Government tourist Boardstravel health update luxury traveleco-adventure hotspotshot Beach destinationsGroups & meetinGsshoppinG & dininG tipstop Golf and spa Getawaysoperators & more

Special Travel Supplement

2010

HOLA!

mexico – Back & Better than ever

Dear Travel Agent,

On behalf of the Mexico Tourism Board, we thank GSA for publishing the 2010 edition of Hola Mexico! This has been an incredibly challenging year for tourism in Mexico. We have faced extraordinary difficulties such as the H1N1 virus outbreak and the downturn in the world economy. Our ability to come back better than ever has been put to the test, and we have succeeded. The number of tourists visiting Mexico has been on the rise since May, and we are optimistic about this winter season.

Mexico will be simply irresistible to your clients, thanks to the increased frequency of departures that airlines and tour operators will introduce this season. The travel industry fully supports Mexico and has worked with us to launch an aggressive promotional campaign in Canada called “Time to Go,” remind-ing Canadians that “all the things that make Mexico magical remain the same.” Needless to say, Canada is Mexico’s fastest growing international market. We are therefore committed to welcoming Canadian visitors with the same warmth and hospitality as before. This achievement is due in part to your efforts. We truly appreciate your support in recommending Mexico to your clients.

In Canada, Mexico has three tourism offices work-ing on your behalf to give you the tools, advice and support to sell our destinations. Our strategy is to offer useful seminars and training programs about our destinations and products. We take part in the major travel agents’ events and trade shows, and work very closely with ACTA to ensure all your needs are met. In addition, we are implementing marketing and public relations initiatives to improve Mexico’s image in Canada as a safe and welcoming destination. Efforts are also being made in Mexico to ensure your clients make the best of their vacation.

You can look forward to seeing great offers for hotels, flights, packages and tours to Mexico this winter sea-son. We are betting on Canada to break its record for the number of visitors to Mexico, and truly hope you will rely on us to help achieve this objective.

Sincerely,

Daniel Gutierrez Director-Western CanadaMexico Tourism Boardwww.visitmexico.com

3

essential infoGeoGraphyMexico is located in the northern region of the American continent between the Gulf of Mexico on the east and the Pacific Ocean on the west. It is bordered by the United States on the north and by Guatemala and Belize on the south. Mexico’s land area extends 1,964,375 sq. km, divided into six tourist regions.

northern mexicoKnown for its extreme weather condi-tions and characterized by its deserts, nature reserves and rugged mountain ranges. Some cities in the region are key industrial and business centers.

central mexicoMexico’s heartland offers plenty of natu-ral surroundings, picturesque towns full of life and color, and beautiful colonial cities, some of which have been declared World Heritage sites.

southern mexico and the GulfLined with the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean, this region offers an abundance of marshes, mangrove swamps and forests, all of which are ideal for ecotourism outings and exciting outdoor adventures.

the yucatanThe gateway to the Mayan world offers white-sand beach resorts, the blue wa-ters of the Caribbean Sea, and world-class scuba diving along the world’s second largest coral reef. Swimming in fresh water pools in submerged caverns, known as cenotes, is also popular.

the pacific coastThis region contains cities and towns with rich cultural and culinary traditions, as well as some of the best beaches for water sports like surfing and fishing.

Baja californiaOne of Mexico’s top destinations, PV offers 25 miles of golden beaches on the Mexican Pacific, and is characterized by its impressive colonial and modern buildings, deluxe hotels, shopping malls and golf courses.

climateMexico’s rainy season runs from May through October. During September and October, Mexico’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts are vulnerable to hur-ricanes. While the northwestern region of Mexico is arid, the climate of the southeastern coast is tropical due to sur-rounding warm waters.

communicationsCell phone access is available in all the main cities, tourist destinations, resorts and along major roads. The level of coverage and international charges vary according to service provider. Pay phones require phone cards, easily purchased at kiosks and hotel gift shops. Many hotels offer Internet access in their business centres, and many cities have Internet cafes that charge reason-able fees. Wireless (inalambica) access is rapidly increasing.

4

airportsMajor international airports with frequent connections to Canadian and U.S. gateways are located in Mexico City, Cancun, Guadalajara, Puerto Val-larta, Los Cabos, Monterrey, Cozumel, Mazatlán, Leon, Acapulco, and Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo.

transportation Deluxe buses available to major destina-tions offer amenities such as air condi-tioning; snacks and soft drinks; movies; roomy, reclining seats with footrests; and often on-board attendants. Most cities have excellent inner city bus systems and taxi transportation.

disaBled accessMexico is gradually improving access for travellers with physical limitations. Keep in mind that because of their historic value, some archaeological sites cannot add disabled access features. All inter-national and Mexican hotel chains meet international accessibility standards.

meetinG and convention planninGThe Mexico Convention Bureau (MCB) is a specialized area within the Mexico Tourism Board that serves the needs of the MICE segment. The MCB can help plan, promote ad develop your event. Its network of local CVBs and major suppliers nation-wide can provide all the information and contacts for staging a successful event. Make MCB your first stop for meetings and convention plan-ning at www.visitmexico.com

resort’s yacht to the beautiful island of Isla Mujeres, where they can swim with dolphins, explore Mayan ruins, enjoy turquoise waters, gourmet dining and more.

las alamandas - Costa Alegre, JaliscoLocated midway between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo along Mexico’s famed Costalegre coast, this Luxury Boutique Resort has 14 suites in 6 villas and offers romantic getaways, family vacations, and destination weddings.

Banyan tree mayakoBa - Riviera Maya A harmonious blend of nature and luxury, the new 5 star Banyan Tree Mayakoba takes high-end resort living to a new level of exclusivity with the first all-pool villa resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico. Guests can enjoy the lush green surroundings and bird watching.

camino real cluB and suites - Mexico CityThe only complete resort hotel in Mex-ico City is conveniently located within easy walking distance from Chapultepec Park and the city’s main museums.

capella pedreGal - Cabo San LucasThis intimate, modern beach resort offers seclusion and sophistication just steps away from the excitement of downtown Cabo San Lucas. Guests can enjoy their own private beach, where every room has a picture-perfect view of the ocean.

chihuahua/copper canyonGateway to the awe-inspiring Copper Canyon, with six major gorges and myriad opportunities for adventure, Chihuahua State’s capital is a destination in its own right. Visitors can stroll the old plaza and visit the Churrigueresque cathedral, several worthwhile galleries and the wonderful Pancho Villa museum at Quinta Luz.

premium properties

Grand velas all suites & spa resort - Nuevo VallartaThis ultra-luxury, all-inclusive resort and member of The Leading Hotels of the World offers 493 Suites. Experience adventure, beaches, golf, romance, spa and wellness.

hotel villa rolandi thalasso - Isla Mujeres This boutique resort and member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World offers 35 rooms & suites. Guests arrive on the

5

Mexico offers many of the high-end attractions sought by luxury travellers, including world-class golf, secluded spas, boutique hotels, beautifully restored haciendas, and yachting.

