15.09.2015 Views

Travel Planner English - the Acapulco Academy

Travel Planner English - the Acapulco Academy

Travel Planner English - the Acapulco Academy

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS
  • No tags were found...

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

Distinguidos Visitantes:<br />

En nombre del Fideicomiso de Promoción Turística de <strong>Acapulco</strong>, los invitamos a disfrutar de una maravillosa<br />

estancia en este hermoso Puerto, considerado uno de los más importantes destinos turísticos a nivel mundial.<br />

Los residentes nos esforzamos para proporcionarles una alta calidad en los servicios, nuevos atractivos, una<br />

oferta turística para todos los presupuestos, diversiones para todas las edades, la vida nocturna más activa de la<br />

República Mexicana, una gran variedad gastronómica; y un sinfín de experiencias inigualables.<br />

Nos congratula desearles momentos inolvidables, esperando pasen las mejores vacaciones de su vida, y nos<br />

brinden la oportunidad de tenerlos nuevamente entre nosotros en ésta, su casa.<br />

Cordialmente,<br />

Mary Bertha Medina Cortés<br />

Presidente<br />

Dear Visitors:<br />

On behalf of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office, we invite you to enjoy a very pleasant stay in our beautiful<br />

port and city of <strong>Acapulco</strong>, considered one of <strong>the</strong> world’s most important tourist destinations.<br />

We are making a great effort to offer you <strong>the</strong> highest quality in service, new attractions for your added enjoyment, hotel<br />

infrastructure to suit every budget, <strong>the</strong> most active night life, a great variety of gastronomy and incomparable experiences.<br />

We are honored to receive you and hope that you will have unforgettable moments during your stay and we look<br />

forward to seeing you again soon in <strong>Acapulco</strong>.<br />

Cordially,<br />

Mary Bertha Medina Cortes<br />

President<br />

1<br />

Fideicomiso de Promoción Turística


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

history<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>’s many modern attractions, lively culture and<br />

natural beauty are enough to attract many travelers. But few<br />

know that <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s interesting history is nearly as dramatic as<br />

<strong>the</strong> way in which it was named. (see <strong>Acapulco</strong>: The Legend)<br />

The legend of Ácatl and Quihuitl is just part of <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s<br />

pre-Hispanic history. Archaeological excavations indicate that<br />

<strong>the</strong> port was inhabited as far back as 3000 B.C. The first European<br />

to arrive in <strong>the</strong> bay was Fernando Chico. On December<br />

13, 1521 he named <strong>the</strong> Bay of <strong>Acapulco</strong> “Santa Lucía”, in commemoration<br />

of a holiday honored in Spain on that day. Around<br />

1532, <strong>Acapulco</strong> came under <strong>the</strong> domain of Spanish colonizers<br />

who referred to it as <strong>the</strong> “City of Kings” as it was considered to<br />

have <strong>the</strong> most beautiful beaches - an observation which holds<br />

true today.<br />

With <strong>the</strong> return of Spanish galleons from <strong>the</strong>ir trips to <strong>the</strong><br />

Orient, <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s port was declared <strong>the</strong> official trade site<br />

between Asia and America. With <strong>the</strong> ensuing America’s Fair,<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> was filled with splendor - marking <strong>the</strong> beginning of<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>’s role in <strong>the</strong> hospitality industry.<br />

• The disco<br />

• Parasailing<br />

• The swim-up pool bar<br />

• Rooms with private swimming pools<br />

• Tequila poppers<br />

• Hotels shaped like pyramids<br />

• Cliff diving<br />

It also showcases <strong>the</strong> carefree, carnival atmosphere for<br />

which Mexico is famous.<br />

Today, <strong>the</strong> resort is poised for a rebound, thanks to a citywide<br />

renaissance and improved scheduled air service. This effort<br />

has included improved roads, a new section of <strong>the</strong> Costera<br />

(<strong>the</strong> resort’s main thoroughfare), cleaner water and beaches,<br />

landscaping of public areas, several major hotel renovations,<br />

and <strong>the</strong> relocation of street and beach vendors. There is a new<br />

sanitation system and <strong>the</strong> open-air landfills are a thing of <strong>the</strong><br />

past.<br />

Following <strong>the</strong> Spaniards departure in 1810, <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

remained outside <strong>the</strong> mainstream of Mexican development<br />

until <strong>the</strong> nineteenth century, when improved roads and air<br />

service linked <strong>the</strong> port with Mexico City. In 1955, a new highway<br />

opened that made <strong>the</strong> trip from Mexico City much more accessible.<br />

Soon after, <strong>Acapulco</strong> staked its claim as THE international<br />

playground for Hollywood’s elite, and <strong>the</strong> rich and famous from<br />

around <strong>the</strong> globe.<br />

overview<br />

Glamorous, spontaneous and splashy, <strong>Acapulco</strong> (ahkah-<br />

POOL-co) is a city that invites superlatives. It delivers an actionpacked,<br />

24-hour exuberance that makes every moment count,<br />

with an array of attractions and activities to please almost any<br />

visitor.<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>, <strong>the</strong> queen of Mexican beach resorts, is everpopular<br />

with year-round, foreign and domestic visitors. As <strong>the</strong><br />

birthplace of <strong>the</strong> Mexican visitor industry, it is world-renowned<br />

for several firsts. <strong>Acapulco</strong> introduced global vacation institutions<br />

such as:<br />

Ultra-deluxe developments at Punta Diamante and Playa<br />

Revolcadero have enhanced <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s resort inventory, and<br />

opened up new areas outside <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay for visitor enjoyment.<br />

The main square and much of downtown has been<br />

spruced up. Cleaning brigades are out in force, and a new<br />

bilingual tourist police force has been deployed to answer<br />

questions.<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> is <strong>the</strong> largest, loudest and most boisterous resort<br />

in Mexico. Its tempo is more urban than resort, as <strong>the</strong> city approaches<br />

1 million residents. Yet seclusion from <strong>the</strong> port’s traffic<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>: The Legend<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> was named after a Yope Indian Legend. As <strong>the</strong> story<br />

goes, Ácatl (reed), <strong>the</strong> eldest son of one of <strong>the</strong> tribe´s chiefs, was<br />

in love with Princess Quihuitl (rain), daughter of a rival chief. But<br />

discouraged from marrying her, Ácatl sank into such a deep depression<br />

that his own tears melted his body. A large muddy swamp<br />

was formed, and reeds began to grow.<br />

Meanwhile, princess Quihuitl drifted across <strong>the</strong> bay in <strong>the</strong> form of<br />

a cloud and, in sadness upon discovering <strong>the</strong> death of her loved<br />

one, hurled herself down in <strong>the</strong> form of a huge storm. The rains<br />

destroyed <strong>the</strong> reeds, and she died beside her beloved Ácatl. In this<br />

act, <strong>the</strong>y were forever united in <strong>Acapulco</strong>, as <strong>the</strong>y called this “place<br />

where <strong>the</strong> reeds were destroyed.”<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 46


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

and clamor can be found at<br />

several hotel properties. In<br />

fact, <strong>Acapulco</strong> offers over<br />

257 hotels (totaling 19,014<br />

rooms) and boasts some of<br />

<strong>the</strong> world’s swankiest resorts,<br />

along with dozens of affordable<br />

beachfront choices.<br />

Thanks to its dazzling<br />

discos, bars, clubs and a great<br />

entertainment style atmosphere,<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> is <strong>the</strong> #1<br />

choice for party lovers. Honeymooners<br />

fall in love with<br />

<strong>the</strong> resort’s tropical beauty<br />

and festive Mexican atmosphere.<br />

The area also appeals<br />

to families, due to <strong>the</strong> variety<br />

of its several parks, calm<br />

beaches, and <strong>the</strong> CiCi water<br />

sports park for children.<br />

Sports enthusiasts also<br />

have plenty to do. Water<br />

sports of every variety lure<br />

visitors to <strong>the</strong> seashore, while<br />

golfers are beginning to recognize<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> as a world<br />

class destination. For early risers,<br />

<strong>the</strong>re are several new eco-based tours that take in <strong>the</strong> area’s<br />

lagoons, jungles, islands, and estuaries.<br />

Dining is diverse, not only in cuisine, but also in setting.<br />

Most restaurants are al-fresco, and many offer breathtaking<br />

views of <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay. Shopping is excellent, ei<strong>the</strong>r in <strong>the</strong> resort’s<br />

several American-style malls, or at its bustling downtown<br />

mercados (markets). For every type of visitor, <strong>Acapulco</strong> has it all!<br />

arriving by car<br />

A $2.8 billion highway opened in 1993 connecting <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

and Mexico City, cutting drive time from 6 to 3-1/2 hours.<br />

Tolls are $415 pesos (about $50US) and <strong>the</strong> scenic 4- to 6-lane<br />

highway is a welcome improvement, with attractive views and<br />

surroundings.<br />

Arriving & Departing<br />

airport<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> International Airport (“Juan N. Alvarez”). Located<br />

28 km sou<strong>the</strong>ast of <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay and <strong>the</strong> hotel zone. The<br />

airport proximity to <strong>the</strong> main areas in <strong>Acapulco</strong> is connected<br />

through <strong>the</strong> New “Boulevard de las Naciones”<br />

Nations Boulevard that is being totally renovated.<br />

(The IATA Airport code for <strong>Acapulco</strong> is ACA).<br />

The two-story completely remodeled terminal has several<br />

rental car counters, restaurants, bars, and an attractive shopping<br />

arcade. For departing international passengers, <strong>the</strong> dutyfree<br />

shopping is very attractive.<br />

Arriving by Bus Lines<br />

Terminal-Estrella de Oro Diamante<br />

Tel: (744) 488 5222<br />

Located in <strong>the</strong> Diamond Zone<br />

Boulevard de las Naciones No. 34<br />

Terminal Estrella de Oro Cuauhtemoc<br />

Tel (744) 485 8705<br />

Av. Cuauhtemoc No. 14920<br />

(Close to <strong>the</strong> Downtown Area)<br />

Terminal Estrella Blanca Papagayo<br />

Tel (744) 469 2081 and 469 2084<br />

Av. Cuahutemoc No. 1604<br />

(Close to <strong>the</strong> Downtown Area)<br />

Terminal Estrella Blanca Ejido<br />

Tel (744) 469 2001 and 469 2005<br />

Av. Ejido No. 47 (Colonia Carabali)<br />

47<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

Arriving by Sea<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> is also one of Mexico’s most important Cruise Ship<br />

Ports, hosting an average of 150 embarkations each year. The<br />

Cruise Terminal Tte.Jose Azueta is located in downtown <strong>Acapulco</strong>,<br />

in front of <strong>the</strong> famous Fort of San Diego. <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

is considered <strong>the</strong> most important Cruise<br />

Terminal in <strong>the</strong> Mexican Pacific Ocean.<br />

Administracion Portuaria Integral<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> (Port of <strong>Acapulco</strong>)<br />

Malecon Fiscal<br />

Tel (744) 483 7969<br />

www.apiacapulcoport.com<br />

Local Transportation<br />

From <strong>the</strong> Airport , frequent van transfers are<br />

available at reasonable rates. Limos and rental<br />

cars are also available. The journey takes 20-30<br />

minutes, unless staying at <strong>the</strong> Fairmont <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

Princess/The Fairmont Pierre Marques/The<br />

Fairmont Pearl/Mayan Palace Resorts or any o<strong>the</strong>r<br />

property in <strong>the</strong> Diamond Zone resorts with an<br />

only 10 minutes ride.<br />

Airport transfer rates run at an approximate<br />

cost of $15.00 US per person, depending on your<br />

hotel’s location. Round trip airport transfers cost<br />

between $20-25 US per person. Around town, it<br />

is recommended to use <strong>the</strong> authorized hoteltaxis.<br />

The taxis do not have meters, but charge<br />

established and authorized rates are generally<br />

posted in your hotel lobby. Hotel Taxis are more<br />

expensive than those roaming <strong>the</strong> streets. Note<br />

that in ei<strong>the</strong>r case rates are reasonable and affordable.<br />

Frequent and inexpensive bus service<br />

is available along <strong>the</strong> Costera (<strong>the</strong> resort’s main<br />

boulevard). The fare is $5.5 pesos for <strong>the</strong> A/C Bus.<br />

There are also brightly decorated, horsedrawn<br />

carriages (known as Calandrias) that stroll along<br />

<strong>the</strong> Costera ($15.00 US per half hour).<br />

Sightseeing &<br />

Excursions<br />

downtown & traditional acapulco<br />

This is <strong>the</strong> traditional heart of <strong>the</strong> city,<br />

noted for its bustling seaside promenade, main<br />

square, San Diego Fort, traditional beaches,<br />

hillside estates, and <strong>the</strong> famous La Quebrada.<br />

The downtown area has <strong>the</strong> glamour and excitement of a<br />

tropical harbor. The area may not appeal to everyone due to its<br />

bustling tempo and seaport unsightliness. However, <strong>the</strong> Zócalo, or<br />

main square, is a pretty tree-shaded plaza teeming with activity,<br />

located right across <strong>the</strong> road from one of Mexico’s more unusual<br />

churches.<br />

The Nuestra Señora de la Soledad Church has a stark white<br />

exterior and two bulb-shaped blue and<br />

yellow-tiled spires. It looks more Russian<br />

Orthodox than Mexican and it’s a short walk<br />

to historic San Diego Fort. Perched on a hill<br />

overlooking <strong>the</strong> harbor, <strong>the</strong> fort was originally<br />

built in 1616, and rebuilt in its present configuration<br />

following a massive earthquake in 1776.<br />

The Fort was <strong>the</strong> staging area for <strong>the</strong> loading<br />

and unloading of <strong>the</strong> Manila Fleet, and<br />

served to protect this lucrative trade link from<br />

Dutch and <strong>English</strong> pirates. The fort is a classic<br />

five-point fortress surrounded by a moat. A<br />

fascinating museum (with Spanish/<strong>English</strong><br />

signage) is housed within <strong>the</strong> fort’s original<br />

hallways. Displays focus on <strong>the</strong> cultural exchange<br />

between Asia and <strong>the</strong> Old World with<br />

exquisite, rare relics on exhibit (open Tues-Sun,<br />

10am-6pm). There is a light and sound show at<br />

<strong>the</strong> fort and special group pricing on request.<br />

The sprawling Municipal Market was<br />

destroyed by fire in 1996. It was rebuilt, and<br />

reopened in late 1997. You’ll also want to see<br />

Caleta and Caletilla historic residential heart of<br />

<strong>the</strong> city. With many nostalgic, palatial homes,<br />

this is where <strong>Acapulco</strong> got its start, and from<br />

here, grew to <strong>the</strong> south. The beaches here tend<br />

to be crowded on weekends.<br />

Between <strong>the</strong>se two placid coves is <strong>the</strong><br />

Mágico Mundo Marino aquarium. It combines<br />

indoor and outdoor marine exhibits with a<br />

pool, two water slides, a restaurant, scuba lessons,<br />

snorkeling equipment rentals and family<br />

fun. It also has an attractive marine lions show.<br />

Admission is about $6 US for adults, $3 for children.<br />

Tel. (744) 483 1215. Open daily 9am-6pm.<br />

Museum-The House of Masks located<br />

only a block away from <strong>the</strong> Fort of San Diego,<br />

exhibits masks from <strong>the</strong> 7 different regions<br />

of <strong>the</strong> State of Guerrero, as well as from o<strong>the</strong>r<br />

states from <strong>the</strong> Republic of Mexico such as:<br />

Puebla, Michoacan, Morelos and o<strong>the</strong>r masks<br />

from different parts of <strong>the</strong> world. It has 1,000<br />

pieces of <strong>the</strong> two main decorative and dance<br />

rituals expressions. The Museum of <strong>the</strong> House<br />

of Masks was inaugurated at <strong>the</strong> end of 1999<br />

thanks to <strong>the</strong> cession of Blanca Villalba de<br />

Uruñuela and Sergio Suarez, great promoters<br />

of this project, and who owned part of this<br />

magnificent private collection of this unique artistic expression<br />

related to <strong>the</strong> State of Guerrero’s traditions. This Museum is<br />

opened from Tuesdays to Sundays from 10am to 4pm. Entrance<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 48


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

is Free and voluntary donations<br />

are accepted.<br />

Stop in for a drink at <strong>the</strong><br />

nostalgic Caleta Hotel or at<br />

<strong>the</strong> hilltop Los Flamingos<br />

Hotel. Los Flamingos, built<br />

in <strong>the</strong> 1930’s, has an illustrious<br />

past. Hollywood’s<br />

biggest stars (John Wayne,<br />

Gary Cooper, Frank Sinatra,<br />

Johnny Weissmuller and<br />

many more Hollywood stars)<br />

partied here. Caleta Beach is<br />

also where you hire a skiff to<br />

whisk you across to Roqueta<br />

Island. The five-minute boat<br />

ride to <strong>the</strong> island costs about<br />

$3.50 U.S. per person. On<br />

<strong>the</strong> island you’ll find gentle<br />

waters, good snorkeling, and<br />

a popular restaurant (Palao).<br />

Last, but not least, is<br />

sensational La Quebrada, site of <strong>the</strong> famous cliff divers performance.<br />

