Cities of gold: required reading for the traveler in Mexico.Mexico's three main cities that make up the "Giants of the North" have it all. For instance, choosing the best hotel in Mexico City Mexico City Spanish Ciudad de México City (pop., 2000: city, 8,605,239; 2003 metro. area est., 18,660,000), capital of Mexico. Located at an elevation of 7,350 ft (2,240 m), it is officially coterminous with the Federal District, which occupies 571 sq mi was not an easy task. While LATIN TRADE'S readers probably didn't find it easy picking the best in Guadalajara, Monterrey and the capital, what follows are examples of some who rule the roost in Mexico. GUADALAJARA BEST HOTEL Considered the finest hotel in the city, Camino Real is just eight minutes from the Expo convention center, 12 minutes from the historic downtown and 25 minutes from the international airport. It has 198 rooms and seven suites decorated in a modern Mexican style, spacious terraces and the highest levels of service. The 40,000 square-meter building covers three hectares with four pools, a lighted tennis court, a miniature golf course and a kiddie kid·die or kid·dy n. pl. kid·dies Slang A small child. kiddie Noun Informal a child playground. The business center is completely new, with high-speed Internet See broadband. access, fax, phone and copy services Copy services is a term used in IBM storage systems, to describe a group of services that provide a method of copying or moving data from one location to another. Generally a source and target logical disk are required. Data is copied or moved form the source to the target. . Rates begin at US$120. [52] (33) 3134-2404. www.caminoreal.com BEST CAR RENTAL Hertz arrived in Guadalajara 30 years ago, making it the pioneer in car rentals here. Moderately priced cars with a minimum of fuss are its hallmarks. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Hertz is in the Miguel Hidalgo Miguel Gregorio Antonio Ignacio Hidalgo y Costilla Gallaga Mondarte Villaseñor (May 8 1753 – July 30 1811), also known as Cura Hidalgo ("Priest Hidalgo"), was a Mexican priest and revolutionary rebel leader. airport and has 150 vehicles to suit any need. Cars are replaced every 50,000 miles and rental rates range from US$70 to $200. [52] (33) 3688-5633. www.hertz.com.mx BEST SHOPPING Plaza del Sol One of the largest malls in the urban area of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, located in the municipality of Zapopan. It is the largest outdoor mall in the city, located next to the Plaza Milenium and Torrena. , built 35 years ago, was the first in Guadalajara and remains the most popular. Located in the "golden zone," its 276 stores welcome 50,000 shoppers daily. Plaza del Sol combines open spaces with good taste, with parking for 2,000 cars; it is one of Guadalajara's busiest spots. Three years ago, the center invested more than US$4 million renovating the floors, painting, and installing fountains and sculptures by Mexican painter and sculptor Alejandro Colunga. [52] (33) 3121-5950. www.todoplazadelsol.com BEST WEEKEND ESCAPE Puerto Vallarta Puerto Vallarta (pwār`tō väyär`tä), city (1990 pop. 93,503), Jalisco state, W Mexico. Located on the expansive Bahía de Banderas [Bay of Flags], Puerto Vallarta has been used since the 16th cent. , in the state of Jalisco, is perfect place for combining fun and tranquility in western Mexico's natural surroundings. The city has mountains, jungles, the ocean and a touch of old Mexico. It's 330 kilometers from Guadalajara, and the temperature averages 25 degrees Celsius. Activities include the extreme or the more genteel sports, or simply a walk along the water, all in a picturesque environment where traditional Mexican architecture contrasts large tourist complexes. Nightlife includes bars, clubs and open-air establishments for dancing and fun until dawn. Rooms start at US$40. [52] (322) 226-8080. www.puertovallarta.gob.mx BEST COFFEE Thanks to a variety of food and drinks at moderate prices, the Sanborns chain continues to be the most popular cafe-restaurant in Guadalajara. Its 11 locales, of which seven include retail stores, each serve more than 800 customers a day. The busiest of them is in the Centro Historico, although the Plaza Galerias, on the western side of the city, has been busy since it is the most recent to open. Full of people day and night, the cafes are a refuge for those who enjoy endless conversation. [52] (33) 3613-6677. www.sanborns.com.mx MEXICO CITY BEST HOTELS The Sheraton Centro Historico Hotel is in the Ciudad de los Palacios Los Palacios is a municipality and city in the Pinar del Río Province of Cuba. The municipality is divided into the barrios of Limones, Macurijes, Paso Real, Santa Mónica, Santo Domingo, Sierra and Urbano.