In the world of food, no place has a greater buzz around it right now than Mexico does. One of its epicenters is off in the far northwestern corner of the country, just an hour and a half south of the United States border at San Diego. Baja California is one of Mexico’s most far-flung states, both geographically and culturally, and recent years have found it finding its own culinary identity. Using its ocean bounty and variety of fresh produce, a new and distinctly Mexican cuisine has begun to take shape. Ingredients commonly used include locally produced olive oil and wine – two things Mexico isn’t historically known for producing.

The coast of Baja California

It’s true, though – Baja California is producing wine and olive oil in spades, and this new culinary capital is looking toward the Mediterranean for inspiration. Think street tacos with grilled abalone and a drizzle of olive oil, for example. Sides could include freshly plucked vegetables and a full bodied wine to accompany it. Just inland from the port city of Ensenada lies the Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico’s largest grape growing region, which accounts for 95% of the country’s wine production. Lacking a signature varietal or regulatory oversight, winemakers are free to experiment, and you’ll find no shortage of diverging styles and opinion on what grows best here and how. The dry, hot climate means that certain grapes – like pinot noir, for example – could off the table, though that doesn’t stop some winemakers from trying. A visit to the Valle de Guadalupe means inventive restaurants, exciting wines and a bevy of gorgeous boutique hotels to choose from.

To DRINK

Villa Montefiori

Family-run Lechuza Vineyards is a favorite on both sides of the border – word has it that famed chef Thomas Keller just put some of their wines on the list at The French Laundry. A visit to their winery puts you directly at the Magnussen family home, where they let you sample the best their land has to offer. Across the valley, Villa Montefiorispecializes in Italian, old world-style wines, which is fitting as its winemaker, Paolo Paoloni, hails from Italy originally. There’s also an excellent Italian restaurant on-site, called Tre Galline, which provides the best Italian food on either side of the border. As for the wine, favorites include their inky Nebbiolo, dynamic Aglianico and their Mexican “Brunello.” Dr. Victor Torres Alegre originally studied winemaking in Bordeaux and brings that expertise home to Mexico. Vinicola Torres Alegre y Familia is another special experience, also fusing the old world with the new in the form of exciting blends unique to the Valle de Guadalupe.

To EAT

Deckman’s en el Mogor

TrasLomita is on the grounds of a well-known winery in the area, Hacienda la Lomita. A walk through its gardens leads you to a sort of backyard oasis in the form of TrasLomita, where Chef Sheyla Alvarado brings the best of his Baja experience to your plate. Deckman’s en el Mogor is headed up by Michelin-starred American Drew Deckman, who is a true grillmaster. Favorites include his yellowtail collar and rib eye steak, but anything you get will be lovingly and expertly prepared in his outdoor “anti-kitchen,” which revolves around an open-air grill and prep station. Chef Roberto Alcocer also loves grilling, but dresses it up a bit at his restaurant Malva, which is tucked away against the hills just at the entrance to the valley. The tasting menu is the best way to showcase Alcocer’s expertise, giving diners the true range of Baja-style cuisine. Corazon de Tierra is the valley’s most famous outpost, where Chef Diego Hernandez shows off his range of Mexican taught and trained techniques, using strictly local ingredients. This is the valley’s hottest ticket, to be certain, and a meal here, under the backdrop of the mountains beyond and the restaurant’s garden beside it, will be unforgettable.

Corazon de Tierra

To STAY

The cherry on top of a Valle de Guadalupe vacation is its incredibly chic boutique hotels. Adobe Guadalupe is a hacienda-style property where gourmands, wine-lovers and horse aficionados can rest easily in the center of the valley. Their wine is top-notch, as is the food on-site, and the decor eclectic, chic and cozy at the same time. For those seeking more modern-designed accommodations, look no further than Encuentro Guadalupe. The rooms at this hotel are individual eco pods set atop the hills lording over the valley, creating a stunning vantage point whether you’re staring up at the pods or scanning the vistas below them. Bruma is a yet-to-be-finished eco-luxury resort, with five stunning bed and breakfast suites completed at time of print. The goal is to have more rooms, winery operations and a restaurant, but visitors will have to make do with comfortable and smartly-designed rooms, a gorgeous pool and beautiful valley sunset views for now.

Encuentro Guadalupe

By Jackie Bryant

Overview – GVRN Febrero 2016 from Velas Resorts on Vimeo.

Dedicated menus at each restaurant feature four to five adapted traditional dishes of French, Italian and Mexican cuisine as well as international favorites and comfort food for the specialty diet. Frida, serving authentic Mexican food, offers standout dishes such as raw coconut ceviche with serrano chili and cucumber Aguachile, plus marinated wild mushrooms Mayan-style with baked plantain, brown rice and sautéed spinach in a homemade tortilla.

