I'm back from a wonderful week in Mexico, courtesy of our host agency, Gifted Travel Network and Four Seasons. This was a special itinerary celebrating the Top 10 Producers in our network. Not only does it give us the chance to experience the best of the best but we all collaborate rather than compete, which makes the networking invaluable and enables us all to continue to improve our services.
But I want to write about my experiences in Mexico. Many will be familiar with Cancun, Riviera Maya and a preponderance of some great All-Inclusive resorts, but there is so much more to this country.
Firstly, Mexico City is very underrated as a destination. It's a sensational, vibrant city, with many safe areas to wander around with restaurants and cafes just oozing charm everywhere you go.
Secondly, if you head to the Pacific Coast of Mexico there are opportunities to enjoy resort stays almost in isolation, so a much more natural and relaxed vibe than the drive south of Cancun. Granted, I was spoiled by the Four Seasons Tamarindo, but it not only managed to surprise on the upside with it's luxury and service but also by its very strong ties with the local community and how much it means to this hotel to employ and give back locally.
Here's my Top 5 from last week!
1. Four Seasons Mexico City (above and below)
In the heart of Mexico City is the calm oasis of the Four Seasons. The brand's core belief is that superior customer service is always to be expected and performed. they do not let you down.
I had checked in around 1pm and when I sat down to a late and sumptuous Sunday brunch the wait staff already knew my name. It's the little things like this that can make such a difference with hotel experiences.
2. Xochimilco (above and below)
This was one of the best and most meaningful tours I have ever enjoyed. Just 30 minutes from the center of Mexico city (if the traffic is kind) lies a UNESCO World Heritage site consisting of around 100 square miles of canals. On the islands within this naturally beautiful waterway system is some of the most fertile soil in the world.
We were hosted by Zara whose work with Arca Tierra, has led to a massive rejuvenation of "chinampas" which are ancient agricultural areas where all sorts of organic vegetables are cultivated. Our morning with Zara concluded with an epic breakfast cooked on an open fire entirely with produce that had come from the few acres surrounding us on this particular island. It was magical.
3. Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo (above and below)
Set on a 3,000 acre private reserve bordering the Pacific Ocean my travel advisor tension shoulders (it's a thing) immediately dissipated when I entered my suite. Very few resorts in the world can produce that feeling of calm instantly. To think my 1,593 sq ft Cliffside 1-bedroom Suite with Infinity pool was just above the entry level category here may just give you a notion of just how amazing this place is.
4. Golfers! (above and below)
As a half decent golfer on my day, I probably don't talk about golf trips and golf resorts enough, even though I know many of our clients are golfers. Well, I will shout about this place! El Tamarindo Golf Course which is on property, is the best resort course I have ever played with incredible holes, sights, condition, and service. 2 triple bogeys were sort of equalized by 3 birdies so I enjoyed a lively round. Only 4 people total played the course on the day I teed off.
5. Food (above and below)
I have about 50 foodie photos from this trip and whether it was on our street food tour in the city, at one the Four Seasons superlative restaurants, or even on the beach where a freshly caught Mahi Mahi was BBQ'd (below), it was all phenomenal. Plus I have a special mention for Four Seasons Tamarindo room service. My breakfast order one morning included a cappuccino and the staff came with a frother to ensure it was super fresh in the room.
If you're ready to take on this new side of Mexico you didn't know existed, we're here to help you get the fully luxury travel experience. Click the button below to get started.
I love travel and I love travel planning just as much and I am proud to have built a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide a bespoke service, imagining and creating itineraries for independent minded families and groups.