The day that it’s announced that the world is free of COVID- 19 will be a magical day. Schools, universities, and workplaces will reopen their doors, as well as hotels, restaurants and retail stores. A hug will no longer be a threat and you can visit family members and friends and rejoice in their company. You can also book a well-deserved vacation! But where to travel and spend your first vacation after a global pandemic? We have a few suggestions for you!
Puerto Vallarta
The romantic and tropical town of Puerto Vallarta is situated on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. Puerto Vallarta often referred to as ‘Vallarta’, is located along the beautiful Banderas Bay, boasting numerous idyllic beaches with soft sand and azure waters. The stunning and nostalgic downtown of Puerto Vallarta bursts with culture and history and has an undeniable charm.
As well as the traditional taco stands dotted around the cobblestone streets serving a variety of delicious tacos until the early hours, there are numerous quaint restaurants serving authentic Mexican cuisines, such as Pozole, Menudo, and Quesadillas, as well as several swanky Boite’s offering piquant, contemporary food in a modern setting. The city enjoys a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs as well as stage performances from local renowned singers.
The city inspires artistry and is home to art galleries, art walks, and museums, all of which display artwork from local and international artists. There is a colorful and quirky market situated along Cuale River in downtown Vallarta that sells artistic treasures and gifts, and traditional Mexican jewelry, clothes, and sweets. There is also a popular art, craft, and food market hosted at Marina Vallarta every Thursday, accompanied by a performance by a Mariachi band and traditional folklore dancing.
The top things to do in Puerto Vallarta:
1. Los Arcos National Marine Park
South of Banderas Bay sits the idyllic islands of Los Arcos, which is a protected national park known for its tropical wildlife and natural beauty. It’s one of the best places in the bay to snorkel, scuba dive, paddleboard and go sightseeing. The vibrant coral reefs surrounding the islands are full of exciting fish such as Clown Fish, Puffer Fish, and Sea Horses. People swim under the main arch of the islands and amongst the caves that were perforated by the rocks. This is where you may discover sea creatures such as eels and other marine life!
2. Islas Marietas National Park
Islas Marietas (Marietas Islands) are protected islands located north of Banderas Bay. The islands became protected by Mexican law to protect the abundance of beauty and marine life.
The islands are only accessible by swimming. Above the ground, expect to see the famous Blue-footed Booby birds, as well as Egrets and Pelicans. Below the water, expect to be met by the vast and vivid coral reef, home to a range of beautiful fish and sea creatures. It’s a great place to go scuba diving, snorkeling or paddle boarding.
3. Outdoor Adventure
Adventure sport isn’t limited to the ocean in Puerto Vallarta as the city is surrounded by the jungle! Take a trip to the popular Sierra Madre for a range of action-packed pursuits.
These pursuits could be zip-lining through the jungle at a height of 80 feet over the rainforest and the Orquideas River, rappelling down waterfalls or zooming up the Cuale Riverbed and through the jungle on an ATV. These activities are sure to create lifelong memories and get your heart racing!
Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa
Located a 15-minute drive from downtown Puerto Vallarta sits Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa, a family-friendly and all-inclusive hotel located in the south of Banderas Bay. The Garza Blanca resort is situated only steps away from the ocean yet encompassed by jungle vegetation and the peaceful call of wildlife. The modern design of the hotel compliments classical Mexican design yet adds a daring contemporary and lavish twist.
The hotel suites are delightfully arranged, comfortable, and luxuriating, with an outstanding and aesthetically pleasing design. Each room offers a stunning and undisturbed views of Banderas Bay and a hammock on the balcony to swing on and relax. The rooms are fully equipped with the latest technology and amenities and 24/7 room service is offered.
There are three signature restaurants located on the hotel grounds, all offering spectacular gourmet dining. Blanca Blue serves contemporary Mexican cuisine and showcases avant-garde fine dining, BocaDos STK is a modern steakhouse with a delectable twist that satisfies those with an appetite for bite-sized meaty delicacies, and lastly, there is Aquazul, the poolside Italian restaurant serving light, flirty dishes such as ceviche and burgers, but with a sophisticated twist. Aquazul is also located at the infinity pool of the hotel that offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Banderas Bay and the jungle. It’s an outstanding dining experience.
Garza Blanca hosts a variety of daytime activities for both adults and children to keep everyone entertained. For children, there are activities such as a mini-hikes, rock painting, and a clown show. Adults can enjoy a birdwatching tour, attend a meditative Kundalini yoga class, and go Tequila tasting! Garza Blanca is also home to one of the leading-edge spas in Puerto Vallarta, supporting and enhancing your personal beauty and wellness form part of Spa Imagine’s most heartfelt commitment to you.
