t step on an iquanas! The golf courses have been carved out of the jungle, are surrounded by lagoons, and overlook the shimmering turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
  • Swim with the dolphins in one of several locations that offer an exciting and safe experience.
  • Dive the Great Maya Reef – the largest coral reef in the northern hemisphere.  If you love diving you’ll want to see the many subterranean rivers and the “cenotes” formed by water filtering through limestone in the shimmering, crystal blue waters of the Caribbean. There are many locations to rent equipment and hire guides and instructors
  • Visit Tulum – the only archaeological site located by the sea. One of the loveliest places on the Riviera Maya, Tulum combines the majesty and mystery of the ancient Mayan civilization with the intense beauty of the Caribbean. There are over 60 preserved structures within three massive walls at Tulum.

 

Where to stay: Experience true luxury at one of these resorts.

  • The Iberostar Grand Paraiso is an adults only, all inclusive, five-star hotel in Playa Paraiso. The Suites at the Grand Paraiso include indoor Jacuzzis, sitting rooms, a king or two queen sized beds, a dining area, and a hammock or swing. Villas offer spectacular views of the grounds of the resort, a king sized bed, Jacuzzi, minibar, safe and a small pool in the villas private garden! Eat in one of the resort’s four restaurants or its international buffet. And don’t miss the spa which offers massages, facials, and nail care – for either individuals or couples.
  • Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita offers luxurious oceanfront suites with terraces with direct beach access, Catamaran sunset sails, daily shopping excursions by boat, a Hydrothalasso pool, aqua gym, spa treatments, well consultations, anti-aging medical diagnostic consultations, and traditional Temazcal steam room ceremonies. This resort has 90 suites with large living areas and bedrooms, balconies or terraces, outdoor honeymoon showers, and private plunge pools. In addition, romantic mood lighting, in-suite tequila service, large flat screen TVS, and full marble baths are offered. There are three on-site restaurants.

There’s so much to do and see on the Riviera Maya! And when the day is over, pamper yourself at one of the area’s fine resorts.

 

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Escape to the Riviera Maya

04/03/2011 By

Built on sugar white sand and set between the warm, sparkling, turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean and the lushness of the Yucatan jungle, Grand Velas Riviera Maya is just 35 minutes from Cancun International Airport and 5 minutes from downtown Playa del Carmen.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya offers you nothing but luxury! The accommodations are all-suite and decorated in the style of contemporary Mexico. They offer oceanfront and jungle terraces, private plunge pools, wireless Internet access, 42” plasma TVs, in-room massage, whirlpool bathtubs and more – including more than 1,000 feet each of living space! The resort is divided into three areas – the Grand Class is set up for privacy and relaxation, there is a family friendly area, and an area that’s open to families and the best area for business travelers as well as it’s close to the convention area.

Grand Velas offers spa vacations for those seeking to be pampered in luxury that includes massage therapy, body wraps, facials, and a world class fitness center with classes in yoga and pilates.

The Grand Velas Convention Center offers over 90,000 square feet of meeting and event space equipped with cutting edge technology. There are 32 rooms for small gatherings and two large conference areas that can accommodate up to 3,000 people.

Dining at Grand Velas is a delight! There’s something for everyone from fine French cuisine, to traditional Mexican, Asian Fusion, Basque delicacies and family favorites like gourmet pizza.

There are adult restaurants and those that specialize in family dining. Enjoy outdoor dining as well. 24 hour in-suite dining service is offered and there are snack bars, poolside bars, and lounges that feature entertainment nightly around the resort.

The Riviera Maya is a one of the world’s finest beach destinations and the best of its exciting attractions are within minutes of Grand Velas. Visit Cozumel and indulge in scuba diving, snorkeling and more sun and sand. Take advantage of fishing, kayaking and sailing. Looking for adventure? Explore the jungle by horseback or try a zip line tour through the Yucatan!

