News Briefs:
- Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen’s Cenote Spa Wins 2018 World Luxury Spa Award; Design Inspired by Mayan Culture
- Native Americans’ Day & Black Hills Powwow
- Puerto Vallarta’s Historic Center Declared a Cultural Heritage of the State of Jalisco
- 2018 Barbados Food and Rum Festival Focuses on Local Chefs and Mixologists
- 12 Hotels Helped Visitors Celebrate Mexican Independence Day Like a Local
- Interjet Unveils First Ad Campaign in U.S. and Canada “Inspiration to Travel”
- San Antonio Celebrates Dia de los Muertos Like No Other City in the U.S.
- Puerto Vallarta Welcomes 9 Michelin Chefs For Vallarta Gastronomica
- Charleston Heritage Federation Fall 2018 Events
Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen’s Cenote Spa Wins 2018 World Luxury Spa Award; Design Inspired by Mayan Culture
Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen, Mexico, announces that Cenote Spa by Grand Hyatt was voted Country Winner for category “Best Unique Spa Experience” in the 2018 World Luxury Spa Awards. Designed by the world-renowned Sordo Madaleno architecture group, the spa seamlessly blends modern, contemporary design elements with Mayan-inspired textures and materials. The entire design of the spa is inspired by Mayan culture and their beliefs around the spiritual nature of cenotes. The inspiration is seen most notably throughout the stonework, lighting and fixtures. It covers 6,000 square-feet underground and brilliantly captures the serenity, rejuvenation and beauty of the region’s notable cenotes – this inspiration is seen throughout the spa’s intricate stonework, dramatic lighting, and textured layout. The Cenote Spa combines water and mangroves naturally throughout eight treatment rooms and specialty facilities, which include two double suites, hydrotherapy stations, a eucalyptus steam room, fiber optic chromotherapy showers, 82ft. lap pool, fitness center with Technogym equipment and workout studio, and full service salon. Mexican ingredients are used in their one-of-a-kind product and local blend called an Herbal Poultice, which helps relax muscles, while the potent herbs have therapeutic effects that can reduce inflammation, promote circulation, relieve joint pain and stiffness, calm muscle spasms, improve mobility and flexibility, boost the immune system and tone the skin. The massage treatments are influenced by Thai massage techniques. Upon entrance, guests are guided through different areas for relaxation prior to enjoying their choice of indulgent and holistic services, and treatments for massage, body and face. To find out more about Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen’s Cenote Spa, visit here.
Native Americans’ Day & Black Hills Powwow
As the first state to establish the holiday in lieu of Columbus Day, South Dakota welcomed travelers to take part in cultural festivities including: Rapid City’s Black Hills Powwow (October 5 – 7), also known as He Sapa Wacipi, was three days filled with indigenous singing, dancing, drum groups, art show, handgames, athletic competitions and a variety of other events. Over the decades, the Black Hills Powwow has become one of the premier American Indian cultural events in the country attracting hundreds of dancers, singers, artisans and thousands of spectators. Native Americans’ Day at Crazy Horse Memorial (October 8): Travelers could visit the memorial, the world’s largest mountain carving in progress, a 563-foot tall mountain carving depicting the famed Oglala Lakota warrior. Festive programs at Crazy Horse featured performances, arti, storytelling and hands-on activities for all, as well as a traditional buffalo stew lunch. During their visit, travelers could continue learning about South Dakota’s indigenous culture and history with the following: Visited Rapid City’s The Journey Museum’s interactive exhibits; Explored the Indian Museum of North America®, which is located on the Crazy Horse Memorial grounds and features art and artifacts from tribes across the continent; Participated in a local tour on Pine Ridge Indian Reservation to pay respects at Wounded Knee; Hiked to the sacred Bear Butte State Park; Visited Prairie Edge, a retail store and gallery specializing in Native American books, music, jewelry and ceremonial items, in Rapid City.
