Vacation paradise Los Cabos on the tip of the Baja Peninsula has been “discovered” at least twice in history and awaits new visitors to discover it anew every day.

The region of Baja surrounding Los Cabos was initially settled by Europeans around the 16^th century when the Spanish established a trade route between the Philippines and Acapulco. This inevitably put them in conflict with other European trading powerhouses and the result was both competition and conflict. Dutch pirates committed to patrolling the coast were known to put into harbor in Los Cabos in between raiding Spanish merchant ships.

In years to follow though, the eyes of the world turned away from the remote paradise where the arid land meets the crisp waters.

But the area was in for another renaissance when, after World War II, Californians looking for a scenic getaway not already overrun with tourists found that they could fly to La Paz and then rough it along unpaved roads to the very tip of Baja. Not only had tourists not yet discovered the destination, but the offerings were immense: dry weather, world-class big game fishing and beautiful beaches, primarily.

This second “discovery” had more staying power than the initial interest from Spanish merchants and Dutch pirates. In a matter of just a couple of decades, development came to the Los Cabos area – as well as paved roads and an infrastructure geared toward a vibrant international visitor population.

Today, Los Cabos is an entirely contemporary resort tourist destination and one of the most popular in Latin America. Its appeal remains rooted in the natural environment – the sea, the sun and the shore. But with growth and development has come diversification and today this popular destination appeals to a broad range of diverse travelers.

Los Cabos consists primarily of two towns – San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, which are connected via a 20-mile corridor lined with world-class resorts, hotels and championship golfing sites.

Cabo San Lucas is renowned for its active nightlife and for The Marina, a massive, opulent facility with world-class service and amenities, which attracts yachts from around the world.

In contrast, San Jose del Cabo is more sedate, perhaps driven by the presence of Parroquia San Jose, an old Jesuit Mission dating back almost 300 years.

In between the two towns is, perhaps, the stretch of the region best known to travelers. Here, azure waters, quiet coves, rugged cliffs, desert landscapes and mountains merge to craft a distinctly beautiful setting. Sitting amidst this achingly beautiful expanse are many of the exquisite resorts and golf properties that have made Los Cabos internationally famous.

Getting There/Getting Around

Los Cabos is serviced by San José del Cabo International Airport (SJD) and is accessible through most commercial carriers from the United States.

It is quite easy to get around on foot if your trip takes you to just one of the towns of Los Cabos. Cabs, buses and bike and scooter rentals are readily available. However, to see both towns and for any potential side trips, renting a car is easy and affordable, the Corridor offers easy driving between the towns and attractions, and a special “highway patrol” monitors the Corridor for motorists in distress.

See/Do the Essential Los Cabos

Given its decades of servicing an international visitor population, Los Cabos has had time to benefit from the development of numerous attractions, including a host of those that are derived from the natural setting. Accessing sporting opportunities, activities, tours and visit to cultural sites is easy and can generally be worked out at hotels or businesses along the main beach area or in the towns. There is no shortage of vendors offering the chance to indulge in any of your interests catered to in Los Cabos.

Over 500 vessels service the internationally acclaimed sport fishing waters surrounding Los Cabos and for good reason. Here where the Sea of Cortes meets the Pacific, the waters are teeming with game fish. Plenty of sail and powered boats also provide scenic sightseeing, snorkeling, sunset cruises, sail experiences or just for yachting around the waters on an impressive craft. Charter de Los Cabos offers everything from catamarans to power boats while Josephine Charters offers full and half-day adventures on board an 80-foot yacht.

Specialty water sports opportunities abound as well. Via Cabo Adventures Team Australia and Team New Zealand offer their America’s Cup vessels for either sunset sailing or an adventurous demonstration of why America’s Cup competitive sailing is considered the best in the world. Cabo Adventures offers numerous other eclectic opportunities as well, such as the chance to be a dolphin trainer for a day and many others.

Meanwhile, the 96-foot Buccaneer Queen offers excursion opportunities on an authentic tallship that has been featured in movies.

While boating can be a component of a fishing excursion or can be a pastime in and of itself, it’s also often the precursor to some of Los Cabos’ other fine experiences – primarily snorkeling and scuba diving. There is no shortage of dive tour operators and equipment providers. Baja Wild offers kayaking, snorkeling and surfboards with snorkel and dive trips to the coral reef of Cabo Pulmo, the marine sanctuary Jacques Cousteau called “the aquarium of the world.” Cabo Dolphins puts you in the water with those amazing sea mammals. The Caborey, a sizable and popular ship, whisks snorkelers away to one of the best sites in the region at Chileno Bay.

Those fortunate enough to visit Los Cabos in the first quarter of each year could enjoy one of the most dramatic ocean-going experiences – whale watching. In January – March of each year, migrating whales pass through the coastal waters, prompting many operators to offer safe, breathtaking sightseeing tours of the amazing pods of traveling whales.