Some of Mexico’s most ancient ruins are easily accessible to you from Grand Velas. Visit Tulum, Chichen Itza, and Coba to learn about the mysteries of Mayan life. Our concierge can help you set up a day tour.

Don’t forget to take advantage of Grand Velas’ special scuba diving vacation! The Riviera Maya is one of the world’s top destinations for scuba diving. There are many marine parks in both Cozumel and Playa del Carmen that offer protected habitats for the area’s many forms of marine life. The Riviera Maya is also famed for its many “cenotes,” or underground caves that have been carved out of limestone by freshwater rivers. Experts will guide you through the fabulous underwater setting. Other adventures include private sailboat and catamaran tours, diving courses, jet ski tours, kayaking and parasailing. See the concierge at Grand Velas to set up your tour of the Carribean floor. Visit the caves and shipwrecks underneath the Carribean’s blue waters, and even enjoy night diving!

 

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Luxury travel agency; gourmet travel at its finest.

10/12/2010 By

 gourmet travel

Seven of the best places to savour gourmet travel food.

You are what you eat, so offer yourself the very best when you eat gourmet travel food.

Experiencing a city through its cuisine rates as high with most travelers and most luxury travel agency clients as museums, beaches, mountains, and architecture. In-the-know gourmet travel dining enhances any trip, whether it’s a visit to a parrilla for Argentine mixed grill in Buenos Aires or finding the best pizza in New York City.   But how do you know where to go for gourmet travel food, short of soliciting opinions and sifting through guidebooks? To get to the meat of the matter in seven prime gourmet travel dining destinations, we consulted plugged-in restaurant critics and food writers for an insider’s snapshot of the best places to start when exploring the cities’ culinary traditions. These veteran foodies spend most of their nights and many of their days sipping and supping their way through the best – and worst – their cities have to offer. Here, you’ll read only about their raves.

The world of food according to gourmet travel experts like Richard Vines and Michael Bauer

San Fransico 

San Francisco Chronicle restaurant critic Michael Bauer has been covering the gourmet travel and food scene by the Bay for more than 20 years. Holding the title of executive food and wine editor as well, he’s totally tuned into what’s going on in the gourmet travel and restaurant world. In many cases, Bauer’s words are the first – and last – about who’s who and what’s what in dining.

Zuni Cafe 

Even after 25 years, this local gourmet travel hangout with a national reputation remains hip. With a vibrant, Parisian-style, standing-only copper bar that greets you upon entering, Zuni Café epitomizes casual California chic when it comes to gourmet travel. Chef Judy Rodgers was named the nation’s outstanding chef in 2004 by the prestigious James Beard Foundation, and she’s been making Zuni Café a San Francisco legend since she arrived 20 years ago. The fare is basic but wonderful: Roast chicken, hamburgers, Caesar salad, and espresso granita are “beyond compare,” says Bauer. More specialties you shouldn’t miss include fresh oysters and the house-cured anchovies.

Details: 1658 Market Street; 415/552-2522;

www.zunicafe.com

MythBauer still places this chic eatery, which opened to raves in 2004, among the city’s great gourmet travel restaurants. “Elegant but relaxed,” the restaurant’s menu is “stylish, celebratory … think rigatoni with foie-gras cream, maitake mushrooms, and marsala.” Many main courses are available in two sizes, a format that plays into the still-popular small-plates trend. The restaurant nicely blends the romantic with the dramatics of  gourmet travel, says Bauer.

Details: 470 Pacific Avenue; 415/677-8986; www.mythsf.com

Foreign Cinema

Few restaurants appeal to such a wide spectrum of gourmet travel tastes as this Mission District haunt, asserts Bauer. Movies play on the wall in the covered patio, there’s an indoor fireplace for the city’s frequent cool nights, and a separate art gallery doubles as a private dining room. The simple French-Mediterranean cuisine showcases fresh, ingredient-driven cooking. Among Bauer’s must-tries: beef carpaccio with fried herbs, lavender-scented pork loin, and pearginger upside-down cake.