Cancun
The stunning city of Cancun is located on the Northeast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula in the area of Quintana Roo, where the rich Mayan culture and history shines through on every corner. Cancun is surrounded by white sand beaches, the paradisiac Caribbean Sea, and blue skies stretching afar, creating a dream-like oasis. Cancun offers classic Mexican culture and the opportunity to learn about the Mayan civilization, but the city hosts a modern and vibrant Caribbean influence.
Cancun is a busy city with a robust nightlife, featuring numerous bars and clubs. The city is full of marvelous restaurants, some serving traditional Mexican foods, such as empanadas and ceviche, while other restaurants bring the favorite dishes from America down, such as burgers and pancakes, but with a delicious Mexican twist. The city has a vast amount of retail shops, selling clothes, jewelry, Mexican treasures, food, and art, as well as keeping it original and hosting quirky and colorful Artisan markets.
The clear waters of Cancun are perfect for water sports, such as snorkeling, paddle boarding, and jet skiing. It’s also a great spot for fishing and getting a delightful sight of the colorful marine life. Cancun is located in a wonderful area, where many other great destinations such as Tulum and Riviera Maya are easily accessible and not a far distance to travel.
The top things to do in Cancun:
1. Marvel at the Ruins of Ancient Chichen Itza
Now regarded as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO world heritage site, the Mayan city of Chichen Itza, famous for its wonderous pyramid ruins, is located a 2-hour drive from Cancun.
The nostalgic and impressive ruins are wonderful to explore and take pictures of and offer a real opportunity to learn about the Mayan civilization and Mexican culture.
2. Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island located a 15-minute boat ride from Cancun. The celestial island is encompassed by vibrant coral reefs and gorgeous clear ocean and is perfect for scuba diving, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. It is also a fantastic place to fish. The island itself is wonderful to explore, with a laidback aura and bursts of Mayan culture throughout. You can hire an ATV to do this!
The beaches at Isla Mujeres are truly idyllic, with the palm trees swaying in the soft breeze and the ocean waves gently kissing the soft sand. Most restaurants sit on the oceanfront and are Boho-themed, offering piquant and flavorsome meals and tasty cocktails and beverages.
3. Swim in the Cenotes
Cenotes, sometimes written as Xenotes, are natural sinkholes formed over thousands of years from collapsed limestone. Cenote’s are enchantingly beautiful but full of mystery and magic at the same time. With the turquoise blue saltwater, shielded by charming jungle and vegetation, they are the prettiest jewels of the Yucatán Peninsula, shielded by vegetation.
Swimming, diving, and canoeing in a Cenote is a wonderful experience and adventure that one must experience while visiting Cancun.
4. Visit the Underwater Museum
MUSA is an underwater art museum located between Cancun and Isla Mujeres. The museum features the largest artificial reef in the world and over 500 sculptures by six different artists, all designed to encourage the growth of coral and replenish the habitat of tropical marine life. Designs include naval mines, giant hands, VW Beetles, and life-sized people modeled after Cancun locals.
The museum is continually expanding as the older artworks become obscured by wildlife. The Enchanted Wood, featuring artworks blending land, animals, and trees is the next installation.
Villa del Palmar Cancun Luxury Beach Resort & Spa
Villa del Palmar Cancun is a luxury family-friendly resort located in the Hotel Zone of Cancun that offers an all-inclusive package. Sitting like a gem on the oceanfront, all rooms are ocean-facing, offering spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and the surrounding white beach and giving the perfect opportunity to experience the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets all from the comfort of your own suite.
The resort has five outdoor saltwater swimming pools, adhering to all levels of swimmers, an incredible, luxurious spa offering a range of deluxe treatments, a high-tech fitness facility, and four signature restaurants. The restaurants feature a variety of cuisines and gourmet dining, from Hiroshi that serves contemporary Japanese cuisine and award-winning Sushi to restaurant Zama that specializes in authentic Mexican food with a fun twist. Guests can relax and have a Mojito or glass of wine at one of the 6 resort bars, which include a beach bar and a lounge bar.
Accommodations you could live in, all of Villa del Palmar Cancun’s suites offer enchanting views, with the majority boasting spectacular vistas looking out to the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. With oversized balconies adorned with hammocks and spacious interiors decorated with modern-chic design, it makes leaving difficult!
Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas is Nirvana, where the desert meets the ocean and creates a beautiful combination of landscapes. Cabo San Lucas, or commonly referred to as ‘Cabo’, is part of a municipality that creates Los Cabos. The other city is San Jose del Cabo, which is a 30-minute drive from Cabo.
Cabo is located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, which makes for ideal weather. The sun is gloriously warm during the day and then temperatures comfortably drop during the evening, as the cool wind from California blows through the city. Cabo is home to numerous blissful beaches that are perfect for sunbathing and swimming and offer unspoiled views of the enchanting Sea of Cortez. As well as adventuring into the ocean and engaging with marine life, you can also adventure into the desert and discover all of its wonders. The most popular beach in Cabo is called Medano Beach, where you will find an array of beach restaurants and bars all serving delectable food and drinks. Medano Beach is also located right next to the famous and stunning land sculpture ‘El Arco’.