Puerto Vallarta’s Historic Center Declared a Cultural Heritage of the State of JaliscoPuerto Vallarta’s Historic Center is now a protected Cultural Heritage of the Mexican State of Jalisco. The declaration was made by the state’s Department of Culture on July 21 via the official journal of Jalisco and makes the center of the city a protected area, with all the rights and privileges of a heritage protected by state and federal laws. The recognition includes the area from the beginning of the Malecon – where the oldest hotel in Puerto Vallarta, the hotel Rosita, stands – and continues to the cobblestoned Romantic Zone and up to the historic Conchas Chinas neighborhoods. Each area is of special historical significance to Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco and Mexico, as well as the essence of the port city, which is in the midst of celebrating its centennial. According to the State of Jalisco, this proclamation is a step to further preserve the architectural elements of patrimonial value and image and essential characteristics of the typical town on the seashore, one of the unique qualities of Puerto Vallarta, known as the “most Mexican” beach destination. The center of Puerto Vallarta is much loved by the people of Vallarta and appreciated by visitors, as it retains authentic characteristics of a traditional Mexican town, in its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. Of particular interest is the Church of the Virgin of Guadalupe, the city’s central plaza, Los Muertos Pier and colonial homes that date back hundreds of years. Puerto Vallarta’s historic center is a place full of life where neighbors coexist and mix with tourists who enjoy strolls along a boardwalk lined with sculptures, paintings and other works of art. At dusk, the center is full of locals out for a stroll, heading for church services or dinner. Mixing with them, visitors can soak in the most beautiful sunsets on the Pacific; gaze at bobbing sailboats and the emblematic Marigalante pirate ship; and dig into roasted corn, mangoes with chili, cakes, tuba water and many other appetizers and desserts. All these attractions are located on the boardwalk and neighboring downtown streets, which for many reasons already was – official proclamation or not – a cultural heritage jewel of Jalisco.
2018 Barbados Food and Rum Festival Focuses on Local Chefs and Mixologists
For the first time in its nine-year history, the Barbados Food & Rum Festival (October 17-21, 2018) will transform its format to focus on local culinary and cocktail talent. In the past, Barbados’ homegrown talent was often eclipsed by the existing notoriety of visiting international celebrity chefs. The shift contradicts the conventional setup of high-profile Caribbean food festivals, which typically put several western chefs at the helm, providing a ‘New York on the beach,’ experience of sorts. With 2018 serving as Barbados’ Year of Culinary Experiences, the tourism board (Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.) sees this festival development as necessary to educate foodie travelers on the wealth of award-winning chefs and mixologists on the island, and inspire visitation specifically for Bajan food and rum. Many travelers, especially from the U.S., often do not know of the nuances that separate one Caribbean island’s cuisine from another. This will be a tasty way to learn how Barbados, the proclaimed Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, does it best! The new model of the festival also seeks to elevate the reputation of Caribbean fine dining – much of which requires the same level of culinary mastery as French or Mediterranean fare. 2018’s line-up includes Chef Damian Leach, Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association 2016 Caribbean Chef of the Year and 2018 Barbados Chef of the Year. Local favorites such as Chefs Craig Greenidge and Michael Harrison, and pastry guru Javon Cummins will also take center stage. Not to completely upend tradition, the festival will still maintain one international ambassador – London’s Tom Aiken. This will be the Michelin-starred chef’s second time participating in the festival. He will be tasked with promoting it and infusing his dishes with locally sourced ingredients. More information is available at the website http://www.foodandrum.com.
12 Hotels Helped Visitors Celebrate Mexican Independence Day Like a Local
Every year on September 16, Mexicans go above and beyond in letting their patriotic colors shine through. From mariachi performances, traditional dances, food and drink fests, locally-inspired games and much more, this year’s festivities created a very special Mexican Independence Day – welcoming travelers from all over the world to join in the festivities. Secrets Vallarta Bay and Now Amber in Puerto Vallarta offered plenty of opportunities to feel the spirit of Mexican Independence Day. During the day, the neighboring properties’ pool area hosted an entertainment contest, as well as had Mexican grill and Margarita stations, accompanied by the lovely sounds of Mexican mariachis. On Independence Day night, SUNSCAPE PUERTO VALLARTA RESORT & SPA hosted a Mexican Fiesta including a special menu with authentic Mexican dishes, such as pozole, tacos and a diversity of Mexican candies. The celebration also featured on-going entertainment, from mariachis and traditional dancers taking over the floor, to spectacular fireworks towards the end of the night. On September 15, The Iberostar Playa Mita hosted a variety of celebratory events for guests all ages, filled with Mexican music, games, food & drinks. The five star, all-inclusive and family-friendly property decorated its main lobby in traditional Mexican style, showcased Mexican folklore, offered Mexican games for kids and grownups, and hosted a special mariachi performance by its entertainment team, Star Friends. The night also included the presentation of its famous Grito de Independencia to rightfully commemorate the country’s heroes. This September, the collections of luxury resorts will be hosting “Guacamania” Fest, a month-long event celebrating avocado and its Mexican heritage by showcasing avocados in food, spa treatments, cocktails and more! On Sept. 15, Temptation Cancun Resort hosted the annual VIVA MEXICO! Mexican Independence Day party with lively decorations, adult-entertainment and the best of Mexican cuisine. Hotel Xcaret Mexico is an opulent, oceanfront haven where guests of all ages can enjoy thrilling nature-driven experiences, superior service and the authentically rich spirit that defines Mexico. Known for celebrating its home country through every aspect of the hotel, the 900-suite property is located on the pristine beaches of Riviera Maya and is surrounded by the local lush rainforest, coves and rivers. The vast majority of the hotel’s décor was handcrafted in Mexico; examples include: Jalisco candy offered at turndown service, the bathroom tiles are painted by a nearby Quintana Roo community.
