http://vallarta.grandvelas.com/newsroom/May 25,2013Robert ReidLonely Planet author  Every week or so I get asked, ‘Is it safe to go to Mexico?' I had always said, if you're thoughtful about where you go, yes. But after my most recent trip there, I'm changing my answer… to a question:Do you think it's safe to go to Texas?To be clear, violence in Mexico is no joke. There have been over 47,000 drug-related murders alone in the past five years. Its murder rate – 18 per 100,000 according to this United Nations Office on Drugs & Crime report – is more than three times the US rate of 4.8 per 100,000. Though Mexican tourism is starting to bounce back, Americans appear more reluctant to return than Canadians and Brits (5.7 million Americans visited in 2011, down 3% from 2010 – and, according to Expedia, more than four of five bookings were adults going without children). Many who don't go cite violence as the reason.What you don't get from most reports in the US is statistical evidence that Americans are less likely to face violence on average in Mexico than at home, particularly when you zero in on Mexico's most popular travel destinations. For example, the gateway to Disney World, Orlando, saw 7.5 murders per 100,000 residents in 2010 per the FBI; this is higher than Cancun or Puerto Vallarta, with rates of 1.83 and 5.9 respectively, per a Stanford University report (see data visualization here, summarized on this chart, page 21). Yet in March, the Texas Department of Public Safety advised against ‘spring break' travel anywhere in Mexico, a country the size of the UK, France, Germany, Spain and Italy combined. Never mind that popular destinations like the Bahamas, Belize and Jamaica have far higher homicide rates (36, 42 and 52 per 100,000). Why the singular focus?Before you nix Mexico altogether, consider these five things:1. Mexico may be more dangerous than the US overall, but not for Americans.According to FBI crime statistics, 4.8 Americans per 100,000 were murdered in the US in 2010. The US State Department reports that 120 Americans of the 5.7 million who visited Mexico last year were murdered, which is a rate of 2.1 of 100,000 visitors. Regardless of whether they were or weren't connected to drug trafficking, which is often not clear, it's less than half the US national rate.2. Texans are twice as safe in Mexico, and three times safer than in Houston.Looking at the numbers, it might be wise for Texans to ignore their Public Safety department's advice against Mexico travel. Five per 100,000 Texans were homicide victims in 2010, per the FBI. Houston was worse, with 143 murders, or a rate of 6.8 – over three times the rate for Americans in Mexico.3. And it's not just Texas.It's interesting comparing each of the countries' most dangerous cities. New Orleans, host city of next year's Super Bowl, broke its own tourism record last year with 8 million visitors. Yet the Big Easy has ten times the US homicide rate, close to triple Mexico's national rate.Few go to Ciudad Juarez, a border town of 1.3 million that saw 8 to 11 murders a day in 2010 (accounts differ – CNN went with 8). It's unlikely to ever be a tourism hostpot, but things have been quietly improving there. By 2011, CNN reported, the homicide rate dropped by 45%, and the first six weeks of this year saw an additional 57% drop, per this BBC story.If that trend in Juarez continues all year, and it might not, the number of homicides would have dropped from over 3000 in 2010 to 710 in 2012. Meanwhile New Orleans' homicide rate is increasing, up to 199 murders last year, equivalent to 736 in a city with the population of Juarez.4. By the way, most of Mexico is not on the State Department's travel warning.The best of Mexico, in terms of travel, isn't on the warning. The US warns against ‘non-essential travel' to just four of Mexico's 31 states (all in the north: Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango and Tamaulipas). The warning goes on to recommend against travel to select parts of other states, but not including many popular destinations such as Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, the Riviera Nayarit, Cancun, Cozumel and Tulum.Meanwhile, 13 states are fully free from the State Department's warning, including Baja California Sur, Yucatan, Mexico City, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Guanajuato and others.5. Malia Obama ignored the Texas advice.Of all people, President Obama and first lady said ‘OK' to their 13-year-old daughter's spring break destination this year: Oaxaca. Then Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum made snide remarks over that, perhaps overlooking that Oaxaca state has a smaller body count from the drug war than his home state's murder rate (Oaxaca's 4.39 per 100,000 to Pennsylvania's 5.2).Oaxaca state, not on the US travel warning, is famed for its colonial city, Zapotec ruins and emerging beach destinations like