Since 1934 this has been one of Mexico’s feature attractions.<br />

The divers leap from cliffs 136 feet above <strong>the</strong> crashing<br />

Pacific, landing in an 11ft. deep inlet. There are five performances<br />

daily, including four evening shows, performed with divers<br />

carrying torches – an unforgettable spectacle. Best viewing is<br />

from La Perla Nightclub at <strong>the</strong> Cliffside El Mirador <strong>Acapulco</strong> (a<br />

cover charge applies). Schedule: 1:00pm • 7:30pm • 8:30pm •<br />

9:30pm • 10:30pm<br />

Ano<strong>the</strong>r fascinating down town attraction is <strong>the</strong> Diego<br />

Rivera Mural. Here artist Diego Rivera spent 18 months creating<br />

a 60-footlong streetwide mural of tiles, seashells, and stones.<br />

Rivera lived here during <strong>the</strong> last two years of his life.<br />

<strong>the</strong> “costera” resort zone<br />

The resort’s main boulevard (10 kms long) is home to most<br />

of <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s hotels, shopping, nightlife and dining. This palmlined,<br />

four-lane avenue is shadowed by dozens of towering<br />

hotels, condos and apartment buildings. This is <strong>the</strong> principal<br />

area that connects you to all <strong>the</strong> main attractions in <strong>Acapulco</strong>.<br />

COSTERA: This attractively landscaped, yet very urban<br />

boulevard, is where <strong>Acapulco</strong> earned its reputation as Mexico’s<br />

original party town. Countless restaurants - from fast food to<br />

gourmet - and bars - from quiet to uproarious - keep <strong>the</strong> action<br />

going 24-hours a day. Hotel hopping is easy as most properties<br />

are within easy walking distance from one ano<strong>the</strong>r. There’s<br />

plenty of shopping here (souvenirs, art galleries, clothing boutiques,<br />

and big department stores) as well as family attractions.<br />

PAPAGAYO PARK: A 52-acre playland, and one of <strong>the</strong> best<br />

parks in Mexico for family fun. There are plenty of carnival rides,<br />

a Manila galleon replica, a wonderful aviary, and meandering<br />

tree-lined paths to enjoy a family walk and do exercise in contact<br />

with nature.<br />

CICI: A water-oriented <strong>the</strong>me park for children. There are<br />

dolphin and seal shows, waterslides, an enormous pool area<br />

(with a “wave machine”), and o<strong>the</strong>r family attractions such as:<br />

<strong>the</strong> well known sky coaster, children pools, snack-stands; all this<br />

for only $10.00 USD per person entrance fee. The park completed<br />

a $3 million renovation project that included adding a<br />

dolphin swim program (rate is currently $95.00 USD per/hour).<br />

Open daily 10am - 6pm. www.cici.com.mx<br />

CASA DE LA CULTURA: Located next to <strong>the</strong> Oceanic 2000<br />

Sanborns Building, <strong>the</strong> center has a small archaeological museum<br />

and gallery with changing art displays. It is well known<br />

for its artistic expressions. A Library named Carmen Romano de<br />

Lopez Portillo; an indoors Auditorium called Prof. Juan Garcia<br />

Jimenez and an outside Auditorium as well, a magnificent<br />

Coffee-shop named “Cafeteria del Arte al Sur” that at <strong>the</strong> same<br />

time offers a full time Art Exposition and arts’ sales. The Art<br />

Gallery Ixcateopan presents year round expositions from different<br />

parts of Mexico, changing <strong>the</strong>mes every 15 days. Casa de la<br />

Cultura also offers studio courses of artistic expressions during<br />

<strong>the</strong> 365 days per year. Tel: (744) 484 2390 and 484 3814. Opened<br />

every day from 9am to 9pm.<br />

ACAPULCO CONVENTION CENTER: A state-of-<strong>the</strong>-art<br />

35-acres Meetings and Convention center that hosts Mexico’s<br />

many important Conventions, Expos and special events. Located<br />

in <strong>the</strong> heart of <strong>Acapulco</strong> (The Golden Zone) And <strong>the</strong> site<br />

of <strong>the</strong> most important Tourist Event for <strong>the</strong> Industry in Mexico<br />

“The Tianguis Turistico Trade Show and Business Center.”<br />

Tel. (744) 435 0130.<br />

HACKETT BUNGY PARADISE: For thrill seekers <strong>the</strong>re’s a<br />

bungee-jump attraction next to <strong>the</strong> Fiesta Americana hotel on<br />

49<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

<strong>the</strong> Costera Alemán. The attraction is open seven days a week;<br />

prices vary. Tel. (744) 484 7529.<br />

and open bar. Check with your hotel or a travel agency for current<br />

departure times, which may vary from summer to winter.<br />

day trips & o<strong>the</strong>r activities<br />

Puerto Marqués & Revolcadero Beach<br />

To <strong>the</strong> sou<strong>the</strong>ast, between <strong>the</strong> airport and town, you’ll find<br />

pretty Puerto Marqués, a lovely bay of white sand beaches<br />

surrounded by jungle-clad mountains. Just south are <strong>the</strong><br />

seemingly endless open-ocean beaches of Revolcadero (site of<br />

The Fairmont <strong>Acapulco</strong> Princess, The Fairmont Pierre Marqués,<br />

Mayan Palace Resorts, and Quinta Real Hotel).<br />

Shotover Jet: Take an exhilarating jet boat trip through<br />

Papagayo River. Prices: Adult $650 pesos Child 3-12 $400 pesos<br />

including transportation. Adult $500 Child $ 250 without transportation.<br />

Tel. (52 744) 484-1154. www.shotoverjet.com.mx<br />

Pueblo Bravo Rafting<br />

An ecological adventure park operated by <strong>the</strong> Bravo Company,<br />

is on <strong>the</strong> Papagayo River, about 45 minutes from <strong>the</strong> city<br />

Archaeological Sites & Caverns<br />

The Palma Sola archaeological site is located in <strong>the</strong> hills<br />

behind <strong>Acapulco</strong>. This interesting site is home to eighteen huge<br />

murals carved on rock formations depicting <strong>the</strong> history, customs<br />

and myths of <strong>the</strong> Yopes. These indigenous people settled<br />

in <strong>the</strong> area from 800 BC to 750 AD. Reaching <strong>the</strong> site requires<br />

some hiking and clambering up rock stairs for about 1⁄2 of a<br />

kilometer. State and federal authorities joined forces in making<br />

<strong>the</strong> area accessible and have taken steps to keep <strong>the</strong>se archeological<br />

treasures protected.<br />

The La Organera-Xochipala archeological site is an appealing<br />

day trip for history buffs and for those would like to experience<br />

<strong>the</strong> rural side of Mexico. Located about two hours from<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> near <strong>the</strong> state capital of Chilpancingo, this area was<br />

<strong>the</strong> center for <strong>the</strong> Mezcala culture. The Mezcala, one of Mexico’s<br />

most important cultures, were known for <strong>the</strong>ir fine ceramics,<br />

clay figurines and stone carvings.<br />

of <strong>Acapulco</strong>. The park offers river rafting, kayaking, rappelling<br />

and hiking trails. Visitors who prefer to get <strong>the</strong>ir adrenaline<br />

boost while staying dry can fly through <strong>the</strong> treetops while harnessed<br />

to ropes as <strong>the</strong>y slide from tree to tree. Bravo Town also<br />

features a café, boutique and pool. Prices: Adults and children<br />

over 8 yrs $800 pesos including transportation and louch. Without<br />

transportation $650 pesos. Tel. (744) 484 1154.<br />

Bay Cruises<br />

Several operators offer daytime and evening excursions<br />

around scenic <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay and nearby Puerto Marqués. Day<br />

cruises point out some of <strong>the</strong> interesting sites, such as <strong>the</strong><br />

mansion cruises include live salsa music and dancing. There are<br />

several options…<br />

Fiesta and Bonanza: day and nighttime cruises of <strong>the</strong> bay.<br />

The Bonanza has a swimming pool, as well as a stern platform<br />

that lowers to sea level for swimming in <strong>the</strong> bay when <strong>the</strong> boat<br />

makes a brief stop. Tel. (744) 482 2055<br />

Aca Rey: a floating supper club; takes a 3-hour cruise around<br />

<strong>the</strong> bay at 11:30 a.m. It claims to be <strong>the</strong> world’s largest sailing<br />

catamaran. Tel. (744) 482 3763<br />

Palao: leaves from <strong>the</strong> Ski Club Pier, downtown, at 11am and<br />

1:30pm for a 4-hour tour to Roqueta Island, with a buffet lunch<br />

Tehuacalco Archeological Zone<br />

Tehuacalco, officially opened on December 16th, 2008, this<br />

magnificent archeological zone contains <strong>the</strong> historical and rich<br />

culture of <strong>the</strong> State of Guerrero, home of <strong>the</strong> Yope Culture Settlement.<br />

Tehuacalco is located in <strong>the</strong> south part of <strong>the</strong> Guerrero<br />

State Central Region, in Chilpancingo, very close to <strong>the</strong> limits of<br />

Juan R. Escudero Municipality. For easy access, one has to take<br />

<strong>the</strong> Highway from <strong>Acapulco</strong> to Chilpancingo and <strong>the</strong> drive only<br />

takes 35 minutes. Tehuacalco means, “<strong>the</strong> place of <strong>the</strong> stone”,<br />

“<strong>the</strong> home of priests”, “and <strong>the</strong> place of <strong>the</strong> sacred water”; <strong>the</strong>se<br />

are some of <strong>the</strong> translated words from <strong>the</strong> Nahuatl language,<br />

referring to Tehuacalco, that <strong>the</strong> National Institute of Archeology<br />

and History is still investigating. It is also believed that it<br />

was a civic ceremonial center and holy temple where religious<br />

ceremonies took place.<br />

TAXCO<br />

Time permitting, some visitors venture away from <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

to explore <strong>the</strong> State of Guerrero. One such trip is to Taxco, 272<br />

km north of <strong>Acapulco</strong>. Known as <strong>the</strong> “silver city,” this colonial<br />

gem is one of <strong>the</strong> prettiest towns in Mexico. The city tumbles<br />

across a hillside with winding cobblestone streets, tile-roofed<br />

buildings, cozy squares (plazuelas), and a strong Old World<br />

ambience that has survived for hundreds of years. The entire<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 50


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

city has been declared a National Historic Monument. In pleasant<br />

contrast to <strong>the</strong> glitz of <strong>Acapulco</strong>, Taxco is draped in an air of<br />

Spanish antiquity right out of <strong>the</strong> pages of “Don Quixote.”<br />

The city was founded in 1529 by Rodrigo de Castañeda,<br />

a captain of Hernán Cortés; but it was a silver mo<strong>the</strong>r lode<br />

that fueled development in <strong>the</strong> 18th century. One of Mexico’s<br />

grandest churches was built in 1759 by French immigrant José<br />

de la Borda who literally stumbled upon a huge silver claim.<br />

The church, known as Santa Prisca, is stunning. Built between<br />

1748-58 of soft pink stone, it is a riot of ornate baroque styling<br />

flanked by twin bell towers. The interior displays some of<br />

Mexico’s most beautiful gold leaf ornamentation. Begin exploring<br />

by taking a ride on <strong>the</strong> city’s unique teleférico, or aerial<br />

tramway. The ride climbs over 570 feet to <strong>the</strong> posh MonteTaxco<br />

resort perched on a hilltop just north of <strong>the</strong> city. The views are<br />

magnificent. A short distance from here is <strong>the</strong> historic Hotel de<br />

la Borda.<br />

Thanks to <strong>the</strong> opening of a new superhighway connecting<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> and Mexico City, Taxco can now be accessed quicker<br />

Guerrero Festivals<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>, December 12th, celebration of <strong>the</strong> Virgin of Guadalupe.<br />

Cruz Grande, May 3rd, celebration of <strong>the</strong> “Santa Cruz” day.<br />

Chilapa, August 15th, festivity of <strong>the</strong> “Asuncion de la Virgen”.<br />

Chilpancingo, during <strong>the</strong> Second Sunday in <strong>the</strong> month of December,<br />

<strong>the</strong>re are several celebrations in <strong>the</strong> most important neighborhoods of<br />

<strong>the</strong> City in order to inaugurate <strong>the</strong> Xmas and New Year’s festivities in<br />

<strong>the</strong> “Barrio of San Mateo”.<br />

Iguala, November 1 and 2nd, Commemoration of <strong>the</strong> Catholic Holidays<br />

of all Saints and all souls’day.<br />

Ixcateopan, September 26, Celebration date in honor of Cuauhtémoc.<br />

Taxco, January 18th, Festivities of <strong>the</strong> Patron Saint Sebastian and Santa<br />

Prisca; <strong>the</strong> celebrations include a great Fair, music, and fireworks.<br />

Taxco hosts a world famous and awe-inspiring religious festival during<br />

Holy Week, <strong>the</strong> week between Palm Sunday and Easter. Visitors come<br />

to see thousands of pilgrims and penitents participate in <strong>the</strong> reenactments<br />

of <strong>the</strong> crucifixion of Christ. Once observed, <strong>the</strong> rituals are not<br />

easily forgotten.<br />

In May <strong>the</strong> town hosts “Jornadas Alarconianas” in honor of its favorite<br />

son, playwright Juan Ruiz de Alarcón, featuring a variety of cultural<br />

events, such as plays, concerts, exhibits, and festivities.<br />

The “Festival del Jumil” (jumil is a type of beetle found in abundance in<br />

November) has <strong>the</strong> town combing <strong>the</strong> hills for edible insects. It occurs<br />

on <strong>the</strong> first Monday following annual November 1-2 Day of <strong>the</strong> Dead<br />

celebrations.<br />

The last Saturday of November marks <strong>the</strong> beginning of <strong>the</strong> week-long<br />

“National Silver Fair.” All entries in a nationwide silver contest, from<br />

sleek hair ornaments to garish stone-encrusted fountains made of<br />

silver, are displayed at Casa Borda. Popular concerts are staged nightly<br />

at <strong>the</strong> main plaza throughout <strong>the</strong> week. From ei<strong>the</strong>r vantage point<br />

you’ll feast on sweeping views of <strong>the</strong> city and surrounding countryside.<br />

Taxco’s mountainous locale (elevation 5,850 ft.) provides cooler<br />

temperatures than <strong>Acapulco</strong>, which can be exceedingly humid in<br />

summer months.<br />

than ever. The drive now takes about 2-1/2 hours. Fully escorted<br />

tours are available, as is frequent first-class bus service. Note:<br />

Toll on this 4 to 6 lane superhighway from <strong>Acapulco</strong> is approx.<br />

$265 pesos each way. If taking a private vehicle, expect to pay<br />

$50 US roundtrip.<br />

Taxco is a shopper’s paradise for silver jewelry. For serious<br />

silver shopping, head to Calle Nacional and <strong>the</strong> La Mina silver<br />

shop (complete with an old mining shaft) or along Calle Juárez<br />

toward <strong>the</strong> city’s charming main square (Plaza Borda). There<br />

are dozens of shops along <strong>the</strong> way (Taxco has over 300 silver<br />

shops!). There is also an excellent artisans market at <strong>the</strong> corner<br />

of Calle Miguel Hidalgo and Calle Cuauhtémoc. Remember to<br />

look for <strong>the</strong> “.925” stamp on all silver items. This guarantees a<br />

product’s au<strong>the</strong>nticity as sterling silver.<br />

When in town, dining recommendations include Bar Paco,<br />

Tia Calla, and Adobe (all serving Mexican and International<br />

cuisine). La Ventana de Taxco serves up a magnificent views and<br />

Italian cuisine.<br />

Cacahuamilpa Caves<br />

Located approximately four hours from <strong>Acapulco</strong>, Cacahuamilpa<br />

Caves is a well-known Mexican attraction. This striking<br />

natural wonder was a favorite site for Emperors Maxmiliano<br />

and Carlota, and ex-president Porfirio Diaz used this location<br />

for grand ga<strong>the</strong>rings for ambassadors and artists. Today, it has<br />

a two kilometer pathway that winds through twenty different<br />

caverns. Guided by a state-of-<strong>the</strong>-art illumination system,<br />

visitors can marvel at centuries old stalactites and stalagmites<br />

that have been profoundly crafted and chiseled by <strong>the</strong> ultimate<br />

artist… Mo<strong>the</strong>r Nature. The park is open from 9am to 4pm daily<br />

and escorted tours leave every hour. (Cacahuamilpa Caves can<br />

be reached from Taxco in only a 30 minutes drive).<br />

51<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

Beaches<br />

Resort activities center around three areas. Beginning south<br />

of <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay (near <strong>the</strong> airport) is <strong>the</strong> Playa Revolcadero/<br />