From the Riviera Maya to glamorous Pacific Mexico destinations like Punta Mita and the Costa Alegre, secluded luxury hotels and villas occupy pristine secluded beaches and hillsides, af-fording both privacy and spectacular ocean views. Inland, Mexico’s past comes alive in beautifully restored haciendas offering luxurious accom-modation and first class service.

In Mexico City, boutique hotels in fashionable, residential neighbour-hoods offer discerning guests relief from the traffic and crowds of tradi-

tional hotel zones. Getting to know Mexico’s luxury travel options may take some research, but the time spent will pay off in larger commissions, and most importantly, satisfied clients.

luxury hotelsMost international hotel brands present in Mexico have an upscale class of hotels within their repertoire. For example, “W” line by Westin, “JW Marriott” by Marriott, Le blanc for Pal-ace Resorts, and “Gran” for Sol Melia.

Other options include Mexico bou-tique Hotels (www.mexicoboutique-hotels.com) and Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Luxury Collection (www.starwoodhotels.com/luxury).

luxury travel

mexico’s Biosphere reservesSites considered significant for their natural beauty are protected in a variety of ways, ranging from nature sanctuaries of local importance to protected areas, national parks and internationally recog-nized UNESCO biosphere reserves. Here are a few of the most popular:

El Vizcaíno (Baja California Sur): desert, mountain and coastal/marine ecosys-tems, petroglyphs, wall paintings and Grey whales.Islas Marietas (Nayarit): a biodiverse archipelago of islands with a rich mix of marine species, corals and landforms.Las Tuxtlas (Veracruz): a beautiful jungle-covered volcanic region, with vestiges of pre-Hispanic archeology.Monarch butterfly migration sites (Michoacán and State of México): unique annual migration links Mexico to Canada and the U.S.Huatulco (Oaxaca): coastal reserve pro-tecting endangered sea turtles, dolphins and purple snails.Sian Ka’an (Quintana Roo): extensive barrier reef system on Caribbean coast, with many archaeological sites and over 4,000 plant species. El Cielo (Tamaulipas): one of the most ecologically rich and diverse parts of Mexico; numerous endangered animal species; ecotourism area.

the copper canyon (www.mexicoscoppercanyon.com)The canyons, plateaus, waterfalls and rivers of this spectacular region four times larger than the Grand Canyon in the southwestern part of the state of Chihuahua are ideal for trekking, moun-tain biking, horseback riding, hunting, rock climbing and rappelling. Visitors can also explore by train along the Chihuahua Al Pacifico Railroad (www.chepe.com.mx), which runs along the main canyon between Chihuahua and Los Mochis, on the Gulf of California. The Parque Nacional Barranca del Cobre (Copper Canyon National Park) show-cases this remote area. yucatan and campeche (www.mayayucatan.com.mx)Featuring some of Mexico’s most fascinating ecosystems inhabited by hundreds of species of birds, crocodiles, turtles, fish, reptiles and a wide variety of plant life, this lush region adjacent

to Cancun and the Mayan Riviera offers scuba diving, kayaking, fishing, camping and horseback riding on the beach or in the jungles. Visitors can also explore the Celestun and Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserves and the Ria Lagartos Sanctuary, home to thousands of pink flamingoes.

Baja california (www.baja.com)Desert, sea, and mountains converge in this peninsula to create an extraordinary landscape unlike anywhere else in the world. Activities include fishing, whale watching, scuba diving, windsurfing near Ensenada, hiking in the Xalapa region and rock climbing in lush Cofre de Perote National Park. Baja’s only transport route is the long highway running down the whole pen-insula from Tijuana to Cabo San Lucas (Carretera Peninsular). Flights connect Tijuana to Loreto, La Paz and Los Cabos, and a few small airports along the penin-sula with private charter flights.

6

With 22 biosphere reserves, 47 national parks and nine protected areas, Mexico has much to offer in ecotourism. The country’s rich natural resources, geo-graphic location and biodiversity make

it an excellent territory to explore by train, on foot, on horseback, in a kayak or via camping and mountain climbing. Top eco-adventure regions include the following:

adventure & eco-tourism

tour operators

In addition to servicing the major gateways in Western Canada, Transat Holidays offers direct service from Kelowna and Victoria to Puerto Vallarta and Cancun, and from Abbotsford and Comox to Puerto Vallarta with newly added service to Cancun as well. Departures from Vancouver and Calgary to Manzanillo with Transat Holidays are scheduled again this year, as are depar-tures to Ixtapa with Nolitours. Service to Cancun has also been

increased with 6 flights a week from Vancouver and 5 flights from Calgary and Edmonton. Transat Holidays product line up is filled with Canadian favorites and the ever-popular Bahia Principe, Palladium and Barcelo chains. Nolitours’ Mexican product has been improved this season with the addition of The Iberostar & Palace Resorts in Cancun and the Riviera Maya. www.transatholidays.com & www.nolitours.com

The 4+ star all inclusive Ocean Coral resort caters to a wide range of clientele. Relaxed vacationers will enjoy the full ser-vice Spa & Wellness Centre. Active travellers can participate in a variety of non-motorized watersports. Families will appreci-ate the children’s’ mini-club, as well as spacious family suites. And with 6 restaurants, there is always something to please every palate. As a bonus, everyone booking a Family Suite

receives a range of VIP club services. Guests also enjoy easy access to Cancun nightlife, Playa Del Carmen, the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza and the Xcaret Eco-Park. Signature Vacations offers all inclusive package vacations departing from Toronto, Ottawa, Halifax, St. Johns, Moncton, Montreal, Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon, Calgary, Vancouver, Edmonton, Victoria and Kelowna. www.signaturevacations.com