Interjet Unveils First Ad Campaign in U.S. and Canada “Inspiration to Travel”
Interjet, one of the fastest growing airlines in North America, unveiled its inaugural advertising campaign for the U.S. and Canada titled, “Inspiration to Travel”. The new campaign is designed to set Interjet apart from other Mexican and international airlines flying to and from Mexico by promoting the true differentiators between Interjet and these carriers – not just lower fares but added features and benefits Interjet provides that the other airlines don’t. “With Interjet, we’re giving the traveling public the inspiration to fly again,” said José Luis Garza, Interjet’s General Director. “We understand what travelers are looking for in an airline partner – not just lower fares, but everything they used to get for the price of a ticket, such as free checked bags, seat selection, free beverages and snacks onboard, even the ability to pay by credit card, “Garza added,” The campaign was created by Landor, a global brand and consulting agency with production by NorthFilms, a Mexico City-based production company. Media will break this fall using national and local print publications as well as select broadcast and digital media. to make a reservation, visit www.interjet.com.mx or call (866) 285-9525.
San Antonio Celebrates Dia de los Muertos Like No Other City in the U.S.
When it comes to Día de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, there’s no place in the United States that observes this traditionally Mexican holiday quite like San Antonio. This year, as the city celebrates its Tricentennial anniversary, there will be more than 20 unique events from October 20 through November 3 — more than any other city in Texas, and likely any other city in the country. Mexican roots run deep in San Antonio (which is a previous colonial capital of New Spain and state capital of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas). The city is a three-hour drive from the U.S.-Mexico border, and more than 60 percent of the city’s population is of Mexican descent. This cultural heritage is evident through San Antonio’s unwavering celebratory spirit — the city hosts a seemingly endless roster of festivals and events each year, including the 10-day-longFiesta San Antonio in April — and also is distinctly felt when it comes to Día de Los Muertos. This year’s events run the gamut, from small gatherings with traditional altars and face painting to multiple-day festivals featuring live music, stilt walkers, Mexican cuisine and festive parades. In addition to official celebrations, restaurants and cafes across San Antonio will showcase altars, customary décor and fresh-baked pan de muerto, a popular type of sweet bread that is also used as an offering to loved ones who have passed. This collective spirit offers an unforgettable way to experience the city, as well as to gain insight into this unique, historic holiday which views death with lightness and humor rather than fear. Most events are family friendly, allowing children to learn about the rich traditions of the holiday, helping it continue for generations to come. For a calendar of events, visit here.
Puerto Vallarta Welcomes 9 Michelin Chefs For Vallarta Gastronomica
Puerto Vallarta will continue celebrating its Centennial with another event of international importance when it hosts the 10th annual edition of the Vallarta-Nayarit Gastronomica scheduled to take place from October 14 -18. With over 48 of the most important international chefs, including 8 Michelin-awarded chefs, Puerto Vallarta is ready to reaffirm its position as Mexico’s Culinary Beach Destination. Under the slogan: Mexico, thanks for so much! Vallarta Nayarit Gastronomica will be a combination of activities and events taking place all around food. Cooking demonstrations, classes and a trade exhibition will take place at the Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta and private gala dinners including one celebrating the career of Mexican chef Susana Palazuelos. Puerto Vallarta’s iconic Malecon will set the stage for the event’s first event on the 14 with its Centennial Reception. In addition, thanks to the significant growth of Guadalajara in the gastronomic sphere due to the diversity of its cuisine and the traditional dishes it has, it has been chosen as the guest city of this edition. In addition, the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board will be hosting MasterChef US Season 6 Winner and Master Chef Latino Judge Chef Claudia. For more information on Vallarta-Nayarit Gastronomica, visit: www.vallartanayaritgastronomica.com.