Italian options at Lucca include a bruschetta sampler with crushed tomato, garlic, basil, arugula, olive oil and lemon over rustic bread, gluten-free penne pasta with broccoli, cauliflower and grilled Portobello, and espresso and chocolate cake with raspberry sherbet and marinated fruit. French dishes at Piaf include vegan nut pate with fermented cashew cheese and black pepper crust, smoked sausage with sauerkraut, antique mustard and green apple compote, and chocolate mousse with orange essence and forest berries over hazelnut glaze.

At any time of day or night, in-suite dining delivers vegan cheeses, breads, ice creams and sour cream, as well as burgers made with almonds, mushrooms, 10 different vegetables, onions, and garlic, with chia seeds and chickpeas for protein (pumpernickel bun or lettuce wraps available). Another savory option includes a vegan pizza melt made with cashews, tapioca and sunflower seeds. Committed to serving nutritious meals with sufficient protein, all dishes created at the property are free of processed foods and are made with healthy cooking oils and techniques.

Soon to come are pressed juices and shots of ginger, turmeric and cayenne, which are known for giving health benefits and helping the immune system. The new culinary offerings come on the heels of the property’s first annual multi-generational Wellness Week inclusive of top chefs, vegan menus, culinary workshops, fitness activities, and spa offerings, which took place October 24-30, 2016.

For more information on Velas Resorts or for reservations, please call 1-888-407-4869 or visit http://www.velasresorts.com.

Deep Water Cay – Bahamas

From February 9-19, Deep Water Cay is celebrating the holiday by offering the Lover’s Package which includes a four-night stay in a private oceanfront cottage. Located in the Bahamas, couples booking this package will be afforded exclusive use of a private guide and boat each day as well as the option to enjoy activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing. Should you catch anything on your outing, the chef can grill up your fresh catch for that evening’s dinner. On Valentine’s Day, lovers will get to savor a gourmet dinner in the resort’s private dining room, complete with complimentary Champagne and surrounded by locally-sourced flowers. The Lover’s Package begins at USD $10,752 based on double occupancy.

Malliouhana – Anguilla

Sitting on the white sands beaches of Anguilla, Malliouhana is a four-star, boutique resort built atop a panoramic bluff overlooking the Caribbean. This February and March, the hotel is showcasing a four-night offer for couples celebrating Valentine’s Day with them. Before you even step food in Anguilla, your package begins with a private plane ride from San Juan, Puerto Rico courtesy of Tradewind private charters. Guests can choose between either an Ocean View Premium room or Junior Suite and will be welcomed with chocolate truffles and Champagne in your accommodation upon arrival. Along with a daily breakfast, travelers will get to experience a 90-minute couples Coconut Dream Duet treatment and dinner under the stars with a three-course meal prepared on the beach. The package begins at USD $13,530 per couple.

Le Barthélemy – St. Barths

St. Barths is always a good idea, and this Valentine’s Day, it’s the perfect destination to show your loved one how much they mean to you. Situated right on the beach, Le Barthélemy is chic resort with interiors by designer Sybille de Margerie and Michelin-starred French chef Guy Martin at the helm of its signature restaurant. For V-day, the property is offering the Love St B’heart Package, a five-night experience which includes a variety of perks to choose from. Couples can choose five of 10 exclusives which range from a 60-minute massage to dinner for two at Guy Martin’s eatery, a private picnic lunch on the beach, a mixology lesson and SUP lessons. But don’t worry, if you don’t make it for Valentine’s Day, the offer is good until August 31, 2017, so take all the time you need. The Love St B’heart Package is priced at around USD $732 a night.

CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa – Anguilla

Inspired by the Greek island of Mykonos, CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa is a five-star resort oozing with charm. Located in Anguilla’s Rendezvous Bay, the property is home to 98 suites and private villas with pools, fine dining venues, the award-winning Venus Spa featuring Aquatherapy, and the 18-hole Greg Norman Signature Design Championship Course. This Valentine’s Day, the resort is offering a Sea of Love Package for eight days, seven nights in a beachfront one-bedroom suite. Upon arrival, guests will be treated to Champagne and strawberries, the perfect start to your romantic week. The package also includes daily breakfast, three complimentary lunches, two dinners and chef’s tasting menu at Le Bistro or Omakase at Tokyo Bay, a 50-minute relaxation massage, a couples 105-minute couples treatment, private dinner on the beach, wine tasting, and a one-day car rental. The Sea of Love offer is priced at USD $10,465.