Details: 2534 Mission Street; 415/648-7600; www.foreigncinema.com

London

Richard Vines has spent many of his 53 years eating around the world while working for The Wall Street Journal Asia and The Times of London. He has reviewed  gourmet travel restaurants in Japan, Singapore, Thailand, India, Dubai, Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Scotland, Ireland, France, and Germany. The native Brit joined Bloomberg News in 1995, where he’s now a food critic in his hometown.

Le Caprice

Although one of the older restaurants in London, Le Caprice has been doing a solid job for decades, reports Vines. Small and intimate, this traditional  gourmet travel restaurant owned by Richard Caring is distinguished as much by its service as its food, both of which can be faultless. Vines’ top dishes include eggs Benedict, Mediterranean fish soup, squash risotto, and deep-fried haddock with minted pea puree.

Details: Arlington House, Arlington Street; 44-207/629-2239; www.le-caprice.co.uk

Scott’s

It’s hard to believe that a  gourmet travel restaurant dating to 1851 is one of London’s hot spots, but celebrities such as Elton John and Mick Jagger flock to this large, glamorous seafood restaurant with oak paneling and an onyx-topped oyster bar at the center. Among Vines’ favorites are scampi Provençal, roasted monkfish, Scottish rib steak with béarnaise sauce, and, for dessert, sloe-gin jelly in a martini glass with frosted berries and clotted cream.

Details: 20 Mount Street; 44-207/495-7309; www.scotts-restaurant.com

The Narrow

Earlier this year, chef Gordon Ramsay set aside fancy French cooking to open this small, stylish pub in the Limehouse area, which attracts the banking crowd from nearby Canary Wharf. There are fewer than 20 tables, so Vines suggests calling ahead to reserve a spot by the window for a great view of the river Thames. Though the celebrity chef is never there, says Vines, the English pub food is as good as you’d expect on on any gourmet travel itinerary. But don’t look for standard fish and chips: Swathed in a beer-and-vodka batter, the fish here is as light and crisp as tempura. Other London classics touted by Vines include “London particular,” a pea-and-ham soup; creamy soft herring roe; and potted crab with granary toast, fast becoming a signature dish.

Details: 44 Narrow Street; 44-207/592-7950; www.gordonramsay.com/thenarrow

Hong Kong

South China Morning Post food editor Susan Jung was born in Los Angeles into a family of Chinese-American food lovers. She worked as a pastry chef in several Hong Kong gourmet travel restaurants before signing on with the newspaper in 1997. With a print circulation of 100,000, the South China Morning Post is one of the city’s two English-language daily newspapers.

Yung KeeYes, it’s in every tourist guide, says Jung, but Yung Kee wouldn’t have survived for so long if it weren’t good. Always crowded, this  gourmet travel restaurant is famous for roast goose but many other dishes are equally delicious. Jung recommends succulent roasted goose livers, tea-smoked pork belly (which you’ll need to order 24 hours in advance), and seasonal dishes such as liver sausages or hairy crab roe with bean curd. Pei dan, also known as century or millennium eggs, are served to every diner. Connoisseurs agree that these eggs (usually duck eggs preserved by salting) are some of the best in town. Yung Kee’s history dates back 60 years, although not always in its present space, says Jung. It originally started as a dai pai dong (open-air street café), but today the restaurant occupies some of Hong Kong’s most expensive real estate, covering three stories, with a floor of private rooms and a members-only club. The ground floor level, for fast meals and solo diners, is loud and rushed; the upper floors are quieter and much more relaxed. 