[0] It was founded in 1760. , surrounded by monuments, churches and museums. In addition to being the city's newest hotel, it has a convention center capable of hosting up to 5,000. Its 24 floors have 457 rooms. Bates Bates , Katherine Lee 1859-1929. American educator and writer best known for her poem "America the Beautiful," written in 1893 and revised in 1904 and 1911. begin at US$162. [52] (55) 5130-5300. Located on one of Mexico City's prettiest and most-traveled thoroughfares, Paseo de la Reforma Paseo de la Reforma (a Spanish-language name that roughly translates as "Promenade of the Reform") is a 12 km long grand avenue in Mexico City, Mexico. The name commemorates the liberal reforms of 19th century president Benito Juárez. , the Sheraton Maria Isabel Hotel & Towers has 755 rooms, including five penthouses, and on its top four floors are the Towers, with 24-hour concierge service. The hotel recently spent more than $2 million on renovations to its meeting areas and has installed wireless high-speed Internet in all of its rooms and in its 24 meeting rooms. Rates begin at $295. [52] (55) 5242-5555. www.sheraton.com BEST RESTAURANT The restaurant at Hotel W Mexico City, Solea's menu includes shellfish and seafood dishes prepared with Latin American and Asian recipes. Among the specialties created by Chef James O'Donnell James O'Donnell may refer to:
BEST CAR RENTALS Avis has five offices in Mexico City and provides 16 types of cars, from a Chevy Geo Metro The Geo Metro first appeared in Chevrolet-Geo showrooms in 1989. It was a rebadged version of the Suzuki Cultus, sharing many of the drivetrain and interior components. The Metro was a direct replacement for the Chevrolet Sprint, a subcompact hatchback that was several inches up to a Lincoln LS The Lincoln LS (for "Luxury Sport") was a mid-size, rear wheel drive entry-level luxury car from Lincoln. It shared the Ford DEW98 platform with the Jaguar S-Type and Ford Thunderbird. . Bilingual staff and drivers and insurance are available. Daily rates start at US$58. [52] (55) 5283-1112. www.avis.com.mx. Hertz has five branches in the city, offering cars from Chrysler's Athos for $44 to a Jeep Liberty The Jeep Liberty (KJ/KK), or Jeep Cherokee (KJ/KK) outside North America, is a compact SUV produced by the Jeep marque of DaimlerChrysler. It was introduced for 2002 with styling inspired by the Dakar[1] and Jeepster [2] concept cars. for $109 daily. Bilingual staff and drivers are also available, as well as home pick-up service and a repair shop authorized by Chrysler, Mitsubishi and Mercedes Benz Mercedes Benz expensive automobile and status symbol. [Trademarks: Crowley Trade, 368] See : Luxury . [52] (55) 5784-7400. www.hertz.com.mx BEST MEETING SPACE Opened in December 2003, the modern Hotel W Mexico City is in the liveliest part of the elegant Polanco district. It has 715 square meters of space for meetings and conventions. Meeting rooms include "sensory setup," which creates a relaxing ambiance am·bi·ance also am·bi·ence n. The special atmosphere or mood created by a particular environment: "The noir ambience is dominated by low-key lighting . . . with music to increase productivity and creativity. [52] (55) 9138-1820. www.starwood.com BEST SHOPPING In western Mexico City, in the heart of Santa Fe Santa Fe, city, Argentina Santa Fe, city (1991 pop. 341,000), capital of Santa Fe prov., NE Argentina, a river port near the Paraná, with which it is connected by canal. , the exclusive Centro Santa Fe is surrounded by corporate offices and luxury apartments. Latin America's largest shopping and entertainment center, the Centro Santa Fe is notable for its modern architecture and design. Here you'll find Mexico's biggest names in retail, including Palacio de Hierro, Sears and Liverpool, as well as shops such as Ermenegildo Zegna The high-fashion clothing company Ermenegildo Zegna (pronounced as IPA: [ˈdzeɲa]) was founded in 1910 in Trivero, Italy by tailor and entrepreneur Ermenegildo Zegna. , Zara, Mango and Marti, plus there are also banks and restaurants. It also has a cinema complex, fast-food chains and parking for 5,000 cars. It's big enough to hold its own driving rage with 30 tees on three levels and six sand traps. Management is adding on corporate offices and two luxury hotels. www.centrosantafe.com.mx BEST COFFEE Starbucks Angel, in the Hotel Sheraton Maria Isabel, offers a wide range of coffees, from ordinary U.S.