Diamante area.<br />

Revolcadero Beach is a wide swath of golden sand, lined<br />

with tropical plantations and palm groves. This long flat stretch<br />

of open ocean beach (backed by an enormous tropical lagoon)<br />

is now home to <strong>the</strong> Mayan Resorts, Quinta Real, <strong>the</strong> Tres Vidas<br />

Golf Course, and several highrise apartment/condo projects.<br />

It is a beach comber’s delight with open-ocean surf and<br />

long untouched stretches of sand. The spectacular Fairmont<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Princess and <strong>the</strong> intimate Fairmont Pierre Marqués<br />

resorts are on this beach (once <strong>the</strong>ir private domain). The<br />

Princess, one of <strong>the</strong> world’s great hotels, has become a tourist<br />

attraction in its own right, and makes for a fun excursion. Also<br />

worth a visit is <strong>the</strong> posh Mayan Resorts, a masterfully planned<br />

ultramodern resort of canals, pools, and stunning Mayan decor.<br />

All <strong>the</strong>se hotels also have <strong>the</strong>ir own outstanding 18-hole golf<br />

courses. The Tres Vidas Course is also in this area. (See “Sports”<br />

for details.)<br />

Just up <strong>the</strong> coast (between <strong>the</strong> airport and <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay)<br />

is <strong>the</strong> Puerto Marqués area. This tranquil bay, for years of little<br />

interest to developers, is now <strong>the</strong> site of <strong>the</strong> enormous <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

Diamante resort and residential development. However, <strong>the</strong><br />

main bay preserves its rustic seaside character. Puerto Marqués<br />

tends to get lost beside <strong>the</strong> sheer grandeur of neighboring<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay. This is changing, as <strong>the</strong> bay and its sou<strong>the</strong>rn<br />

peninsula are <strong>the</strong> site of <strong>the</strong> new Punta Diamante development,<br />

where <strong>the</strong> magnificent and exclusive Banyan Tree Cabo<br />

Marques will open its doors in September 2009, an ecological<br />

resort where <strong>the</strong> construction respected <strong>the</strong> “flora and fauna”<br />

of its surroundings. Today, visitors come to lounge on <strong>the</strong> bay’s<br />

pretty beach. Dozens of restaurants line <strong>the</strong> shore, and <strong>the</strong><br />

super deluxe Camino Real Diamante Hotel rests across <strong>the</strong> bay.<br />

And finally, <strong>the</strong> spectacular <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay (also known as<br />

Bahía Santa Lucía) is a mountain-framed, natural harbor that<br />

rivals Rio de Janeiro and Hong Kong for beauty. A highway<br />

La Quebrada Cliff Divers<br />

Anyone who has watched <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s cliff divers plunge <strong>the</strong> 136<br />

feet to <strong>the</strong> crashing sea may wonder how difficult a task this may<br />

be. Jorge Monico Ramirez Vásquez, member of a three-generation<br />

family of cliff divers, says, “Timing is <strong>the</strong> key. Three seconds it takes<br />

to arrive at <strong>the</strong> sea. Only five seconds of high waves tide - a two<br />

second span for any error.”<br />

Jorge works out from 8-10 am for his twice daily plunge into <strong>the</strong><br />

water, five times a week. Meditation and prayer is also part of his<br />

routine. Each time fear precedes <strong>the</strong> dive no matter how much<br />

practice or experience.<br />

If <strong>the</strong> diver starts his career at 17 and ends it at 45, he will take<br />

15,560 plunges into <strong>the</strong> Quebrada during that time. Many cliff divers<br />

have been involved in accidents, most caused by <strong>the</strong> strong impact<br />

with <strong>the</strong> water. Remarkably, no deaths have been recorded.<br />

descends from <strong>the</strong> steep cliffs of <strong>the</strong> bay’s sou<strong>the</strong>rn end, becoming<br />

<strong>the</strong> coastal Avenida Miguel Alemán, also known as <strong>the</strong><br />

Costera. This is <strong>the</strong> heart of <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s resort strip and home<br />

to nearly all of <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s highrise hotels, non-stop nightlife,<br />

dining, and shopping. The Costera continues north along <strong>the</strong><br />

bay toward Old <strong>Acapulco</strong> and <strong>the</strong> aging but partially renovated<br />

downtown area.<br />

pie de la cuesta & coyuca lagoon<br />

This area, 10 kms. west of <strong>the</strong> city, is loved for its rustic,<br />

palm-lined beach and dreamy sunsets. If you’re looking to take<br />

a break from <strong>the</strong> activity of downtown and <strong>the</strong> resort circuit,<br />

take a taxi or bus to this open stretch of Pacific Ocean beach<br />

known as Pie de la Cuesta. This long sandbar rests between <strong>the</strong><br />

crashing Pacific Ocean on one side, and scenic Coyuca Lagoon<br />

on <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r. The main draw is <strong>the</strong> area’s flaming tropical sunsets.<br />

Grab a hammock, order a cool drink and relax. Coconut gin<br />

is <strong>the</strong> specialty.<br />

Across from Pie de la Cuesta is <strong>the</strong> famous Coyuca Lagoon,<br />

a natural sanctuary surrounded by coconut groves, abundant<br />

palm trees and a very extensive variety of fauna offering <strong>the</strong><br />

visitor <strong>the</strong> opportunity to get away from <strong>the</strong> busy activities<br />

of <strong>the</strong> city. Coyuca Lagoon offers boat tours, excellent water<br />

skiing, and exotic wildlife tours that result in an unforgettable<br />

experience . This lagoon was <strong>the</strong> perfect site to film some of<br />

<strong>the</strong> first “Tarzan Movies”; some scenes of <strong>the</strong> movie “African<br />

Queen”, and parts of <strong>the</strong> famous movie “Rambo II”. The visitor<br />

will find small cozy hotels and plenty of restaurants in <strong>the</strong> area.<br />

(Hacienda Vayma Hotel & Beach Club is one of <strong>the</strong> best lodging<br />

facilities, Tel (744) 460 2882. As well as <strong>the</strong> Ukae Kim Hotel and<br />

Beach Club, <strong>the</strong> ideal location for relaxation. Restaurant Tres<br />

Marias offers delicious seafood.<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 52


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

There is an all-inclusive excursion to <strong>the</strong> Coyuca area. <strong>Travel</strong><br />

by boat along jungle shrouded canals, enjoy lunch at Isla de Los<br />

Pájaros (Island of <strong>the</strong> Birds) and finish <strong>the</strong> tour with a mud bath!<br />

Inquire with a local travel agent/tour desk for booking details.<br />

List of Lodging, Restaurants & Water Sports facilities in Pie<br />

de La Cuesta and Coyuca Lagoon zone: (Tel. Area Code 744)<br />

Bungalows Julio: 460 1559<br />

Bungalows Maria Cristina 460 0262<br />

Hotel and Restaurante Bar Rocio 460 1008<br />

Hotel Casablanca 460 0324<br />

Hotel Veranda 460 2624<br />

Hotel Quinta Blancas 460 0312<br />

Hotel Villa Nirvana 460 1631<br />

Hotel Villa Roxana 460 3252<br />

Hotel Ukae Kim and Beach Club 440 0486<br />

Hotel Hacienda Vayma and Beach Club 460 2882<br />

Villas Arcoiris del Mar 460 7858<br />

Trailer Park Camp Ground 460 0010<br />

Economic Cuisine Keroga 460 1309<br />

Restaurant Cienfuegos 460 0484<br />

Restaurant El Cangrego 460 7485<br />

Restaurant Rayo Verde 460 1219<br />

Restaurant La Brisa de Oro 460 0829<br />

Restaurant Bar La Cabañita 460 0946<br />

Restaurant El Marinero 460 5142<br />

Restaurant El Profe 460 2160<br />

Restaurant Parador de los Reyes 460 0131<br />

Restaurant El Pacifico 460 0416<br />

Restaurant Juanita 460 0478<br />

Restaurant Bar Ana Maria 460 3112<br />

Restaurant Mar de Noche 485 5602<br />

Restaurant Tres Marias 460 0011<br />

Boat Tours “Embarcaciones Zequieda” 460 4201<br />

Boat Tours “Embarcaciones Hawai 5-0” 460 1958<br />

Marqués resorts are home to two of Mexico’s finest courses, and<br />

each underwent recent renovation work . The Pierre Marqués<br />

course was designed by Percy Clifford, <strong>the</strong> Princess by Ted Robinson.<br />

Play is open to guests and non-guests (higher green fees<br />

apply). The courses are almost never crowded.<br />

The Fairmont <strong>Acapulco</strong> Princess Golf Course<br />

Designed by Ted Robinson, this pleasant layout is punctuated<br />

by narrow fairways, lined by coconut palms and water<br />

hazards on 12 of <strong>the</strong> 18 holes. Included in Golf Digest’s Top 25<br />

Golf Resorts, <strong>the</strong> Princess Course’s featured hole is <strong>the</strong> 18th, a<br />

dog-leg par 4 around a large lake, leaving a second shot that<br />

appears suspended in space over <strong>the</strong> unique pyramid structure<br />

of <strong>the</strong> hotel. The course plays to just under 6400 yards from <strong>the</strong><br />

Championship tees, <strong>the</strong> challenge is real enough as half of <strong>the</strong><br />

holes have water hazards on one side, and out of bounds on<br />

<strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r! ‘Sneaky tough’ is an apt description to <strong>the</strong> challenge<br />

offered by this gem of a course.<br />

Championship Tees: 6,355 yds.; Rating 69.4; Slope 117; Par 72.<br />

Regular Tees: 6,085 yds.; Rating 67.6; Slope 114; Par 72. Forward<br />

Tees: 5,400 yds.; Rating 69.6; Slope 115; Par 72. $93 U.S., includes<br />

cart. Tel. (52 744) 469 1000.*<br />

Sports<br />

For active, sports-minded vacationers, <strong>Acapulco</strong> has firstrate<br />

facilities.<br />

golf<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> now offers four18-hole courses – all near <strong>the</strong><br />

airport, and one 9-hole course located next to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

Conventions Center. The Fairmont <strong>Acapulco</strong> Princess/Pierre<br />

The Fairmont Pierre Marqués Golf Course<br />

With an investment of over 3 million dollars, The Fairmont<br />

Pierre Marques Golf Course has finalized <strong>the</strong> last phase of an<br />

extensive renovation program, supervised by world-renowned<br />

golf designer Robert Trent Jones Jr. Improvements to <strong>the</strong> course<br />

include: <strong>the</strong> installation of Seashore Paspalum grass, <strong>the</strong> expansion<br />

and contouring of lakes, and <strong>the</strong> installation of a worldclass,<br />

double ended practice facility. This new design reflects<br />

<strong>the</strong> Jones’ legacy and offers players a renewed challenge steps<br />

away from <strong>the</strong> Pacific Ocean. Originally designed by Percy Clifford,<br />

<strong>the</strong> course was remodeled by Robert Trent Jones Sr. for <strong>the</strong><br />

1982 World Cup Championship. With <strong>the</strong> redesign of 65 sand<br />

bunkers, and additional 300 yards in length, Jones placed a premium<br />

on accuracy from <strong>the</strong> tee, and precise shots into <strong>the</strong> well<br />

guarded greens. As testament to <strong>the</strong> challenge created, <strong>the</strong> winning<br />

individual score for <strong>the</strong> tournament was just 3 under par.<br />

Championship Tees: 6,855 yds. ; Rating 71.5; Slope 127;<br />

Par 72. Regular Tees: 6,557 yds.; Rating 69.4; Slope 124; Par 72.<br />

Forward Tees: 5,197 yds.; Rating 69.8; Slope 116; Par 73. $93 US,<br />

includes cart. * Tel. (52 744) 435 2600.<br />

Mayan Resorts Golf Course<br />

18-holes, par 72; green fees $88 US. Tel. (52 744) 469 6000.*<br />

53<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

Tres Vidas Country Club<br />

Par-72, 7209 yards, 77.2 rating, slope rating 147. This championship<br />

oceanfront golf course has 72 sand hazards, 5 natural<br />

lakes alongside 12 of <strong>the</strong>ir holes, and several scenic seaside<br />

holes. Considered among one of <strong>the</strong> 5 best Golf Courses in<br />

Mexico. Arq. Robert Von Hagge, who designed this course, considers<br />

Tres Vidas as one of his best works. Green fees $200.00<br />

US. Tel. (744) 444 5143 and 435 0825<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Golf Course<br />

A local and touristy 9 – holes, golf course, Par 70, 5,091<br />

yards, $52US green fee. This course is illuminated for night time<br />

play. And it has a Restaurant-Bar, pool area, dressing rooms,<br />

sauna, a driving range, Tennis Courts, Beauty Salon, Ballroom<br />

for special events, Pro-shop and rental golf carts. Tel. ( 744) 484<br />

0781 and 484 0782.<br />

*All prices are subject to change.<br />

tennis<br />

Tennis is considered as one of <strong>the</strong> main attractions in <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

and a variety of hotels offers tennis clubs, all easy to find.<br />

Most hotels allow non-guests to play, for a reasonable fee. Rates<br />

vary by property from $5-20 U.S. per hour. Some of <strong>the</strong> better<br />

hotel tennis facilities are listed below.<br />

Crowne Plaza<br />

The Fairmont<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Princess<br />

Grand Hotel <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

Las Brisas<br />

The Fairmont<br />

Pierre Marqués<br />

Villa Vera Hotel<br />

Mayan Resorts<br />

4 courts, 3 lighted<br />

2 indoor, 9 outdoor<br />

5 lighted courts<br />

5 lighted courts<br />

4 outdoor courts<br />

3 lighted clay courts<br />

12 lighted, covered courts<br />

variety. For those looking for fishing charter, tournaments, yacht<br />

rentals, and sailing regatta info, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Acapulco</strong> Yacht Club and<br />

Marina <strong>Acapulco</strong> have numerous events throughout <strong>the</strong> year.<br />

JET BOAT TRIPS: Head to <strong>the</strong> Papagayo River for a thrilling<br />

ride. Tel. (744) 484 1154.<br />

SWIMMING: is generally safe at all beaches along <strong>the</strong> bay,<br />

but can be hazardous at Revolcadero, Puerto Marqués, and Pie<br />

de la Cuesta Beaches. Caution is advised.<br />

During <strong>the</strong> first months of each year, <strong>the</strong> famous Mexican<br />

Tennis Open (Abierto Mexicano de Tenis) takes place in <strong>Acapulco</strong>,<br />

<strong>the</strong> most important tennis tournament in Latin America.<br />

It attracts top-class players from around <strong>the</strong> world and is part of<br />

<strong>the</strong> International Gold Series ATP and Tier III of <strong>the</strong> WTA. During<br />

<strong>the</strong> 2009 edition, it now forms part of <strong>the</strong> Open 500 category.<br />

water sports<br />

If it’s done on water, you’ll find it in <strong>Acapulco</strong>. The calm<br />

waters of <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay are perfect for water sports of every<br />

SNORKELING: is popular – although not great - around<br />

Caleta and Caletilla Beaches, and off Roqueta Island. Best sites<br />

are at El Ripio, Las Palmas, and Bahía de Yerbabuena Beaches.<br />

Contact <strong>Acapulco</strong> Scuba Center (PADI Certified) at (744) 482<br />

9474 or Swiss Divers, (744) 482 1357.<br />

PARASAILING: was invented in <strong>Acapulco</strong>, and promises a<br />

thrilling view of <strong>the</strong> bay. (Make sure you get a roundtrip ticket!)<br />

Jet skis, hobie cats and “broncos” (mini motor boats) can be<br />

rented at many spots around <strong>the</strong> bay. Windsurfing is catching<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 54


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

on. Check out <strong>the</strong> rentals at “El Colonial,” a restaurant and water<br />

sports center near <strong>the</strong> zócalo.<br />

SPORT FISHING: is available through most<br />

hotels, with charters leaving from <strong>the</strong> downtown<br />

dock across from <strong>the</strong> zócalo. Catches<br />

include sailfish, marlin, and dorado. Costs run<br />

$200-600 US per day for a boat. There is also<br />

good fresh water fishing at Tres Palos Lagoon<br />

and Coyuca Lagoon. Contact <strong>the</strong> Sociedad<br />

Cooperativa Turísticas, whose licensed captains<br />

operate big game fishing charters, tel.<br />

(744) 482 1099.<br />

CHARTER FISHING OPERATORS<br />

Costa del Sur (744) 482 4191<br />

Hermanos Bello<br />

Barracuda Fleet (744) 483 8543<br />

Fish-R-US (744) 482 8282<br />

Divers de México (744) 482 1398<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Scuba Center (744) 482-9474<br />