The array of sporting opportunities in Los Cabos is immense and richly diverse, with offerings from para sailing to horseback riding to on-location Scuba diving training and certification. From hiking to simply enjoying the miles-long stretch of beautiful beach, there is no end to the outdoor and sporting options in tis spectacular Baja setting.

Los Cabos sightseeing permits a less active but no less fulfilling experience. The quintessential Los Cabos sight is El Arco, the perfect arch at the southernmost tip of the Baja, conveniently close to Playa Del Amor (Lover’s Beach). Numerous tour operators offer day and twilight sailings to see the natural wonder. The Estero, an estuary with an endless variety of colorful birds and wildlife is one of the main attractions in San Jose del Cabo, although the golfing locations have also seen massive expansion and improvement in recent years.

For true indulgence, Los Cabos is home to numerous spas, most operating in conjunction with the elegant resorts in the area.

Of course, shopping is another popular indulgence and merchants offer a broad range of goods. Whether it’s handcrafted goods made by locals using centuries-old methods, chic boutiques offering well-known brand names, fine art, t-shirts, sombreros, silver, diamonds or even Harley-Davidson accessories, shoppers are likely to find plenty to take home with them in shops in each town and along the Corridor.

With its combination of nature-inspired activities, sporting at multiple levels, sightseeing, shopping and even a vibrant local art gallery scene, Los Cabos’ evolution to international acclaim has been completed.

Accommodations

Available accommodations have been consistently on the increase over the course of Los Cabos’ evolution since the mid-20^th century. Today there is as much capacity as the destination has ever had, with rich diversity, and the borders of the unofficial visitors area of Los Cabos are expanding all of the time with new construction. Still a few locations stand out consistently including those herein.

Las Ventas Al Paraiso. This desert beach resort in Los Cabos captivates its guests with expansive suites, a world-class spa, inspired cuisine and an intoxicating ambiance. A widely acclaimed resort, Las Ventas Al Paraiso offers impeccable service in an elegant atmosphere and even such amenities as “gourmet” pet services, activities and excursions and even a Department of Romance to help inspire guests. www.lasventanas.com/en/index.cfm

Esperanza Resort. Blending an exquisite private residence component with a resort component, Esperanza is one of the best known singular destination in Los Cabos, encompassing a 57-room resort, 60 privately owned villas, 36 private residences, a full-service spa and a signature restaurant, located on the bluffs overlooking two private coves at Punta Ballena near Cabo San Lucas. www.esperanzaresort.com

Marquis Los Cabos. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Marquis Los Cabos is a spectacular luxury resort overlooking the crystal blue waters of the Sea of Cortes. Decorated with lovely contemporary Mexican furnishings and one-of-a kind oil-paintings, and dressed in rich imported linens, all 237 luxury suites here offer understated elegance in a deeply serene setting just feet from the shore. www.marquisloscabos.com

Dining and Nightlife

Created from the union of pre-Columbian and Spanish cultures nearly 500 years ago, today’s Mexican cuisine is known the world over for the combination of fresh ingredients from the land and sea with distinctive flavors of peppers, herbs and earthy seasonings. But Los Cabos is about more than just even the spectacular regional cuisine of Mexico. Fine Italian, European, American and pan-Asian fare thrive in diverse settings, and, of course as fresh seafood is the big draw.

In Los Cabos you can choose whether you want to dress up or wear beachwear, and whether you want quiet elegance or rowdy fun to go with your dining experience. All across the region, though, you will find plenty of good eateries no matter what your mood.

Edith’s Restaurant (www.edithscabo.com) is a vivid combination of the cuisine of Baja California with a Guerreran flair, featuring a regional fusion of steaks and seafood with local ingredients in one of the most legendary fine dining environments in Los Cabos.

Frida Fine Mexican Cuisine is known for its creative Mexican cuisine served in an elegant hacienda-inspired setting with ocean views on the luxurious Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Resort. True to its name, La Frida’s decor and artwork is inspired by the works of Frida Kahlo and contemporary flourishes abound.

Los Deseos Restaurant is located at the Cabo San Lucas marina and takes full advantage of the scenic setting, attracting locals and visitors both. A fascinating menu offers an eclectic assortment of traditional and regional dishes from cactus salad to Moles, fresh seafood and more.

Sunset da Mona Lisa and Sunset Point (http://sunsetmonalisa.com) have to considered some of the most romantic restaurants in Los Cabos. Located on the water with a panoramic view and with the soft lapping of the waves just feet away, Sunset da Mona Lisa offers exquisite hand-crafted Italian food, while Sunset Point offers more casual food in a decidedly relaxed environment.