Details: 32-40 Wellington Street, Central; 852/2522-1624; www.yungkee.com.hk

Xi Yan Tastes

Star chef Jacky Yu is the mastermind behind Xi Yan, one of Hong Kong’s most famous “private kitchens” – unlicensed restaurants usually hidden away in office buildings. To accommodate those who were unable to get into the original Xi Yan (which requires reservations several months in advance), Yu opened Xi Yan Tastes earlier this year. Jung says the chef’s newest restaurant, which seats about 50 in a contemporary Asian setting, serves classic Asian and fusion dishes such as smoked duck eggs and pickled ginger sorbet with century egg sauce and caramel. Alas, reservations are still recommended  – though only a day in advance.

Details: 2/F, Sharp Street East, Leighton Centre, Causeway Bay; 852/2881-6693; www.xiyan.com.hk

Tsim Chai Kee Noodle Shop

Mak’s Noodles Ltd. Wonton noodles are eaten for lunch, snacks, and light dinners in Hong Kong, and the wontons at these two restaurants attract fiercely loyal fans of  gourmet travel. Steps away from each other on the samestreet, Tsim Chai Kee Noodle Shop and Mak’s Noodles Ltd. have been rivals for most of their 15 years of existence. Jung suggests giving both a try and deciding for yourself. She adds these caveats: While Tsim Chai Kee’s portions are substantial and wontons are large and bursting with prawns, portions at Mak’s Noodles are much smaller, but the wontons are juicy and the broth deeply flavorful. Because both places are small, they really pack in diners elbow-to-elbow, and sharing tables or booths is part of the experience during busy periods. The menu at Tsim Chai Kee is limited to three toppings (the famous wonton, fish balls, and sliced beef) and a side dish of seasonal vegetables. The selection at Mak’s Noodles is slightly larger.

Details: Tsim Chai Kee: 98 Wellington Street, Central; 852/2850-6471Mak’s Noodles: 77 Wellington Street, Central; 852/2854-3810

Sydney

Currently the chief restaurant and  gourmet travel reviewer for The Sydney Morning Herald, Simon Thomsen has also served as coeditor of the Good Food Guide, the Australian version of the Michelin Guide, for four years. A former chef and waiter, Thomsen has been writing about gourmet travel, food and restaurants for numerous publications for more than a decade.

Bilson’s Restaurant

Chef Tony Bilson has stood tall among the giants of cooking in Sydney for more than 30 years. An unabashed Francophile, Bilson upholds French standards for fine dining, and his eponymous restaurant, opened in 2003, is the closest you’ll get to great French dining Down Under without hopping on a plane. His nine-course fine bouche menu shows the depth and breadth of the chef’s powers, with sexy starters such as aromatic lobster tartlet and spinach mousseline anchored by kombu seaweed poached in lobster stock. “Few understand and demonstrate the symbiosis of food and wine (and art) with such brilliance,” says Thomsen. This is  gourmet travel dining at its formal finest, in a “spacious room with damask-clad tables made all the more beautiful by Bilson’s art collection.”

Details: Radisson Plaza Hotel, 27 O’Connell Street; 61-02/8214-0496; www.bilsons.com.au

The Bentley Restaurant and BarThe Sydney Morning Herald’s best new restaurant of 2006 “remains one of the city’s most interesting and exciting restaurants,” says Thomsen. Consider this example of chef Brent Savage’s intriguing food and wine pairing: Gazpacho Three Ways, a trio of chilled soups the color of traffic lights served in small glasses. There’s a green basil version, creamy almond, and, finally, capsicum and tomato. Matched with a riesling, “It’s not just an education; it’s symbolic of the attention to detail invested here,” says Thomsen. This heritage pub’s interior design has a sassy retro look, with chipboard and plywood finishes and a charcoal banquette that runs down the center, separating diners from drinkers at the long, spirits-laden bar. 