Shopping<br />

SHOPPING MALLS<br />

Galerias Diana: A new and modern Shopping<br />

Mall located in <strong>the</strong> heart of <strong>the</strong> Main<br />

Avenue: Costera Miguel Aleman, a few steps<br />

away from <strong>the</strong> well known Diana Statue. This<br />

shopping mall has excellent boutiques, restaurants,<br />

coffee-shops, entertainment areas, bingo,<br />

slot machines, movie <strong>the</strong>aters with VIP halls,<br />

and indoors parking space.<br />

Gran Plaza: A very complete Shopping Mall<br />

with big dimensions that includes a Parking<br />

Area for more than 600 cars. Easy access from<br />

different parts of <strong>the</strong> city, with an ideal location<br />

in <strong>the</strong> heart of <strong>the</strong> Main Avenue: Costera<br />

Miguel Aleman. Excellent boutiques and an<br />

important Department Store. Gran Plaza is <strong>the</strong><br />

ideal place for family entertainment. Among<br />

<strong>the</strong> variety of services that this mall has, you<br />

will find: Car Rental Offices, Photo-shops,<br />

computer services, clothing and shoe stores<br />

for Men, Women and Children, Optical Services,<br />

toy stores, gift-shops, several restaurants,<br />

coffee-shops, cell phone services, sport<br />

shops, banks, movie <strong>the</strong>aters, video games,<br />

electronics, pet-stores, accessories, beautyshops,<br />

jewelry, pawn-shops, Airline Ticket<br />

Offices, <strong>Travel</strong> Agencies and Bingo slot machines.<br />

Plaza Bahia: A 5 levels-Air Conditioned mall with modern<br />

installations, with elevator and electrical escalators, parking<br />

area, a variety of shopping options such as: Sports-wear, bathing<br />

suits, jewelry, clothing stores for men, women and children.<br />

Inside <strong>the</strong> mall <strong>the</strong>re are several areas for family entertainment<br />

and children play rooms, bowling, restaurants,<br />

coffee-shops, and a snack-bar, surrounded by<br />

comfortable sitting areas. Inside <strong>the</strong> mall you<br />

will find a central area with fountains. Located<br />

on <strong>the</strong> Main Avenue Costera Miguel Aleman.<br />

La Isla Shopping Village: The newest<br />

shopping concept in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Acapulco</strong> Diamante<br />

Area, of <strong>the</strong> Grupo GICSA developers, constructed<br />

in a space of more than 75 square<br />

meters, that includes more than 110 boutiques<br />

of well known and famous International<br />

Brands. The entire concept is a Village, created<br />

on an artificial island, surrounded by a river,<br />

where <strong>the</strong> constant use of <strong>the</strong> water, fountains,<br />

vegetation, pedestrian walk-ways, and open<br />

“plazas”, allow a total relaxing ambiance for<br />

<strong>the</strong> 16,000 daily visitors to this magnificent La<br />

Isla Shopping Village. O<strong>the</strong>r attractions include<br />

first-class restaurants, snack-bars, Movie Theaters<br />

and much more.<br />

ARTS AND CRAFTS<br />

In <strong>Acapulco</strong> you will find a great variety of<br />

Arts and Crafts Markets and Galleries where you<br />

can find from <strong>the</strong> most sophisticated pieces of<br />

art to <strong>the</strong> traditional souvenirs from <strong>the</strong> region<br />

of <strong>the</strong> State of Guerrero.<br />

You may visit <strong>the</strong> following: El Mercado de<br />

la Dalia, Mercado el Parazal, Mercado de la Diana<br />

and <strong>the</strong> Mercado Noa Noa, among o<strong>the</strong>rs.<br />

For Art Galleries, two of <strong>the</strong> most visited<br />

are: Galeria Pal Kepenyes; and <strong>the</strong> Galeria de<br />

Arte Ixcateopan,located inside <strong>the</strong> “Casa de la<br />

Cultura Guerrerense”.<br />

Dining & Nightlife<br />

restaurants<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> really comes to life after sunset.<br />

Dining in <strong>Acapulco</strong> is an event. Some of Mexico’s<br />

best International and Mexican cuisine<br />

is served around <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay. Settings are<br />

often extraordinary. Choose from restaurants<br />

with intimate refinement and sumptuous<br />

bay views, or go casual to one of <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s<br />

plentiful, fun-filled bistros.<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> is a party town, with <strong>the</strong> festivities<br />

often starting at happy hour and going until dawn. There<br />

are several excellent hotel restaurants, and a wide range of<br />

cuisine: from Thai to German, Spanish to Japanese, and more!<br />

Dining is generally informal, although shorts and jeans are not<br />

recommended at dinner.<br />

55<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

Finer restaurants are on <strong>the</strong> expensive side, with dinner<br />

for two costing $70 US and up. There are, of course, dozens of<br />

moderately priced spots that serve excellent food, as well as a<br />

variety of American fast food outlets.<br />

nightlife<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>’s non-stop night life is legendary. The town<br />

comes alive at night, when discohoppingtakes center stage.<br />

There is no place in <strong>the</strong> world that can rival <strong>Acapulco</strong> for sophisticated,<br />

dazzling discos. Many feature heavenly bay views,<br />

fireworks, and laser shows. Service is impeccable.<br />

Most hotels have an excellent happy hour with appetizers<br />

and live music. The best of <strong>the</strong>se are at hotels along <strong>the</strong><br />

Costera. Clubs and discos open late -11pm - get rolling around<br />

2am, and close around sunup. Cover charges average $10-50<br />

US/person.<br />

FOR NON-DANCERS <strong>the</strong>re are several popular lobby bars in<br />

most of <strong>the</strong> hotels. Vegas-style entertainment and headliners<br />

perform at <strong>the</strong> Grand Hotel <strong>Acapulco</strong> and Crowne Plaza Hotels.<br />

Fiesta Nights are popular at several hotels. There is also Jai Alai<br />

Stadium and Sports Book with restaurants, bars, bingo, and live<br />

matches. Don’t miss Pepe’s Piano Bar and Siboney, New Yorkstyle<br />

clubs with live piano jazz.<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 56


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

Dining – Directory of Restaurants<br />

NAME CATEGORY LOCATION PHONES WEB SITE/E-MAIL<br />

ASTILLEROS STEAK TENIENTE MATEO F. MAURI #1 COSTA AZUL 484 44 70<br />

BAIKAL INTERNATIONAL CARRETERA ESCÉNICA 22 446 68 45<br />

www.baikal.com.mx<br />

reservaciones@baikal.com.mx<br />

BARBARROJA INTERNATIONAL COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 107-A PLAYA CONDESA 484 59 32<br />

BEACH CLUB RESTAURANT SEA FOOD THE FAIRMONT ACAPULCO PRINCESS HOTEL 469 10 00 jose.ruiz@fairmont.com<br />

BECCO AL MARE ITALIAN CARRETERA ESCENICA No. 14 446 7402 • 446 7403 www.beccoalmare.com<br />

BELLAVISTA INTERNATIONAL HOTEL LAS BRISAS 469 69 00 EXT. 6501 www.brisas.com.mx<br />

BETO GODOY SEA FOOD CARRETERA ACA-PINOTEPA NAL. KM. 32 BARRA VIEJA 444 6101 • 444 6031<br />

BETO SEA FOOD AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 99 484 0473<br />

BUBBA BAR<br />

INTERNATIONAL<br />

VASCO DE GAMA No. 22 ESQ. DAMIAN CHURRUCA<br />

FRACC. COSTA AZUL<br />

100% NATURAL CAFÉ DEL MAR VEGETARIAN AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN S/N COL. CENTRO. C.P. 39300 480 1450 • 484 3472<br />

100% NATURAL EL BUEN DIENTE VEGETARIAN AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 112 (Next to Carlos’n Charlies) 484 64 47 Of.: 484 34 72<br />

100% NATURAL EL CID VEGETARIAN AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 248 486 20 33<br />

484 6981 • 484 8209 gerry8300@yahoo.com<br />

www.100natural.com.mx<br />

cafedelmar_100@hotmail.com<br />

www.100natural.com.mx<br />

buen_diente100@hotmail.com<br />

www.100natural.com.mx<br />

la_familia100@hotmail.com<br />

100% NATURAL COMIDA SANA VEGETARIAN AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 184 485 64 68<br />

100% NATURAL LA FAMILIA VEGETARIAN AV. COSTERA MIGUEL ALEMAN 200 485 52 79<br />

100% NATURAL VIVA NATURAL VEGETARIAN AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 34 (In front of Starbucks Café) 484 84 40<br />

CARLOS’N CHARLIES BAR & GRILL AT LA ISLA SHOPPING VILLAGE 462 21 04<br />

www.100natural.com.mx<br />

comsana@prodigy.net.mx<br />

www.100natural.com.mx<br />

la_familia100@hotmail.com<br />

www.100natural.com.mx<br />

la_familia100@hotmail.com<br />

charlies@acabtu.com.mx<br />

carlosandfrogs@hotmail.com<br />

www.carlosandcharlies.com/<br />

acapulco<br />

CASANOVA ITALIAN CARRETERA ESCENICA LAS BRISAS 5256 446 62 37<br />

CHULAVISTA INTERNATIONAL THE FAIRMONT ACAPULCO PRINCESS HOTEL 469 10 00<br />

CHINA HOUSE<br />

CHINESE<br />

AV. CRISTOBAL COLÓN NO. 1, LOCAL A<br />

FRACC. COSTA AZUL<br />

481 2817<br />

EL AMIGO MIGUEL SEA FOOD BENITO JUÁREZ 16 Y 31 COL. CENTRO 482 23 90 • 483 69 81<br />

EL AMIGO MIGUEL SEA FOOD AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN FRENTE AL HOTEL EL CID 486 28 68<br />

EL CABRITO MEXICAN AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 1480 484 77 11<br />

EL FOGÓN MEXICAN AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN Y ANTÓN DE ALAMINOS 484 50 79 anremar@hotmail.com<br />

EL GAUCHO ARGENTINA HOTEL EL PRESIDENTE 484 1700<br />

www.elpresidente-acapulco.com<br />

hotpresi@infosel.net.mx<br />

EL JAGUAR GUERRERO FOOD AV. COSTERA M. ALEMAN No. 79 481 4099 eljaguarrestaurante@hotmail.com<br />

EL NONO SEA FOOD AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 179 485 1672<br />

EL OLVIDO INTERNATIONAL AV. COSTERA MIGUEL ALEMÁN S/AT PLAZA MARBELLA<br />

481 0203 • 481 0214<br />

481 0240<br />

www.elolvido.com.mx<br />

elolvido@elolvido.com.mx<br />

EL PESCADOR SEA FOOD GRAND HOTEL ACAPULCO 469 1234<br />

EL ZORRITO MEXICAN AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN Y ANTÓN DE ALAMINOS S/N 485 3735 • 485 7914<br />

www.todoacapulco.com/<br />

elzorrito<br />

57<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

Dining – Directory of Restaurants<br />

NAME CATEGORY LOCATION PHONES WEB SITE/E-MAIL<br />

ESMIRNA DEL MAR SEA FOOD PLAYA ENCANTADA, CARRETERA A.BARRA VIEJA 444 6069<br />

FANDANGO SEA FOOD AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN S/N 481 4049<br />

HARD ROCK CAFÉ INTERNATIONAL AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 37 FRACC. COSTA AZUL.<br />

HOOTERS BAR & GRILL AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 2310 484 1542<br />

484 0047 • 484 2123<br />

484 4284<br />

www.hardrock.com<br />

hardrock.acapulco@grupoece.com<br />

egarcia@grupoece.com<br />

hootaca@yahoo.com<br />

hootersaca@grupoaldi.com.mx<br />

moris_ita@hotmail.com<br />

hootersaca@dival.com<br />

JIMMY’S MEXICAN HORACIO NELSON 1 FRACC. COSTA AZUL CP 39850 484 8918<br />

JOVITO’S SEA FOOD AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 116 484 8433<br />

JULIO’S SEA FOOD 2ª. DE CRISTÓBAL COLÓN 56 485 3289<br />

KAALA<br />

INTERNATIONAL<br />

PASEO DEL CLUB 7 FRACC. REAL DIAMANTE<br />

(NEXT TO HOTEL QUINTA REAL)<br />

466 0658 /80 /89/ 98<br />

KOOKABURRA INTERNATIONAL CARRETERA ESCÉNICA LAS BRISAS 446 6020 • 446 6039<br />

www.travelbymexico.com/<br />

guer/kookaburra<br />

ivicahuich@yahoo.com..mx<br />

LA BELLA ITALIA ITALIAN AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 100 485 1757<br />

LA CABAÑA DE CALETA SEA FOOD AT PLAYA CALETA, FRACC. LAS PLAYAS 482 5007<br />

www.lacabanadecaleta.com<br />

lacabana@lacabanadecaleta.com.mx<br />

LA CASA DEL STEAK STEAK FERNANDO DE MAGALLANES 4 FRACC. COSTA AZUL C.P. 39850 484 9692 lacasadelsteak@hotmail.com<br />

LA GAMBA SEA FOOD HERNAN CORTES S/N FRACC. MAGALLANES 485 6508<br />

LA MANSIÓN STEAK AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 81 LOCAL B 481 0796 • 484 3247<br />

www.lamansion.com.mx<br />

clientes@lamansion.com.mx<br />

LA MARGARITA MEXICAN ANAHUAC 110 FRACC LOMAS DE COSTA AZUL 484 12 61 • 484 43 50<br />

LA PERLA INTERNATIONAL HOTEL EL MIRADOR ACAPULCO 483 1155 www.hotelelmiradoracapulco.com.mx<br />

LA VELA SEA FOOD HOTEL CAMINO REAL 435 1010 EXT. 2090 Y 2091<br />

LINDA VISTA<br />

INTERNATIONAL<br />

CARRETERA ESCÉNICA # 28 CENTRO COMERCIAL LA VISTA<br />

C.P. 39868<br />

446 5550 • 440 4616<br />

484 4868 • CEL: 449 5073<br />

tesa@acabtu.com.mx<br />

issi_radilla@hotmail.com<br />

LOS BRASEROS MEXICAN AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN #220 485 7572<br />

LOS CAZADORES MEXICAN CALLE 6 ESQ. AV. MÉXICO 204. EJIDO 482 5129<br />

LOS NAVEGANTES SEA FOOD COSTERA M. ALEMAN # 20 COSTA AZUL 484 2101<br />

LOS PAVORREALES MEXICAN LAGUNA DE TRES PALOS, 1 KM. BEFORE THE AIRPORT<br />

431 0045 • 462 0421<br />

440 4071<br />

MARETTO ITALIAN CARRETERA ESCÉNICA 28 7-A FRACC. PLAYA GUITARRÓN 446 6835 maretto_ristorante@yahoo.com.mx<br />

MI BARQUITO SEA FOOD AV. LOPEZ MATEOS # 30 FRACC LAS PLAYAS 482 35 35<br />

O’ JARDÍM<br />

BRAZILIAN<br />

FOOD<br />

CALLE RÍO BALSAS 17-B COL. VISTA ALEGRE CP 39900 485 9817 • 485 9740<br />

OK OK SEA FOOD PLAYA PUERTO MARQUES LOCAL 11 466 0610<br />

PACO’S SEA FOOD QUEBRADA 36 CENTRO 483 3117<br />

PACO’S SEA FOOD COSTERA M. ALEMAN # 44 FRACC. COSTA AZUL 484 39 49 • 484 67 12<br />

PALAO ISLAND CLUB<br />

SEA FOOD<br />

MUELLE PALAO COSTERA MIGUEL ALEMAN 100<br />

PASEO DEL PESCADOR<br />

PAMPANO INTERNATIONAL CARRETERA ESCÉNICA 33 BIS FRACC. GUITARRÓN<br />

482 4313<br />

446 5700 • 446 5723<br />

446 5636 • 446 5562<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 58


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

Dining – Directory of Restaurants<br />

NAME CATEGORY LOCATION PHONES WEB SITE/E-MAIL<br />

PARADISE SEA FOOD AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 107<br />

481 2668 • 484 5988<br />

484 7709<br />

PIPO´S SEA FOOD ALMIRANTE BRETÓN 3 482 2237<br />

PIPO´S SEA FOOD AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 1480 484 0165<br />

PLANET HOLLYWOOD INTERNATIONAL AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 2917 484 0716<br />

www.planethollywood.com<br />

egarcia@grupoece.com<br />

SAN & TOWN CHINESE & SUSHI HORACIO NELSON 53 COSTA AZUL 484 0133 • 484 0260 santown@prodigy.net.mx<br />