Huatulco. Lonely Planet author Greg Benchwick even tried grasshoppers with the local mezcal (Malia apparently stuck with vanilla shakes.)So, can you go to Mexico?Yes. As the US State Department says, ‘millions of US citizens safely visit Mexico each year.' Last year, when I took on the subject for CNN, one commenter suggested Lonely Planet was being paid to promote travel there. No we weren't. We took on the subject simply because – as travelers so often know – there is another story beyond the perception back home, be it Vietnam welcoming Americans in the '90s or Colombia's dramatic safety improvements in the '00s. And, equally as importantly, Mexico makes for some of the world's greatest travel experiences – it's honestly why I'm in this line of work.So yes, you can go to Mexico, just as you can go to Texas, or New Orleans, or Orlando, or the Bahamas. It's simply up to you to decide whether you want to.Robert Reid is Lonely Planet's New York–based US Travel Editor and has been going to Mexico since he was three (most recently to Chacala).Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/blog/2012/04/30/are-americans-safer-in-mexico-than-at-home/#ixzz1tvTELAzeRead more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/blog/2012/04/30/are-americans-safer-in-mexico-than-at-home/#ixzz1tvSxyANShttp://vallarta.grandvelas.com/newsroom/press-release/americanssaferinmexico.aspxMay 17,2012The Magazine's Reader Survey Ranks Grand Velas Riviera Maya 2nd Best Hotel in Mexico, 38th in World and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit as 13th in Mexico Riviera Maya, Mexico (July 19, 2012) – Mexico's "Beyond All Inclusive, Beyond All Compare" Grand Velas Resorts in Riviera Maya and Riviera Nayarit are honored both regionally and globally by Travel & Leisure readers in the 17th annual World's Best Awards Survey. Making its debut on the World's Best Survey, the Grand Velas Riviera Maya was ranked both 2nd amongst the Top 25 Best Hotels in Mexico and 38th amongst the Top 100 Best Hotels Overall. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit also made its first appearance on the survey, ranking 13th on the Top 25 Best Hotels in Mexico selections. Judging for the prestigious survey was based on opinions from among the most discriminating travelers around the world.   "We are deeply honored our resorts have been recognized as two of the world's best hotels," says Juan Vela, Vice President of Operations of Velas Resorts, "We are grateful to our staff who helped make this possible."   "We are especially proud to make our debut on Travel + Leisure's World's Best List," said Fernando Garcia Rossette, Managing Director for the Grand Velas Resorts.  "It has been a banner year for our resorts thanks to our staff; the award coming on the heels of another AAA Five Diamond rating, Grand Velas Riviera Maya Chef Xavier Perez Stone being named Mexico's "Chef of the Year" as well as the resorts named as two of Forbes' 10 coolest All Inclusive Resorts." About Grand Velas Riviera Maya:The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya, an all-suites and spa resort located five minutes from Playa del Carmen, is the latest and most sophisticated iteration of the ultra-luxury, all-inclusive resort experience.  This Leading Hotels of the World designated resort is the preeminent one of its class boasting 491 suites, each more than 1,000 square-feet, in three separate ambiances-- premium ocean-front Grand Class Suites with terrace plunge pools for families with children 12 and up, family-friendly ocean-view Ambassador Suites and Zen Garden Suites embraced by the flora and fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula's jungle.  The resort presents a gastronomic tour of the Yucatan, Europe and Asia offering seven restaurants with world-class chefs from France, Spain and Mexico; dedicated butler service for each guest, and the region's largest spa sanctuary at over 89,000 square-feet specializing in signature treatments inspired by ancient cultures from around the world.  The spa was named "Best Spa" in the world by Virtuoso and also earned a SpaFinder Readers' Choice Award.  The resort was designed by lauded Mexican architecture firm Elias and Elias and features the sleek and modish interiors that fuse the serenity of the Caribbean with the vibrancy of Yucatan cultures. About Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit:Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, an all-suites and spa resort located just 15 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay, is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and a recipient of the AAA Five-Diamond Award.  The resort features 267 spacious ocean-view suites.  The crown jewel of the resort and a member of Leading Spas of the World, the Spa at Grand Velas features 20 treatment rooms, over 60 spa treatments, gym and exercise room, spa boutique and beauty salon.  