Monthly Archives: June 2012

End of the World Predicted by Mayan Calendar

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December 2012 marks the conclusion of a b’ak’tun, a time period in the Mesoamerican Long Count calendar which was used in Central America. Some suggest the 2012 date marks the end of the world or a similar catastrophe. Scenarios for the end of the world include the arrival of the next solar maximum, or Earth’s collision with an object such as a black hole, a passing asteroid, or a planet called “Nibiru”.

 

 


With this in mind, its a great time to plan your fall and winter escape; Mexico lends itself to the Mayan reference and enjoys a superb warm climate in November and December. We share a a brief list of tropical options.

Mexico, a short flight away, offers a wealth of marvelous travel experiences and it is affordable and safe, we would not recommend a visit if we thought it meant losing a client! Tourism is a pillar of the economy and despite the bad press, there are MANY safe travel locations. Five star resorts and luxurious beach front properties.

Cancun and the Mayan Riviera situated on the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula, white beaches and warm surf. A hot spot for diving, snorkeling and swimming.

Cancun Sunshine over 240 days a year along the strip of fine, white sand called the hotel zone. An average daily temperature of 80 degrees, this resort town is one of the most temperate and pleasant Caribbean destinations. The city boasts lively nightlife, high-end shops, and world class restaurants in addition to its pristine beaches and proximity to Mayan ruins.

 Isla Mujeres This tiny island off the coast of Cancun was an ancient Mayan religious site dedicated to the goddess, Ixchel. Today, the island is a small fishing community and a string of small hotels with one town center, El Pueblo. The tourist infrastructure of the island has grown rapidly in recent years but it remains a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of its neighbor, Cancun.

Cozumel with world renowned coral reefs, beautiful beaches, and exotic local wildlife, Cozumel has developed a reputation as one of Mexico’s best spots for scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, and kayaking. Twelve miles off of the Yucatan Peninsula, the 9 miles wide island also welcomes many cruise ships from around the world to its sandy shores.

Playa del Carmen Once a fishing village and pristine deserted beach, Playa del Carmen has turned into one of the hottest holiday destinations in Mexico. Smaller than Cancun, “Playa” offers nightlife and dining of a city with the charm of a seaside beach town.

Tulum Tulum is one of the most visited ruins of the Mayan world, welcoming over 2 million visitors each year. The stunning contrast between the ancient stones of the Mayan ruins and the crystal waters of the Caribbean coast make the site a photographers favorite. The rich history of the site as one of the only cities never conquered by the Spaniards make it even more significant and although you have to brave the crowds, it is well worth the visit.

 Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve This 1.3 million acre reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site and covers over 62 miles of the Caribbean coast. This stretch of protected coastline houses many endangered species and is a spectacular place for birdwatching, mangrove touring, fishing, and kayaking.

 IMAGINE….

Resources London – Only The Best – Neville

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Travel can be stressful and moving about by car in London is especially challenging. I have no sense of direction and don’t use public transportation unless with a local; I fear I will end up in China on my own. Locally, a dear friend always responds to my 911 Damsel In Distress calls when my GPS leaves me lost and tearful. He wonders how I manage to travel worldwide without dialing him.Out of the country, my survival is guaranteed by a fabulous driver who knows shortcuts, the scenic route, and has his own 911 number to determine why traffic is at a dead standstill (London), where the police drop highway cones at a moments notice and suddenly a street is closed, for no apparent reason – usually the Queen is passing or the PM, who passed me twice within two hours while we sat in London traffic.

Resourcesare essential to our Journey’s and we are very particular in selecting the VV best local resources worldwide. A significant aspect of my international site inspections meeting local providers, is assuring we have reliable ground teams where ever we send our clients. Our drivers are well versed in local customs and act as cultural ambassadors, advising acceptable attire in sacred temples, protector, keeper of local currency for those emergency purchases. They park in challenging locations and fetch porters, drinks, papers whatever a client may need.In London, this is Neville. We have been working with him for eight years and my clients adore him. Neville can double as a guide and is extremely protective when caring for our clients. You won’t get out of his sight without thorough instructions on finding him after your museum visit or dinner engagement. Knowing my lack of directional sense, as he drops me at a meeting, he sternly advises a doorman don’t let her go anywhere if she finishes her meeting early. Like all of members of our land teams, they truly care for our guests, looking out for them in more ways than merely driving, they become family, friendly but not familiar.

Neville has the latest scoop on the Royals and can advise the most authentic pub! He knows which bag contains the laptop and jewelry and practically sits on it till check in – advising a bellman she will kill me if the bag leaves my side. Our land teams reflect our sensibilities and understand they are a reflection of our firm. Neville is a brilliant example of one of our most wonderful team members away from home.

In India, we begged our driver to come home with us, all of us in tears when we bid farewell.

I also pleaded with Neville to come to California, I expect to see him soon!