SEÑOR FROG’S BAR & GRILL CARRETERA ESCÉNICA CENTRO COMERCIAL LA VISTA 446 5734 / 35<br />

SHU JAPANESE AT LA ISLA SHOPPING VILLAGE<br />

SIROCCO SPAIN AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 485 2386<br />

SQUID ROE<br />

BAR & GRILL<br />

AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 112 FRACC. CLUB DEPORTIVO<br />

CP. 39690<br />

SU CASA INTERNATIONAL AV. ANÁHUAC 110 COL. LOMAS DE COSTA AZUL 4841261 • 484 4350<br />

SUNTORY JAPANESE AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 36 FRACC. COSTA AZUL 484 8088 • 484 8303<br />

www.prodigyweb.net.mx/sucasars<br />

sucasars@prodigy.net.mx<br />

www.restaurantesuntory.com.mx<br />

restsunaca@prodigy.net.mx<br />

TABACHÍN INTERNATIONAL AT THE FAIRMONT PIERRE MARQUES HOTEL 466 1000 www.fairmont.com<br />

TERRA LUNA ITALIAN COSTERA M ALEMAN # 54 484 2464<br />

TEXAS RIBS INTERNATIONAL AT THE EMPORIO HOTEL 484 3348<br />

www.tonyromas.com<br />

tr_acapulco@infosel.net.mx<br />

TRES MARÍAS SEA FOOD PIE DE LA CUESTA 375 460 0011 / 13 tresmariasacapulco@yahoo.com<br />

YOI JAPANESE CARRETERA ESCENICA LOTE 103 MZ. D 446 7395 • 446 7397 www.yoi.com.mx<br />

ZAPATA VILLA Y COMPAÑÍA MEXICAN AT THE GRAND HOTEL ACAPULCO 469 1234<br />

ZIBU<br />

ZUNTRA RESTAURANT BAR<br />

& DECK<br />

MEXICAN /<br />

THAILANDESE<br />

CARRETERA ESCENICA S/N FRACC. GLOMAR 433 3068 • 433 3058 www.zibu.com.mx<br />

MEDITERRANEAN CARRETERA ESCENICA S.N. LOCAL 1Y2 446 5601 / 02<br />

zuntra.com.mx<br />

reservaciones@zuntra.com.mx<br />

59<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

Nightlife – Directory of Bars and Nightclubs<br />

NAME LOCATION PHONES WEB SITE/E-MAIL<br />

A CAPELLA AT EL TROPICANO HOTEL 481 07 04<br />

BABY’O AV. COSTERA MIGUEL ALEMÁN 22 FRACC. COSTA AZUL 484 7474 • 481 1874 • 484 7018<br />

www.babyo.com.mx<br />

reservaciones@babyo.com.mx<br />

raul@babyo.com.mx<br />

carlosh@babyo.com.mx<br />

luisregules@babyo.com.mx<br />

CANDELA CARRETERA ESCENICA # 28 LOCAL 2 CENTRO COMERCIAL LA VISTA 446 5594 efabiola_o@yahoo.com.mx<br />

CANTINA EL REFUGIO COSTERA M. ALEMAN 49-1 FRACC CLUB DEPORTIVO 484 6182 manuelgardi@hotmail.com<br />

CARLOS’N CHARLIES AT LA ISLA SHOPPING VILLAGE 462 2104<br />

www.carlosandcharlies.com/acapulco<br />

charlies@acabtu.com.mx<br />

carlosandfrogs@hotmail.com<br />

CLASSICO DEL MAR CARRETERA ESCENICA # 273 COL. LAS BRISAS 446 6475 • 446 6455 www.classicodelmar.com.mx<br />

DECK BY GÜGÜ CARRETERA ESCENICA S/N PLAZA LA PERGOLAS COL. JOYAS DE BRISAMAR 744 123 0201 • 744 100 3307 salasrued@hotmail.com<br />

DISCO BEACH COSTERA M. ALEMAN 111 PLAYA CONDESA 484 8230 • 484 0463<br />

DUBAI COSTERA M. ALEMÁN # 3117 C.P. 39850 481 0114<br />

EL ALEBRIJE COSTERA MIGUEL ALEMÁN # 3308 484 5902• 484 5904 • 484 80 25 www.elalebrije.com.mx<br />

FURIA CAFE<br />

FARALLON DEL OBISPO # 1 PISO 10, ESQ. CON COSTERA MIGUEL<br />

ALEMAN (IN FRONT OF LA DIANA CIRCLE)<br />

HARD ROCK CAFÉ AV. COSTERA MIGUEL ALEMÁN # 37 FRACC. COSTA AZUL C.P. 39850 484 0047 • 484 6680 • 484 2189<br />

HOOTERS AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 2310 484 1542<br />

IBIZA AV COSTERA MIGUEL ALEMÁN # 111 PLAYA CONDESA 484 8230<br />

LA CANTADA CENTRO COMERCIAL LAS PERGOLAS LOC 39 Y 40 100 4998<br />

LA ESQUINA CARRETERA ESCENICA ESQUINA EJERCITO NACIONAL PLAZA LAS PERGOLAS 484 0303<br />

484 2179 • 484 2159 rpfuriacafe@yahoo.com.mx<br />

www.hardrockcafe.com<br />

egarcia@grupoece.com<br />

hootaca@yahoo.com<br />

hootersaca@grupoaldi.com.mx<br />

moris_ita@hotmail.com<br />

hootersaca@dival.com<br />

MANDARA CARRETERA ESCÉNICA S/N FRACC. GUITARRÓN C.P. 39880 446 5711 / 12<br />

www.acapulconightclubs.com<br />

rppalladium@hotmail.com<br />

MANGOS COSTERA MIGUEL ALEMÁN PLAYA CONDESA 107 484 4762 • 481 2668 • 484 5902 mangoscondesa@hotmail.com<br />

MOJITO CONDESA 484 4762<br />

MONDO AT THE MAYAN RESORTS 469 6000<br />

NINA’S AV. COSTERA M. ALEMAN # 2909 FRACC. COSTA AZUL C.P. 39850 484 2400<br />

PALLADIUM CARRETERA ESCÉNICA S/N FRACC. GUITARRÓN C.P. 39880 446 5490<br />

www.acapulconightclubs.com<br />

rppalladium@hotmail.com<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 60


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Profile<br />

Nightlife – Directory of Bars and Nightclubs<br />

NAME LOCATION PHONES WEB SITE/E-MAIL<br />

PEPE’S PIANO BAR<br />

CARRETERA ESCÉNICA S/N CENTRO COMERCIAL LA VISTA<br />

FRACC. GUITARRÓN C.P. 39880<br />

446 5736<br />

PRIVADO CARRETERA ESCÉNICA S/N FRACC. GUITARRÓN C.P. 39880 446 5711 • 446 5712 www.acapulconightclubs.com<br />

PURE NIGHT BLVD. DE LAS NACIONES # 10B ACAPULCO DIAMANTE (744) 466 31 01 • (744) 466 31 02 www.pure.com.mx<br />

SIBONEY CARRETERA ESCÉNICA S/N FRACC. GUITARRÓN C.P. 39880 446 5711 • 446 5712 www.acapulconightclubs.com<br />

SITRIC COSTERA M. ALEMAN 93 FRACC CLUB DEPORTIVO 481 0808<br />

SKY GARDEN CARRETERA ESCÉNICA # 28 LOCAL 1 FRACC. GUITARRÓN C.P. 39690 446 5690 / 91 • 446 5892<br />

SEÑOR FROG’S CARRETERA ESCÉNICA # 28 FRACC. GUITARRÓN C.P. 39690 446 5734 / 35<br />

www.skygarden.com.mx<br />

info@skygarden.com.mx<br />

www.seniorfrogs.com/acapulco<br />

frogs-charlies@frogs-charlies.com.mx<br />

SQUID ROE AV. COSTERA M. ALEMÁN 112 FRACC. CLUB DEPORTIVO. CP. 39690 484 1285 • 484 0039<br />

TEQUISOL AV. COSTERA 53 CLUB DEPORTIVO 484 2700<br />

www.hotelacasol.com<br />

e-mailventas@hotelacasol.com<br />

ZYDECO COSTERA M. ALEMAN 121 LOCAL 15 AT HOTEL EMPORIO 484 5774 • 484 5775<br />

61<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


General Information<br />

Climate and Geography<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>’s climate is tropical and humid; sunshine is enjoyed<br />

through most of <strong>the</strong> year. July and August are <strong>the</strong> hottest<br />

months with <strong>the</strong> rainy season beginning in May and running<br />

through September. The winter season is a privileged time,<br />

barely humid. The prevalent vegetation is tropical. The average<br />

year’ round high temperature is 92º F and <strong>the</strong> minimum is 62º F.<br />

geographical location<br />

Located in <strong>the</strong> State of Guerrero, <strong>Acapulco</strong> can be described<br />

as an important deep sea and coastal traffic port located on <strong>the</strong><br />

Pacific Ocean on <strong>the</strong> western side of <strong>the</strong> natural Bay of <strong>Acapulco</strong>.<br />

The city is <strong>the</strong> county’s seat and is located 16º5´ latitude<br />

North and 99º54´longitude West, approximately 385 kilometers<br />

south of Mexico City and 133 kilometers from <strong>the</strong> City of Chilpancingo,<br />

capital of <strong>the</strong> State of Guerrero.<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> is a privileged tourist destination, with two magnificent<br />

bays of Santa Lucia (better known as <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay) and<br />

Puerto Marques, boasting incredible natural beauty and cliffs.<br />

The bays are surrounded by golden sandy beaches and exotic<br />

tropical vegetation and embraced by <strong>the</strong> Sierra Madre del Sur<br />

Mountain Range to <strong>the</strong> east.<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay is 5 kilometers long (East to West) and 3 kilometers<br />

wide (North to South), and ranges from 45 to 60 meters<br />

deep.<br />

<strong>the</strong> travel decision<br />

Why go to acapulco<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> offers a truly astonishing variety of travel options.<br />

The attractions of <strong>the</strong> region can be divided into three major<br />

<strong>the</strong>mes. It is very common (and desirable) to have several, if not<br />

all of <strong>the</strong>se attractions combined into a single vacation:<br />

a Natural Scenery and World Class Resorts<br />

a Outdoor Recreation and Sports of All Varieties<br />

a Dining, Entertainment, Night Life<br />

When to go<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> is a year-round visitors destination. Take <strong>the</strong>se factors<br />

into account when planning a visit.<br />

TemperaturEs (MAX/Min) & RAINFALL<br />

JANUARY 80/72 0.6<br />

FEBRUARY 80/72 0.6<br />

MARCH 80/72 0.6<br />

APRIL 88/73 1.2<br />

MAY 90/76 1.2<br />

JUNE 90/77 1.2<br />

JULY 91/77 3.4<br />

AUGUST 91/77 3.4<br />

SEPTEMBER 90/75 3.4<br />

OCTOBER 90/75 .8<br />

NOVEMBER 90/75 .8<br />

DECEMBER 88/73 .8<br />

Temperatures in Farenheit. Rainfall in inches.<br />

SEASONS<br />

Vacation periods in USA and Canada, as well as in Mexico<br />

have a great impact in <strong>the</strong> number of visitors to <strong>Acapulco</strong>.<br />

Christmas, Easter Holidays and <strong>the</strong> Summer Season are traditionally<br />

<strong>the</strong> busiest seasons in our destination,<br />

However <strong>the</strong> occupancy is also high for short periods like<br />

Thursday to Sunday. Recommendation: Sell packages during<br />

<strong>the</strong> middle of <strong>the</strong> week in order to motivate <strong>the</strong> rotation from<br />

Sunday to Wednesday, in short stays.<br />

Wea<strong>the</strong>r<br />

Contrary to popular impressions about south of <strong>the</strong> border<br />

travel, <strong>Acapulco</strong> does not experience true “reverse” wea<strong>the</strong>r<br />

seasons from <strong>the</strong> U.S. and Canada. You can enjoy continuously<br />

good wea<strong>the</strong>r throughout <strong>the</strong> year. Visit WEB CAM LINK:<br />

www.aheta.com/webcam.html<br />

Prices<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> hotels generally work based upon three main<br />

seasons of high occupancy:<br />

a January to April (through Easter)<br />

a Summer Vacation (July and August)<br />

a Winter Season (beginning <strong>the</strong> second week of December)<br />

During <strong>the</strong>se periods, <strong>the</strong> rates in hotels, restaurants and<br />

night clubs tend to be higher.<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 62


General Information<br />

Trip Planning Resources<br />

International Carriers to <strong>Acapulco</strong> (from U.S. and Canada)<br />

AIRLINE<br />

American<br />

Airlines<br />

800 PHONE<br />

800 PHONE<br />

CODE<br />

DIALED IN MEXICO U.S. & CANADA<br />

AA 01-800-904-6000 1-800-633-3711<br />

US Airways US 01-800-235-9292 1-800-843-3000<br />

Delta Airlines<br />

Continental<br />

Airlines<br />

Mexicana<br />

Airlines<br />

DL<br />

01-800-123-4710<br />

01-800-902-2100<br />

1-800-241-4141<br />

CO 01-800-900-5000 1-800-231-0856<br />

MX 01-800-502-2000<br />

1-800-531-7921<br />

1-800-531-9343<br />

(en Español)<br />

Aeroméxico AM 01-800-021-4010 1-800-237-6639<br />

SECURITY<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> is a cosmopolitan destination that receives more<br />

than 5 million visitors per year, <strong>the</strong>refore <strong>the</strong> local Authorities<br />

have strong security measures in order to guarantee <strong>the</strong> visitors<br />

and residents safety. Our government has doubled <strong>the</strong> city’s<br />

resources and efforts to ensure that all tourist areas within<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>, such as main avenues, beaches, and entertainment<br />

centers remain safeguarded by law enforcement authorities.<br />

Aviacsa<br />

Cruise Lines<br />

Serving <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

(USA/Canadian)<br />

D.F. 01-800-006-2200<br />

MTY. 01-800-201-5950<br />

GDL. 01-800-713-5744<br />

1-800-967-5263<br />

In case of any unexpected incident, please contact <strong>the</strong> following<br />

emergency contacts:<br />

Emergencies: 066<br />

Red Cross: 065<br />

Red Cross Emergency: (744) 469 0207<br />

General Hospital: (744) 445 5877, 445 6608<br />

General Hospital Renacimiento: (744) 441 5621, 441 4937<br />

Private Hospital del Pacifico: (744) 487 7180, 487 7161<br />

Private Hospital Magallanes: (744) 485 6194, 485 6544<br />

Private Hospital Santa Lucia: (744) 486 3358<br />

Private Hospital Papagayo: (744) 486 3300<br />

Naval Hospital: (744) 484 0020<br />

Military Hospital: (744) 445 6504, 445 6586<br />

Emergency Tourist Assistance<br />

Attention: 060, 072, (744) 484 4416<br />

Missing Persons: (744) 481 1100<br />

Fire Department: (744) 445 6504, 445 6586<br />

Police Department: (744) 485 0650, 485 0862<br />

Consumer Complaint Department: (744) 483 5233, 483 5885<br />

Secretary of Tourism of <strong>the</strong><br />

State of Guerrero: (744) 481 1160, 481 1164<br />

Secretary of Tourism of <strong>the</strong><br />

Municipality of <strong>Acapulco</strong>: (744) 440 7010<br />

USA Consular Office in <strong>Acapulco</strong> (744) 469 0556, 484 0300<br />

Princess Cruises Line 1-800-PRINCESS<br />

Carnival Cruise Line 1-888-CARNIVAL<br />

Norwegian Cruise Line 1-866-234-0292<br />

Silversea Cruises LTD 1-877-760-9052<br />

Celebrity Cruises Line 1-800-647-2251<br />

Holland America Line 1-800-426-0327<br />

Royal Caribbean C. Line 1-866-562-7625<br />

Silversea Cruises LTD 1-877-760-9052<br />

Crystal Cruise Line 1-800-804-1500<br />

P&O Cruise Line (UK 44-845-678- 0014<br />

Cunard Cruises Line 1-800-7CUNARD<br />

Discovery World Cruises 1-866-623-2689<br />

lodging reservations: hotel chains<br />

Las Brisas Resorts 1-888-559-4329<br />

The Fairmont Hotels 1-800-257-7544<br />

Mayan Resorts 1-800-996-2926<br />

Quinta Real Hotels 1-866-621-9288<br />

Camino Real 1-800-722-6466<br />

Hyatt Hotels 1-800-233-1234<br />

Calinda Hotels 1-877-657-5799<br />

Crowne Plaza Hotels 1-877-587-9648<br />

Fiesta Americana Villas<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>/ Fiesta Inn Hotels 1-800-343 7821<br />