The family-friendly resort also offers tiered three-temperature infinity pools, tennis court, 25,321 total sq feet of meeting space and a Kids Club. Nearby are championship golf courses, numerous options for soft adventure, and the charming town of Puerto Vallarta with its many shops, art galleries and nightlife.http://vallarta.grandvelas.com/newsroom/press-release/grandvelasresortdistinguished.aspxJuly 20,2012Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (June 25, 2012) – Travelers can enjoy ‘off season' discounts this summer at savings up to 30% offered at the all-inclusive Velas Resorts in three of Mexico's top beach destinations. Offering unparalleled all-inclusive experiences, Velas Resorts feature spacious luxury accommodations, world-class spas, a la carte gourmet cuisine at a selection of specialty restaurants, and an indefinable hospitality experience. The Grand Velas Resorts are the only AAA 5 Diamond family-friendly properties in North America.Velas Vallarta Studio Special Rate Starts at $132Located in the Banderas Bay in Puerto Vallarta, Velas Vallarta's special rates start at $132 per person in double occupancy in a studio suite. Book before July 2 to receive complimentary stays for the first child under 12 years. Studio suites feature one king or 2 single beds, a separate living area perfect for a family travel, with sofa bed, dining area and kitchenette. For more information visit: www.velasvallarta.com/puerto-vallarta-special-offers.aspx  Summer 4th Night FreePay three nights and enjoy the fourth night free at the luxurious Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, recently featured in Forbes' roundup of the 10 Coolest All-Inclusive Resorts. Free nights are cumulative. This promotion includes 2 complimentary minors under 12 years old sharing suite with their parents and 50% off for children from 13-16 years old sharing suite with their parents. For more information, visit:www.vallarta.grandvelas.com/puerto-vallarta-resort-deals.aspx  Grand Velas Riviera Maya Package Special With nightly rates that start as low as $299 per person based on double occupancy, indulge in luxury at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya, the latest and most sophisticated iteration of the ultra-luxury, all-inclusive resort experience in the Caribbean with jungle and beach settings. In addition to low nightly rates, guests receive one Rio Secreto Tour or one Xplore Tour per adult, 10% discount at the resort boutique, $50 credit to the resort's Leading Spa of the World per adult per night and a free stay for children under 12 years old (Zen Grand).  Children are 2x1 when sharing the suite with their parents in Ambassador & Grand Class suites.  For more information, visit: http://rivieramaya.grandvelas.com/riviera-maya-mexico-vacation-packages.aspx  Summer Spa PackageThe new Summer Spa Package at 80-suite Casa Velas, an all-inclusive adults-only boutique hotel and ocean club in Puerto Vallarta, features a spa treatment that features one fifty-minute massage per person, with unlimited use of the spa's hydrotherapy areas that include pressure showers, steam room with eucalyptus inhalation, and Jacuzzi. Guests will also be guaranteed a suite upgrade, 20% discount on additional spa treatments, roundtrip airport transfers, private beachside dinner, and will also receive a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine and chocolate covered strawberries upon arrival, as well as a private four-course beachside dinner. For reservations or more information, visit:http://www.hotelcasavelas.com/spa/puerto-vallarta-spa-wellness.aspx.aspx The Velas Resorts' all-inclusive rates include suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a choice of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24 hr in-suite service, fitness center, kids' club, activities for adults and children, taxes and gratuities and more. These offers are valid from now through - December 19, 2012. Restrictions and minimum night requirements apply depending on the resort. For more information and reservations, please call Velas Resorts at 1-877 418 2722 or visit: www.velasresorts.com  About Velas Resorts:Velas Resorts in Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit have earned 26 AAA Diamonds, including the prestigious Five Diamond Award.  Other esteemed international awards for their services and facilities are Virtuoso's "Best Spa", Conde Nast Johansens' "Most Excellent Resort" and "Most Excellent Spa Hotel" and the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences' 5 Star Diamond Award.http://vallarta.grandvelas.com/newsroom/press-release/summer-promotions-offered-at-mexico.aspxJune 25,2012 Puerto Vallarta (April 19, 2012).- After concluding an intensive agenda covering and moderating sessions held during the 2012  World Economic Forum on Latin America, journalist Sergio Sarmiento agreed to an interview with Velas Resorts. Velas Resorts had the honor of accommodating him during his business visit, and also hosted various grand events during the WEF.  