Recommend April 2013 - (Page 73)

mexico The oceanfront Villas Flamingos (top) on Isla Holbox and B Cozumel (left). ISLAND-HOPPING IN MEXICO For an authentic Mexican vacation experience, tell clients to head to Mexico’s charming islands: Isla Holbox, Isla Mujeres and Cozumel. paloma villaverde de rico Although it’s difﬁcult to get away from it “all” nowadays, islands still hold a certain mystique for vacationers. There’s a sense that one can just don those ﬂip-ﬂops and sunglasses all day, let go of one’s city persona and completely relax, truly embracing the surrounding’s laid-back atmosphere. And in speaking with many of the travel professionals we spoke with for this story, we get the sense that that is exactly what vacationers who seek out these types of getaways are yearning, and who can blame them. In fact, we wish we were on one of these islands right now, with those turquoise waters surrounding us, the sand wriggling between our toes, and a coconut in one hand as we barter for a handicraft or two with local merchants in their shops. Here, we’ve got all the information you’ll need for booking this type of island getaway in Mexico—from some of the best restaurant picks on the islands to the most idyllic of hotel choices. “People come to these islands to totally disconnect from everyday life and enjoy the culture, food, language and people that occupy these places,” says Jesus Almaguer, CEO, Cancun Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Isla Mujeres and Isla Holbox are each ﬁlled with natural wonders, unspoiled beaches and the perfect escapes.” He adds that the best modes of transportation on Holbox and Isla Mujeres are golf carts and walking, and since the islands are largely inhabited by ﬁshermen, fresh seafood is on every menu (on Holbox, he recommends your clients try the lobster pizza at Pizzeria Carioca, and on Isla Mujeres he recommends Satay for its Asian fusion cuisine). Cozumel is a little more popular since it is a major cruise port, but nonetheless, says Adamarie King, owner of Connoisseur’s Travel, “the eastern shores of the island are empty of people and buildings, and therefore offer a great alternative for clients looking for a real retreat” away from mass tourism. And these destinations are not just ideal for honeymooners and couples, says Sylvie Laitre, director of Mexico Boutique Hotels (MBH), with several hotel options on the islands. “I’d also say families, especially Holbox, a destination with no cars. Driving around in golf carts appeals to kids and the fact that the ocean is so calm makes it a safe place to take your kids on a fun beach april 2013 73 73-75 MX Islands.indd 73 3/21/13 1:03 PM

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Recommend April 2013

Editor's Notes
The Islands of Tahiti
Hotel Desk: Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia
Tour Talk: Islands in the Sun
A Med Escape: Greek Isles & Cyprus
Set Sail
The Seychelles' Private Island Resorts
Portrait of Israel
Booking 2 on the Isles: Easter Island & Galapagos
Island-Hopping in Mexico: Cozumel, Isla Holbox & Isla Mujeres
The Pulse of Poipu, Hawaii
Florida's Islands: Amelia, Captiva & Sanibel
The Real Caribbean: Grenada & Martinique

Recommend April 2013