Mexico remains a top international destination for North Texans because of its short and comparatively inexpensive flights and breadth of cultural and luxury experiences. Here are four unique getaways to consider if you get the bug to go somewhere this fall.
Culinary Paradise in Cancun
The Yucatán Peninsula resort town is known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and spectacular food.
Cancun is a well-known spring break destination long beloved for its turquoise waters, powdery white-sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. But across the bay from Isla Mujeres, a Mexican island on the world’s second-largest reef system, Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Cancun boasts some of the region’s best cuisine. For dinner, any foodie will fall in love with the fusion flavors of Hiroshi, which blends Japanese cuisine with traditional Mexican flavors and spices. Our recommendation? Anything on the menu showcasing tuna as the restaurant’s chef occasionally prepares it fresh in front of awe-struck guests. Another can’t-miss dining destination is Blanca Blue, the resort’s Mexican concept, which received an award of excellence from Wine Spectator in 2021. Treat yourself to a glass of vino from the expertly curated wine list while enjoying baja fish tacos, ajillo shrimp, or fried octopus—all while soaking in the ambiance of this seaside retreat. Be sure to top off your trip with one of Garza Blanca’s signature (and creative!) cocktails, like the beet margarita, Mezcalitini, or Watermelon Fresh.
No Cancun vacation is complete without freshly made tacos and an ice-cold cerveza or margarita.
Courtesy of Garza Blanca Resort
Indulge in a celebratory champagne toast while watching the sunset over crystal-clear Caribbean waters.
Courtesy of Garza Blanca Resort
Dig your toes into the powdery white sand beaches at the all-inclusive Garza Blanca resort.
Courtesy of Garza Blanca Resort
Wellness retreat in Playa del Carmen
Yoga on the beach, dining in the jungle, and diving in cenotes are among the many things to do in this quiet seaside destination.
The resort town of Playa del Carmen is a popular beachfront getaway in Mexico, located along the Yucatan Peninsula’s Riviera Maya strip of Caribbean shoreline. If it is rest and relaxation you seek, you’ll want to pay a visit to Rosewood Mayakoba and try out one of its many immersive wellness offerings, from soothing Ayurvedic massages to natural healings of pre-Hispanic, Meso-Mayan cultures. Embark on your wellbeing journey with a four-day commitment ceremony to yourself guided by Rosewood Mayakoba’s resident shaman, teaching everything you need to know about self-love and acceptance. You’ll also want to bring your mind to rest with Bhakti essential oils and a massage at the renowned Sense, a Rosewood Spa, where 120-minute treatments will help those deep-rooted stresses and emotions slip away. Don’t miss the resort’s many hiking trails and contemplative lookouts engulfed by natural beauty—or take to the sea and sail the crystal-clear Caribbean waters in ultimate style on Mayakoba’s sleek and sophisticated 55-foot yacht. Whatever your speed, the resort’s personal on-call concierge is guaranteed to find just the right treatments and activities for your wellness journey.
Open-air patios and plunge pools will kickstart your rest and relaxation experience in Playa del Carmen.
Courtesy of Beachfront Studio
The modern and luxurious wellness suites at Rosewood Mayakoba are optimized for the ultimate vacation vibes.
Courtesy of Rosewood Mayakoba
Many of the resort’s wellness offerings incorporate the living world, allowing you to be still and escape from the daily grind.
Courtesy of Kuxtal Sensory Garden Rosewood
Rosewood Mayakoba guests can choose from several different pools and water features.
Courtesy of Rosewood Mayakoba Cultural excursion in San Miguel de Allende
With its colorful street art, well-preserved buildings, and panoramic views, the city is known for its old-world charm and modern amenities.
A colonial-era city in Mexico’s interior, San Miguel de Allende is a popular wedding destination in Mexico—and love can be felt all around the city. (A traditional wedding here often includes a procession through the cobblestone-lined streets with mariachis in tow—and you’re sure to encounter one or two wedding parties during your time there.) The best way to unlock San Miguel de Allende’s beauty is on foot, discovering the Spanish colonial architecture, brightly colored buildings, public parks, and one of its many water fountains around every corner. It’s impossible not to stumble into one of the city’s many quaint local galleries, tienditas (little shops), or street markets. Just a short walk from the city center—and the towering pink limestone neo-Gothic church Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel—lies the city’s true gem: Rosewood San Miguel de Allende. Handsome, well-appointed rooms featuring charming balconies overlook a magical garden that serves as the property’s heart. Make time to enjoy a signature Casa Dragones margarita among the garden’s greenery—or, for the best view of San Miguel de Allende’s skyline and sunset, opt for pre-dinner cocktails at Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar, offering a 360-view of the hustle and bustle below.
Take advantage of the resort’s poolside cabanas for an afternoon siesta and a little R&R.
Courtesy of Rosewood San Miguel de Allende Resort
From patio to rooftop, al fresco dining opportunities abound at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende.
Courtesy of Rosewood San Miguel de Allende
Enjoy shareable appetizers like freshly made guacamole and flavorful cocktails at Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar.
Courtesy of Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar
The resort’s spacious and modern rooms evoke a fine hacienda with rich hues, hand-carved furniture, and wood beam ceilings.
Courtesy of Rosewood San Miguel de Allende Resort Seaside Oasis in Puerto Vallarta
A vibrant local arts scene and luxurious accommodations will lure you to this charming coastal town.
Along the azure Bay of Banderas coast, Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most treasured beach destinations. And rightfully so. Each year, millions of city dwellers from Mexico and worldwide flock to the seaside destination to relax on one of its many sandy beaches, shop in its boutique tiendas (shops), and wander along the picturesque El Malecón (boardwalk). In the northern Marina Vallarta section of the city, you’ll find Casa Velas, part of the Velas Resorts collection. The AAA Four Diamond Award-winning property prides itself on its signature attentive service. Every detail is about guest rest and relaxation—whether that be lounging poolside in a plush cabana, enjoying the Instagram-worthy Tau Beach Club, or finding time for a deep-tissue massage at the world-class spa. Tranquility and wellness are the focus at Casa Velas’ botanical garden, where guided yoga and meditation classes are offered. Peacocks, frolicking around the grounds and greeting visitors, transport you to a mystical Zen hideaway. With just 80 suites, the all-inclusive, adult-exclusive resort will feel like your own private retreat. Casa Velas bills itself as “your secret oasis.” And it truly is.
The main pool at the adults-only Casa Velas is surrounded by palm trees and overlooks a golf course.
Courtesy of Casa Velas
Casa Velas’ bright rooms are adorned with local art and other charming touches.
Courtesy of Casa Velas
Saltillo-tiled floors, dramatic architecture, and vast greenery at the resort add to its old-world intrigue and charm.
Courtesy of Casa Velas
Escape to Casa Velas’ exclusive beach club for an afternoon
of relaxation.
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