With regards to tourism, Sarmiento, who has been decorated with titles such as Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters in France, and named Associate Researcher of the Center for Strategic International Studies in Washington, opined that because Mexico is a country that is preferred by travelers throughout the world, and one that a great number of travelers return to, there are aspects that should be improved; these aspects include image, infrastructure and security. "By infrastructure I refer as well to better highways, better airports, and a greater number of flights. This implies opening more routes so that whomever wants to fly to Mexico can do so, and not have to wait until a Mexican airline is willing to fly to that country", he indicated, highlighting that our country is currently opening routes to Russia, a market that can be greatly expanded in the Riviera Maya for example.   Addressing the city of Puerto Vallarta's new slogan, "Puerto Vallarta: You live it more than once", Sarmiento commented that not only would he return, but has visited innumerable times, and that it has unique competitive advantages in the region, above all the kindness of its people, its natural beauty, the variety of activities available for enjoying its tranquility or nightlife and quality restaurants. "It is one of my favorite destinations in the country", he stated, and such is his like for the city that he rearranged his schedule to be able to enjoy Puerto Vallarta and Casa Velas, his host hotel.   About his time at Velas Resorts properties, he indicated that they are of very good quality and have succeeded in positioning themselves due to their excellence and great service, adding that they are the best hotels he has visited: "They exceeded my expectations because I am accustomed to hotels becoming overwhelmed when they are under pressure, as they have been in these last few days due to the economic forum and the meeting of the G20 Ministers. However, the service was always excellent, always first-rate." Upon questioning him about the elements of Casa Velas that he enjoyed most, Sarmiento emphasized the treatment he received from the people, naming them "first-class staff, who go a step further to try to assist", as well as the hotel's tranquility, the fact that it is a boutique hotel, its Spa and exceptional facilities, and the gourmet experience. http://vallarta.grandvelas.com/newsroom/press-release/sergio-sarmiento-velas-resorts-interview.aspxApril 24,2012 Riviera Nayarit, Mexico (February 10, 2012) Recipe 9 oz Dark Chocolate 8 oz Butter 4.5 oz Sugar 4.5 oz Flour 1 tsp Baking Powder 5 Eggs Preparation - Preheat the oven to 400o. In a medium heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate and butter. Set the bowl over but not touching simmering water in a saucepan and melt the chocolate and butter, stirring often, until smooth and blended. Stir in the sugar until dissolved. Incorporate the flour and baking soda into mixture. Whisk eggs and add a few at a time, mixing consistently. Lightly butter the inside of the ramekins and dust with powdered sugar. Pour the mixture into the ramekins and bake for 10-12 minutes. Able to make the trip last minute? Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is offering a Valentine´s Day All We Need is Love! Special that includes luxury accommodation in a spacious 1,000+ sq. ft. suite with private terrace; a $50USD spa credit per adult per night; romantic dinner for two on the beach; sparkling wine and petit fours upon arrival; 10% off in the Boutique; and all tax and gratuities, in addition to the resort's Luxury All-Inclusive Plan. Rates starting at $360 USD per person per night in double occupancy. Reserve by calling 1-877 418 2722. For more information, please visit http://www.vallarta.grandvelas.com/. About Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit - Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, an all-suites and spa resort located just 15 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay, is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and a recipient of the AAA Five-Diamond Award. The resort features 267 spacious ocean-view suites. The crown jewel of the resort and a member of Leading Spas of the World, the Spa at Grand Velas features 20 treatment rooms, over 60 spa treatments, gym and exercise room, spa boutique and beauty salon. The family-friendly resort also offers tiered three-temperature infinity pools, tennis court, 25,321 total sq feet of meeting space and a Kids Club. Nearby are championship golf courses, numerous options for soft adventure, and the charming town of Puerto Vallarta with its many shops, art galleries and nightlife. http://vallarta.grandvelas.com/newsroom/press-release/fall-in-love-for-valentine-day.aspxFebruary 10,2012 Facebook Contest Offers