Details: 320 Crown Street, Surry Hills; 61-02/9332-2344; www.thebentley.com.au

Sean’s PanaromaThough Sydney is enamored of newness and glitz, Sean’s on Bondi Beach proves that the best things don’t change. Since 1993, this laid-back, breezy room full of retro charm has been a perennial beachfront favorite. The short menu, scrawled on dangling blackboard slats, is simple and comforting. “In this deafeningly loud, modest wedge of a room with water views, you can eat some of the best food in the state,” Thomsen says. Among his picks: the signature festoni (long, flat, corrugated pasta) mixed with shredded arugula, house-made chili oil, and Parmesan; the squab salad; and roasted Barossa chook. Diners also love the cheeky and knowledgeable staff who enhance this gourmet travel experience. 

Details: 270 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach; 61-02/9365-4924; www.seanspanaroma.com.au

New York CityFor 15 years Ed Levine has been writing and talking about food in America’s quintessential food city for a variety of media, including The New York Times, Bon Appétit, Gourmet, Business Week, and NPR affiliate WNYC. The author of two books, New York Eats (St. Martin’s Press) and New York Eats (More) (St. Martin’s Griffin), Levine is also the founder of www.seriouseats.com, a website devoted to conversations about  gourmet travel, dining and food.

Peter Luger Steak HouseFounded in 1887, Peter Luger is the prototype for the American steak house. Known for its nearly two-inch-thick, dryaged porterhouse steaks, this always-busy place is short on atmosphere but very long on red meat. The menu is brief – “steak for one, two, three, or four,” lamb chops, salmon, plus legendary creamed spinach and steak sauce – but Levine says this a New York City must.

Details: 178 Broadway, Brooklyn; 718/387-7400; www.peterluger.com

Boqueria

In a city ordinarily known for dinner as theater in three acts, Boqueria exemplifies a freer form of  gourmet travel dining that elevates the tapas trend. Levine says the casual spot with café tables up front and a communal table in the back has become a symbol of the new, more relaxed and spontaneous way to dine in New York. Boqueria has the intimate feel and rustic look of a small tapas bar in Spain but, as a real sit-down eatery, can accommodate a larger crowd. Named after the famous Barcelona market, Boqueria is known for its adventurous but inexpensive list of Spanish wines. Among the dishes not to miss: fried quail eggs and chorizo on toast, chilled almond soup, fried anchovies, boar terrine, suckling pig, and crema Catalana clásica.

Details: 53 West 19th Street (Avenue of the Americas); 212/255-4160; www.boquerianyc.com

Totonno’s Pizzeria NapolitanoThe original pizzeria opened on Coney Island in 1924, and today it’s said to be the country’s oldest pizza parlor run continuously by the same family. But you don’t have to go to Brooklyn to try these pies that, says Levine, many New Yorkers herald as the best in the city. Brick coal-fired ovens turn out the famous pies in a basic pizza-parlor atmosphere with tables close together and a cluttered bar. Don’t miss the signature white pizza made with mozzarella, pecorino Romano, and fresh garlic. Totonno’s Manhattan location offers a full menu in addition to the legendary pizza, including pasta alla Bolognese and veal marsala. The family is justifiably proud of its pizza. How proud? The website heralds a Zagat’s quote proclaiming, “Only God makes better pizza!” 

Details: 462 2nd Avenue; 212/213-8800; www.totonnos.com

Buenos Aires

Giorgio Benedetti, publisher of Argentina’s widely respected wine magazine En Primeur, has written for the last ten years about wine and gourmet travel  for publications in Buenos Aires and Argentina, including El Cronista Comercialnewspaper and several regional magazines. He’s served as a tasting judge at numerous wine competitions, and travels extensively in his quest for “new flavors.”

Oviedo RestauranteThis venerable restaurant reflects the European roots of Buenos Aires cuisine, offering “excellent Spanish food” in plain yet elegant surroundings, says Benedetti. Known as much for a distinguished clientele as its menu, Oviedo specializes in suckling pig. Other delights: raw oysters (enjoy with a small glass of dry sherry), scallops, squid-ink paella, and Norwegian cod. Ask for a tour of the caves that house the wine cellar, hidden behind a trap door just inside the entrance and offering labels from around the world. Benedetti says the warm lighting and rich decor make dining here a relaxing gourmet travel experience. Service is excellent, and so is the English spoken by the staff. 