-style, at US$1.50, up to the Frappuccino Caramel, for $3.80. Newspapers and magazines are available, as well a selection of products for brewing and serving coffee. [52] (55) 5525-9167. www.starbucks.com BEST BAR Inside the Hotel W Mexico City, The Whiskey is modern with a open interior lit by red lights. Its wide terrace has a view of the exclusive Polanco area. Among its signature drinks are the cacao cacao (kəkä`ō, –kā`–), tropical tree (Theobroma cacao) of the family Sterculiaceae (sterculia family), native to South America, where it was first domesticated and was highly prized by the Aztecs. and green-apple martinis. Modern music played at pleasently moderate volume levels allows for conversation in a normal tone of voice. Popular among the in-crowd at the moment, things start hopping at around 11 p.m. The Whiskey is also famous for being the first bar outside the United States United States, officially United States of America, republic (2005 est. pop. 295,734,000), 3,539,227 sq mi (9,166,598 sq km), North America. The United States is the world's third largest country in population and the fourth largest country in area. owned by Rande Gerber Rande Gerber, (born April 27, 1962), is a former model and the owner/operator of the Midnight Oil Chain of Bars and Lounges. His brother Scott runs the financial end of the Company. Their youngest brother Kenny is also involved. , husband of supermodel Cindy Crawford For the porn star of the same name, see . Cynthia Ann Crawford (born February 20, 1966, in Dekalb, Illinois) is an American supermodel, MTV television personality, celebrity endorser, cover girl, and actress. . Four drinks will set you back US$32. [52] (55) 9138-1820. www.starwood.com BEST NIGHTCLUB Located in Polanco near several restaurants and bars, Box has 2,185 square meters of space divided into several areas, where one can enjoy the latest in modern music. The club recently launched DJ nights featuring technopop and some of the best-known spinners in the world. To get in and have a few drinks costs on average US$40 per person. [52] (55) 5203-3365. www.box.com.mx BEST SPA On the fourth floor of the Hotel W Mexico City, the luxurious Away Spa hides in an oasis in the city. It features a temascal, a ritual pre-Hispanic bath with a therapeutic quality. In addition to the traditional beauty and relaxation treatments, Away offers some with touches of ancient Mexican civilization, like Mayan and Xochicalco massages, Aztec manicures and pedicures and a Zacatecas facial. The spa also has an upscale gym with the latest exercise equipment, a juice bar, New Age music and aromatherapy. Treatments range from US$35 to $145. [52] (55) 9138-1820. www.starwood.com BEST BUSINESS SERVICES Mail Boxes Etc. offers an innovative service for its clients: A U.S. post-office box address that delivers to Mexico. The U.S. address can handle anything from a simple letter to a television set, ideal for anyone who shops online. Mail Boxes Etc. has four stores in Mexico City offering services such as Internet access See how to access the Internet. , package delivery, shipping preparation, and paper products, among others. [52] (55) 5282-5410. www.mbe.com.mx BEST WEEKEND ESCAPE The so-called "city of eternal spring," Cuernavaca has a warm year-round climate and extensive foliage. It's the capital of the state of Morelos, 75, kilometers from Mexico City,' Flanked by the Cuernavaca and Amatitlan rivers, it is one of the oldest cities in the country. Its main attraction is the Palacio de Cortes, where the interior was designed by Mexican muralist Diego Rivera. The historic downtown and surrounding areas are filled with architectural jewels such as the Cathedral, the Municipal Palace and the Temple of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Our Lady of Guadalupe, also called the Virgin of Guadalupe (Spanish: Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe or Virgen de Guadalupe) is a 16th century Roman Catholic Mexican icon depicting . Cuernavaca is also home to many vacation homes, sumptuous residences and hotels of all types, as well as an active nightlife. BEST BUSINESS NEIGHBORHOOD The exclusive and cosmopolitan Polanco area has much to offer. Its 30 leafy blocks are easy to walk on foot, providing a good way to appreciate its fine stores and restaurants. There is a wide range of cafes, bars, hotels, boutiques, bookstores and art galleries. Mazarik, one of its main roads, is a shopper's paradise, home to stores such as Ermenegildo Zegna, Louis Vuitton The Louis Vuitton Company (more commonly known simply as Louis Vuitton) is a luxury French fashion and leather goods brand and company, headquartered in Paris, France. It is a division of the French holding company, LVMH Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy S.A. , Hugo Boss, Armani and Tiffany. If it's cars you want, in