Round Hill – Jamaica

The secluded Round Hill resort sits on a lush 110-acre peninsula west of Montego Bay, and luxe property is celebrating V-day as only Jamaica can, with the One Love package. Couples who book a three-night stay by February 12, 2017 will receive roundtrip airport transfers, daily breakfast, chocolate covered fruits upon arrival, complimentary Wi-Fi and daily afternoon tea service. When it comes time to relax, enjoy a 50-minute couples massage at the spa before jetting off on a glass-bottom boat ride for the afternoon. Should you wish to wander around the local area, a daily shuttle is available to take you to Montego Bay for some shopping or to Tryall Golf Club to practice your swing. The One Love package starts at USD $729 per night.

Written by Nicolle Monico

Two exciting concepts are making their way to Tulum. Noma Mexico will be popping up at the Colibri boutique hotel La Zebra this summer, bringing its world-class dining experience from Copenhagen to the Riviera Maya. René Redzepi reunited with friend and former sous-chef Rosio Sanchéz, of Copenhagen’s Hija de Sanchez, to develop a new and original menu using only local and indigenous Mexican ingredients.

Rene Redzepi in the kitchen- Noma Mexico © 2016 Vincent L Long

Working with Sanchez and a small group of international chefs, the Noma team have already begun to develop their vision for the Mexico residency. By traveling across the country in search of inspiration, they’ll incorporate flavors and preparations from Mexico City to Ensenada, Chiapas to Puebla, Oaxaca to Guadalajara, and throughout the Yucatán Peninsula.

At Noma, shorts and sandals are the norm but good taste always sets the standard.

Noma Mexico will be situated outdoors between the Caribbean Sea and the canopy of the jungle, just steps away from La Zebra boutique hotel, where shorts and sandals are the norm but good taste is held to the highest standard. Its doors open April 12, 2017.

La Zebra Hotel situated on the Caribbean Sea

Also at the La Zebra hotel will be another pop up from New York’s lauded cocktail bar, Mulberry Project. Featuring tequila, mezcal and rum, in particular, guests will be able to suggest a favored base cocktail for the mixologist to start off from, rather than ordering from a standard preconceived menu. Jasper Soffer, co-founder and owner of the original Mulberry Project in downtown Manhattan, says, “We don’t believe in boredom. We want to surprise you and please you at the same time. We’ll give you a cocktail you’ve probably never had before, something that fits with the magic that is Tulum.” Clearly, it seems that the place to be in Tulum this year is eating and drinking at La Zebra.

By Jackie Bryant

We’re already deep into the heart of winter, which means you’re most likely ready for the snow to subside and the sunshine to make its way back to your area of the world. But if you’d rather not wait for the temperature to heat up, St. Barths is calling your name. March and April are some of the best times to visit the picturesque island, with temperatures resting at a breezy 84-86 degrees F.

The sophisticated French island is a hotspot for the well-to-do and jetsetters hit its beach each winter in search of its perfectly-turquoise bays, powder-soft sand and wonderfully-luxurious hotels. Along with its postcard-worthy landscapes, the archipelago is also known for its chic boutiques boasting the latest French fashions, high-end restaurants featuring local cuisines and of course, its many megayachts parked in the harbor.

Because of this, St. Barths is one of the region’s most expensive islands and indulging in a week stay here is reserved for those who enjoy the finer things in life. Although you could spend most of your time lounging beach side or sailing around its 21 beaches, the benefit of a springtime trip means you’ll get to enjoy some of the island’s best events and activities.

From March 16-19, the St. Barths Bucket Regatta takes place around the island featuring three days of races between 40 stunning sailboats and yachts. The regatta is one of the most established and prestigious invitational sailing yacht races in the world, and this year marks its 26th year in operation. Each March, guests from across the globe come to check out exclusive vessels, charter yachts and mingle with international designers to discuss their next boat purchase. The weekend also includes a number of chic social events to enjoy such as the invitation-only owner’s reception, the Bucket Bash at Hôtel de la Collectivité and the Final Awards Ceremony and Cocktail Party.

If you’re planning on visiting in April, look into coming towards the end of the month to check out the island’s 23rd Annual St. Barth Film Festival from April 25-30. The affair highlights filmmaking in the Caribbean through a series of screenings, debates and meet-and-greet opportunities to chat with film makers, actors and notable producers. Last year’s shindig showcased three films from Cuba ranging in themes such as sensual and nostalgic fiction to a historical film about the end of the Spanish-Cuban-American War. This year’s films have not been released, but you can be sure you’ll find some unexpected surprises among its titles. Throughout the fest, guests can also participate in round-table discussions on Caribbean cinema to get a better understanding of the region’s arts and culture scene.