Air Canada Vacations now has ten flights from Western Canada to Mexico for the 2009-2010 winter season. With weekly non-stop flights to Cancun from Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and Winnipeg, to Ixtapa / Zihuatanejo, Puerto Vallarta and the colourful Los Cabos from Vancouver and Calgary, travellers wishing to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Mexico and get a

taste of the local culture can reach their sunny destination in under five hours. All Air Canada Vacations Air & Hotel pack-ages include roundtrip airfare, hotel accommodation, transfers to and from hotels at destination, convenient connector fares from 65 Canadian cities and Aeroplan Miles that travellers can earn or redeem. www.aircanadavacationacom

This season, Westjet Vacations offers more of Mexico, more often, with even more choices on holiday packages, includ-ing 40 non-stop flights per week with packages to Cabo San Lucas, Cancun, Ixtapa, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta. Western Canada departures are available from Abbotsford,

Comox, Kelowna, Prince George, Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary, Edmonton, Regina, Sasktatoon and Winnipeg. Connections from other Westjet departure cities are also available. www.westjetvacations.com

Total Vacations has expanded its extensive program to Mexico this season to include non-mainstream travel destinations through a program it calls ‘Off The Beaten Path’. Featuring unique hotels, colonial cities and rich cultural experiences, the program covers regions like Miochoacan, Puebla, Guanajuato, Queretaro, Oaxaca, Yucatan, Jalisco, Veracruz and Sinaloa.

Agents can build their on package with hotels, escorted tours, car rentals and cultural experiences. They pay a minimum of 15% commission on all land product and they offer air nets with Mexicana, Alaska Airlines and Westjet. 1-800-769-4147 or www.totalvacations.ca.

This winter, new Sunwing routes from Western Canada include Regina and Saskatoon to Puerto Vallarta. Others include Victoria and Comox to Cancun; Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton to Cancun and Puerto Vallarta; and Regina, Saskatoon and Winnipeg to Cancun. As always, the emphasis is on all-inclusives, with 90 available this season. All flights to Mexico from Western Canada are now aboard Sunwing

Airlines, which offers all passengers Elite service, including champagne, hot towel service, choice of hot meals and complimentary in-flight entertainment. Sunwing Club hotels offer everything from advance reservations at the a la carte restaurants to a complimentary arrival gift of fruit and wine or rum. www.sunwing.ca

transat holidays & nolitours

siGnature vacations

air canada vacations

westjet vacations

total vacations

sunwinG vacations

8

TAXI CANADA INC495 Wellington Street WestSuite 102, TorontoON M5V 1E9T: 416 979 7001F: 416 979 7626

CLIENT WestJet WJV101034AB_I_Nov2.GSA.indd

APPROVALS

CREATED 13/10/2009CREATIVE TEAM

TRIM 8.167" x 10.75" CREATIVE N/A ACCOUNT Terri H

LIVE 7" x 10.3" MAC ARTIST P/U KrisH, HeatherM PRODUCER Marsha W (ext. 33)PROOFREADER

BLEED 8.4167" x 11" INSERTION DATE(S) 02/11/2009 AD NUMBER WJV101034AB_I PRODUCER

COLOURS CYANI MAGENTAI YELLOWI BLACKI STUDIO

PUBLICATION(S) GSA – Hola Mexico Guide – November 2, 2009CLIENT / ACCOUNT MANAGER

All colours are printed as process match unless indicated otherwise. Please check before use. In spite of our careful checking, errors infrequently occur and we request that you check this proof for accuracy. TAXI’s liability is limited to replacing or correcting the disc from which this proof was generated. We cannot be responsible for your time, film, proofs, stock, or printing loss due to error.

*Seasonal service begins November 2009 and is subject to change.

WestJet Vacations offers over 40 non-stop* fl ights a week with packages to Cabo San Lucas, Cancun, Ixtapa, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta.

Book your clients for travel from across Western Canada including Abbotsford, Comox, Kelowna, Prince George, Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary, Edmonton, Regina, Saskatoon and Winnipeg. Connections from other WestJet departure cities also available.

Book today at westjetvacations.com or call us at 1 877 737 7002.WestJet Vacations is now available on SIREV.

More Mexico, more often. Now we offer even more choices on Mexico packages.

WJV101034AB_I_Nov2.GSA.indd 1 10/16/09 1:59:18 PM

eco paraiso - Celestún, Yucatan Nestled on a 3-mile virgin beach in the Yucutan, Hotel Eco Paraiso Xixim offers 15 spacious, attractively-furnished bungalows, each overlooking the em-erald green Gulf of Mexico. The hotel was designed to meet strict ecological standards while providing a unique experience with nature in a relaxed yet stimulating environment. (www.ecoparaiso.com) Genesis retreat - Ek Balam, Yucatan Built with nature and animal lovers in mind, this eco resort’s lush gardens include fish-stocked ponds, waterfalls and a cenote-fed swimming pool. In-digenous and hybrid plants and flowers attract an array of birds and butterflies and provide a haven for a number of rescued birds including a toucan, and two species of Amazon parrots. (www.genesisretreat.com) marana Beach - near Puerto VallartaA one-hour boat ride from Puerto Val-larta, this resort offers adventure travel and an idyllic tropical beach escape. 12 ecological, self-contained, beach front rental bungalow accommodations stretch along a secluded beach and gorgeous seaside. (www.maranabeach.com)

las cañadas - Huatusco, Veracruz This private reserve of 756 acres features one of the few remaining cloud forests in the central region of the state of Ve-

racruz. Eco-tourism groups are kept very small to guarantee that the visitor gains an excellent quality of experience and to make a minimal impact on the ecosys-tem. (www.bosquedeniebla.com.mx)

hotel akumal cariBe - Akumal, Quintana Roo Located just 70 kms south of the Cancun airport and resort area, this secluded hideaway is the definition of getting away from it all. In addition to a world of diving and water sports, Akumal of-fers jungle walks, exotic bird and wildlife photography and nearby ancient Mayan cities. (www.hotelakumalcaribe.com)

rancho encantado - Bacalar, Quintana RooThis tropical haven for ecologically minded, culturally curious travellers is located near the border of Belize. Features include archaeological excur-

sions, birding, lakeside tranquility and beautiful private casitas. (www.encantado.com)

hotel las palapas - Playa Del Carmen, Quintana Roo Located directly on the beach, along Playa del Carmen’s famous Fifth Avenue and next to Mamita’s Beach Club, this popular hotel offers guests uncrowded white sand beaches, ocean breezes sweeping through palm trees, emerald green Caribbean waters, and Playa del Carmen’s famous European style.

