MEXICO WEDDING PLANNER - (Page 16)

Cuer navaca structures, among these the San Jose Chapel, the Convent of the Assumption and the Palacio de Cortes, once the house of Spanish conqueror Hernan Cortes, which today houses splendid murals by Diego Rivera within the Cuauhnahuac Museum. The city’s Jardin Borda showcases assorted gardens designed around old courtyards and other structures. Due to its inspiring ambiance, it’s one of Cuernavaca’s most recognized landmarks. The pyramids of the early Aztec city of Teopanzolco are also a popular stop, adding mystique to the city. Also worth visiting in Cuernavaca, at least for a drink (if not for a stay—why not hotel-hop after the wedding?) are a few of the city’s hotels, which provide a glimpse into the culture of the city: among the charmers are La Casa Azul and Casa Colonial, which was once part of the city’s original cathedral. These two belong to Tesoros de Morelos, one of several regional groups within the Tesoros de Mexico hotels and restaurants that have been certiﬁed as holding the highest standards of quality. Tesoros de Mexico members are located in Michoacan, Puebla, Morelos, Chiapas and Guanajuato and are certiﬁed annually after undergoing an exhaustive evaluation of their service, property and guests’ experience. The hotels and restaurants that hold the Tesoros de Mexico distinction are intimate, steeped in local culture and authenticity, adding to a true Mexican experience that is as ﬂavorful as it is attentive to clients’ expectations. Accommodations tend to be small in size and located within a city’s historic districts in architectural beauties that hold tightly to the traditions of the region; guests will ﬁnd anything from original murals on the walls to blooming gardens tucked away in tiny courtyards. In the case of La Casa Azul, each of its guestrooms is decorated following the style of different regions of Mexico. Whether it’s a city tour or for venturing out, companies such as Marquez Sightseeing Tours can help put everything together. One popular stop in the state of Morelos is the village of Tepoztlan, home to the famous Tepozteco pyramid that people so often want to climb, a lively market and a 16th century Dominican cathedral and former convent, now a charming museum. Just a few minutes away from the city is Xochicalco, an expansive UNESCO World Heritage site and highly important city-state in Mesoamerica; visitors are often entranced by structures such as the Pyramid of the Plumed Serpent and the Great Pyramid. One of our favorites is a “Route of the Convents” excursion— a journey through green, lush Morelos that leads to 11 convents built in the 16th century not far from Popocatepetl Volcano. This tour takes two or three days but is well worth it; it shows as much a history of the state as that of the country of Mexico. ● Las Mañanitas Hotel Garden Restaurant & Spa The Experience: A destination of plazas and historic buildings, meant for leisurely strolls and plenty of stress-free romance. Weather: Cuernavaca is not called the “City of Eternal Spring” for nothing; the weather is pleasant year-round. The Big Day: Customized weddings are the name of the game in Cuernavaca, and for top-tier accommodations and celebrations, there’s nothing quite like the sumptuous Las Mañanitas Hotel Garden Restaurant & Spa, a member of Relais & Chateaux. This hacienda-style property—recipient of multiple awards—is both delicate and elegant, with peacocks sashaying along verdant gardens and sculptures by Francisco Zuñiga adorning the grounds. There are fountains dispersed along the property, which has 29 rooms and suites ﬁlled with antiques and stunning, high-caliber art pieces. Couples who choose this hotel will not be disappointed. Las Mañanitas’ staff can put together a unique ceremony and reception, whether with in-house resources or trusted local vendors. And with a capacity of up to 400 people, it’s safe to say clients can invite everyone on their list. Most ceremonies take place in the gardens, of course, and there are menu options galore for a memorable feast. As for leisure time, there’s a top-tier and brand-new Orlane Spa, a solarium and mud bath facilities. There is also a decadent pool from which to enjoy one’s surroundings, and local excursions for hiking, golf and other activities are easily coordinated through the hotel. Rates start at $191 per night. Tours + Sites: It’s easy to see why residents of Mexico City like to spend their weekends here; even Austrian Emperor Maximilian ventured out of the capital city to spend days here, surrounded by forests and lakes. A jaunt in Cuernavaca means lots of stopping to admire its architecture and historic M16 May 2010 Las Mañanitas: (800) 735-2478; relaischateaux.com Marquez Sightseeing Tours: 52 (777) 217-4604; marqueztours@hotmail.com recommend.com Co n t a c t I n f o r m a t i o n http://www.relaischateaux.com http://www.recommend.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of MEXICO WEDDING PLANNER

Los Cabos
Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit
Acapulco
San Miguel de Allende & Guanajuato
Morelia
Cuernavaca
Oaxaca
Yucatan
The Mexican Caribbean
You're Invited
Getting There

MEXICO WEDDING PLANNER