Details: Beruti 2602, Palermo Viejo; 54-11/4821-3741; www.oviedoresto.com.ar

Casa CruzAn impeccable restaurant in the fashionable Palermo neighborhood, Casa Cruz has been famed for its lively bar scene since opening in 2004. Enter through imposing, polished-brass doors, and don’t let the lack of a sign deter you. Once inside, the dark, modern interior has the feel of a nightclub where, says Benedetti, “fashion models, celebrities, and cool businessmen wander around as if it were their own living room.” But they come for the eclectic menu as much as the scene. Chef Germán Martitegui’s “urban Argentine cuisine” (distinctive because of its strong resemblance to European cookery rather than other Latin American cuisines) is at once “refined and explosive,” says Benedetti. Do not miss the warm oysters and provolone soufflés, he recommends, or the potato and black pudding gnocchi.

Details: Uriarte 1658, Capital Federal; 54-11/4833-1112; www.casa-cruz.com

La Brigada

Argentina is a carnivore’s paradise, and nothing is more Argentine than a grill house or parrilla. Owner Hugo Echevarrieta presides over his restaurant with an orchestral conductor’s aplomb and a surgeon’s eye for detail. Steaks are big enough to serve four, especially the 30-ounce rib eyes. Benedetti says the best choices are theasado (short rib roast), lomo (sirloin steak prepared with a mushroom or pepper sauce), and mollejas de chivito al verdero (young goat sweetbreads in a scallion sauce). The  gourmet travel  gourmet travel, menu also includes venison and buffalo, and the local wine list, says Benedetti, is excellent. With the sounds of tango in the air, dining rooms on two levels are characterized by whitewashed walls and crisp linens, while gaucho memorabilia adds a regional motif.

Details: Estados Unidos 465, San Telmo, Distrito Federal; 54-11/4361-5557; www.labrigada.com

Mexico City

Ceci Connolly, a staff writer with The Washington Post for the past decade, now writes about food and culture from Mexico City. A true foodie and reformed political reporter, Connolly began filing restaurant listings in her Palm Pilot during several hungry years on the campaign trail. In addition to the Post, her articles have appeared in Every Day with Rachael Ray and Inside Mexico magazines.

Contramar

Chauffeur-driven cars line up outside Contramar, which combines a funky, slightly mod decor with the traditional rites of comida, Mexico’s late-afternoon marathon meal. Reservations at peak hours (after 2 pm) are snared by embassy types and corporate executives, so Connolly suggests arriving at 1:30 when the doors open. Waiters display plates of giant raw clams and offer buttery Chilean sea bass or the signature pescado a la talla Contramar – a butterflied red snapper garnished with chile and parsley sauces in the colors of the Mexican flag.

Details: Durango 200, Colonia Roma; 52-55/5514-3169; www.contramar.com.mx

Aguila y SolThis elegant dining room embodies the ultrachic vibe of the swanky Polanco neighborhood (think Rodeo Drive en español). Connolly says chef-owner Marta Ortiz Chapa is the hippest thing going on the capital’s power-dining scene. Now ensconced in larger, airier digs, Aguila y Sol has an impressive wine list and a menu imbued with flashy variations on classic Mexican themes. Connolly recommends the fall-off-the-bone duck in a rich, dark mole sauce, and says the enormous appetizer sampler serves a crowd. Thoughtful touches with style: Water glasses are garnished with star fruit, and meals end with a selection of on-the-house sweets. Watch out for the chile-infused tidbits, Connolly warns: They’re delicious but dangerous.