Perfect for nature lovers, this luxurious hideaway’s commitment to the environ-ment means that only about 20% of the its land is developed, leaving the rest as dense jungle vegetation and lush tropical gardens. It also has a water and energy saving program and recycles most of its refuse.(www.laspalapas.com)

top mexican eco resorts

10

eco adventure sellinG tips Things to keep in mind when selling Mexico’s eco-adventure experience:- Is the area easily accessed from an airport?

- Can the site be sold with other Mexico attractions (beaches, ar-chaeology, colonial cities, etc.)?

- Are there guided tours available, and is special permission needed

to enter the site? - Is the site primitive, or are there developed facilities?

- What will weather likely be at time of visit?

- Do your clients want sightseeing, such as bird watching and geol-ogy. Or do they prefer hard-core adventure, like whitewater rafting or jungle exploring?

Riu Emerald Bay�����

All-Inclusive • Ocean View RoomOnly from Sunquest

$797+ $263 tax

Mon., Dec. 7, 7 nts.

El Cid Granada����

All-Inclusive • Studio$887+ $263 tax

Mon., Dec. 7, 7 nts.

Pueblo BonitoEmerald Bay

����+No Meals • Junior Suite

$907+ $263 taxMon., Dec. 7, 7 nts.

El Cid CastillaBeach Hotel

����+All-Inclusive • Ocean View Room

$947+ $263 taxMon., Dec. 7, 7 nts.

Located on Mexico’s Gold Coast, Mazatlan has long been a favourite destination for thoselooking to soak up the relaxed pace of life along the Pacific coast. Nicknamed the “Pearl of

the Pacific”, Mazatlan is in every respect a top-notch vacation getaway.

Departures from Vancouver, Calgary & Toronto

For more information please visit sunquestagent.caPrices reflect Vancouver departures. Prices are per person based on double occupancy and are subject to change without notice. BC Reg#2597-6. SQ23474

Riu Emerald Bay

23474 GSA Mazatlan_Nov2:Layout 10/22/09 4:11 PM Page 1

With over 450 beaches, Mexico offers a wide array of superb sun, sand and sea destinations bound to satisfy the tastes and needs of vacationers looking for luxury, exclusivity, fun, or a close encounter with nature. Whether your clients are looking for diverse marine landscapes, big wave surfing, world class sailing on calm waters or pure pampered relaxation, Mexico’s sensational sand and surf destinations deliver.Plus, the climate, vegetation and scenery at these coastal destinations vary in each region, allowing visitors to have unique experiences and distinct itineraries, whether you’re on vacation, a honey-moon, or visiting on business. Here are some of our favourites…

sensational sand & surf

12

north Beach - Isla MujeresJust a 30-minute boat ride from hectic Cancun your clients will find the picture of tropical perfection, with extremely wide beaches, white sand and calm waters safe for swimming, and perhaps best of all, the certainty that they are close to the action but still a world away.

loreto - BajaLocated north of Cabo, Loreto is a beach lovers paradise. Sand stretches forever both north and south of town the sand stretches out like beckoning fingers. For total seclusion, clients can ferry over to Isla Coronado, Isla Carmen and Isla Dan-zantes, which are full of hidden coves and white sand. Snorkellers and scuba divers will also love this area because the waters surrounding these islands are an underwater national park.

xpu-ha Beach- TulumA long stretch of pristine natural sugar-white sand near the famous ruins of Tulum, Xpu-ha is a great swimming and walking beach with a nice sandy bottom and some pretty coral formations just offshore.

maroma Beach - Playa del CarmenTucked in between the Yucatan jungle and the Caribbean at the base of the luxurious Orient-Express hotel, this sliver of sand is the epitome of tranquility. Col-orful corals and fish surround Maroma, making its gentle waters heaven for snorkeling.

chacala Beach - near Puerto VallartaMellow and still semi-wild, this peaceful crescent of postcard perfect sand border-ing the jungle also features a handful of small restaurants serving fresh fish as the waves lap the shore.

Bahias de huatulco - OaxacaTucked down in the state of Oaxaca and out on the coast is the largest ecologi-cal reserve designated by the Mexican government: 35 kilometers of coastline, with 10 bays and more than 35 beaches. Making it more unique is that while there’s a large undeveloped natural area, there’s also an infrastructure for travelers.

playa del amor - Cabo San LucasThis beach’s remote reach location adds to its charm: Your clients will need to hire a boat or kayak to get there. But it’s worth the extra effort to reach this spot where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, making it one of Mexico’s most dramatic sights.

folk dancinG From the Ballet Folklórico in Mexico City to the Ballet Folclórico in Guadalajara or the almost-nightly park dances in Mérida, Mexican folk dance events are diverse and colourful expressions of Mexican traditions.

fireworksMany local traditions surround fireworks, and every festival includes a display. The most lavish are the large constructions called castillos, and the wildest are the toros that men carry over their shoulders while running through the streets.

reGional fairsAlmost every city and town has its re-gional fair showcasing the region’s most interesting products, such as tequila or fruit liquors, livestock, carved silver, or clay handicrafts. One of the most popu-lar regional fairs is La Feria del Caballo in Texcoco, which takes place in late March or early April.

family travel Off the beautiful beaches of Ixtapa-Zi-huatanejo, on the Pacific coast, families go scuba diving or take a ride across the waves on a banana boat. Kids can also swim with dolphins in fabulous aquatic parks.

Near Merida, the state capital of Yu-catan, kids can explore sinkholes, haci-endas and Mayan archaeological zones. Another interesting family destination is Oaxaca, a cosmopolitan city with strong native traditions, which are reflected in its customs, crafts and contemporary art.

In the markets, the whole family can en-joy exquisite regional cuisine flavoured with pre-Hispanic influences. For his-tory and culture, Puebla is an excellent option, with its splendid architecture, including the Cathedral and the Palacio del Alfeñique.

13

plazas & parksAlive with people, these open spaces reflect the traditional Mexican view of society. The most popular plazas are Ver-acruz’s famous zócalo, featuring nonstop music, Oaxaca’s stunningly beautiful zócalo, Mexico City’s vast Alameda, San Miguel de Allende’s lush Jardín, and Mérida’s El Centro, which is hugely popular on Sundays.

música popularAuthentic Mariachi music can be heard in the famous Plaza de Garibaldi in Mex-ico City, under the arches of El Parián in Tlaquepaque, and in other parts of Guadalajara. Listening to romantic bole-ros sung to the strumming of a Spanish guitar is also an unforgettable experi-ence, as is catching performers playing cumbias, mambos and cha-cha-chas.

cultural experiences

Experience the glorious sunshine, beautiful beaches, amazing ancient ruins, colonial towns and modern cities!

