The Inside Scoop: Mexico, Done 3 Ways

Punta Mita and Costalegre

Francine Prudhomme, Personal Travel Advisor

I had the pleasure of experiencing two beautiful locales while in Mexico – Punta Mita and Costalegre (a series of beaches, capes, and bays along the Western coast of Mexico in Jaslico, between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo). I stayed at the Four Seasons Punta Mita, neighbor to the St. Regis Punta Mita, in an Oceanfront Suite which afforded spectacular views. The Four Seasons Punta Mita was well-situated, only 10 minutes walking to shops, restaurants, and entertainment, making it easily accessible for those who wanted to do more than just lie on the beach and be pampered.

In Costalegre, I stayed at Las Alamandas Hotel, an exclusive retreat where your only fellow guests are quite possibly royalty or Hollywood. This resort is as isolated and private as it gets; you may see another hotel guest once in a while, however, the main draw is complete privacy from the outside world (and from others on property). Las Alamandas does an excellent job of executing this. Most guests stay for a maximum of 3 nights, given the limited activities.

What moment of your trip was the most memorable for you?

Francine: Whale-watching from our Jacuzzi on the rooftop at Las Alamandas at sunset was incredible; it truly was like nothing I had ever seen before.


Mexico City

Paulette Altilia, Personal Travel Advisor

During my 5-night stay in Mexico City, I stayed in a Design Hotel called Condesa DF, in La Condesa district, about 4km west of the zocalo, the city’s’ main square. La Condesa is truly a remarkable place to visit. Not only was the neighborhood around the hotel wonderful, the area was filled with great restaurants for a truly authentic dining experience. To sum it up – safe, and very bohemian! The true Mexican experience. The hotel also has an amazing roof top bar, which is favorite to the locals, surprisingly!

What moment of your trip was the most memorable for you?

Paulette: A memorable moment for me was eating at the local and famous Tacos Al Pastor restaurant at 3am. The Hop on-Hop off bus which allows you to explore the entire city was also a highlight, as the city is quite large and full of history, which made it feel like being in a warm European city.


Hacienda San Gabriel

Madeleine Virag, Personal Travel Advisor

Madeleine Virag, who also visited Mexico city just a week before Paulette, found her accommodations in Hacienda San Gabriel de Las Palmas, between Cuernavaca and Taxco in the district of Morales, to be the entire highlight of her trip.

This Hacienda was built in 1529 as a Convent, then was the Head Quarter for  Zapata and his movement during the Peasant Revolution in early 20th Century, after which it became the largest Sugar Mill in Mexico.

It’s a small 20 room historical Museum Hotel on large grounds with horse stables, a beautiful Spa, Church and very authentic deco. It’s a hidden gem for people who need 2-3 days of total relaxation in amazing surroundings.