Other springtime events include the Les Voiles de St. Barth from April 10-15 and the St. Barths Theatre Festival from May 18-27. The former draws in over 1,000 sailors to participate in a week-long regatta boasting racing events, concerts and other beachside activities. In May, the theater fest offers performances by local St. Barths companies and visiting troupes from neighboring islands and France.

By Jackie Bryant

On a small island in the Caribbean, one of the greatest musicians of all time left behind a little piece of himself for his fans to enjoy. It’s been a little over a year since the passing of David Bowie, but fans of his can still catch a glimpse of his magic by renting his seven-bedroom villa on the private isle of Mustique.

Part of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the singer’s lavish estate sits on a hilltop overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Built in the 1980s especially for him, the home’s décor features a Balinese style mixed with eclectic elements that pay homage to the whimsical Ziggy Stardust himself. In order to create a more avant-garde look, Bowie called upon architects Arne Hasslqvist and Robert Litwiller for his unconventional home. “I love a good cliché,” Bowie told Architectural Digest in 1992, “and this house for me is just the most delightful cliché.”

The villa includes private garden decks, a dining pavilion, study and game rooms and receptions rooms. Inside the main house are five bedrooms and two separate houses sit on the property to accommodate an additional four guests. The main estate’s accommodations all boast private verandas which lead to the infinity pool outdoors. When Bowie sold the property in 1994, its new owner, English poet Felix Dennis kept the home’s integrity intact and named it Mandalay. Following his passing in 2014, another undisclosed owner purchased the villa which is now available for private bookings. Neighboring home owners include names such as Tommy Hilfiger, Mick Jagger and Bryan Adams.

The villa is being offered through Mustique Company and Red Savannah for $40,000 a week or around $60,000 a week during high season (December 15 through April 30). The property holds 14 guests and includes a household staff of eight.

By Nicolle Monico

The start of another year is like Christmas to us. Across the globe, hoteliers are gifting us with new properties to discover in some of our favorite locations. As we watch them begin to take shape, we can’t help but be excited about their luxe offerings, such as the latest tech amenities, exciting immersive experiences and their beautifully-designed interiors and exteriors. In the Caribbean and The Americas, there will be a mix of new and newly-renovated hotels, but we’re taking a look at those making their debut in 2017 for the first time. Here’s a brief look 10 properties to check out this year:

Alvear Icon – Argentina

The same group that opened Buenos Aires’ Alvear Palace Hotel in 1932 will debut the new Alvear Icon come June. The more contemporary property will be located in the same city as its sister hotel and will be housed within a 35-story skyscraper along the Puerto Madero waterfront. Along with 159 guestrooms and suites, the hotel will include a 32nd-floor rooftop bar and restaurant, a courtyard eatery, an upscale Glatt kosher restaurant and a milk bar.

Awasi Iguazu – Argentina

A 15-minute drive from one of the world’s largest waterfalls, the new Awasi Iguazú hotel is set to open at the end of 2017 in the Misiónes province. The hotel will be built on stilts to limit its environmental impact and will only be home to 12 lodges. Guestrooms will feature outdoor showers, private plunge pools, spacious living areas and a 4WD vehicle for private use. A dedicated guide will also be assigned to each villa, offering guests the chance to experience biologist-led excursions.

Conrad Cartagena – Colombia

Conrad Cartagena will open in June of this year along the coastline of the Caribbean Sea in Colombia. The property will sit nearby to Cartagena’s UNESCO World Heritage Site which is home to many ancient fortresses and monuments, cafés and colonial architecture. The hotel will feature 273 guestrooms and suites, an 18-hole TPC golf course designed by pro champion Jack Nicklaus, the Conrad Spa and salon, seven restaurants and lounges, four swimming pools, a fitness center and a Kids Club. Guests will also be able to book one-, three- and five-hour curated itineraries through the hotel to explore the city.

Itz’ana Resort & Residences – Belize

Opening this spring, Itz’ana Resort & Residences will welcome guests to the coastal village of Placencia on the Caribbean peninsula next to the world’s second largest barrier reef. Itz’ana will feature 39 boutique cottages and villas boasting high ceilings and open-air living spaces. Around the resort, guests will find a sea-to-table restaurant, rum room, spa, swimming pool, Hemingway-inspired library, and an 18-slip marina. The full-service marina will feature a watersports activity center, servicing boat tours, and sunset sailing trips.

Nayara Tented Resort – Costa Rica

Nayara Hotel, Spa & Gardens and Nayara Springs are already staples for affluent travelers heading to Costa Rica, and this winter, the brand will open its third property in the country. Nayara Tented Resort will be located in Arenal Volcano National Park and will feature 24 tents. Each 945-square-foot residence will sit on its own platform and include a master suite with en-suite bathroom, an outdoor living area and a plunge pool filled from the nearby hot springs. The resort will also be home to a restaurant, spa and wellness center.