All flight information is subject to change without notice. Complimentary glass of champagne, a choice of two hot meals and a glass of wine only available on flights operated by Air Transat. Nolitours and Transat Holidays are divisions of Tours Canada Inc. and are registered as a travel wholesalers in British Columbia (Reg. #24807 and #2454-4). The office is located at Suite 2800, 555 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 4N5.

GSA Travel Nov 3 (Hola Mexico).indd 56 10/27/09 9:32:07 AM

CanCun/RivieRa Maya departing

VancouVer 6 days a week

calgary, edmonton 5 days a week

winnipeg, regina 4 days a week

Victoria, kelowna, saskatoon 3 days a week

comox, abbotsford 1 day a week

PueRto vallaRta/RivieRa nayaRit departing

VancouVer 4 days a week

kelowna, calgary, regina,saskatoon, winnipeg 2 days a week

Victoria, comox,abbotsford, edmonton 1 day a week

Manzanillo departing

VancouVer, 1 day a week calgary, regina, saskatoon

iXtaPa departing

VancouVer, 1 day a week calgary

Cheers!Starting in December, we will be pleased to serve you a complimentary glass of champagne, a choice of two hot meals and a glass of wine on all our flights to

sun destinations*.

Enjoy your flight!

* except Florida

GSA Travel Nov 3 (Hola Mexico).indd 57 10/27/09 9:32:45 AM

los caBosWhen it comes to top-of-the-line golf courses, Los Cabos leads the pack. World-class options include the Jack Nicklaus designed courses at Cabo del Sol resort and the nearby Palmilla Golf Club, and the Robert Trent Jones-designed 36-hole course at the Cabo Real Golf Club.

manzanillo/ mazatlanThese two resorts are as popular for their fine courses as they are for sports fishing. Manzanillo’s Mantaraya is among the world’s finest courses. The El Cid resort in Mazatlan offers a 27-hole course designed by Lee Trevino. And the Estrella del Mar Beach Resort Complex offers a Robert Trent Jones-designed 18-hole championship course open to the public.

acapulcoThis long-time favourite family destina-tion combines quality-playing grounds with extraordinary nightlife. The Aca-pulco Princess and the Pierre Marques hotels share two 18-hole championship courses, as well as 18-hole courses at the Vidafel Mayan Palace, Tres Vidas Golf Course and the Diamante Country Club.

Quintana roo On the other side of the country in the heart of the Yucatan is the impressive El Cameléon course. A 7,000 yard Greg Norman creation, this course does an impeccable job combining the man-made with the natural. Its promoters note that the 18 holes wind through three different environments: mangrove forests, beaches, and hills.

Great GolfinG GetawaysMexico is an incredibly diverse country blessed with gorgeous golf locations that rival any in the world, from the stark beauty of Baja Cali-fornia set against the Sea of Cortez, to the deluxe courses in Puerto Val-larta. Even in the country’s interior, your clients can golf the wonderful traditional courses of Mexico City, Guadalajara and Morelos at eleva-

tions over 5,000 feet. There are more than 150 golf courses in Mexico designed by the world’s top architects like Nicklaus, Dye, Von Hagge, Weiskopf, and Jones. And the game attracts more American and Canadian golfers than any other international golf destina-tion. Here are some of our favourite courses.

cancun, cozumel & playa del carmenCancun offers three 18-hole courses, in-cluding Pok-Ta-Pok, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., the Caesar Park Beach & Golf Resort, and Hotel Melia Cancun´s executive course, boasting breathtak-ing ocean views. The island of Cozumel offers a spectacular Nicklaus-designed course carved into the lush mangroves and forest at the Cozumel Country Club.

costa aleGreThe Costa Alegre, the strip of the Pacific Coast from Manzanillo to Puerto Vallarta and the adjacent Nuevo Vallarta, offers superb golfing.Puerto Vallarta has two 18-hole courses, while nearby Nuevo Vallarta has the Four Seasons in Punta Mita, El Tigre, Isla Navidad in Manzanil-lo, El Tamarindo along the Costa Alegre, and the course designed by Percy Clif-ford at Los Flamingos Country Club.

16

wellness optionsResort/Hotel Spas: all of the amenities of a traditional vacation destination are found here, including a selection of spa services, programs and dining. Day Spas: most offer beauty, wellness and relaxation programs that may last a few hours, but don’t involve an overnight stay. Most offer a variety of services including relaxation, stress control, weight reduction, beauty treat-ments, exercise programs and tours. Upscale Spas: mini-resorts that offer resort facilities plus complete packages

focused on weight reduction, stress management, treatments, and body fitness. Examples include Hostería Las Quintas (Cuernavaca), Hacienda Cocoyoc (Cuatla) and Avándaro (Valle de Bravo). Spiritual Retreat Spas: focused on body and spirit wellness, with a New Age philosophy infused into fitness, diet, treatment, and meditation programs. Examples include Misión del Sol (Cuer-navaca), Punta Serena (Costa Alegre), Rancho La Puerta (Tecate). Mineral Water Spas: spas built around

natural mineral springs of varying water composition and temperature. Examples include Spa Ixtapan (Ixtapan de la Sal), Rancho Rio Caliente (Jalisco State), Hacienda Taboada (San Miguel de Allende). Hot Springs (balnearios): offering hot mineral water, mid-week tranquil-ity (weekends and holidays more crowded), and nearby rustic accommo-dations. Mexico has hundreds (if not thousands) of hot springs. Soak your bones and practice Spanish with the local folks.

sellinG mexican spas The biggest plus to your clients is that spas in Mexico are often dramatically less expensive than their U.S. counter-parts. Guests also have the opportunity to explore Mexico’s myriad of cultural, ecological, and historical attractions. Many packages include sightseeing excursions to nearby points of interest, as well as access to tennis, golf, and water sports.

More infoMEXSPA Cerro de la Estrella No. 3, Mexico City CP 04200 Tel. 52-55-9180-1700 Fax: 52-555-590-9270

Spas & Hotsprings of Mexico by Mike Nelson, Roads Scholar Press, 1998, www.mexicomike.com/books/mybooks.htm

With the spa market now the fourth largest leisure industry in the U.S., travel agents across North America are responding to more and more re-quests for a “spa vacation experience.” Spas in Mexico are at the forefront of the world movement toward indigenous treatments and the use of natural products. Thanks to the coun-try’s diverse climate and the unique characteristics of its waters, Mexican

spas offer many different treatments. Some, like temazcal steam baths, are applied using traditional and pre-Hispanic methods.