63<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


General Information<br />

TOUR OPERATORS SELLING ACAPULCO<br />

USA<br />

Aeromexico Vacations<br />

www.aeromexicovacations.<br />

com<br />

1-800-245-8585<br />

American Airlines Vacations<br />

www.aavacations.com<br />

1-800-321-2121<br />

Apple Vacations<br />

www.applevac.com<br />

1-888-532-0420<br />

Bianchi Rossi Tours<br />

www.bianchi-rossi.com<br />

1-800-875-4525<br />

Certified Vacations<br />

Corp Office<br />

www.certifiedvacations.com<br />

Classic Vacations<br />

www.classicvacations.com<br />

1-800-221-3949<br />

Continental Vacations<br />

www.coolvacations.com<br />

1-800-301-3800<br />

Delta Vacations<br />

www.deltavacations.com<br />

1-800-654-6559<br />

Funjet (Mark <strong>Travel</strong>)<br />

www.funjet.com<br />

1-888-558-6654<br />

Future Vacations<br />

www.futurevacations.com<br />

1-800-301-3300<br />

GoGo Worldwide Vacations<br />

www.gogowwv.com<br />

1-800-821-3731<br />

Happy Vacations<br />

www.happyvacations.com<br />

1-800-877-4277<br />

Love Mexico<br />

www.lovemexico.us<br />

1-800-327-2699<br />

Mexico Unlimited<br />

www.mexicounlimited.com<br />

1-800-255-8186<br />

MLT Vacations<br />

www.worryfreevacations.com<br />

1-800-362-3520<br />

NWA World Vacations<br />

www.nwaworldvacations.com<br />

1-800-800-1504<br />

Pleasant Holidays<br />

www.pleasantholidays.com<br />

1-800-742-9244<br />

Student <strong>Travel</strong> Services<br />

www.ststravel.com<br />

1-800-648-4849<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> Impressions<br />

www.travelimpressions.com<br />

1-800-284-0044<br />

Vacation Express<br />

www.vacationexpress.com<br />

1-800-309-4717<br />

CANADA<br />

Air Transat<br />

www.transat.com<br />

514-987-1660,<br />

514-636-3630<br />

Conquest Vacations<br />

www.conquestvacations.com<br />

1-866-266-7974<br />

1-800-268-1205<br />

Fun Sun Vacations<br />

www.funsunvacations.com<br />

1-800-938-6786<br />

i <strong>Travel</strong> 2000<br />

www.itravel2000.com<br />

1-800-859-2920<br />

Mexi-Can Holidays<br />

www.mexi-canholidays.com<br />

604-685-3375<br />

Moreno <strong>Travel</strong><br />

www.moreno.ca<br />

1-800-465-2853<br />

Nolitours<br />

www.nolitour.com<br />

1-877-956-6982<br />

Pacific Sunspots Tours<br />

www.pacificsunspots.com<br />

1-800-663-0755<br />

Red Seal Vacations<br />

www.redsealvacations.com<br />

1-800-761-1711<br />

Sunwing Vacations<br />

www.sunwing.ca<br />

1-800-761-1711<br />

Thomas Cook North America<br />

1-800-889-5853<br />

www.thomascookgroup.ca<br />

Total Vacations<br />

www.totalvacations.ca<br />

1-800-769-4147<br />

Tours Mont Royal<br />

www.vacancestmr.com<br />

1-514-871-3000<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 64


General Information<br />

Special interest options<br />

becoming a specialist<br />

Selling international travel is an enormously complex<br />

endeavor. The sheer scope of destinations, facilities, services,<br />

attractions, and programs available to <strong>the</strong> international vacationer<br />

today creates an almost insurmountable challenge for<br />

<strong>the</strong> retail agent.<br />

As if this were not enough, <strong>the</strong>re’s <strong>the</strong> challenge of staying<br />

ahead of your neighborhood competitors in <strong>the</strong> scramble to<br />

stay in step with fickle American customer wants. Clients that at<br />

one moment seem loyal, will be down <strong>the</strong> street at your competitor’s<br />

door <strong>the</strong> next, just to save a few dollars.<br />

The problem in any price-driven service industry is that to<br />

distinguish yourself from your competitor, you have two basic<br />

options: Undercut <strong>the</strong> competition in terms of price (very difficult<br />

unless you have huge volume) OR offer something o<strong>the</strong>rs<br />

don’t have.<br />

With so many agencies trying to sell <strong>the</strong> same product<br />

to <strong>the</strong> same customers, specialization is a means of standing<br />

a Establish solid supplier relationships with needed airlines,<br />

hoteliers, local ground operators, and tourism authorities OR<br />

find <strong>the</strong> right tour operator that already packages what you<br />

need.<br />

a Become a specialist in <strong>Acapulco</strong>: www.aca-academy.com<br />

WEDDINGS<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> is a magical destination where <strong>the</strong> romance is enhanced<br />

by <strong>the</strong> beauty of its sceneries and romantic ambiance.<br />

Wedding Couples find <strong>the</strong> <strong>Acapulco</strong> beaches <strong>the</strong> ideal place to<br />

celebrate <strong>the</strong> most sublime moment of <strong>the</strong>ir lives.<br />

For a real fantasy wedding and a magic honeymoon, <strong>the</strong>re<br />

is no o<strong>the</strong>r place more enchanting than <strong>Acapulco</strong>. For this<br />

reason, our destination has always been <strong>the</strong> favorite choice<br />

for <strong>the</strong> rich and famous to celebrate such an important event<br />

ever since <strong>the</strong> decades of <strong>the</strong> 60’s and 70’s, such is <strong>the</strong> case of<br />

<strong>the</strong> famous weddings that took place in <strong>Acapulco</strong> of Elizabeth<br />

Taylor and Mike Todd; John and Jacqueline Kennedy; Bill and<br />

Hillary Clinton; and in recent years Shaila Durcal and Dorio<br />

Ferreira, among many of <strong>the</strong> famous celebrities that decided to<br />

interchange <strong>the</strong>ir vows of love and start toge<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>ir new life<br />

in <strong>the</strong> paradise of <strong>Acapulco</strong>.<br />

apart from your competition. It can be a very effective strategy.<br />

Most profitable businesses will agree that less competition and<br />

greater differentiation means higher profits.<br />

Your agency’s level of specialization can vary from passive<br />

– responding to client requests based on a <strong>the</strong>me of travel (be<br />

it geographic or activity driven) to active - establish a specialty<br />

and actively market your services to a targeted audience of<br />

interested consumers.<br />

Specialists are still a minority in <strong>the</strong> industry – only about<br />

10% of North American retailers. The key is to become an<br />

expert without equal and <strong>the</strong>n get <strong>the</strong> word out! Remember,<br />

when you specialize it’s easy to spend all your time researching,<br />

counseling, administering, and NOT selling. You’re not running a<br />

library, you are running a business!<br />

Steps towards specializing might flow as follows:<br />

a Research an area of specialization where you and your<br />

agency have a dedicated, personal interest.<br />

a Develop a sound business plan with realistic revenue and<br />

expense projections.<br />

Marriage Requirements<br />

a Certified copy of both parties’ birth certificates and a valid<br />

passport.<br />

a State certified ID such as driver’s license when using a birth<br />

certificate as proof of citizenship.<br />

a A blood test taken in <strong>the</strong> US or Canada within 15 days of<br />

your wedding date. Tests are required for STD’s (sexually transmitted<br />

diseases) and must include your blood type. The blood test<br />

may also be done in <strong>Acapulco</strong> by a local doctor.<br />

a A copy of your tourist card or visa.<br />

a Four witnesses (<strong>the</strong>se can also be provided locally for an<br />

extra fee).<br />

a The bride and groom to be must allow two to four days in<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> prior to <strong>the</strong> wedding to complete <strong>the</strong>se requirements.<br />

When using a wedding coordinator, less time may be required.<br />

65<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


General Information<br />

Previously Married Parties<br />

Verification is required that a minimum time period of one<br />

full year has elapsed from <strong>the</strong> date of one of <strong>the</strong> following:<br />

DIVORCED - Final dissolution of marriage must be verified<br />

with a certified copy of <strong>the</strong> final divorce decree.<br />

WIDOWED - Must be verified with a certified copy of <strong>the</strong><br />

spouse’s death certificate.<br />

NOTE: All legal documentation presented must be translated<br />

into Spanish and under a treaty between <strong>the</strong> U.S. and<br />

Mexico, Mexican civil marriages are automatically valid in <strong>the</strong><br />

USA. For fur<strong>the</strong>r information regarding <strong>the</strong> requirements to<br />

celebrate a wedding in <strong>Acapulco</strong>, please contact:<br />

Civil Registration Office: (744) 440 7090, 440 7091<br />

National Institute of Migration<br />

Office in <strong>Acapulco</strong>: (744) 435 0102<br />

USA Consular Office in <strong>Acapulco</strong>: (744) 484 0300, 469 0556<br />

honeymoons<br />

Honeymooners have been choosing <strong>Acapulco</strong> for decades,<br />

and yet <strong>the</strong> growth potential of this segment is impressive.<br />

Consider <strong>the</strong> following facts:<br />

Mexico ranks #1 in affordability and trendy locales, #2 in<br />

beaches and nightlife, #2 in snorkeling and diving, #3 in overall<br />

excellence and sexy ambiance, and #5 in romance.<br />

Honeymooners are a $4.5 billion a year market! They book<br />

early. They travel year-round. Their average stay is over 7 nights.<br />

Average outlay per trip is $2,965 US. They become repeat clients<br />

for o<strong>the</strong>r vacations and anniversaries.<br />

Marketing Ideas<br />

a Exhibit at local Bridal Tradeshows (share costs with suppliers).<br />

a Offer a honeymoon “registry” so wedding guests can give<br />

portions of honeymoon costs as gifts.<br />

a Purchase mailing lists of marriage license applicants in<br />

your area for honeymoon special mailings.<br />

Wedding Coordinators<br />

Banquets and Catering<br />

In <strong>Acapulco</strong> <strong>the</strong>re are several specialized services of catering<br />

and wedding planners that offer a great variety of options<br />

according to decorations and organization, that way <strong>the</strong> future<br />

newlyweds and <strong>the</strong> guests only have to be <strong>the</strong>re and enjoy <strong>the</strong><br />

wedding reception.<br />

Catering Susanna Palazuelos<br />

(744) 484 1860 Fax: 484 3810<br />

info@susannapalazuelos.com<br />

www.susannapalazuelos.com<br />

Caty Gomez Exclusive Events<br />

(744) 484 3662<br />

caty@catygomez.com<br />

arancha@catygomez.com<br />

www.catygomez.com<br />

Catering Elcano:<br />

(744) 435 1500 ext. 1280 y 1281<br />

Fax: 484 2230<br />

Catering@banqueteselcano.com.mx<br />

www.hotel-elcano.com<br />

Catering Estua:<br />

(744) 484 8568, 171 3361 Fax: 484 8568<br />

contacto@banquetesestua.com.mx<br />

lorestua@banquetesestua.com.mx<br />

www.banquetesestua.com.mx<br />

Catering Erick Galindo:<br />

(744) 484 8824 / 484 1531<br />

erick@banqueteserickgalindo.com<br />

www.banqueteserickgalindo.com<br />

Catering Olguín:<br />

(744) 485 3915 / 485 3837<br />

banquetesolguin@hotmail.com<br />

banquetesolguin@yahoo.com.mx<br />

www.banquetesolguin.com<br />

Catering <strong>Acapulco</strong>:<br />

(744) 404 0239 Fax: 483 9455<br />

contacto@banquetesacapulco.com<br />

www.banquetesacapulco.com<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 66


General Information<br />

family travel<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> welcomes an increasing number of families each<br />

year. Consequently, hotel properties, restaurants, and attractions<br />

throughout <strong>Acapulco</strong> have jumped on <strong>the</strong> “kid-friendly”<br />

bandwagon.<br />

<strong>Travel</strong>ing with babies and small children doesn’t have to be<br />

a hassle. Mexicans adore children and are used to seeing <strong>the</strong>m<br />

in restaurants and hotels. Tip: Advise clients to take <strong>the</strong>ir own<br />

baby food, diapers, and medications. Though Mexican-made<br />

versions of <strong>the</strong>se items can be purchased inexpensively, <strong>the</strong>y<br />

may not find familiar brands.<br />

Babysitters are easy to find, particularly among maids. They<br />

usually won’t speak a lot of <strong>English</strong>, but this doesn’t seem to<br />

bo<strong>the</strong>r most kids. Check with <strong>the</strong> front desk for details. Many<br />

larger resort hotels now offer special kids’ programs, allowing<br />

parents to enjoy some quite time by <strong>the</strong>mselves.<br />

Selling Family <strong>Travel</strong><br />

a Sell family travel to your agency’s existing corporate base.<br />

a Develop a family database with ages of children and<br />

family interests and mail appropriate information about family<br />

vacation specials.<br />

a Promote <strong>the</strong> agency through schools, churches, sports<br />

teams, PTAs, and day care centers.<br />

a Set up window displays promoting family travel, including<br />

posters or cartoon characters.<br />

a Hold family vacation nights.<br />

health spas<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> agents across North America are responding to more<br />

and more requests for a “spa vacation experience.” While most<br />

vacations end once <strong>the</strong> bags are unpacked, a spa vacation can<br />

have lasting benefits. Instead of simply baking on a beach,<br />

cruising aboard a floating shopping mall, joining <strong>the</strong> tour bus<br />

hoards, or visiting relatives, health-conscious travelers are seeking<br />

a vacation that offers rest, relaxation and replenishment of<br />

body and soul.<br />

What is a spa? While setting, mood, and facilities may vary<br />

greatly, all spa experiences promote physical, emotional, and<br />

spiritual wellness through diet, exercise, meditation and treatments.<br />

You’ll find spas in all shapes and sizes:<br />

Destination Spas: devoted exclusively to nutrition, fitness,<br />

stress reduction, and wellness. These usually offer all-inclusive<br />

packages that include fitness consultation, meals, treatments,<br />

and lodging.<br />

Resort/Hotel Spas: offering a-la-carte spa services; guests<br />

may partake in many non-spa programs.<br />

Day Spas: offer beauty, wellness and relaxation programs<br />

that may last a few hours, but don’t involve an overnight stay.<br />

Spa goers report that <strong>the</strong>y expect renewal, improved fitness<br />

and nutrition and a reduction in stress. Though spas have<br />

undergone a transformation in philosophies and services over<br />

<strong>the</strong> years, body treatment is still a major component of any spa<br />

experience. Following are some definitions of skin and body<br />

treatments:<br />

Aroma<strong>the</strong>rapy: a technique utilizing distilled essential oils<br />

from flowers, herbs and plants. Each fragrance is believed to<br />

have a different effect on body and mind. Some are used to<br />

relax and heal, o<strong>the</strong>rs to arouse and stimulate.<br />

Hydro<strong>the</strong>rapy: a general term for <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>rapeutic use of<br />

baths.<br />

Balneo<strong>the</strong>rapy: hydro<strong>the</strong>rapy with <strong>the</strong> addition of a healing<br />

substance, such as minerals, oils, or aromatics.<br />

Thalasso<strong>the</strong>rapy: hydro<strong>the</strong>rapy using sea water or marine<br />

based solutions.<br />

Vichy or Swiss-shower: uses multiple shower heads. These<br />

are often used prior to a body mask or after a mud application.<br />

Ozone <strong>the</strong>rapy: uses aerated or bubbling mineral water in a<br />

tub or pool.<br />

Eucalyptus Rooms: steam rooms or saunas scented with an<br />

elixir of eucalyptus oils, useful for clearing congestion in <strong>the</strong><br />

head and chest.<br />

Moor, fango and spirulina: types of mud used in body and<br />

facial treatments. Actually <strong>the</strong>y are purified extracts taken from<br />

spas, lakes or ocean beds reputed to have healing qualities. The<br />

mud is applied neck to toe, and <strong>the</strong>n <strong>the</strong> body is covered with<br />

warm dry towels or wrapped in an herbal covering to relax,<br />

until <strong>the</strong> mask is removed by hose or shower.<br />

Paraffin: a way to soften skin. Warm wax is painted onto<br />

your body, hands or feet. Towels, sheets or plastic wrap is used<br />

to cover <strong>the</strong> paraffin until it cools and <strong>the</strong> wax hardens, and<br />