Palácio Tangará – Brazil

Architects B+H Architects, Bick Simonato and PAR Arquitetura have been tapped to design São Paulo’s newest hotel: the Palácio Tangará. Set to open in the second quarter of 2017, the Brazilian property will sit on 26 acres of land overlooking the renowned Burle Marx Park. Along with 82 guestrooms and 59 suites, the hotel will include a fitness center, kid’s club, the Sisley spa, private gardens and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Palácio Tangará’s dining venues will be overseen by famed French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

Park Hyatt St. Kitts – St. Christopher & Nevis

The five-star Park Hyatt St. Kitts will debut in St. Kitts and Nevis this summer, just in time for beachside cocktails and sun-kissed adventures. The West Indies property will sit on a secluded area surrounded by white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and overlooking The Narrows. Of its 126 guestrooms, many will feature individual rooftop pools, and all will boast a terrace or balcony. Further amenities include a 9-room spa and yoga pavilion and three unique dining concepts offering local and international cuisines. Guests will also be able to enjoy a range of activities such as yachting, golfing, snorkeling, diving and fishing around the island.

Rosewood Puebla – Mexico

Located in the heart of one of Mexico’s most significant colonial cities, Rosewood Puebla will open later this year with 79 rooms and suites housed in a collection of buildings from different time periods. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is home to over 2,600 historic sites and over 365 churches and is famous for being the place where mole poblano was created. The hotel will offer a restaurant with outdoor courtyard seating, the Lavaderos de Almoloya bar and a Sense spa, a rooftop bar and swimming pool and a 300-year-old chapel, which will be available to guests as a wedding venue.

UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya – Mexico

The all-inclusive UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya, opening this March, is aiming to specialize in “no itinerary necessary” vacations and redefine the all-inclusive landscape. The adults-only resort will be home to 448 accommodations, and guests staying on floors two through five will be treated to hydro Jacuzzis on their terraces. First floor homes will come with a plunge pool, and all rooms include mini bars stocked to your preference. Travelers will also have access to the UNICO Experience App which features updated information on weekly activities and programs such as cooking classes taught by renowned regional chefs and impromptu popup sessions like Mezcal tastings, cocktail hours in a nearby Mayan village or full moon parties on the beach.

By Nicolle Monico

The city that played muse to one of Nobel-prize winner Gabriel García Márquez’s most memorable and fantastical novels is having a moment in the fiery Caribbean sun. Top ranks on must-visit lists, nonstop service from the U.S. to Rafael Núñez International airport and an impressive dining scene have fanned the flames of the Colombian jewel’s rise from local holiday spot to global destination darling.

Recently, we ranked Cartagena as a top destination to visit in 2017. The tropical locale has long been a coveted getaway for Colombians. Now, the rest of the world seems to be catching on. Last winter, Delta Airlines began operating nonstop service to the colorful port city, via Atlanta. Its top chefs look to the Caribbean and regional ingredients for culinary inspiration, like at Alma restaurant, where Chef Heberto Eljach serves his version of Merengon de Guanabana, a meringue dessert and local favorite.

Many visitors to Cartagena will be drawn to the historical charms of the Old City, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. As South America’s most fortified city,  step through the preserved walls from the canary yellow La Puerta and Torre de Reloj, the gateway and clock tower from which exploration begins. Meander its narrow cobblestoned streets, Spanish Colonial architecture and wooden balconies dressed in tumbling bougainvillea.

The best time to visit is mid-January to April, during the dry season. It’s also off-peak season and may mean a leaner crowd.

Within the walls that the Spanish built to protect the city from waves of pirates attacks, Cartagena is best experienced on foot. However, you don’t have to wander far for a delicious taste of the city.

To eat and drink

At La Cevichería, an Anthony Bourdain favorite, ask for a table in the dining room for intimate conversation. Or, for a full view of the bustling kitchen, snag the cozy booth at the front of the restaurant. As the name implies, people flock to this establishment for ceviches “cooked” in mandarin and lime juices and hearty seafood dishes to share, like their buttery and comforting Lobster Rice. Order a mojito while you wait and take in the nautical touches of the space, which is aptly washed in blue and turquoise.

Those looking for something a little more eclectic should head to María. The menu reflects Chef Juan Felipe Camacho and Chef Alejandro Ramirez’s cosmopolitan travels through Tokyo, London and New York. Fresh, local ingredients and simple yet elevated preparation (they’re alums of Gordon Ramsay and Martin Berasategui) provide a dining experience as colorful as Cartagena’s palenqueras are – the brightly dressed ladies who sell tropical fruits from a bowl balanced atop their heads. Think a shrimp and chorizo risotto with a squeeze of citrus, or a juicy ribeye paired with plantain mash.