With the Mexicans’ affinity for mysti-cism along with an ancient tradition of natural healing, Mexico offers a unique approach to spa offerings in gorgeous settings.

just say spaaaaaaa

18

ACV transat

to dine for...

Mexican cuisine is much more than just tacos and burritos. Depending on the region, it can have similarities to Caribbean, Spanish and even East Indian cooking. In the coastal states—Yucatan, Campeche and Veracruz, for example—the emphasis is on fresh seafood (baby shrimp, Moro crab, squid, octopus, redfish and snapper).

The state of Michoacan is known for the tart-piquant flavors of such dishes as salpicon de res (shredded beef cooked with pickled serranos, cilantro and to-matoes) and corn cakes called corundas, and Oaxaca boasts a number of moles (sauces made with unusual combinations of ingredients such as chocolate, fruits, raisins, peanuts and pumpkin seeds) plus home-style quesillo (string cheese) and chocolate. Both states have out-standing cuisine.

Elsewhere, poultry, beef and pork dishes are featured. In Colima, try tatemado (pork baked in a clay pot over an open fire); in Tampico, try tampiquena (fillet of beef, usually with refried beans, fried tortilla chips and guacamole on the side). The basic bolillos (crispy bread rolls) and tortillas are magnificent because they’re usually prepared fresh daily.

Cancun restaurants feature a variety of international dishes and fresh seafood from the nearby waters, but if you head downtown, you’ll find more places to dine on typical Mexican fare and Yucate-can food.

In the Riviera Maya, there is something to please every palate, most of it beef, chicken and fish wrapped up in Conti-

nental cuisine. There’s also Argentinian, German, Swiss, Italian and a smattering of places serving regional cuisine. The unpretentious beach huts are some of the best bets for seafood. Beer & wineMexico arguably has the finest selection of beers (cerveza) of any country in the hemisphere. Favorites are Bohemia, Pací-fico, Noche Buena and Superior. Enjoy wine? Try L.A. Cetto, Casa de Piedra, Chateau Camou, Domecq, or Los Reyes brands. Most visitors are surprised to learn that Mexico has the Hemisphere’s oldest wine making heritage, originating in the 16th century. Now, a whole new generation of wine makers with interna-tional training is making its mark.

Winter… inMexicoWeekly, non-stop flights from western Canada

aircanadavacations.com/agents

Los Cabos

CalgaryEdmontonVancouverWinnipeg

Cancun/Riviera Maya

CalgaryVancouver

Puerto VallartaCalgaryVancouver

Ixtapa/ZihuatanejoCalgary

Vancouver

3236_GSA_Hola Mexico_151009__ 07/10/09 10:30 AM Page 1

19

meetinGs & Groups

attractive destinationsSelect from the quiet charm of colonial destinations, with their historical build-ings, fine regional cuisine and handicraft markets, to vibrant beach cities such as Cancún, Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta, which combine the best of sand and surf with a lively nightlife and great shop-ping. Looking for something a little quieter? Out-of-the-way destinations like Guana-juato, Mérida, Puebla, or Guadalajara offer an astonishing array of unique experiences. You’ll find archaeological wonders, eco parks, historic sites, and hidden retreats found nowhere else in the world.

uniQue attractionsMexico offers superb convention facili-ties, a solid visitor infrastructure, a wide variety of accommodations, and diverse event locations. You will find every-thing from modern convention hotels, oceanfront resorts and charming historic properties.

Many of Mexico’s smaller cities offer complete attractions with a distinctive setting - colonial towns are just one example. These well-preserved histori-cal treasures, many of them declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, offer full convention services, with accom-modations in lovingly restored colonial

mansions. The towns themselves are a delightful change of pace, and Mexico will capture the imagination of many a conventioneer.

After the work is done, Mexico offers up the best of its extensive gastronomy, great shopping, beautiful ecological preserves, adventure treks, all manner of sports and recreation, archaeological sites, and the allure of museums, galler-ies, art, architecture, and history.

ease of access In the air, service to Mexico from throughout North America has expand-ed dramatically since 1990. Convenient connecting and nonstop service from major international carriers makes the movement of large groups from multi-ple departure points much easier. While in Mexico, moving groups via Mexico’s domestic carriers allows group visitors to jump easily from city to city. On land, transportation companies pro-vide new luxury busses equipped with air-conditioning, luxury seats, on board video and other amenities. Thousands of miles of new highways and bridges, as well as a series of superhighways connecting the major cities ensure easy transit for groups of all sizes. Well main-tained buses, vans, and fleets of cars are ready and waiting with experienced drivers and bilingual guides.

first class servicesThe level of business services in the country has been raised exponentially . Many hotels have cutting edge commu-nications and business centers, comput-er-friendly rooms, extensive convention facilities, and more. Luxury properties boast executive floors as a matter of course, with private check-in, concierge service, secretarial services and separate lounges. “Smart” office buildings with high security, excellent telecommunica-tions and other business accoutrements are ready and waiting for meetings and business people.

help for planners The Mexico Convention bureau (MCb) is a specialized area within the Mexico Tourism board (MTb) created as a service unit to address the MICE Seg-ment. Mexico Convention Bureau 52 55 5278 4200 ext. 1500 meetings@visitmexico.com

20

Part of the allure of a great convention is its destination, and in Mexico you’ll find one to it your needs. Mexico’s popularity as a meetings, conventions and incentive travel destination has surged over the past 10 years. Since

1998, more than half a million square feet of convention and exposition space have been constructed throughout the country, from Mexico City to Mérida.

for

travelers· not tourists ·

Come and experience the essence of Mexico while enjoying our pristine beaches, rich local culture,

and of course, deliciously authentic cuisine. From Mexico’s largest aquarium to joyous local

festivals held throughout the year, there are always exciting experiences waiting for you. Explore

Mazatlán’s storied past at a wealth of historic sites and monuments found across this quaint city.

For more information and to book your reservations today, visit www.gomazatlan.com.