Chance to Win a "Beyond All-inclusive, Beyond All Compare" Beach Vacation Share your Vacation Experience For a Chance to Win One of 12 Four-day, Three-night All-inclusive Vacations for Two At a Velas Resort in Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit and Riviera Maya. Puerto Vallarta (June 10, 2011) - If you are planning to visit Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit or Riviera Maya, from June 7th onward, share your vacation experience on Facebook for a chance to win one of 12 luxury all-inclusive vacations for two in any of the Velas Resorts. As part of "Share your Experience and Be an Ambassador" campaign, US and Canadian visitors are welcome to participate by sharing a brief paragraph and up to three photos of their vacation experience. Travel must occur from June 7, 2011 through February 29, 2012 in Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit or Riviera Maya. Entries for the contest must be posted to one of the Velas Resort's facebook pages, 12 entrants will be selected by a raffle to receive a four-day/three-night all-inclusive vacation for two to one of the four Velas Resorts. Casa Velas, a boutique adults-only hotel and ocean club located on the Marina Vallarta Golf Course, and Velas Vallarta a family-friendly suite resort & convention center located on the Banderas Bay, are in Puerto Vallarta. The only family-friendly all-inclusives in North America to receive the AAA Five Diamond are Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and Grand Velas Riviera Maya, the latest and most sophisticated iteration of the ultra-luxury, all-inclusive resort experience in the Caribbean with jungle and beach settings. Vacations at the Velas Resorts include spacious suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, nightly entertainment, all taxes and gratuities, and more. Entries can be submitted in three different periods: June 7 - August 31, 2011 | September 1 - November 30, 2011 | December 1, 2011 - February 29, 2012. Winners will be announced on September, December and March accordingly, on Velas Resorts' Facebook, Twitter and Blog pages as well as the official sites: www.ambassadorsofpuertovallarta.com, www.ambassadorsofrivieranayarit.com and www.ambassadorsofrivieramaya.com. *Travel experiences do not have to be to a Velas Resort. About Velas Resorts - Offering unparalleled all-inclusive experiences, Velas Resorts in Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit have earned 26 AAA Diamonds, including the prestigious Five Diamond Award. Other esteemed international awards for their services and facilities are Virtuoso's "Best Spa", Conde Nast Johansens' "Most Excellent Resort", Expedia Insiders' Select™, and the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences' 5 Star Diamond Award. Velas Resorts offer spacious luxury accommodations, world-class spas, a la carte gourmet cuisine at a selection of specialty restaurants, and an indefinable hospitality experience. http://vallarta.grandvelas.com/newsroom/press-release/win-beyond-all-inclusive-beyond.aspxJune 10,2011 Velas Resorts Dedicated Spa Website Debuts Featuring New Personalized Spa Experiences & Special Online Savings at Mexico's Luxury Spas Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (January 25, 2012) - Velas Resorts, with world-class destination spas in Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, debuts a dedicated spa website that features a spa concierge, virtual tours and photo galleries, destination information and reservations. New, themed 4, 5 and 7 day spa experiences are detailed and prices given. Special online-only savings are also offered on select treatments. In addition, spa products used at the luxury Mexico all-inclusive resorts are available for purchase. The $15 million architecturally striking spa at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, a recipient of Virtuoso's "Best Spa" award, is inspired by the jungle and natural water pools of the Yucatan Peninsula. Almost 40,000-square feet are given to separate men's and women's sides of the spa's Water Journey, each with custom-designed amenities including a Clay Room, a circular glass-tile-lined steam room with a fiber-optic "star light" ceiling, an Ice Room with floor-to-ceiling window, hot-and-cold Experience Showers, and a central infinity pool with powerful massaging faucets throughout and carved-stone chaises with jets set just underneath the surface of the water on which guests recline. The recently remodeled Spa Casa Velas encompasses five treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy area complete with a chromotherapy-enhanced Jacuzzi, a garden-view fitness center equipped with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, and a beauty salon. Spa Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit features 20 treatment rooms, over 60 treatments, gym and exercise room, spa boutique and beauty salon. The spa's