<strong>the</strong>n is stripped away painlessly. This is gentler than leg waxing<br />

and does not result in hair removal.<br />

Temazcal: ancient Mexican steam cave or sweat lodge<br />

ceremony.<br />

Certain physical conditions require careful consultation to<br />

eliminate or alter <strong>the</strong>rapeutic applications. Pregnancy, diabetes,<br />

high blood pressure, and circulatory problems all mean <strong>the</strong><br />

clients should avoid high temperature treatments such as hot<br />

mud applications, baths, herbal wraps and temazcal. With a rash<br />

or delicate skin, <strong>the</strong> client must avoid salts, vigorous scrubs and<br />

essential oil concentrations. When recovering from a serious<br />

67<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


General Information<br />

disease such as cancer or breathing problems, clients should<br />

shun treatments that increase circulation. When allergic to<br />

plants, skip aroma<strong>the</strong>rapy, seaweeds and muds. In o<strong>the</strong>r words,<br />

with any health problems, it is always best to have <strong>the</strong> client<br />

check with <strong>the</strong>ir doctor before a spa visit.<br />

ACAPULCO HEALTH SPAS<br />

Alory Spa Grand Hotel <strong>Acapulco</strong> (744) 469 1234<br />

Spa Brio Mayan Resorts (744) 469 6000<br />

Diseño Facial Spa Quinta Real Hotel (744) 469 1500<br />

Oriental Spa Emporio Hotel (744) 469 0505<br />

Majahua Spa Av. del Prado Fracc. Club Deportivo (744) 484 3203<br />

Spa Miguett Camino Real Hotel (744) 435 1010<br />

The Spa Villa Vera Hotel (744) 484 0333<br />

Vida Integral Humana Av. Azteca 2 Col. Cumbres de Llano Largo (744) 440 9429<br />

Willow Stream The Fairmont <strong>Acapulco</strong> Princess (744) 469 1000<br />

Money matters<br />

Money is often exchanged at a Casa de Cambio (Money<br />

Exchange), open longer hours and offering quicker service than<br />

banks. Dollars are widely accepted (and often preferred). Note<br />

that <strong>the</strong> worst exchange rates are often at hotels, <strong>the</strong> best at exchange<br />

houses. Expect a slightly lower rate for travelers’ checks.<br />

Exchange fees are not charged.<br />

It is now possible for visitors to access ATMs. Bancomer<br />

ATMs are now in <strong>the</strong> Cirrus and PLUS systems, and even offer<br />

Spanish/<strong>English</strong> language menus. Machines will dispense pesos.<br />

Credit cards are widely accepted, with Visa and Mastercard<br />

being <strong>the</strong> cards of choice. American Express is also widely<br />

accepted. When checking into hotels, clients are often asked<br />

for a credit card for incidental charges, and asked to sign a<br />

blank charge slip. This is a common practice and should not be<br />

viewed with suspicion.<br />

Capitalizing on <strong>the</strong> Dollar´s Increased Value<br />

a Whenever possible, eat, sleep, dine, and shop where<br />

<strong>the</strong> Mexican nationals do. Peso rates at establishments more<br />

attuned to a local (versus international) market have remained<br />

more stable. The greatest bargains are at inland cities.<br />

a Exchange your dollars for pesos in Mexico, ra<strong>the</strong>r than<br />

through a US/Canadian currency exchange company. Rates can<br />

be significantly better.<br />

a Use pesos ra<strong>the</strong>r than dollars for transactions in Mexico.<br />

In general, restaurants, shops and taxis will exchange your dollars<br />

at a rate lower than what is paid by local casas de cambio.<br />

By exchanging dollars for pesos, and <strong>the</strong>n shopping with pesos,<br />

you will maximize your savings.<br />

a Use credit cards whenever possible. Your purchase will<br />

be converted into dollars at an exchange rate more favorable<br />

than what you will likely earn by changing dollars into pesos for<br />

example at your hotel.<br />

taxes<br />

International air travel from Mexico carries a departure tax<br />

of approximately $17.50 U.S./$23.00 Can. This tax is sometimes<br />

paid in Mexico, but in most circumstances it is included on<br />

tickets issued outside Mexico (ask your airline for details). This<br />

tax is not paid by infants, but children over <strong>the</strong> age of two pay<br />

<strong>the</strong> full amount.<br />

Sales Tax: In most destinations in Mexico <strong>the</strong> Value Added<br />

Tax is 15%, however, hotel bills will add an additional 2% or 3%<br />

as a general hotel tax ordinance for <strong>the</strong> whole of Mexico.<br />

Cuisine<br />

Dining is one of <strong>the</strong> most delicious treats of any Mexico<br />

visit. The first rule for most North American visitors is to forget<br />

what you thought was Mexican food. Many of <strong>the</strong> dishes we<br />

commonly associate with Mexican cooking are ei<strong>the</strong>r not<br />

Mexican at all (fajitas, for example) or are prepared using less<br />

than au<strong>the</strong>ntic techniques and ingredients (melted Cheese<br />

Whiz heaped over a dish of corn chips for nachos). Salsa has<br />

surpassed ketchup in U.S. sales.<br />

Mexican cuisine is delightfully diverse, strongly regional<br />

and almost always bold (although not necessarily hot) in flavor.<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 68


General Information<br />

Since Mexico spans several climatic zones, <strong>the</strong> types of foodstuffs<br />

available vary greatly from region to region. Mexico’s jumbled<br />

topography has limited <strong>the</strong> “homogenization” of dishes in<br />

terms of <strong>the</strong>ir ingredients and preparation. What’s a favorite on<br />

<strong>the</strong> coast may be unavailable fur<strong>the</strong>r inland.<br />

Herein lies <strong>the</strong> allure of dinning in Mexico.<br />

Remember, Mexican cuisine (much like<br />

its history) has been strongly influenced by<br />

foreign countries. Spanish, French, and North<br />

American practices, intermingled with <strong>the</strong><br />

nation’s century-old Pre-Columbian culinary<br />

heritage, produce a rich blend of dishes that<br />

are copied and envied around <strong>the</strong> world.<br />

As to ingredients, <strong>the</strong> world can thank<br />

Mexico and Central America for beans, corn,<br />

squash, tomatoes, jicama, chocolate, avocado,<br />

papaya, guava, vanilla, dozens of spices and of<br />

course, chile peppers.<br />

dining tips<br />

Choosing a Restaurant: Use <strong>the</strong> same judgment<br />

and common sense you would use back<br />

home – if <strong>the</strong> place is full, <strong>the</strong>re’s probably a<br />

good reason. Don’t be afraid to venture from<br />

<strong>the</strong> hotel. Expensive doesn’t always mean better.<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> has very good international dining –<br />

from Italian to Japanese to French.<br />

The typical day of meals in Mexico goes<br />

something like this: a hearty breakfast of fresh<br />

fruit, eggs, juice, pan dulce, hot chocolate or<br />

coffee whenever you roll out of bed; a satisfying<br />

lunch around 1-3 p.m. (more like our dinner);<br />

appetizers and drinks about 8 p.m., followed by<br />

dinner between 10-11 p.m.<br />

Meals take longer in Mexico: Mexicans enjoy<br />

long, lingering meals. The check (la cuenta) is<br />

never brought until it is asked for… BE PATIENT -<br />

YOU’RE ON VACATION!<br />

Tequila<br />

The national spirit of Mexico is distilled from <strong>the</strong> fermented<br />

juice of <strong>the</strong> crushed, pineapple-like base of <strong>the</strong> Agave cactus.<br />

Tequila is native to <strong>the</strong> State of Jalisco, and is believed to have<br />

first been made in <strong>the</strong> 18th century. As any<br />

Mexican will tell you, all tequila is not alike.<br />

Tastes range from harsher white tequilas<br />

(known as blancos and used in mixed drinks)<br />

to darker añejos that have mellow, brandylike<br />

qualities. Best brands: Hornitos, Herradura<br />

Reposado, Don Julio, 1800 Reposado<br />

and Tres Generaciones. Note that recent<br />

domestic shortages of Mexico´s finer tequilas<br />

have driven up prices for certain brands. It’s<br />

common to pay $4 - $8 U.S. or higher per<br />

shot for <strong>the</strong> good stuff!<br />

The “margarita” Cocktail made in Mexico<br />

might catch you off guard! It is stronger and<br />

less frosty than <strong>the</strong> ones made back home.<br />

Try a “sangrita”, a fruit juice made from sour<br />

orange and <strong>the</strong> juice of crushed pomegranates,<br />

and sipped with a shot of tequila.<br />

Ano<strong>the</strong>r typical beverage in our region, is<br />

<strong>the</strong> famous Mezcal.<br />

breakfast dishes<br />

You might be missing something special<br />

if you order <strong>the</strong> typical American breakfast in<br />

Mexico. Be adventurous and try huevos rancheros<br />

(a fried egg served over a fried tortilla<br />

smo<strong>the</strong>red in spicy salsa), huevos a la mexicana<br />

(scrambled eggs with diced tomatoes,<br />

onions and green peppers), chilaquiles (nacho<br />

shaped fried tortillas cooked in a green tomato<br />

sauce and served with chicken, white cheese,<br />

sliced onions and cream) or huevos con<br />

machaca (scrambled eggs with dried beef).<br />

Try a café de olla (coffee with cinnamon and<br />

dark brown sugar) instead of regular coffee –<br />

it´s delicious!<br />

beer, wine and alcohol<br />

Go native – skip <strong>the</strong> Budweiser! Mexico<br />

arguably has <strong>the</strong> finest selection of beers<br />

(cerveza) of any country in <strong>the</strong> hemisphere.<br />

Our favorites are Corona, Bohemia, Pacífico,<br />

Noche Buena (only available at Christmas),<br />

Negra Modelo, and Superior. Domestic wine is<br />

inexpensive and overall good, although rarely<br />

great. Try L.A. Cetto, Calafia, Monte Xanic,<br />

Domecq, Santo Tomás or Los Reyes brands. Stick to domestic<br />

brands for distilled spirits, or be prepared to pay top dollar.<br />

regional dishes<br />

Known as platos regionales, <strong>the</strong>se dishes<br />

feature complex ingredients and preparation<br />

techniques. They often come from centuryold<br />

recipes that date back to <strong>the</strong> arrival of<br />

Cortés. Some of <strong>the</strong> more savory dishes<br />

include pozole (a hominy and pork soup),<br />

mole (a delicious, dark brown sauce made<br />

from over 30 ingredients, served over chicken<br />

or turkey), tamal (corn meal stuffed with chicken, meat, mole<br />

sauce, cheese or vegetable and steamed in corn or banana<br />

husks), or menudo (a hearty tripe stew great for “una cruda”<br />

(hangover) <strong>the</strong> day after!), and you cannot miss <strong>the</strong> traditional<br />

69<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


General Information<br />

dish pescado a la talla cooked on a hot-coal and marinated with<br />

a very special sauce of <strong>the</strong> region.<br />

Picaditas from Puerto Marqués: thick corn tortillas with hot<br />

chile serrano sauce, tomatoes, cilantro and onion, topped with<br />

cream and grated cheese.<br />

Fish Tamale with Yerba Santa: fish in a corn husk covered<br />

with yerba santa leaf, seasoned with salt and pepper and<br />

steamed.<br />

breads, tortillas and sandwiches<br />

Bread at a restaurant usually means a bolillo, a delicious<br />

French-style roll. Tortillas can come in different types, however,<br />

<strong>the</strong> most well known are <strong>the</strong> tortillas de harina (flour tortillas)<br />

and <strong>the</strong> tortillas de maíz (corn tortillas). Tasty sandwiches, except<br />

always made in a bolillo or telera bread are better known<br />

as tortas, and <strong>the</strong>y are <strong>the</strong> Mexican answer to <strong>the</strong> hamburger,<br />

except this has <strong>the</strong> option of dozens of toppings, cold or warm.<br />

Hotel Services and Customs<br />

Upon Check-in<br />

The front desk (also known as Recepción) is where guests<br />

check-in. Even with prepaid vouchers, guests are asked for a<br />

credit card for incidentals. A charge slip is run and <strong>the</strong> guests<br />

are asked to sign <strong>the</strong> blank slip. While somewhat unusual elsewhere,<br />

this is a common practice in Mexico and should not be<br />

viewed with suspicion.<br />

floor). It will be common to see that most elevators do use <strong>the</strong><br />

number 13 on <strong>the</strong>ir floors.<br />

Mini Bars<br />

Most tourist class hotels offer small in-room refrigerators.<br />

These are stocked with domestic and imported items (beer,<br />

wine, spirits, soft drinks, candy, nuts, etc.). Refer to <strong>the</strong> price list<br />

before diving in. Items are generally expensive.<br />

Television<br />

Most tourist-class properties now have satellite dishes or<br />

cable TV and offer in-room movie channels, ESPN, CNN, MTV,<br />

and a host of o<strong>the</strong>r stations. O<strong>the</strong>rs claim to have dishes but<br />

only tune in domestic Spanish networks and one or two American<br />

channels. It is also common upon check-in for properties to<br />

hand out a remote control. Remember to return this to <strong>the</strong> front<br />

desk upon check-out.<br />

Pool Towels<br />

For some reason, terry cloth has taken on extraordinary<br />

value in Mexico. An elaborate system of check-in/check-out<br />

governs <strong>the</strong> dispersal of beach towel. Charges as high as $30<br />

U.S. per towel are levied against offenders who forget to return<br />

<strong>the</strong>ir towels each day.<br />

Drinking Water<br />

Most tourist-class properties have an on-premises water<br />

purification system. Look for a sticker on your bathroom mirror<br />

about <strong>the</strong> hotel’s purification system, or ask at <strong>the</strong> front desk.<br />

It is also common for purified bottled water to be left (free of<br />

charge) in bathrooms. When you see this, it is often a good<br />

indication that <strong>the</strong> hotel water should not be consumed as<br />

drinking water.<br />

Upon Check-out<br />

Since express check-out is rare in some beach resorts in<br />

Mexico, guests need to allow a few extra minutes for check-out<br />

at <strong>the</strong> hotel´s front desk. Often <strong>the</strong>re will be a line, and <strong>the</strong> final<br />

tally of your charges may take a few minutes. SUGGESTION: Stop<br />

by <strong>the</strong> front desk <strong>the</strong> day before check-out and request a copy<br />

of your bill to review charges. (Some hotels have this service<br />

automatically <strong>the</strong> night before for <strong>the</strong>ir guests).<br />

Room Floor Numbers and Elevators<br />

Floor numbers in Mexico are indicated as in Europe. Bottom<br />

floors in Mexico are referred to as <strong>the</strong> Planta Baja. In elevators<br />

<strong>the</strong> bottom floor is indicated by <strong>the</strong> letters “PB”. The next floor<br />

up is <strong>the</strong> first floor (known to most Americans as <strong>the</strong> second<br />

Air Conditioning<br />

This is an indispensable amenity for all beach area hotels,<br />

and is always offered by hotels with at least a four star rating.<br />

Some hotels have a built-in shut off system that kicks in whenever<br />

<strong>the</strong> room’s sliding glass door is opened. Also notice hotel<br />

rooms that have tile floors, as <strong>the</strong> combination of cool air and<br />

tropical breezes can make this tile slippery.<br />

Tipping<br />

The usual rules apply. Tip porters $2.00 U.S. per bag (dollar<br />

bills come in handy for tipping). It is also common practice to<br />

tip hotel maids, $2.00 U.S. per day). Veteran Mexico travelers<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 70


General Information<br />

suggest tipping maids upon arrival. This way you are assured<br />

extra special attention and prompt daily cleaning.<br />

Smoking/Non-smoking<br />

Many upscale properties (Special Category, Gran Turismo,<br />

Five Star) now offer this option. Inquire at time of booking or<br />

upon check-in.<br />

Telephone Calls<br />

Remember that telephone calls (both domestic and<br />

international) are considerably more expensive when making<br />

<strong>the</strong>m from <strong>the</strong> hotel than back home. A sizable tax is added to<br />

international calls, and most hotels add a hefty service charge<br />

for placing long distance calls. Ask your hotel operator about<br />

<strong>the</strong>se charges before placing a call. Ladatel (by TELMEX) cards<br />

or o<strong>the</strong>r brands can be purchased easily at <strong>the</strong> airport, <strong>the</strong> hotel<br />

shops, <strong>the</strong> corner magazine vendor, or any VIPS or Sanborn’s.<br />

TELEPHONE Money-Saving Tips<br />

a Try not to make long distance calls from <strong>the</strong> hotel.<br />

a Bill <strong>the</strong> call to your international telephone calling card.<br />

a If possible, use public telephones for long distance.<br />

a Buy your Ladatel cards and call <strong>the</strong> U.S. at an approximate<br />

rate of $0.50 U.S. per minute.<br />

a Beware of exorbitant rates charged when using what<br />

appear to be public long distance phones that are commonly<br />

found around major resorts. Rates can exceed $8 per minute!<br />

Look for phones that are labeled LADATEL from <strong>the</strong> telephone<br />

company named TELMEX and dial one of <strong>the</strong> U.S. or Canadian<br />

carriers listed here. You can obtain <strong>the</strong>se Long Distance Telephone<br />