Polanco you'll find auto dealers, including Ferrari and BMW BMW in full Bayerische Motoren Werke AG German automaker. Founded as an aircraft engine manufacturer in 1916, the company assumed the name Bayerische Motoren Werke and became known for its high-speed motorcycles in the 1920s. . MONTERREY BEST HOTEL In Monterrey's most exclusive zone, in the municipality Garza Garcia, the Hotel Quinta Real has charm that's clear upon entering its impressive lobby. The architecture and decor combine Mexican traditions with the comforts of a modern hotel. It's often the hotel of choice for political figures, artists and entertainers visiting the city. Some of the more illustrious guests have included Spain's Princess and Prince of Asturias “Principe de Asturias” redirects here. For flagship, see Principe de Asturias (R11). The title Prince of Asturias is given to the heir apparent to the Spanish throne, and the earlier kingdom of Castille. , Letizia and Felipe de Borbon, as well as Mexican singer Luis Miguel Luis Miguel Gallego Basteri (born on April 19, 1970 in San Juan, Puerto Rico) is a Puerto Rican-Mexican pop singer of Italian and Spanish descent that was raised in Mexico. He is best known for his crooning vocals and romantic ballads. . Rates begin at US$216. [52] (81) 8368-1000. www.quintareal.com BEST TRAVEL AGENCY With three offices in Monterrey, Novtour specializes in tourist packages for trips anywhere in the world, although its clients recommend particularly its advice on trips within Mexico and its promotional offers to some of the better-known destinations in the United States. Friendly, efficient service, and rates on travel to Mexico's south are very attractive, particularly to the beaches and colonial cities of Oaxaca and Veracruz. [52] (81) 8133-8800. www.novtour.com BEST CAR RENTAL Avis can rent a single car for individual use or a fleet for visitors in town for a convention. The U.S. company has 60 offices around the country, two of them are in Monterrey--one at the international airport, and the other downtown. Special rates exist for groups, frequent travelers and those paying with a Visa credit card. The least expensive car goes for US$60 a day without insurance. Avis also rents cars with a driver, child-safety seats, prepaid gasoline and free emergency assistance. [52] (81) 8343-5304. www.avis.com.mx BEST MEETING SPACE The Centro Internacional de Negocios Monterrey (Cintermex) can handle a meeting tot as few as eight or up to a convention of more than 2,000. Now 13 years in operation, it's at the entrance of the Parque Fundidora and is home to events like the International Book Fair and meetings held by the United Nations, which has hosted two conventions here. It's also an ideal place for a small meeting. Surrounded by two of the city's best hotels, Cintermex has an 18,320 square-meter exposition area. [52] (81) 8369-6900. www.cintermex.com.mx BEST SHOPPING Considered by some to be the best shopping center in northern Mexico, Plaza Fiesta San Agustin has department stores, theaters, restaurants, cafes, a supermarket, bars and specialty shops like jewelers, toys, Mexican handicrafts and sports, among others. In one of metropolitan Monterrey's most exclusive areas, here you'll find retailers like Sears, JCPenney, Liverpool and Zara. Plaza Fiesta San Agustin is close to two of the city's four main hotels, 40 minutes from the international airport and 25 minutes from downtown Monterrey. [52] (81) 8363-2380. BEST COFFEE Sanborns is a popular spot to meet with friends, especially in the mornings for coffee or breakfast. Lunch recommendations include the enchiladas, chiles rellenos and the cochinita pibil. The chain is owned by Grupo Carso, part of the empire run by Mexican magnate Carlos Slim. In addition to being a cafe and restaurant, Sanborns offers goods and services In economics, economic output is divided into physical goods and intangible services. Consumption of goods and services is assumed to produce utility (unless the "good" is a "bad"). It is often used when referring to a Goods and Services Tax. like photo developing, jewelry and toys. Depending on size and location, some of the stores are open 24 hours. [52] (81) 8123-0048. www.sanborns.com.mx BEST WEEKEND ESCAPE Just 30 kilometers from Monterrey is a thickly forested area surrounded by mountains. In the eastern Sierra Madre mountains, it's known as the Cola de Caballo Cola de Caballo (Spanish for "Horse Tail") is a waterfall about 40 km (25 mi) from Monterrey, Mexico, in the town of Villa de Santiago, Nuevo León. It is open to the public and is accessible via a walking path. References
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