design includes a palapa-style entrance, furniture from Bali and a large marbled wall with cascading water. All are members of Leading Spas of the World. Tailored for each guest by the spa concierges, the resorts' Spa Experiences range from Nature, Mayan, Ayurvedic and Tao sensorial journeys to Purifying, Renewal and Beautifying rituals. Featuring a selection of spa treatments, wraps, hydrotherapy circuits, in-suite bath rituals, gourmet spa cuisine, cooking classes, and personal training, the programs are complemented by meditation, yoga and pilates, bike and kayak tours, beach and garden walks, eco and snorkel tours, and numerous other activity options. For reservations and more information, contact your Spa Specialist at 1-877 418 3067 or visit Velas Resorts' Spa Website. About Velas Resorts - Offering unparalleled all-inclusive experiences, Velas Resorts in Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit have earned 26 AAA Diamonds, including the prestigious Five Diamond Award. At the ceremony for AAA 2012 awards, Tony Perrone, Regional Manager Travel at American Automobile Association (AAA), cited the Grand Velas Riviera Maya for setting a new standard for the five diamond awards throughout the industry. Other esteemed international awards for their services and facilities are Conde Nast Johansens' "Most Excellent Spa Resort", Conde Nast Traveler's "Gold List" and the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences' 5 Star Diamond Award. Casa Velas was also chosen a Top 10 in three categories - Luxury, Relaxation/Spa and Hotel for Romance - by TripAdvisor® in its 2011 Travelers' Choice® awards. Expedia® named Casa Velas, Grand Velas Riviera Maya and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit among the top-ranked hotels on this year's Expedia Insiders' Select™ list which formally recognizes the best hotels worldwide that consistently deliver excellent service, a great overall experience and a notable value. Velas Resorts offer spacious luxury accommodations, world-class spas, a la carte gourmet cuisine at a selection of specialty restaurants, and an indefinable hospitality experience. For more information, please call 1-877 418 3059 or visit www.velasresorts.com. http://vallarta.grandvelas.com/newsroom/press-release/velas-resorts-dedicated-spa-website-debuts.aspxJanuary 25,2012 Space Available for the Holidays At Mexico's "Beyond All Inclusive, Beyond All Compare" Velas Resorts Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (November 17, 2011) - This holiday season, the "Beyond All-Inclusive, Beyond All Compare" Velas Resorts in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit still have space available for families and couples alike. The Velas Resorts' all-inclusive rates include spacious suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a choice of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24 hr in-suite service, fitness center, kids' club (excluding Casa Velas), evening entertainment, activities for adults and children, taxes and gratuities, and more. All-inclusive nightly rates start at $235 per person, per night, based on double occupancy, at Velas Vallarta, $320 per person, per night, double, at Casa Velas, $509 per person, per night, based on double, at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit (Dec 19 - 25th and Dec. 30th - Jan 2nd only). European Plan rates at Casa Velas start at $250 per suite, per night in a Master Suite, plus taxes and gratuity charge. Minimum night requirements vary by resort. Children rates start at $60 per night at Velas Vallarta and $75 per night at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. For reservations, please call 1-866-847-4609 or visit www.velasresorts.com. About Casa Velas - Casa Velas, an adults-only boutique hotel and ocean club nestled on the greens of Marina Vallarta's 18-hole golf course, is a member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World and a recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award. Located just five minutes from Puerto Vallarta Airport and only 15 minutes from the popular downtown area, art galleries and "El Malecon" (the boardwalk), the hotel features 80 suites, some with private pools and Jacuzzis. Spa Casa Velas, a Leading Spa of the World, encompasses five treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy area, a fitness gym and a beauty salon. Emiliano a la carte fine dining restaurant is at the hands of one of the area's leading chefs serving Mexican and internati onal cuisine. About Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit - Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, an all-suites and spa resort located just 15 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay, is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and a recipient of the AAA Five-Diamond Award. The resort features 267 spacious ocean-view suites. The crown jewel of the resort and