Not long after the sun has set, dinners are being wrapped up and the evening breeze picks up in Los Cabos, its famed vibrant nightlife roars to life. Although largely situated in Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo has begun to pick up in recent years. Those familiar with the nightlife scenes of the US and/or of Europe are likely to feel completely comfortable in Los Cabos nightclubs. American rocker Sammy Hagar’s Cabo Wabo Cantina is arguably Los Cabos’ most rocking club with loud rock and roll throughout the night. DG Lounge’s smooth jazz atmosphere and scenic views of El Arco lend it a distinctive feel. El Squid Roe is a local nightlife icon with its three stories of pulsating energy and one of the most popular dance clubs in the nightlife scene. Barometro is relaxed, minimalist but powered by cool video productions. A Hard Rock Café greets those seeking out the familiar; while The Passion Club Bar & Lounge will remind globe-hoppers of South Beach or SoHo.

Visitor Information

TIME2CABO

There are American cities that are older than Boston; bigger than Boston; and possessed of more distinct attractions than Boston. But there is only one Boston. The notion of the American Revolution got its start in Boston, as did the concept of modern democracy.

Not too bad for a city that was called a “shining city on the hill” by Massachusetts’ first governor, John Winthrop; but which fell largely out of relevance as cities like New York, Chicago and Los Angeles rose; and which has only in the past few decades become once again become one of the nation’s most notable cities.

What today is known as Boston includes numerous historic sites, many of which are little known even to residents. Turn a different corner on your way to work in Boston and you are as likely to run into a historic site as you are a street vendor.

However, historic sites are not all concentrated in one area. In fact, the Boston of today is really the amalgamation of several villages and towns over the course of the city’s history. Given that we’re talking almost 400 years of history, Boston had had plenty of time to expand. But this history of incorporation also means that residents have strong – very strong – connections with their neighborhoods, and they are as likely to refer to themselves as being from “Southie” (South Boston) as they are to mention “Boston” itself.

Being more a combination of neighborhoods than a single city emerging from an urban core and radiating out to distant suburbs also means that attractions and sites – even more modern ones – are often separated by some distance. There are around 20 identifiable neighborhoods in Boston, in addition to a half dozen “districts.”

Even comprehensively exploring just one aspect of Boston – say culture – can easily occupy multiple visits to the city. For that reason, it is a wise idea to plan in advance for exactly how much you will be able to enjoy on your stay and what your own priorities are.

Still, there are a few sites and locations no one should miss to explore the true soul of this “shining city on the hill.”

The Essence of Boston

The Freedom Trail might be the single most significant activity for visitors to Boston interested in her historic sites. This 2.5 mi. walking tour of 16 historic sites that begins at Boston Common, goes through downtown Boston, the North End and Charlestown, ending at the USS Constitution. Sites include the old State House, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church. The Freedom Trail connects to the Boston Harbor Walk. The Freedom Trail is marked by a line of red paint or red brick in the sidewalk.

Boston Common is a must-see, the oldest public park in the US and the city’s “Central Park” in social terms. Ride the famous Swan Boats, walk across the world’s shortest suspension bridge and generally enjoy the park with its shady trees, fountains, statues, sidewalk vendors, and greenery.

Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, two of Boston’s oldest marketplaces, contain a great set of mainly tourist-oriented shops and eateries. Faneuil Hall Marketplace’s street performers must audition and thus are consistently entertaining. Faneuil Hall also has a historic meeting hall in its upper levels, and is just down the street from the Old State House. Quincy Market has a number of food stalls from local (delectable) providers.

Copley Square is another lovely area to explore, complete with beautiful Trinity Church, terrific local shopping and the Boston Public Library.

While there are numerous tour providers who can help you navigate the many cultural sites, Boston Duck Tours (www.bostonducktours.com) is another fun option. Guests climb aboard an authentic, renovated World War II amphibious landing vehicle, and take to the streets and to the Charles River, to experience history in a unique fashion and to see views of the city that can’t be encountered on any other type of tour.

As with Boston history, Boston culture can be an arduous exploration because of the pure volume of possibilities. Boston’s Theatre District, for example, could easily occupy an entire week’s visit to the city. Broadway might be the theater center of the world, but many productions actually preview.

The Boston Symphony Orchestra, Boston Pops and the New England Conservatory are just the most easily recognized musical arts institutions and seeing performances from them can be a highlight of a visit.

A different type of cultural experience can be a tour of the Sam Adams Brewery, or a visit to Arnold Arboretum, the oldest public arboretum in North American and one of the world’s leading centers for the study of plants.

Museums also abound in Boston. Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts is Boston’s largest and most comprehensive art museum, and also one of the pricier museums in the US. Its known for its impressive assortment of French Impressionist paintings, with the largest collection of Monet paintings outside of Paris; it also has extraordinary collections of Egyptian and Japanese art, one of the major American collections of art from ancient Greece and Rome, one of the most comprehensive collections of American art, and one of the largest and finest print collections in the United States.