Charleston Heritage Federation Fall 2018 Events
Charleston Heritage Federation (CHF) brings an abundance of events to the Charleston area this fall. From craft workshops to art exhibits and wine tastings with dreamy backdrops, guests can savor the season with a collection of culturally-enriching events geared towards locals and visitors of all ages. The upcoming CHF events occurring in the Holy City this fall include: Grand Opening of New South Carolina Historical Society Museum, September 21, will unveil a new, state-of-the-art museum in the fully-renovated Fireproof Building located downtown. Drawing from the society’s vast archives, the new South Carolina Historical Society Museum will showcase 300+ years of South Carolina history through the personal accounts, rarely-seen artifacts and hand-written documents of those who experienced it; Sweetgrass Basket Weaving Workshop: Charleston Museum, September 22. Learn to make traditional sweetgrass baskets with Sarah Edwards-Hammond this fall. During this workshop, which is $65 for non-members and $50 for members, guests will learn a brief history of the basket making art form and then make their very own basket with Hammond’s guidance; Harvest Moon Dinner: Middleton Place, September 24. Indulge in an evening of local harvests and grains from The Middleton Place Restaurant on their very own organic farm; A Dark Place of Dreams: Gibbes Museum of Art, September 28 – January 6. The Gibbes Museum of Art will host its first large-scale show dedicated solely to women artists this fall, showcasing the works of Louise Nevelson, one of the pioneering sculptors of the 20th century, along with three contemporary artists she inspired: Chakaia Booker, Lauren Fensterstock and Kate Gilmore, whose works weave together various objects – from rubber tires to shells to paint in motion; Fall Tours of Homes, History & Architecture: Preservation Society of Charleston, October 4 – 28. Experience Charleston’s architecturally significant private houses, intimate gardens, churches and public buildings as you stroll through the historic streets during the 42nd Annual Fall Tours; Charleston Collects: South Asian Art: Gibbes Museum of Art, October 26 – February 17. Debuting the Charleston Collects series, this exhibition features selections from a major private collection of South Asian art in Charleston; Holiday Market: Middleton Place, November 23 – 24. Kick off the holiday season at Middleton Place’s Garden Market & Nursery and Museum Shop with an open-air market featuring local artisans and vendors, live musicians performing festive carols, complimentary hot cider and treats, and featured items in both shops; Grand Illumination and Dinner: Middleton Place, December 13 – 15. Travel back in time to the Christmas of 1782 as trained actors in period costume present the return of Arthur Middleton from Philadelphia, the end of the Revolutionary War in the South and the departure of the British troops; Heritage Indigo Workshop with Madame Magar: Drayton Hall, September 20. Drayton Hall Preservation Trust welcomes Madam Magar to conduct a workshop on the growing, processing, and dying of indigo and indigo-dyed products as part of their deep look into indigo traditions. Members are invited to learn about Charleston’s rich history with indigo; The Indigo Girl by Natasha Boyd, Book Signing and Reception: Drayton Hall, October 7. The Indigo Girl author Natasha Boyd speaks at Drayton Hall’s new Education Center on Charleston’s native Eliza Lucas Pickney’s influence on her new book, The Indigo Girl, which is based on historical documents, including Eliza’s letters. This is a historical fiction account of how a teenage girl produced indigo dye, which became one of the largest exports out of South Carolina and served as an export that laid the foundation for the incredible wealth of several Southern families who still live on today; Plantation Days: Middleton Place, November 10 – 11. Watch craftworkers demonstrate the skills practiced by enslaved people as they prepared for winter during this educational event where guests can learn different aspects of 18th and 19th century plantation life including domestic skills, African American culture and Gullah storytelling. Free with general admission ticket; About Charleston Heritage Federation Charleston Heritage Federation is the united voice of numerous historic landmarks, museums, plantations and houses in the Charleston area. A mission-driven organization focused on educating, preserving and telling the authentic story through experiences, Charleston Heritage Federation prides itself on capturing the essence of the city’s rich history while fostering a deeper understanding of the Lowcountry. Members of Charleston Heritage Federation include Avery Research Center for African American History & Culture, Charleston Library Society, The Charleston Museum, Drayton Hall, Gibbes Museum of Art, Historic. For more information, visit www.explorecharleston.com.
About This Newsletter
Multicultural Travel News newsletter (MTN) covers travel news of interest to ethnic and niche travelers and those who market to them. We write about destinations that interest multicultural travelers or have outreach campaigns to travelers of Hispanic, African American, Asian American and other cultural backgrounds; women; LGBT travelers and people with disabilities.
Multicultural Travel News is also written for leisure and business travelers looking for what to see and do and for marketing executives interested in ideas, best practices and the business case for targeting so-called “minority” travelers. We cover cities and countries, hotels, airlines, cruise lines, convention and visitor bureaus, tour operators and other travel marketers with a multicultural angle. Multicultural Travel News is written and edited by Lisa Skriloff.
Multicultural Travel News is published by Multicultural Marketing Resources, Inc. (MMR). To view past editions click here.
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