a member of Leading Spas of the World, the Spa at Grand Velas features 20 treatment rooms, over 60 spa treatments, gym and exercise room, spa boutique and beauty salon. The family-friendly resort also offers tiered three-temperature infinity pools, tennis court, 25,321 total sq feet of meeting space and a Kids Club. Nearby are championship golf courses, numerous options for soft adventure, and the charming town of Puerto Vallarta with its many shops, art galleries and nightlife. About Velas Vallarta - Velas Vallarta, an all-suite resort and convention center located on 10 acres of oceanfront in Puerto Vallarta, is walking distance from Marina Vallarta Golf Course and just minutes from Downtown Puerto Vallarta's captivating attractions, activities and landmarks. Situated on the emerald waters of Banderas Bay, Velas Vallarta features 345 suites, a high-tech Convention Center that can accommodate up to 700 people, three swimming pools, a rejuvenating spa, fitness center, multiple restaurants, and an inviting lounge with live music and entertainment nightly. http://vallarta.grandvelas.com/newsroom/press-release/space-available-for-the-holidays.aspxNovember 17,2011 New Culinary-Themed Package Deals Delight Foodies and Families at Grand Velas Resorts 'Art of Cooking' Package and 'Gourmet' Package Available in Riviera Maya and Riviera Nayarit locations Riviera Maya, Mexico (August 11, 2011) - Grand Velas Resorts invite travelers to indulge their taste buds with new culinary-themed package offerings in Riviera Maya and Riviera Nayarit. In addition to the resort's "Beyond All-Inclusive, Beyond All Compare" plan, the culinary hotel packages feature international cuisine and wines, cooking classes and contests for adults and kids, mixology lessons and food tours that will delight even the most discriminating gourmet! Riviera Maya: Art of Cooking Package - At Grand Velas Riviera Maya, foodies of all ages can discover their inner Wolfgang Puck with the family-focused 'Art of Cooking Package'. In addition to Riviera Maya's luxury all-inclusive accommodations and services, this package includes cooking classes led by executive chefs, a wine tasting, a class on preparing a 3-course meal with a diploma for participation and a chef's jacket to carry on gastronomic exploits even after the vacation ends. Younger participants can also enjoy junior cooking classes taught by expert chefs from the hotel's restaurants where they'll learn to prepare their own 3-course meal followed by an awards ceremony and a special fun kit for their participation. Valid until December 19, 2011, rates start at $329 per person per night with double occupancy in the Zen Grand Suite. Up to two children per suite are complimentary when staying with their parents in a Zen Grand Suite. Kids staying with their parents in an Ambassador and Grand Class Suite are $65 per child per night. Riviera Nayarit: Gourmet Package - In addition to wine and tequila tastings, cooking classes, cocktail classes and sumptuous food and wine tours of local gourmet restaurants, Gourmet Package guests will enjoy a gourmet amenity upon arrival; one special Spa Cuisine lunch per suite at Azul restaurant; one progressive Dinner per suite at Frida, Lucca and Piaf, the resort's Four Diamond Award winning restaurants; 15% off boutique and spa services, and 20% off golf at Vista Vallarta Golf Courses. Private VIP Airport Transportation is also included. Available until December 18, 2011 and April 16, 2012 - December 19, 2012, rates start at $359 per adult person per night (double). From Jan. 3 - April 15, 2012, rates start at $435 per adult person per night (double). A minimum 3-night stay applies to both packages. For reservations, please visit www.grandvelas.com or call 1-866-230-7221. About Grand Velas Riviera Maya - The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya, an all-suites and spa resort located five minutes from Playa del Carmen, represents the latest and most sophisticated iteration of the ultra-luxury, all-inclusive resort experience. This Leading Hotels of the World designated resort is the preeminent one of its class boasting 491 suites, each more than 1,000 square-feet, in three separate ambiances- adult-only ocean-front and ocean-view Ambassador Grand Class Suites, family-friendly Ambassador Suites and Zen Garden Suites embraced by the flora and fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula's jungle. The resort presents a gastronomic tour of the Yucatan, Europe and Asia offering seven restaurants with world-class chefs from France, Spain and Mexico; dedicated butler service for each guest, and the region's largest spa sanctuary at over 89,000 square-feet specializing in signature treatments inspired by ancient cultures from around the world. The spa won Virtuoso's "Best Spa" in the world and a SpaFinder Readers' Choice Award. The resort was designed by lauded Mexican architecture firm Elias and