Boston’s Museum of Science, Boston Children’s Museum, Institute of Contemporary Art and Harvard Art Museum are a few other of the most popular museums in the area. There are some unusual ones too, such as the MIT Museum, which is a place that explores invention, ideas, and innovation. Home to renowned collections in science and technology, holography, architecture and design, nautical engineering and history, the Museum features changing and ongoing exhibitions, unique hands-on activities, and engaging public programs. The Peabody Museum of Archeology and Ethnology is one of the oldest museums in the world devoted to anthropology and houses one of the most comprehensive records of human cultural history in the Western Hemisphere.

Of course, another whole side to Boston is education. The Greater Boston area has some 65 accredited institutions of higher learning, including many world-renowned colleges, universities, conservatories, and seminaries. The metro Boston area has something of around 250,000 students living in the area at any given time. Here one can visit Harvard and famed Harvard Yard, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Berklee College of Music and Boston University to name but a few. In addition to providing Boston with an energetic, youthful vibe, many of these institutions also present cultural and educational programs.

Sports fans will want to see yet another side of Boston, starting with legendary Fenway Park with the looming Green Monster in the outfield. Harvard Stadium has been home field for the Harvard football team for over 100 years.

It’s easy to see why a visit to Boston can be a little overwhelming to some travelers. The pure expanse of things to do and see compares not inappropriately with New York and other larger cities. Once again, preparation and planning will be key to your visit to Boston.

Getting There and Getting Around

Boston is easily accessible via Boston Logan International Airport from anywhere in the United States.

While in Boston it is highly, highly recommended that you not drive. Boston drivers are some of the most aggressive in the country, traffic congestion is routine, parking options are poor and outrageously expensive, navigation is complex and city rules and signage aren’t easy to follow.

Fortunately, Boston is a great walking city and has good public transportation. Bike rental and tours are available and taxis are easy to find in busier parts of the city, but part of the Boston experience is public transportation. Key to Boston’s public transportation is the “T.” The T consists of several components: subway, bus, water shuttles, and commuter rail. The subway is composed of four color-coded rail lines, the Red Line, Orange Line, Green Line, and Blue Line. Short of particular non-touristy spots in the suburbs, the subway can get you anywhere.

Fortunately, a single public transit agency serves the Boston Metro area, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority. For complete schedules, maps, and other information, see their official website at www.mbta.com.

Planning ahead for transportation needs is another essential component to the requisite itinerary-planning that a visit to Boston should entail.

Shopping Boston

Shopping in Boston and Cambridge is an event in itself, and there’s plenty to choose from: the upscale boutiques of Newbury Street, Copley Place, andThe Shops at Prudential Center in the Back Bay; the outdoor kiosks of Faneuil Hall Marketplace; and across the Charles River, there’s Harvard Square and CambridgeSide Galleria; farther out, the Kittery Outlets and Wrentham Village Premium Outlets, and the high-end shops of the Natick Collection.

From designer couture to everyday apparel, the latest in footwear and accessories, the shops in Boston are sure to carry full lines. Whether it’s a tiny new boutique or Barneys New York or Benetton, shopping options here are limited only by the imagination.

Accommodations

Boston is rich in quantity and diversity of accommodation types, ranging from hostels and shared spaces to world-class resort hotels. As in the case of other major cities with massive room availability, the key is for the individual traveler to decide first if accommodations are a singular draw or if they are simply a utilitarian component of his trip. If the latter is the case, then it’s good idea to make plans based on where you’re going to spend most of your Boston stay. In the case of the former, Boston’s many elegant hotels offer a cornucopia of choice. Following are a few diverse options to consider.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Boston. Situated on Boylston Street, connected to the Prudential Center and close to many other important businesses, this classy hotel has a lot going for it, given the excellent reputation of Mandarin Oriental properties elsewhere. The hotel offers 136 rooms and 12 suites – some of the largest in the city; a five-star spa; outstanding service and proximity to numerous of Boston’s cultural and historic attractions. www.mandarinoriental.com/boston

Taj-Boston. Renowned for its classic style and award-winning service, this 1927 landmark hotel overlooks the picturesque Public Garden with swan boat rides and the Boston Common’s ice-skating at Frog Pond. A major restoration in 2002 has helped accentuate the hotel’s classic nature while sensitively updating it. Surrounded by art galleries, boutiques and restaurants, the hotel is ideally located near the Theatre District, historic sites, shopping at Copley Place and the Hynes Convention Center. www.tajhotels.com

InterContinental Boston. Located on Boston’s historic waterfront — surrounded by the Fort Point Channel and the new Rose Kennedy Greenway – InterContinental Boston is steps away from exciting Boston attractions, including Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market, Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, North End, Chinatown, Beacon Hill and a plethora of historical attractions such as the Boston Tea Party Museum and Freedom Trail. Within the elegant blue glass architecture and polished granite is a world of top-notch service and amenities. www.intercontinentalboston.com