Downtown Cabo is a mixture of traditional buildings and upscale modern architecture, with a wide range of restaurants and bars, especially along the stunning Marina esplanade, where you can also find a weekly Mexican market, selling all kinds of artsy treasures and gifts, and a classical Mariachi band playing. Cabo is home to art walks and museums.
The top things to do in Cabo:
1. Horseback Riding
Explore the Baja California coastline in a unique and wonderful way – by horseback! You have the opportunity to see a working Mexican ranch, help saddle up your horse, and explore different beaches, cliffs, cacti, and the Baja desert, with opportunities for great photos along the way.
You can also choose to go on a horseback riding tour as the golden sun is setting over the Sea of Cortez, which gives an experience that you will talk about for years to come.
2. Zipline & Aerial Adventure
Are you ready for a thrill? Soar at high velocity over the impressive river canyon of El Tule on an exhilarating canopy tour. Get an outstanding birds-eye view of the canopy, trails, and rivers as you glide down ziplines that are suspended 300 feet (91 meters) above the ground.
An expert guide will ensure your comfort and security with state-of-the-art safety equipment and informative orientation talks.
3. Visit Los Cabos Arch & Playa del Amor tour by Glass bottom kayak
Explore the famous and beautiful El Arco rock formation and its surrounding area on a guided kayak and snorkeling tour. With the kayak being glass-bottomed, you have a unique opportunity to spot tropical fish, ancient sea turtles and even a colony of sea lions! Once you have reached Pelican Rock, a safe and protected marine area, you can jump into the pleasing water and snorkel amongst wild and wondrous sea creatures.
4. Mexican Cooking Class and Market Tour
Have you ever wanted to try and make homecooked Mexican delicacies? Cabo San Lucas is home to some of the finest chefs. Shop for ingredients at a local food market and then prepare traditional Mexican cuisines in the home of a local chef. Learn how to home make delicious fresh tortillas, Mole sauce, Tamales, and more. This is a hands-on and intimate experience that teaches you about Mexican culture and food.
5. Release Baby Sea Turtles
The release of baby turtle hatchlings to the ocean is undoubtedly one of the most enriching and amazing experiences you will have. The Sea of Cortez and Baja California peninsula is home to five species of sea turtles; Hawksbill, Loggerhead, Leatherback, Green Turtle and Olive Ridley – all of which are sadly endangered.
Choose your baby turtle and be ready to release them into the ocean and liberate the rest of the nest!
Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos
Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos is a vibrant, family-friendly oasis hugging the oceanfront, located in between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. The luxury resort offers an all-inclusive package, unwavering pampering, and a stunning beach location, with the guest’s comfort and tranquility being the ultimate goal.
All suites feature a chic and modern design, en suite bathrooms, and spacious terraces which all offer spectacular ocean views and outdoor furniture for luxury daydreaming. Each bed has Tafer’s signature mattress and linens to guarantee a peaceful and deep sleep.
The resort features a world-class spa that provides exceptional and expert service, with a menu of deluxe and meditative treatments, a fully-equipped gym and tennis court, 8 outdoor saltwater swimming pools including a rooftop pool, which offers unforgettable views of the majestic mountains and Sea of Cortez. The Garza Blanca in Los Cabos has family in mind and has a custom-built family fun zone, as well as an indoor events hall that divides into three different rooms, putting on performances for children and adults. The resort hosts different activities each day, some for children and some for adults, in case you fancied a change from relaxing at the pool.
Looking to the Future
Due to the coronavirus crisis and social distancing, these wonderful destinations have become a lot quieter and allowed time for the beaches to rejuvenate and become cleaner and more beautiful than before. Nature has had an opportunity to repair itself.
If you want to start planning your next vacation to Mexico but are uncertain about the date, at all of our resorts you can feel confident to book your trip right now and change the dates at any time until 2021, without any penalty. We offer flexible cancelation.
Some airlines are also operating and offering travel flexibility, where you can book a flight now, but cancel within 24 hours before the departure if need be, without a penalty. Before booking your travel and planning your trip, please check that the airline of your choice is exercising this policy.
Until we see one another again, Tafer Hotels & Resorts and The Villa Group are using this time to take care of the resorts and undertake some maintenance, ensuring that everything is perfect and ready for your arrival. Maintenance includes varnishing, painting, sanding, replacing and cleaning. We are inspecting and paying close attention to detail in every common area and guest suite to ensure that they are all up to our high standard. We’re using this time to refresh the resorts for when it’s time to open our doors to guests again.
We, at Tafer Resorts and The Villa Group, are waiting for you and we can’t wait to welcome you with a warm smile and give you the unforgettable vacation experience that you deserve. Stay safe and we will see you in paradise soon!