M73778_8.167x10.75_MAZT_GSATrvMag_P.indd 1 10/23/09 2:25:09 PM

hotels & resorts

Four locally owned Mazatlán El Cid resorts offer a signature brand of hospitality, thoroughly immersed in tradition, provid-ing your clients with truly authentic experiences. The cozy El Cid Granada Country Club hotel has quaint gardens and a secluded pool. The oceanfront El Cid Castilla Beach features a Kids and Teens Club, live dinner theatre and fabulous dining options. The El Cid El Moro Beach is in the centre of Mazatlán’s Golden Zone, and shares connecting pools with cascades, caves, rock

formations, swim-up bars, and water slides with the adjacent Castilla Beach. Finally, the premier El Cid Marina Beach Hotel is a secluded, waterfront destination perfect for romance and rediscovery. Personalize the perfect Mazatlán getaway for your clients - including world-class sport fishing, tennis, and golf at El Cid’s 27-hole championship course - at the El Cid resort of their choice. Call 1-866-306-6113 or visit www.elcid.com

Combining kid-friendly activities and myriad vacation opportu-nities for adults, the luxurious all-inclusive Hotel Marina El Cid Spa & Beach Resort is located in the fishing village of Puerto Morelos, midway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Only 20 minutes south of the Cancun International Airport, it over-looks a national barrier reef park offering a breathtaking setting for diving and snorkelling. Its 350 spacious rooms and suites

mix classic Mexican Colonial and contemporary styles. At the heart of the resort is a spectacular 22,000 square foot free-form pool, a supervised Kids’ Club and a decadent spa specializing in Mayan treatments. Four gourmet restaurants serve every-thing from international buffets to Mexican, Mediterranean and Asian cuisine. www.elcid.com/marina_beach_resort

Affectionately referred to as the Pearl of the Pacific, Mazatlan basks in year-round in delightful weather and a laid-back atmosphere. From golden beaches lined with premium restau-rants and resorts to charming historic sites, there is much to see and even more to do. Sports fishing, snorkeling, watersports, Mexico’s best world-class golfing and largest aquarium, color-ful local festivals, shopping – it´s all here. Mazatlan also hosts

one of the world’s greatest parties, Carnival – an unforgettable hundred year-old Mazatlan tradition. Tours are the best way to discover the real charm and history of Old Mazatlan. And a stroll along the Malecon – one of the longest in Latin America – is a great excuse for people-watching. Whatever your vaca-tion tastes, from relaxation to adventure, this Pearl of the Pacific offers something for everyone. www.gomazatlan.com

Hot Occidental vacation properties for this season include the Occidental Grand Xcaret, set amid Mayan ruins, tropical rainfor-est and secluded beaches framed by rocky cliffs. This eco-tour-ism delight features rooms and suites that blend seamlessly into natural surroundings, free form swimming pools and intimate canals. Just off the coast of Mexico’s east coast, the Occidental Grand Cozumel offers 251 hacienda-style rooms and suites

appointed with modern conveniences like satellite TV and in-room dining. And the Allegro Playacar features 286 rooms and suites grouped into brightly coloured villas with thatched roofs and private balconies and terraces. www.occidentalhotels.com

Mexicana Airlines With its alliances, modern fleets and comprehensive fares, Mexicana has become Mexico’s flag-ship carrier, offering an extensive route network, not only throughout Mexico but also in Latin America and Europe. Members of Oneworld’s frequent-flyer programs can now earn and redeem points on Mexicana flights since it joined Latin America’s premier alliance. Its two affiliates, Mexicana-

Click and MexicanaLink, are also covered by the alliance’s range of fares and sales. On its European flights, Mexicana offers its exclusive class, MexicanaElite, where attention is given to every detail—from the increased space between rows and comfortable 160º reclining seats, to the selec-tion of beverages and gourmet meals. www.mexicana.com

el cid resorts

hotel marina el cid spa & Beach resort

mazatlan hotel association

occidental hotels & resorts

mexicana airlines

22

Off the beaten path...MEXICO

ASK FOR YOUR BROCHURE TODAY!

Create your off the beaten pathvacation to...

With flights, unique hotels, escortedtours and cultural experiences

coming soon...more mexico treasures

Puebla GuanajuatoYucatan MichoacanQueretaro CampecheJalisco VeracruzOaxaca Riviera Nayarit

´´

Experience Mexico Off The Beaten Path with Total Vacations. As a country of great diversity, Mexico has so much more to offer than just beautiful beaches. Discover the sights, soundsand tastes of Mexico by exploring quaint towns with colonialarchitecture, incredible archeological sites, National Parks,Coral Reefs and unspoiled beaches. Each region is unique and will leave you with an insatiable appetite to return yearafter year. Create your “Off the beaten path” Mexico vacationwith Total Vacations and it will be truly unforgettable!

Endless Possibilities, Any way YOU like it.Res: 1.800.769.4147 Fax: 905.879.0765Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri: 9am-6pm Sat: 10am-3pm ESTor check us out at www.totalvacations.ca (click agent log-in for booking)

Ont. Reg #04481768

gsa_olamexicosupplement_oct09 10/20/09 1:39 PM Page 1

santa clara del coBre: copperSanta Clara del Cobre has long been a hotspot for copper jewellery and handicrafts. Although the mines are now closed, copper talleres like Casa Felicitas are still popular with shoppers looking for authentic items made in the tradi-tional hand-pounded style.

san cristoBal de las casas: textilesLocated in the state of Chiapas, a region of Mexico rich in folk art and where Ma-yan culture is still strong, this hill town draws artisans specialising in everything from embroidered blouses and servietas to the famous painted gourd, la jicara. Here, your clients can also find colourful and often elaborate hand-woven textiles at places like the Taller Lenateros, a co-op for indigenous artists.

taxco: silverKnown as the “Silver City,” Taxco’s authentic colonial ambience and steep narrow streets make will transport your clients back in time. A convenient day trip from Mexico City, it features an impressive square and numerous silver shops lining the side streets, like the Galeria de Arte en Plata Andres.

patzcuaro, michoacan: furnitureThis picturesque town on the edge of Lake Patzcuaro is brimming with tradi-tional Mexican crafts – everything from hand-woven textiles to Uruapan lacquer plates and boxes to tiny carved Mila-gros. Some of the most unique artisan items are the hand-carved and painted wooden furniture in the Purepecha style.

pueBla: talavera potteryAn hour outside Mexico City is the country’s fifth-largest city, and one of its famed colonial town centers, founded by the Spanish in 1531. Puebla’s claims to cultural fame include mole poblano, the savory chocolate sauce, and Talavera pottery, the glazed earthenware with intricate blue-and-yellow designs

puerto vallarta: contemporary artPerfect for an afternoon of gallery-hopping, Puerto Vallarta’s charming downtown district features an “artwalk” every Wednesday evening between November and April. Highlights include the massive Galeria Dante and the two Sergio Bustamante galleries.