Fairmont Copley. This luxurious hotel has been a symbol of Boston’s rich history and elegance since its gala opening in 1912. Each of the Boston luxury hotel’s 383 guestrooms and suites is well appointed with lavish décor and thoughtful amenities. A historic landmark in and of itself, the Fairmont Copley is located only a few blocks from the Hynes Convention Center, Copley Place Mall and the boutiques of Newbury Street. www.fairmont.com/copleyplaza

Copley Square. Set amid a vibrant urban environment, this small Boston boutique hotel has undergone a multimillion- dollar enhancement that has spotlighted its accentuation of the aesthetic as well as to environmentally sound practices. The key to the distinction of Copley Square’s customer service is personalization – from the time of your evening turndown to pillow preference. The hip nature of the hotel echoes in its eateries and clubs. www.copleysquarehotel.com

Dining and Nightlife

Dining in Boston is quintessential urban world class, complete with globally acclaimed restaurants, chefs and celebration of distinctive regional ingredients. From casual regional “fast food” like lobster rolls to historic gathering places and to white linen tablecloth fine dining, taking a bite out of Boston is as easy as deciding what tempts your taste buds.

Among today’s highly favored restaurants are La Campania, Lumiere and Hamersley’s Bistro, but one of the exciting things about dining in Boston is the fast pace of evolution.

Local Bostonians favor the Paramount (www.paramountboston.com) for breakfast as it’s been pleasing diners for generations with three bistro style meals served daily. A little later in the day for a spectacular brunch – or for that matter any meal at anytime – Mistral (http://mistralbistro.com/) offers a different take on bistro, with its emphasis on simple, fresh French cuisine served in a decidedly elegant environment.

Pops Restaurant (http://popsrestaurant.net/) gets high marks for being a peaceful oasis and for serving innovative takes on American fare traditional and New.

The Union Bar and Grille (www.unionrestaurant.com) has picked up an astounding litany of awards and accolades for its New American cuisine and its emphasis on excellent sourced products. It’s the unusual but welcome fine dining establishment that is also a gathering spot for the broader community. Aquitaine Boston (www.aquitaineboston.com) is another absolute local favorite and is highly evocative of neighborhood bistros in Paris. The fine food and its nicely democratic wine program have helped it carve out a niche as one of if not the best French bistro in the south end of the city.

Scampo at the Liberty Hotel (www.libertyhotel.com) enjoys the kitsch advantage of being located in a former prison but there’s more to it than that. Scampo is the definition of contemporary Italian food and design with an open kitchen preparing brick oven pizzas, a house-made mozzarella bar, a 38-seat private dining room and an outdoor patio.

Given the evolutionary and revolutionary nature of dining in Boston – truly one of America’s great food cities – it is a good idea to stay abreast of new developments in the local dining scene prior to a visit, to make sure your bite out of Boston is memorable.

Boston nightlife might not warrant the media saturation that defines the oft-ephemeral nightlife scene, but it is a busy and vibrant one with concentrations of clubs and bars in numerous neighborhoods.

Popular current venues include the mature, Euro-feel of Cuchi Cuchi and the historic Green Street. Classic beauty and modern ethic combine at the super-club Royale Boston.

Still, it is the small neighborhood bar that best defines nightlife in Boston away from the hallowed halls of high culture. These community institutions are also terrific places to learn more about the city from the people who live there – all while raising a pint.

Visitor Information

Boston USA

While many travelers from all over the world today are avoiding the troubled border between the United States and Mexico, the latter nation’s wildly popular international tropical playgrounds remain active and enticing to the savvy visitor. This is certainly true when it comes to Cancun, which, along with Acapulco, makes up the most popular tourist destination in Mexico. Cancun sits on the northeast coast of the state of Quintana Roo in far southern Mexico and is well over 1,500 miles from Mexico City.

Designation as a major international tourist site did not come randomly or organically to Cancun. Instead, the Mexican government inspired by international development authorities decided to transform what was then a sleepy fisherman’s village surrounded by virgin forest into a tourism mecca. The plan worked and in addition to being one of the most popular Latin American tourist destinations, Cancun’s successful re-visioning and development has been lauded by entities such as the World Tourism Organization.

Perhaps ironically, Cancun’s historic significance is linked directly to its role in tourism, having been a little-visited site during much of the European influenced history of the Yucatan region. However, years before that the island was home to some of the Maya people who were early inhabitants of the region. The name ‘Cancun’ is believed to have been derived from the Mayan tongue although that remains unclear. Today, not only is Cancun a gateway to many Maya ruins and historic sites; but visitors are very likely to hear native local residents conversing in Mayan.

Access to Maya history is just one appeal of Cancun. It’s water sports and activities are considered some of the best in the hemisphere, resorts and nightlife abound, and the city has a keenly developed cuisine representative of fascinating cultural influences. Modern Cancun is a well-rounded international playground.