Details: Avenida Molière 42; 52-55/5281-8354

El TajinAn off-the-beaten-path gem, El Tajin is tucked inconspicuously into the Veracruz Cultural Center in the southern neighborhood of Coyoacán, famed as the home of Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés, as well as Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. Connolly says chef Alicia Gironella De’Angeli is considered Mexico’s leading advocate of the “slow food” movement, and “her graceful creations make you want to slow down to savor each element.” Start with the perfectly balanced lime soup, or try the edible squash flowers highlighted in many dishes. Ask for a table on the veranda, which overlooks the garden. 

Details: Miguel Angel de Quevedo 687, Colonia Coyoacán; 52-55/5659-5759

by: Dotty Griffith

Remember if you want to live well and travel more let our agents at LuxeTravelDeals 1-866-365-8747 take the worry out of planning your next gourmet travel vacation for you. Contact us at concierge@luxetraveldeals.com

Filed Under: Food & Wine, Luxury Travel Tagged With: , , , , ,

Our luxury travel agency brings you the top 10 exotic places for your destination weddings

10/12/2010 By

Destination Weddings

Couples deserve special treatment at their own destination weddings.

In this luxury travel agency, we believe that loving couples should travel well, and live well while they do. 

These are our favorite romantic interludes for destination weddings.

They all specialize in providing the most exceptional treatment that romantic partners both deserve.

Destination Weddings1. Romance is never far away at Wakaya Club & Spa in the exotic Fiji Islands. Lovers have gathered here for destination weddings and intimate honeymoons for years. Celebrate your relationship on this privately owned island that is at peace with nature too.

2. The legendary One&Only Palmilla on the tip of the Baja Peninsula across the Sea of Cortez from Mexico provides a perfect place to pledge undying love for ever under gently swaying palms.

3. Elegant tradition lives on at Mystique on Greece’s classic Santorini Island. Brides and grooms often both wear white as they pledge their love to each other on a stunning terrace overlooking the deep blue Aegean Sea. Memories of stunningly romantic moments like these last forever.

4. In the Caribbean Sea, Caneel Bay, St John offers vibrantly exciting spots in which to exchange wedding rings. Later, bridal couples often stroll along endless sandy beaches while they treasure the precious moments of special times together in their beautiful destination weddings.

Destinations Weddings5. Halekulani means house befitting heaven, and you will find your piece of heaven on Waikiki Beach, Honolulu too. Top architects spared no expense when they designed their wedding chapel. When ready, you could retire from the wedding reception to a luxury suite truly built for stars.

6. On exclusively private Necker Island nestling in the British Virgin Isles you could honeymoon forever in turquoise waters edged by coral reefs.

7. Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita on Riviera Maya offers perfectly pampered wedding moments in the context of a genuinely luxury resort. Honeymoon suites have outdoor showers and private plunge pools for those destination weddings special moments.

8. At Florida Keys, Little Palm Island Resort waits to pleasure you in an intimate island atmosphere. You could spend all day and night in the comfort of your thatched luxury bungalow, go kayaking in calm waters, or just soak up the sun in twin floating lounge chairs together.

Destination Weddings9. Marival Residences at Riviera Nayarit Mexico is perfect for romantic couples who want a slice of the action too. After a hectic day exploring and a spell of late night partying, you could relax a while together at their amazing World Spa.

10. Zoetry Agua Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic is a quintessential desert-island hideaway complete with al-fresco wedding places, generous suites and a full-service luxury spa as well. You could also wander off barefoot along a sandy, palm-fringed beach building memories of true love that last forever.

Live well, travel more with the very best luxury travel agency. We are here to make sure that all our clients receive the best star treatment throughout their romantic interlude in their very own destination weddings.  You can reach us at concierge@luxetraveldeals.com.

Filed Under: Luxury Resorts, Luxury Travel, Romantic Getaways, Travel Guide Tagged With: , , , , ,

One&Only Palmilla is Calling

09/20/2010 By

palmilla

The One&Only Palmilla a Romantic getaway like no other.