Mexico is a nation of extraordinarily talented artists and craftsmen. Few countries display their culture with such colour, artistry and creativity. Using an abundant array of native materials and techniques that have endured for centuries, Mexican artists can often be seen at work in markets and workshops throughout the country. There is great

diversity, with certain areas famous for a particular craft. Your clients should not miss the chance to experience market day while in Mexico. Nearly every town has one. These are indoor-outdoor mazes of colour, sights, and sounds that overflow with produce, handicrafts, lowers, clothing, and everyday items.

world class shoppinG

24

OHR RHP GSAFull PageRevision 2October 21, 2009

Ad sizeFull Page Bleed: 8.4167 x 11.00Full Page Trim: 8.167 x 10.750

Located on the spectacular beaches of Mexico’s Rivera Maya, the Royal Hideaway Playacar is a place where

service and style come together in royal fashion. As the world’s first adult-only all-inclusive resort to earn the

prestigious AAA Five-Diamond Award, Royal Hideaway Playacar welcomes guests to experience the finest in

luxury accommodations, attentive concierge service, magnificent full-service spa and award-winning chefs. So

what better place to have someone cater to your every whim than Occidental’s opulent Royal Hideaway Playacar?

For more information on Occidental Hotels & Resorts visit www.occidentalhotels.com. For brochures or group quotes, please call 416-935-1297 or e-mail occidental@voxtm.ca. Represented in Canada by VoX International. Packages available through preferred Canadian Tour Operators.

amazinG adventures

26

mexico’s incrediBle BiodiversityMexico has the sixth highest level of biodiversity of any country in the world. This allows for incredible encounters with nature, including:• 29 World Heritage Sites, including

4 natural sites recognized for their outstanding value to humanity by the UNESCO.

• The second largest coral reef system in the world.

• 18 million acres of ecological preserves.

• 171 protected areas, including biosphere reserves and national parks, are home to 10% of the world’s species.

• 4 different coasts with a huge diversity of marine life, fauna, and geological formations.

• 720 species of reptiles—the biggest number in the world.

• 502 species of mammals—second place in the world.

• More than 1,000 species of birds. • 30,000 species of plants, including

950 species of cacti alone.

expreso mayaThis first-class train travels through some of the ancient Mayan ruins that make Mexico such a unique destination, mak-ing it the best way to see the country in style. Passing through lush jungles and stopping in cultural centers like Chichen Itza and Palenque, as well as the historic colonial cities of Merida and Campeche, guests enjoy perks like four-course gour-met dinners with wine pairings.

cenote divinGDivers love these freshwater-filled limestone sinkholes that often lead to underground caves because of their crys-tal clear waters. The area around Tulum is a cenote diver’s paradise, with the two longest underwater cave systems known on earth.

whale watchinG Year-round, the waters of Baja offer some of the world’s best whale watch-ing. California grays make their way from Alaska in order to winter in these waters from January to March. The main place to see whales is called Scammon’s Lagoon, but they also appear in Laguna San Ignacio as well as Bahia Magdalena, close to Loreto.

monarch Butterfly miGrationEvery winter, starting in November, the mountain forests between the states of Mexico and Michoacan witness the ar-rival of some 250 million brilliantly col-oured monarch butterflies. They come to winter among the volcanic mountains of central Mexico, in five official sanctuar-ies like Angangueo and El Rosario. In spring, they head back to the U.S. and Canada.

xcaret ecoparkA family adventure, this Mexican theme park in Playa del Carmen offers fun for people of all ages. The focus is on Mex-ico’s natural and historic wonders, with activities like swimming with dolphins and snorkel tours to an underground river or the colourful coral reefs offshore. Visitors can also explore exhibits of but-terflies, bees, jaguars and pumas.

copper canyonFour times larger than the Grand Canyon, Copper Canyon cuts its way through the Sierra Madres in breathtak-ing fashion.

Copper is actually a series of six canyons, covering 25,000 square miles of the state of Chihuahua. Visitors can trace the route on the Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad, which snakes from the Pacific Ocean into the heart of the canyons to Chihuahua City.

The 14-hour trip makes seven stops, with hotels along the way and the op-portunity to explore.

sian ka’an Biosphere reserveLocated near the ruins of Tulum, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the larg-est protected area in the Mexican Carib-bean—1.3 million acres of untamed nature to explore.

Visitors can take a boat down Mayan-built canals to view more than 100 species of mammal and more than 300 of bird, plus 23 archaeological sites. Jaguars, pumas, howler and spider monkeys, as well as parrots, toucans and flamingoes also inhabit the Reserve.

19860

*First child age 2-12 pay special air rate and taxes only when sharing a room with 2 adults. **Savings of $140 are per couple, per week and apply to new reservations made and paid in full by December 15, 2009 for travel between November 1, 2009 and April 30, 2010. All offer details were valid at time of ad creation. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this ad, Signature Vacations accepts no responsibility for actions, errors or omissions arising from the readers use of the information howsoever caused. Signature Vacations, a division of First Choice Canada Inc., 1685 Tech Ave., Unit #2, Mississauga, L4W 0A7, ON Reg #50014683, BC Reg #3043, QUE Reg #800231.

Client Offer

signaturevacations.com

Ocean Coral by H10 Hotels 1111plus

Riviera Maya, Mexico

1st Child age 2-12 eats, stays & plays

Free!*

• Full service Spa & Wellness Centre providing a range of treatments including water-based therapies such as Saunas and Turkish Baths

• Rooms that accommodate families of 5, mini-club for children aged 4 to 12, dedicated pool for little ones as well as spacious Family Suites with VIP services including private check-in, lounge and snack service

• Varied dining experiences with something to please every palate such as Mexican, Asian, Italian, Seafood, American and even a creperie

• Easy access to many area highlights including Cancun nightlife, shopping in Playa Del Car men, the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza and the world famous Xcaret Eco-Park

save

$140**

per couple/week

BOOK & pay by dec 15/09.

travel Nov 1/09 – apr 30/10.

19860_GSA magazine featuring Ocean Coral.indd 1 10/22/09 12:44:15 PM