Getting There and Around

Cancun is connected by Cancun International Airport to airlines from around the world. Once in Cancun, the easiest ways to get around are buses and taxis. A regularly scheduled bus zips between the airport and downtown and from downtown, buses are available to virtually anywhere. Still it takes time to learn to use Mexican public transit so cabs can be the wisest choice. Taxis are ubiquitous but rates can be a tricky negotiation. Check your hotel for a chart of traditional rates and for recommendations on taxis.

Most hotels, resorts and attractions in the city are located within Cancun’s Hotel Zone. Since the town really only grew up around the contemporary tourism market, there is little historic about the city itself and most visitors have little inclination to visit outside the Hotel Zone, except to visit specific restaurants, clubs or shops. While Cancun has largely avoided the problems facing other parts of Mexico, particular precautions are always best taken when exploring the greater Cancun region.

The Sun and the Sea

Cancun’s azure waters and sandy white beaches are its primary appeal and many activities here revolve around these assets — and of course, around the Great Mesoamerican Reef which is the second largest reef in the world. With more than 14 miles of white powdery sand beach and the spectacular reef, Cancun watersports are an enthusiast’s dream. Whether you want to windsurf, parasail, or learn to scuba dive, Cancun is the perfect watersports destination. Professional guides, instructors and equipment rental and sales shops are located throughout the city. There are more than 25 professional watersports centers in the city and they are generally well-equipped and staffed by professionals who are used to dealing with sophisticated global travelers.

Cancun institutions such as Aquaworld and Aquafun offer diverse lineups of tours and waverunner rentals, and the Marina & Yacht Club hosts its highly regarded Jungle Tour. Snorkeling and Scuba outfitters and dive boats are ubiquitous in Cancun and some of the favored underwater sites include Punta Cancun, El Garrafon National Park and Puerto Morelos. Cenote or Cave Diving has become increasingly popular and the region is rich with undersea caves and crevasses to explore.

Although the sportfishing in Cancun is famed around the world, fewer people know that the lagoon system around Cancun offers the angler all year round opportunities to catch and release a great variety of species such as tarpon, bonefish, barracuda, sea trout, and red snapper. Fly fishing can be done in the sea, lakes, lagoons or rivers and is done in shallow, clear waters using artificial bait called a fly. You can book fly fishing lessons with one of the many tour operators.

Dolphinaris Cancun is just one of the area operations that allows guests to interact and swim with Dolphins – one of the highlights of any Cancun visit for many.

Parasailing and horseback riding (Bonanza Ranch’s jungle and waterside riding are highly praised) are just a few of the other sporting opportunities that take advantage of the natural splendor of Cancun. Adventure and eco-tourism experiences do as well. Among the most attractive options are visiting Xplor, a unique underground world formed by a massive asteroid 65 million years ago. Rio Secreto by Alltournative lets participants explore an underground natural museum. Selvatica is an “adventure kingdom” half an hour outside of Cancun that offers adventure experiences for everyone from 6 to 96 including acclaimed zipline circuits. However, scores of other tours, adventure experiences and sporting options are available in Cancun and your choices will boil down to time allotted and personal preferences. Fear not, though, whether its lounging on the beach sunbathing or flying along a zipline through a jungle cave that appeals to you – you will find it in sunny Cancun.

The Maya

Maya culture dominated the Yucatan during its years in ascension and despite the virtual disappearance of the Maya civilization, remnants remain in the Cancun region and attract tourists from all over the world. In Cancun, it is easy to arrange for tours or trips to numerous Maya sites in the area. Many hotels offer this excursion information or can connect visitors with tour providers. While some sites can be reached individually with a map and directions, tours provide easier access and a wealth of information, legends and stories.

The leading Maya attraction is Chichen Itza, a World Heritage Site located about 117 miles west of Cancun. The ancient Maya city is home to a number of specific interesting historic and archaeological aspects including the Temple of Kukulcan, The Great Ball Court, The Temple of the Warriors and many more.

Other notable Maya sites include the city of Coba, Ek Balam and Kohunlich.

While the appeal of the surf and sand are strong in this part of the world even the visitor most in need of relaxation shouldn’t miss the opportunity to explore the legacy of the great and mysterious Maya culture. Chichen Itza is arguably the single most significant must-see in the Yucatan.

Accommodations

Cancun offers accommodations across a broad spectrum of price points and amenities, including the following.