Elias and features the sleek and modish interiors that fuse the serenity of the Caribbean with the vibrancy of Yucatan cultures. About Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit - Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, an all-suites and spa resort located just 15 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay, is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and a recipient of the AAA Five-Diamond Award. The resort features 267 spacious ocean-view suites. The crown jewel of the resort and a member of Leading Spas of the World, the Spa at Grand Velas features 20 treatment rooms, over 80 spa treatments, gym and exercise room, spa boutique and beauty salon. The family-friendly resort also offers tiered three-temperature infinity pools, tennis court, 25,321 total sq feet of meeting space and a Kids Club. Nearby are championship golf courses, numerous options for soft adventure, and the charming town of Puerto Vallarta with its many shops, art galleries and nightlife. http://vallarta.grandvelas.com/newsroom/press-release/new-culinary-themed-package-deals-delight-foodies.aspxAugust 11,2011 Grand Velas Resorts Receive AAA Five Diamond Again in 2011 "Beyond All Inclusive, Beyond All Compare" Resorts Selected Among Top Resorts -by American Automobile Association Playa del Carmen, Mexico (January 12, 2012) - Grand Velas Riviera Maya was awarded American Automobile Association's (AAA) Five Diamond Award for lodging for its second consecutive year. Grand Velas Riviera Maya's 1sister resort on the pacific coast of Mexico, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, also received the Five Diamond Award in 2011 for its sixth consecutive year. Every year more than 65 AAA/CAA tourism editors visit over 70,000 lodgings, campgrounds, restaurants and attractions throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Tourism editors conduct unannounced evaluations, scrutinizing such areas as cleanliness, ambiance, amenities and service. Only an estimated 0.25 percent of the estimated 60,000 properties will receive the Five Diamond Award and only 3.25 percent of the estimated 32,000 properties are awarded the AAA Four Diamond designation each year. AAA's Diamond Rating System is the only rating system that covers the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean and is one of only two that conduct physical, on-site evaluations. The Five Diamond is awarded to establishments that reflect the characteristics of the ultimate in luxury and sophistication from first class accommodations and extraordinary physical attributes to personalized services and amenities that enhance an unmatched level of comfort. The fundamental hallmarks at this level are to meticulously serve and exceed all guest expectations while maintaining an impeccable standard of excellence. For more information or reservations, please visit http://www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com/ or call 1-866-230-7221. About Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit - Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, an all-suites and spa resort located just 15 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay, is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and a recipient of the AAA Five-Diamond Award. The resort features 267 spacious ocean-view suites. The crown jewel of the resort and a member of Leading Spas of the World, the Spa at Grand Velas features 20 treatment rooms, over 60 spa treatments, gym and exercise room, spa boutique and beauty salon. The family-friendly resort also offers tiered three-temperature infinity pools, tennis court, 25,321 total sq feet of meeting space and a Kids Club. Nearby are championship golf courses, numerous options for soft adventure, and the charming town of Puerto Vallarta with its many shops, art galleries and nightlife. About Grand Velas Riviera Maya - The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an all-suites and spa resort located five minutes from Playa del Carmen. This Leading Hotels of the World designated resort is the preeminent one of its class boasting 491 suites in three separate ambiances- premium ocean-front Grand Class Suites with terrace plunge pools for families with children 12 and up, family-friendly ocean-view Ambassador Suites and Zen Grand Suites embraced by the flora and fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula's jungle. The resort presents the region's largest spa sanctuary, named "Best Spa" in the world by Virtuoso, at over 89,000 square-feet specializing in signature treatments inspired by ancient cultures from around the world. The resort was designed by lauded Mexican architecture firm Elias and Elias and features the sleek and modish interiors that fuse the serenity of the Caribbean with the vibrancy of Yucatan cultures. http://vallarta.grandvelas.com/newsroom/press-release/receive-aaa-five-diamond.aspxJanuary 12,2012