On the southernmost point on the Californian Baja Peninsula, One&Only Palmilla basks in the sunlight waiting for you. It is the perfect complement to your own all inclusive travel dreams and longings.  Azure waters of the Sea of Cortez caress a green heaven on the fringes of a desert.  Out to sea whales cavort beyond waves breaking upon a spectacular shore.

Where else can you find such a perfect place to spend a romantic weekend or a perfect family holiday?

The One & Only Palmilla in Mexico has it all.

The architecture of the Palmilla is in the style of Old Mexico. Beach Front suites are directly on the shore where a personal butler awaits your bidding.  Would you like a refreshing drink? Ocean Front suites have spectacular cliff-top views, while the exclusive Villa Cortez boasts traditional hacienda-style detailing that includes stone-patterned floors, venetian plaster detail and wood-beamed ceilings.  Services throughout are comprehensive, and impeccably delivered. Superlatives here seem almost trite.

Dining experiences in other luxury resorts pale by comparison with One & Only Palmilla.

Everything, from the simplest flaky Mexican Empanada served in your suite to a full-blown infusion of Mexican-Mediterranean cuisine creates fresh standards by which to judge other chefs in other kitchens. Special diets are arranged by prior request, and a full room service is available day and night. Destination weddings involving famous personalities are frequent here.

The old-world charm and gracious hospitality of Mexico is the theme of every One & Only Palmilla team member’s heart. Welcoming smiles greet you on every corner, and you feel like a Star at every turn. Luxury travel agents LuxeTravelDeals request the privilege of according you the special Virtuoso deals that previously just the rich and famous enjoyed. These include a complementary fourth evening, and resort, spa and other discounts too.

Let our experts at Luxe Travel Deals plan your next vacation to the One and Only Palmilla.

Filed Under: All Inclusive, Luxury Resorts, Luxury Travel, Romantic Getaways Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Las Ventanas al Paraíso

09/15/2010 By

You enter into Paradise itself when you arrive at Las Ventanas al Paraíso in Los Cabos, Mexico.  This Ty Warner resort has redefined what luxury travel really means in terms of pampered pleasure. World class facilities at this groundbreaking Mexican desert resort include generous suites, a luxury spa, brilliant cuisine and an ambiance that makes you feel that you are floating on a cloud.

All  Las Ventanas al Paraíso luxury suites are generous and boast conchuela limestone tiles and gleaming marble  showers, plus every other modern convenience too. After a day of sunshine, partying or exploring you  could light a fire, gaze at shimmering stars or be lulled to gentle sleep by the timeless rhythm of the  restless waves.

It is never easy to capture the spirit of a place like this in so few words. Whether you are looking for a  perfect  all inclusive family holiday in Mexico or a romantic break for two, Las Ventanas al Paraíso is definitely for  you. The resort awaits you – you will definitely return.

The Dining Room features magical views of the Sea of Cortez and a sunbathed swimming pool outside. Mediterranean Mexican décor complements tables set with hand painted local crockery until replaced with Bernardaud for a sumptuous evening meal. Master Chefs blend Baja cooking with legendary Mediterranean foods.

Famous personalities and movie stars love Las Ventanas al Paraíso in Los Cabos, Mexico because of the many exciting things to do like swimming in the warm ocean, yachting and wind surfing, taking excursions out into the mysterious desert, or enjoying a round of golf at the private links. The Resort Spa offers an unrivaled opportunity to spoil yourself with holistic therapies, healing rituals and native remedies from Baja, Mexico.

Staff at Las Ventanas al Paraíso have one goal in mind, and that is to make every single guest as much a  Star as are the rich and famous personalities who frequent this fine resort.  You and your family deserve a break like  this.

Why not speak to luxury travel agents LuxeTravelDeals about sharing this Las Ventanas al Paraíso experience soon?  They will arrange a great deal for you, including exclusive Virtuoso amenities.

Filed Under: All Inclusive Tagged With: , , , , ,