Le Meridien Resort and Spa. Holding a lofty position on Conde Nast Traveler’s Gold List, this exquisite resort is a destination in and of itself. With 213 residential-style rooms, three gourmet dining options, the award winning Spa del Mar, a magnificent three-tiered cascading pool, and close proximity to downtown nightlife and historical attractions, Le Meridien Cancun Resort & Spa entices all five senses. Le Meridien Resort and Spa

Fiesta Americana Grand Coral Beach Cancun Resort and Spa. Endless ocean views, expansive suites, myriad dining destinations and a spa unlike any you’ve seen before are some of the appeal of this award winning resort. Coral Beach Gem Spa has 26 treatment rooms: 10 multi-function rooms, six massage and facial rooms, two Spa Master Suites with hydro-massage bathtubs with chromo-therapy, five couples treatment rooms, one VIP Spa Suite for couples with a double Jacuzzi and steam room, and two rooms for Shiatsu and Thai massage. Fiesta Americana Grand Coral Beach Cancun Resort and Spa

Live Aqua. Ideal for romance or for a group of traveling friends, Live Aqua is adults only and offers an all-inclusive rates package. The result is a sophisticated, upscale adult environment that feels as if it was created specifically for each individual visitor. Excellent friendly service, diverse dining and its beautiful setting are all high points prized by visitors. Live Aqua

Ritz Carlton Resort. Minutes from many lively and leisurely attractions, this luxury hotel features 365 guestrooms overlooking the sea, a full-service spa, an impressive culinary center, award-winning restaurants and a stunning beach club featuring the largest beach in Cancun. Ritz Carlton offers some of best amenities and highest level of service in the industry and that’s as true in Cancun as anywhere else. Ritz Carlton Resort.

Dining and Nightlife

If days in Cancun are defined by the intersection of sand and surf, then the nights are defined by an energetic nightlife. At all times of day, dining in Cancun is diverse and demonstrates many of the region’s cultural and environmental influences.

The Yucatan Peninsula has a unique cuisine characterized by the intersection of Mexican and European flavors. While use of local ingredients and of the bounty of the sea is prevalent, much of Cancun’s cuisine is likely to be different than the Mexican food with which many Americans are accustomed to eating at home. Many dishes are more mild than what some would expect, even with the use of a host of colorful peppers. Seafood is abundant and often integral to local dishes. If you like seafood, you must try ceviche, a tropical Mexican specialty featuring fish or seafood such as shrimp, octopus or shellfish, with finely chopped onion, cilantro and tomato. All the ingredients are bathed in fresh lemon juice, resulting in an incomparable explosion of flavors.

But local and regional Mexican food isn’t all that can be found in Cancun. From steak to seafood, Asian to Argentinian and from American to Italian and many famous brand names, Cancun restaurants offer a world of culinary options. From fine dining to fast food, you will find tantalizing fare wherever you go.

Among Cancun’s most celebrated restaurants are Peter’s Restaurante downtown, La Panza Es Primero and Habaneros – all considered family-friendly. Trattoria La Veneziana Da Bertilla is considered one of the better Italian restaurants in the city, while Locanda Paolo is one of the more romantic settings.

Dining can be as informal or formal as you might like, and it is a good idea to inquire about dining options at your hotel.

The nightclubs in Cancun are renowned for being some of the best in the world and the environment will feel comfortable to those familiar with American clubs. In Cancun nightclubs such as The City, Coco Bongo, Dady ‘O and the Bulldog Cafe there are laser and light shows, acrobats, special live acts and you will get to hear some of the best DJs from around the world. There are many lively Cancun bars open until the early hours with a true party atmosphere. Some of the most famous are Senor Frogs and Carlos n’ Charlies. Leading lounge style bars include Nectar and Thai Lounge.

Point South

Located just south of Cancun, Playa del Carmen resembles Cancun of years ago, having begun as a small fishing town and subsequently begun to grow from the tourist trade. But Playa del Carmen hasn’t reached critical mass in either residents (there are about 150,000) or visitors. As a result, while it has many attractions, shops, restaurants and scenic settings of its own – it is far less crowded than Cancun.

Tourist activity in “Playa” as it is simply known regionally centers on Quinta Avenida, (Fifth Avenue), a pedestrian walkway located just one or two blocks inland from the beach. Fifth Avenue is lined with hundreds of shops, bars and restaurants. There are many small boutique hotels on Fifth Avenue as well as just off Fifth Avenue and on the beach.

The Xcaret Eco Park, a Mexican-themed "eco-archaeological park", is a popular tourist destination located just south of the town in Xcaret.

Playacar is a contemporary development with residential development and attractions catering to visitors.

Smaller, less congested and slower paced than Cancun, “Playa” provides the opportunity for visitors to enjoy the same sand and surf as at its larger neighbor – but in a quieter setting.

Traveler Resource

The Cancun Convention & Visitors Bureau Website

Beyoncé, 4 – After three hit albums and a bevy of chart-topping singles, what does one of the world’s biggest superstars do for an encore? Beyoncé Knowles says she took inspiration from literally everything around her and around the globe, from varying musical genres to the timbre of her voice during live performances. Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti was also a huge influence for the album, as is evident in the drum heavy debut track “Run the World (Girls).”