For a sampling of local culture with a bohemian flair, Getsemaní is the place to be. At the moment, it is Cartagena’s trendiest neighborhood outside of the walled city.

Case in point: Demente, a tapas bar in Getsemaní with local Aguila beer on tap, is smartly outfitted with a retractable roof, dim lighting and exposed brick. It is located on the perimeter of Plaza de la Trinidad–a languid area by day that transitions into a hub of social activity when the sun goes down, making it a prime spot for people watching.

The folks at Cartagena Connections, a local company that offers curated food tours around the city recommends the whole fried sweet chili peppers. “They are salty, addictive and delicious and will go perfectly with whatever you are drinking,” explains Kristy Ellis, founder of Cartagena Connections. Also, the oxtail sliders. “They’re small, but pack plenty of flavor.” In an interview with Forbes, Demente owner and Bogotá native Nicolas Wiesner commented that “there must be something demented about moving to Cartagena to open a Spanish-tapas-style restaurant.” Crazy or not, the entire setup works.

Equally as trendy is Malagana’s tiny third-floor rooftop, though seating is also available inside. Owned and run by a family of women, Malagana has options for carnivores and vegetarians alike. The menu is small but full of flavor and includes  burgers, salads and fish tacos. For refreshment, sample the Corozo Margarita. The deep red color comes from the corozo palm fruit and is unique to the Caribbean regions of Colombia. Make a light snack of their ceviche with coconut milk, lime and banana chip for some crunch.

The mobile street vendors are also not to be missed. They sell traditional snacks like the arepa, a fried doughy handheld pocket made from cornmeal and stuffed with melted cheese. Other options are also usually fried but make for a nice nibble during a stroll. Wash it down with a cup of coffee that comes in a little styrofoam cup that the vendors pour from a thermos.

To stay

Cartagena offers a number of accommodations to rest your head beneath historic, wooden high-beamed ceilings and other beautifully preserved 17th century touches without sacrificing modern comforts. Three restored Colonial-era homes set the tone at Hotel Casa San Agustin, where the city’s former aqueduct cuts across the swimming pool, the library showcases original frescoes and furnishings by local artisans add a sense of place.

Hotel Casa San Agustin also houses the celebrated restaurant Alma. Chef Heberto Eljach returned home to Cartagena to lead Alma after a number of years cooking and traveling around the world. On the menu, find coastal Colombian cuisine and an extensive list of fine wines in an indoor-outdoor setting.

The Tcherrassi Hotel and Spa is decadence personified. With only seven rooms, the restored colonial mansion by Colombian fashion designer Silvia Tcherassi feature restored original stone walls, high ceilings and private balconies. It also houses upscale Italian restaurant Vera that, per the standard in Cartagena, features local seafood in a 50-seat dining room. Colombian-born Chef Daniel Castaño, who worked under Mario Batali for nearly a decade launched Vera four years ago.

At the 123-room Sofitel Legend Santa Clara in the barrio San Diego, what was once a 17th century convent has been transformed into a luxurious home away from home. Works by Colombian artist Fernando Botero grace the property, while his daughter, Lina has lent her decorative efforts to the Presidential suite. El Coro, the hotel’s lounge bar is the place to enjoy live salsa and rhythmic cuban sounds, and splurge on cocktails and cigars.

Cartagena is a vibrant treasure of a city that embraces its history and wants to be shared. The gracious thing to do is to accept all that it has to offer with open arms and a walk back in time.

By: Ligaya Malones

Countless bars in Mexico claim to serve the country’s best tequila, but for a single place with the most luxurious tequila experiences, Four Seasons Punta Mita is your spirited ground zero.

“People travelling here want to taste real tequila, so we’ve created a lot of opportunities for them to do so,” says Alfredo Sanchez, the tequila barista who established the Four Seasons bar program, and now pours Mexico’s national spirit at the Four Seasons Dallas.  Sanchez, incidentally, has traveled the world to personally train Four Seasons mixologists as far as Hong Kong, so that guests everywhere benefit from the expertise of a certified Tequila Expert, certified by the Mexican Academy of Tequila in Mexico City.

Guests can discover many different tequilas during their stay and experience many ways to get to the heart of each. – Alfredo Sanchez

Tequila barista Monica De La Torre now oversees Four Seasons Punta Mita’s vast collection of tequila — nearly 200 varieties — plus an impressive selection of mescal, a smoky spirit distilled from the agave plant that is to tequila what Armagnac is to Cognac. Why offer such a huge variety?