Blake Shelton, Red River Blue – Country music superstar and Ada, Okla., native Blake Shelton is having quite a year so far. His NBC show The Voice is a huge ratings success and has already been picked up for a second season, he recently married country music bad girl/sweetheart Miranda Lambert and he’s set to release his ninth studio album. The album’s lead single “Honey Bee” is already a Top 10 hit.

Joss Stone, LP1 – Smokey Robinson has referred to her as “Aretha Joplin,” and that’s a pretty apt description of this soulful British singer, who, at just 24, is releasing her fifth album – the first on her own label. Stone recorded the album in Nashville with Eurythmic turned super producer Dave Stewart. Coincidentally, Stone is also a part of the new Mick Jagger super group Super Heavy, along with Stewart, Damian Marley and Indian composer A. R. Rahman.

Greyson Chance, Hold On ‘Til the Night – A little more than a year ago, Greyson Chance posted a video to YouTube of himself performing Lady Gaga’s “Paparazzi” at a school event. The 13-year-old Edmond, Okla., resident’s video slowly gained attention, culminating with an appearance and performance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Twenty-eight million YouTube hits and two singles later, Chance has worked with some of the biggest names in the recording industry, and will be the first album produced by Degeneres’ label, eleveneleven.

Rosé wine has historically received a bad rap.

“Many believe and attribute the rise of white zinfandel as the ruination of the American market for rosé,” says Tulsa wine educator Gary Vance.
“Many wine drinkers wouldn’t touch rosés for years due to similarity of color and the fact it wasn’t sweet. Rosés were shunned for either not being sweet or not sweet enough.”

Thankfully, rosé is experiencing a renaissance. Rosé is sometimes referred to as “blush” due to its color, which is caused by the process used on the grapes. The skins are what give red wine its color, hence the blush hue.

“Rosé wine doesn’t come off like a red wine for the most part,” says Vance. “It is served cold or chilly like a white wine. Good rosés have crisp acidity and feel like a white wine, too. Rosés have the effect of refreshment like a white wine. But, like a red wine, rosé has some bright red berry flavors in lieu of white fruit flavors, such as tropical, citrus, apple and peach. Traditionally, roses are drier wines reminiscent of red wine in the slightest due to skin tannins. I like a rose that has good acidity and vivacity of a white, the chill and refreshing feel and the hints of red fruit, like strawberry, raspberry and others.”

The Recommendation: Because rosés are quite affordable, Vance has recommended several rosés that range between $12 and $18.

A to Z Rosé ($15) is a bright rose that gives off red fruit aromas when poured and finishes crisp.

A vibrant magenta hue coupled with fresh floral notes are hallmarks of Baker Lane Syrah Rosé ($18).

Parallel 45 Rosé ($12) is generous with tart, red berries with a final note of freshness.

Sauces are nearly as old as cooking, according The Complete Book Of Sauces. A good sauce can dress up a plain dish without adding a surplus of calories. Sauces are any “liquidy brew” that accompanies a dish. They will add a distinct flavor, beautiful color, and texture to your final recipe. From entrees to desserts, today’s sauces are unique and flavorful, rather than disguises for spoiled food like they were in years past.

Raspberry Sauce

1 c. fresh raspberries
1/4 c. sugar; or
1/2 c. raspberry seedless jam
2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp. soy sauce

Puree together, heat and serve
over chicken or pork.

Raisin Sauce for Cauliflower

1/2 c. raisins soaked in 1 c. hot water for one hour
2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar

Puree together and pour over hot, roasted cauliflower florets. To roast cauliflower, spray with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic and cook in a 400-degree oven for 20 minutes. (adapted from Vegetarian Times)

Blueberry Sauce for Ice Cream, Custard or Rice Pudding

1/3 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. cornstarch
1 pint fresh blueberries
1/4 c. fresh lemon juice

Melt sugar with cinnamon and cornstarch.
Stir in blueberries and cook until berries pop and sauce is clear. Stir in lemon juice and serve warm.
 

Philbrook Museum of Art’s summer exhibit takes guests on a stargazing tour that has nothing to do with astronomy. The late Robert Rauschenberg was one of a few artists who reached the height of fame that became the measure of success for artists of the post-war world. Everyone who wanted a piece of the crushingly unsentimental contemporary art scene sought the works of Rauschenberg, Andy Warhol and William de Koonig. For more than three decades, Rauschenberg created series of original prints at the Gemini G.E.L. workshop in West Hollywood. He used photographs taken in Tibet, Morocco, Los Angeles and China. He used materials as simple as cardboard. He even used his own x-rays. Prints, small, mammoth and in-between take the eyes on a tour of memory, which may mean the collective work, which goes on exhibit June 12 – Sept. 11, creates the artist’s ultimate self-portrait. For more, visit www.philbrook.org.