The true beauty of tequila lies in its spellbinding complexity, from the citrus and herbal freshness it displays in its youth to the intoxicating depth in its plenitude. – Monica De La Torre, Four Seasons Punta Mita

While most guests consider themselves lucky to sip tequila shots or flights on the resort grounds, an extreme experience is offered for guests wanting to indulge in the ultimate tequila excursion. For US$25,000, Four Seasons Punta Mita will fly four guests by private helicopter to the 250-year-old Jose Cuervo distillery in the charming “magic town” of Tequila, Mexico, surrounded by the sprawling blue agave fields that gave birth to the tequila spirit.

Rightly so, the region is now designated a UNESCO world heritage site – after all, tequila is the national drink and one of its most popular exports. After landing, an expert sommelier takes guests behind the scenes for an exclusive tour, and demonstrates the tequila-making process from start to finish. A Four Seasons chef (who comes along for the ride) then prepares a three-course gourmet lunch, while local musicians serenade and tequila is poured. Before the helicopter whisks imbibers back to the resort, they make a visit to the reserve vault (or “cava”) for a taste of Jose Cuervo’s top-of-the-line aged tequila served straight from the barrel. Afraid to drink and fly? Extravagant tequila expeditioners who’d rather take the slow road can instead be chauffeured to and from the distillery in an air-conditioned car.

Resort wanting a less indulgent but very special souvenir to take home can book the resort’s new tequila tasting and blending program. For US$150, tequila aficionados can to create their own unique customized blend with the help of the resort’s Cultural Concierge. Enrique Alejos first leads a guided tasting to identify the flavors and aromas of various barrel-aged tequilas. Guests then sample all the varieties before choosing their four favorites, and balancing them to taste in order to create a unique blend of their very own. The one-of-a-kind result is placed in a handmade Damajuana bottle and sealed with wax. A leather label is signed, numbered, and registered in the logbook of Casa San Matias Tequila Factory.

Other resort opportunities for tastings include cooking classes that pair tequila with traditional Mexican dishes; and tours of nearby distilleries in the Punta Mita/Puerto Vallarta area. The area’s wealth of distilleries is evidence that Alejos, Sanchez, De La Torre, aren’t the only Punta Mita locals who are passionate about this country’s national spirit.

“The industry is very warm and welcoming and producers are happy to share their traditions.  It’s part of our Latin flavor.”

After all the spirit education and personal experience that Four Seasons Punta Mita provides, margarita lovers often find themselves craving new ways to shake up their tequila cocktail options. Torres and her bar staff are trained to do a bit of molecular mixology but they prefer to bring out tequila’s surprising subtleties by using traditional Mexican ingredients in un-traditional ways. For a start, they recommend leaving the usual salt and lime slices aside. Instead, they recommend premium tequila shots chased with orange and grapefruit wedges, chili powder-dusted pineapple, thick chunks of dark chocolate, or red and green sangrita (a non-alcoholic accompaniment that highlights tequila’s crisp acidity and cleanses the palate between each peppery sip). The resort’s baristas may twirl a cocktail glass of tequila rimmed with house-made chamoy, a fruity sweet-and-sour candy traditionally used to familiarize youngsters to the taste of chili. Or they may throw caution to the wind and fire up a Cuban cigar to compliment the smoky flavor of extra-aged XO Mexican spirits.

“Each unlocks another expression of tequila and is another way to enjoy it,” says Sanchez, who is the first to admit that not everything goes well with tequila. “Your best bets for a satisfying tequila experience are food pairings of ceviche and chocolate cake.”

Though the property features several bars, your best bet for the most complete bar lounge on the grounds of Four Seasons Punta Mita, is the Aramara Bar, located just off the main entrance to Aramara restaurant. Aramara Bar features a lounge area, exotic menu and live music six nights a week. In case you reach your tequila saturation point, the bar serves original cocktails created with fresh herbal infusions, complemented by a selection of premium beverages, including Japanese and Mexican beers, sake, Shoju, signature teas, Asian-spiced coffees and 40 wines by the glass. A sommelier is also on duty to present a wide selection of Mexican wines to pair with dinner courses.

“We pride in showing our guests the local experience throughout their stay,” says Torres. “We advise them to let themselves be guided through our extensive tequila and Mexican artisanal spirits selection by our expert bar’s staff, from sampling a tequila flight while the sun sets in paradise to having an amazing dinner by our talented chefs paired with premium Mexican wine and spirits.”

By Vicki Arkoff

For a celebrity, owning a second or third home in a tropical location is pretty standard, especially if they reside in New York where winters can be brutal. While visiting their main place of residence isn’t an invitation afforded to many people, many A-listers are opening up their vacation homes for guests to use throughout the year. Want to know how Donna Karan decorates her private residence? Or what type of design-aesthetic stood out to Eric Clapton? These six celebrity-owned villas scattered around the Caribbean can be booked for your next warm-weather holiday.

Joe Francis – Casa Aramara

If you grew up in the ‘90s, you’re probably pretty familiar with the name Joe Francis. Although the Girls Gone Wild creator has a less than stellar reputation, his once private hideaway in Punta Mita is known for attracting A-listers such as Kim Kardashian-West, Jennifer Aniston and Demi Moore. Last year, the 12-bedroom Casa Aramara was sold, renovated and now is open to the public for exclusive rentals. Francis still has rights to the Owner’s Suite, however, and traces of him still sit within the villa. There’s a Girls Gone Wild guitar in the game room and pens scattered around the house don his name. Casa Aramara sits on a private beach and has too many amenities to name, but a few of our favorites are the 30 full-time staff, five-star chefs, 24-hour butler service and access to the Four Seasons and St. Regis Resorts in Punta Mita. Plus, there’s an Anything Button in every room so you can press it secure anything you might want or need. Rate: $15,000 to $30,000 a night

Richard Branson – The Branson Estate

You’d have to be living under a rock to not know about Richard Branson’s Necker Island retreat. But one property owned by the billionaire you may not yet have on your radar is The Branson Estate on Moskito Island. Located in the British Virgin Isles, the Caribbean residence sits on 125 acres of land and can accommodate up to 22 guests within three villas that are connected by wooden walkways. The three estates: The Headland House, Beach Villa and Mangrove Villa offer a total of 11 bedrooms and offer everything from Balinese-style décor to full-wall retractable glass doors, a wraparound infinity pool and outdoor bars. On the eastern side of the island sits the Recreation Area at the Beach House which includes a watersports center, infinity pool and bar, tennis pavilions and dining venues. Rate: $38,480 a night

Mick Jagger – Stargroves

Mustique Island in the West Indies is known for being a billionaire’s playground, and on this little piece of paradise sits a beachfront villa owned by Mick Jagger. Nicknamed Stargroves, the Japanese-style, six-bedroom home is split up into seven separate pavilions connected via elevated walkways. The estate includes a 25-foot pool, hot tub, game pavilion, on-site tennis court, a butler and chef. Inside, both the living and dining pavilions open out to beachside sundecks, allowing for the warm Caribbean breezes to flow throughout the residence. Along with the master suite, a separate children’s cottage sits on the property and comes with two bedrooms, a living room, kitchen and veranda. Guests also have access to a Jeep during their stay should they wish to go into town or explore the island. Rate: $16,500 per week (low season); $30,000 per week (high season).

Eric Clapton – Standfast Point

Eric Clapton is not only a is the only three-time inductee to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but is also considered a guitar god in his own right. So it makes sense that his private hideaway on the island of Antigua is not only rockstar-worthy, but is also a heavenly affair. Sitting on 44 acres of land, the 10,000-square-foot estate is located in the southeastern part of the island and accommodate up to 14 people. On the property are two pools, outdoor dining areas, a children’s playroom, billiard room and comes with a full staff. Rate: $50,000 a week

Donna Karan – The Sanctuary

Parrot Cay in Turks & Caicos has always been a hotspot for the affluent. And with neighbors such as Keith Richards, Christie Brinkley and Bruce Willis, American fashion designer Donna Karan’s 10-acre property on the island is just the place to go to hobnob with the glitterati. The beachfront home includes two four-bedroom villas on either side of an outdoor pavilion. Inside, the residences boast an understated-luxury aesthetic with large floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings, cedar and coral stone walls, and European walnut floors. Along with curated works of art and furniture from Africa, Bali and Haiti, Karan herself has designed a few of the custom-made pieces donning the rooms. Amenitities include a two-story yoga pavilion, infinity pool, spa, butler services, a state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen and a full staff. Rate: $11,220 a night

David Copperfield – Musha Cay Villa

Like Sir Richard Branson, magician David Copperfield didn’t only purchase a villa on an island, he bought an entire archipelago. Musha Cay is a private Bahamian island home to five guest houses and can accommodate up to 24 guests. The American illusionist also acquired 10 additional islands nearby to create what is called the Islands of Copperfield Bay, meaning there is no shortage of exclusive beaches to explore when visiting. All guestrooms have four-poster beds, en-suite his and hers bathrooms, wraparound decks and are decorated with antiques pieces and exotic treasures from around the world. Additional amenities include a private speedboat, gym, outdoor theater, beachside daybeds, jet skis and a championship-quality tennis court. 
Rate: $57,000 a night

By:  Nicolle Monico