Cards at <strong>the</strong> Airport, Hotel Gift Shop, Sanborn’s, Oxxo’s,<br />

and in many o<strong>the</strong>r convenience store markets.<br />

TOLL-FREE ASSISTANCE FROM MEXICO<br />

AT&T operator 001 800 462 4240<br />

Sprint operator 001 800 877 8000<br />

M.C.I. operator 001 800 674 7000<br />

(for international calls billed to calling cards or collect calls)<br />

Meetings and Conventions<br />

ACAPULCO CONVENTION CENTER<br />

“Eager to Serve,” <strong>Acapulco</strong> has <strong>the</strong> ideal place for meetings<br />

and conventions with a winning combination of a newly<br />

upgraded <strong>Acapulco</strong> Convention Center. The Natural beauty of<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>, <strong>the</strong> deluxe hotels, great wea<strong>the</strong>r, exciting activities,<br />

and <strong>the</strong> strong exchange rate of <strong>the</strong> US dollar for <strong>the</strong> Mexican<br />

peso. These factors have led to an increase of 247% in <strong>the</strong> area’s<br />

meetings business over <strong>the</strong> last two years.<br />

For major conventions and trade shows, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Acapulco</strong> Convention<br />

Center offers size and flexibility. Since its multimillion<br />

dollar upgrade in 2006, <strong>the</strong> 25-year old Convention Center is<br />

even better equipped. It offers 13 meeting rooms, 250,000 sq.ft.<br />

of exhibition space, and two <strong>the</strong>aters: one with 1,188 capacity;<br />

and an amphi<strong>the</strong>ater that seats 1,700. There are also 500,000<br />

sq.ft. of gardens and terraces that can be used for dinner functions<br />

and o<strong>the</strong>r events.<br />

More than 6,000 of <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s hotel rooms cater to conventions<br />

and incentive programs. Numerous hotels offer<br />

excellent convention facilities, many conveniently located<br />

near <strong>the</strong> Convention Center.<br />

Ph: 52-744-435-0130 www.centroacapulco.com.mx<br />

MUNDO IMPERIAL<br />

Additionally, Auto-Fin Group is developing a new complex<br />

in <strong>the</strong> Diamond Zone: (Mundo Imperial), that will have an exhibition<br />

area of 36,000 m2 and a capacity to accommodate 3,000<br />

people. Ph. (744) 466 3322/05 www.expoimperial.com<br />

Mundo Imperial is <strong>the</strong> new tourism mega-development<br />

taking shape in <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s most exclusive area – <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

Diamante. Opening during 2010, this unique “world” will feature<br />

five different concepts; Expo, Forum, Resort, Spa & Promenade.<br />

With an investment of more than $300M dollars and more than<br />

1,700 jobs created, Mundo Imperial is <strong>the</strong> new <strong>Acapulco</strong>.<br />

Il Duomo, one of <strong>the</strong> world’s most advanced convention<br />

and exhibition centers, is only 2 minutes away from <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s<br />

International Airport and boasts more than 240,000 sq. ft. of<br />

exhibit space, 50 meeting rooms amassing more than 115,000<br />

sq. ft., a business center, two cafeterias and many o<strong>the</strong>r superlative<br />

facilities.<br />

The Forum, built with state-of-<strong>the</strong>-art technology, audio and<br />

lighting, represents an investment of more than $45M dollars<br />

and has a capacity of more than 4,000 spectators. Designed to<br />

house a wide variety of events – from concerts and Broadway<br />

shows, to family events and keynote presentations – <strong>the</strong> Forum<br />

at Mundo Imperial has three different sitting levels, 11 dressing<br />

rooms, a modern backstage, multipurpose ballroom, a 65x65 ft.<br />

stage and an 860 sq. ft. orchestra pit.<br />

The Resort at Mundo Imperial is a luxurious 805 room hotel<br />

that offers <strong>the</strong> highest quality standards in accommodations,<br />

facilities and personalized service. The Resort features an exclusive<br />

Beach Club, an Executive Lounge, both Kid’s and Teen’s<br />

Clubs, a first-rate fitness center, a beauty salon, a high-tech<br />

71<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


General Information<br />

business center, meeting room space, a dedicated concierge<br />

staff to arrange any activity you can imagine and so much more<br />

Sol Imperial, Spa & Wellness Center is place where <strong>the</strong><br />

boundaries of East and West blend in harmony, and where<br />

health and happiness converge in a unique lifestyle experience.<br />

Here, you’ll experience <strong>the</strong> ancient wisdom of Chinese Traditional<br />

Medicine as well as luxurious body and facial treatments.<br />

Sol Imperial combines three types of spas in <strong>the</strong> same place: a<br />

Destination Spa, Resort Spa and Day Experience Spa.<br />

The Promenade, without a doubt <strong>the</strong> heart and soul of<br />

Mundo Imperial, this cultural and gastronomic boardwalk will<br />

feature a wide array of entertainment and shopping options as<br />

well as six different gastronomic experiences.<br />

EXPERT DMC´S IN ACAPULCO<br />

A Destination Management Company (DMC) is a term for<br />

a professional services company possessing extensive local<br />

knowledge, expertise and resources, specializing in <strong>the</strong> design<br />

and implementation of events, activities, tours, transportation<br />

and program logistics.<br />

A DMC provides a ground services based on local knowledge<br />

of <strong>the</strong>ir given destinations. These services can be<br />

transportation, hotel, accommodations, restaurants, activities,<br />

excursions, conference venues, <strong>the</strong>med events, gala dinners<br />

and logistics, as well as helping with overcoming language barriers.<br />

DMC’s are able to provide preferential rates based on <strong>the</strong><br />

buying power <strong>the</strong>y have with <strong>the</strong>ir preferred suppliers.<br />

Services provided by <strong>the</strong> DMC:<br />

Pre and Post Tours Organizers<br />

Destination Professional Advisers<br />

Planned Activities<br />

Technical Assistance<br />

Budget Administration<br />

Reservations<br />

Payment process<br />

Lodging<br />

Complete knowledge of venues and convention halls<br />

Restaurants<br />

Theme Parties<br />

Complete Audio Visual Equipments<br />

Ground Transportation, Tour Guides and VIP Drivers<br />

Translators and Hostess Services<br />

Airport Transportation<br />

Taylor Made Optional Tours<br />

DMC´S<br />

DMC´S CONTACT PHONE E-MAIL WEB PAGE<br />

ACUARIO TOURS ALEJANDRO LUJAN 52 ( 744 ) 469 6100 alexlujan@acuariotours.com www.acuariotours.com<br />

CONSTELLATION SERVICES BLANCA BELLO 52 ( 744 ) 484 1988 blanca@constellationservices.com.mx www.constellationservices.com.mx<br />

E MARK GROUP CLEMENTE RAMOS 52 ( 744 ) 484 0505 cramos@emarkacapulco.com www.emark-group.com<br />

GRUPO STANDEX/ VIISA TRAVEL JOSE AGUIRRE 52 (744) 484 1605 jaguirre@standex.com.mx www.viisatravel.com.mx<br />

INTER LOGIC MEETING PLANNER LIZBETH FRISCH 52 (744) 484 9641 lizbeth@interlogicmx.com www.interlogicmx.com<br />

IP TRAVEL ERNESTO ALCANTARA 52 (744) 484 4182 ernesto.alcantaracis@iptravelmex.com www.iptravelmex.com<br />

JOANRI VIAJES JOEL RIOS 52 (744) 486 7913 joanriviajes@hotmail.com www.joanriviajes.com<br />

MARITUR ADRIANA ABURTO 52 (744) 466 1704 aaburto@maritur.com www.maritur.com<br />

ODYSSEY GUILLERMO HUERTA DE SILVA 52 (744) 485 7205 direccion@odyssey-travel.com www.odyssey-travel.net<br />

PGC GRUPO ACAPULCO CARMEN PINEDA 52 (744) 481 0580 cpineda@pgcacapulco.com.mx www.pgcacapulco.com<br />

ROYALE TOURS LILIANA DIAZ 52 (744) 486 0263 royaleaca@aca.cableonline.com.mx www.royaletours.com.mx<br />

STAR TRAVEL JAIME VICKE 52 (744) 484 6661 startravel@acabtu.com.mx<br />

TOUREX DAVID ABARCA 52 (744) 481 0508 acapulco@tourexdmc.com www.tourexdmc.com<br />

TRAVEL INCENTIVES PLANNING ALEX LEON 52 (744) 484 7610 tipaca@prodigy.net.mx<br />

TURISMO CALETA MARCO CARDOSO 52 (744) 484 6570 mcardoso@turismocaleta.com www.turismocaleta.com.mx<br />

TURISMO INTERSOL SERGIO RODRIGUEZ 52 (744) 484 3091 srodriguez@turismointersol.com www.intersoltours.com<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 72


Meetings & Convention Facilities<br />

GENERAL INFORMATION ROOMS & C APACITIES FOOD & BEVERAGE<br />

O<strong>the</strong>r Areas<br />

Banquet<br />

Capacity<br />

O<strong>the</strong>r Areas<br />

Max Capacity<br />

Bars<br />

Restaurant<br />

Capacity<br />

Restaurants<br />

Exhibition<br />

Area (sq m)<br />

Total Rm<br />

Space (sq m)<br />

Banquets<br />

Classroom<br />

Auditorium<br />

Cocktail<br />

Email/<br />

Website<br />

HOTEL Telephone<br />

200 200 100 200 206 4 4 510 3 200 200<br />

info@parkroyalhotels.com.mx<br />

www.parkroyalhotels.com.mx<br />

(744) 440 6565 /800<br />

713 2228,2229<br />

ACAPULCO PARK ROYAL<br />

Costera Guitarrón 110<br />

Fracc. Brisas Guitarrón 39359<br />

200 300 100 180 300 n / a 3 140 3 200 180<br />

tortugaaca@webtelmex.net.mx<br />

www.hoteltortuga.com<br />

(744) 484 8889<br />

ACAPULCO TORTUGA<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 132<br />

Fracc. Magallanes 39670<br />

500 500 300 350 750 750 110 2 120 85<br />

alba@albasuites.com.mx<br />

www.albasuites.com.mx<br />

(744) 483 0073<br />

ALBA SUITES ACAPULCO<br />

Gran Vía Tropical 35<br />

Fracc. Las Américas 39390<br />

500 450 220 380 446 446 2 400 2 350 350<br />

reservations@avalonmail.net<br />

www.avalonvacations.com<br />

(744) 485 5050<br />

AVALON EXCALIBUR<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 163<br />

Fracc. Magallanes 39670<br />

500 550 360 450 600 600 1 160 2 350 250<br />

reservas@calinda.com.mx<br />

www.hotelescalinda.com.mx<br />

(744) 435 0600<br />

CALINDA BEACH ACAPULCO<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 1260<br />

Fracc. Club Deportivo 39690<br />

220 220 150 150 207.36 86.42 3 270 2 250 250<br />

aca@cracapulco.com<br />

www.caminoreal.com/acapulco<br />

(744) 435 1010 /<br />

800 901 2300<br />

CAMINO REAL ACAPULCO<br />

DIAMANTE<br />

Carr. Escénica, km 14<br />

Fracc. Pichilingue Diamante 39880<br />

220 200 120 150 262 1 100 1 n / a n / a<br />

reserva@casainnacapulco.com.mx<br />

www.casainnacapulco.com.mx<br />

(744) 435 2000<br />

CASA INN<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 2310<br />

Fracc. Costa Azul 39840<br />

73<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


Meetings & Convention Facilities<br />

GENERAL INFORMATION ROOMS & C APACITIES FOOD & BEVERAGE<br />

O<strong>the</strong>r Areas<br />

Banquet<br />

Capacity<br />

O<strong>the</strong>r Areas<br />

Max Capacity<br />

Bars<br />

Restaurant<br />

Capacity<br />

Restaurants<br />

Exhibition<br />

Area (sq m)<br />

Total Rm<br />

Space (sq m)<br />

Banquets<br />

Classroom<br />

Auditorium<br />

Cocktail<br />

Email/<br />

Website<br />

HOTEL Telephone<br />

700 600 400 500 1300 250 2 200 4 n / a n / a<br />

acapulco@hotelcopacabana.com<br />

www.hotelescopacabana.com<br />

(744) 484 3155,3260<br />

/ 800 710 9888<br />

COPACABANA ACAPULCO<br />

Tabachines 2 y 3<br />

Fracc. Club Deportivo 39690<br />

1200 1000 800 800 1199.18 335 4 598 1 200 250<br />

reservaciones@crowneacapulco.com<br />

www.crowneplaza.com<br />

(744) 440 5555,485<br />

09050 / 800 712<br />

2000<br />

CROWNE PLAZA ACAPULCO<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 123<br />

Fracc. Magallanes 39670<br />

200 200 120 200 330 330 1 200 2 400 300<br />

elcano@hotel-elcano.com.mx<br />

www.hotel-elcano.com.mx<br />

(744) 435 1500 /<br />

800 090 7500<br />

ELCANO<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 75<br />

Fracc. Club Deportivo 39690<br />

150 250 100 180 201 201 2 174 no 400 400<br />

hotpresi@infosel.net.mx<br />

www.elpresidente-acapulco.com<br />

(744) 484 1700,01<br />

EL PRESIDENTE<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 8I9<br />

Fracc. Club Deportivo. 39690<br />

800 800 450 600 1827 1827 1 149 3 200 170<br />

acapulco.reservacion@hoteles<br />

emporio.com<br />

www.hotelesemporio.com<br />

(744) 469 0505-484<br />

0909 / 800 710 9700<br />

EMPORIO ACAPULCO<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 121<br />

Fracc. Magallanes 39670<br />

1500 1680 1008 1260 1620 835 7 1731 4 2000 2000<br />

aca.reservations@fairmont.com<br />

www.fairmont.com<br />

(744) 469 1000 /<br />

800 090 9900,441<br />

1414<br />

THE FAIRMONT ACAPULCO<br />

PRINCESS<br />

Playa Revolcadero, s / n<br />

Fracc. Granjas del Marqués 39907<br />

400 500 280 300 1616 n/a 2 400 2 1500 500<br />

aca.reservations@fairmont.com<br />

www.fairmont.com<br />

(744) 435 2600 /<br />

800 090 9900,441<br />

1414<br />

THE FAIRMONT PIERRE MARQUES<br />

Playa Revolcadero, s / n<br />

Fracc. Granjas del Marqués 39907<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 74


Meetings & Convention Facilities<br />

GENERAL INFORMATION ROOMS & CAPACITIES FOOD & BEVERAGE<br />

O<strong>the</strong>r Areas<br />

Banquet<br />

Capacity<br />

O<strong>the</strong>r Areas<br />

Max Capacity<br />

Bars<br />

Restaurant<br />

Capacity<br />

Restaurants<br />

Exhibition<br />

Area (sq m)<br />

Total Rm<br />

Space (sq m)<br />

Banquets<br />

Classroom<br />

Auditorium<br />

Cocktail<br />

Email/<br />

Website<br />

HOTEL Telephone<br />

400 400 250 300 218.7 n / a 140 1 200 150<br />

resfiaca@fisetainn.com<br />

www.fiestainn.com.mx<br />

(744) 435 0500<br />

FIESTA INN ACAPULCO<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 2311<br />

Fracc. Club Deportivo 36690<br />

900 850 650 650 2420 520 3 770 6 3500 2500<br />

(744) 469 1234,1208 reservaciones@ghacc.com<br />

www.grandhotelacapulco.com<br />

GRAND HOTEL ACAPULCO<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 1<br />

Icacos 39869<br />

80 60 60 40 80 200 1 80 80<br />

lamarina1@acabtu.com.mx<br />

www.lamarinahotel.com.mx<br />

(744) 482 8556<br />

LA MARINA SUITES & SPA<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 222<br />

Fracc. Las Playas 39390<br />

800 280 210 300 1763 n/a 3 424 3 2000 590<br />

brisa@brisas.com.mx<br />

www.brisas.com.mx<br />

(744) 469 6900 /<br />

800 506 7903<br />

LAS BRISAS ACAPULCO<br />

Carr. Escénica 5255<br />

Fracc. Las brisas 39867<br />

300 200 150 150 500 500 1 300 150 600<br />

hamacas@hamacas.com.mx<br />

www.hamacas.com.mx<br />

(744) 434 1740 /<br />

800 710 9333<br />

LAS HAMACAS<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 239<br />

Centro 39300<br />

100 4 980 6<br />

hansbratt@mayanpalace.com.mx<br />

franciscoaguirre@<br />

mayanpalace.com.mx<br />

www.mayanresorts.com.mx<br />

(744)469 6000 /800<br />

366 6600<br />

MAYAN RESORTS<br />

Av. Costera de las Palmas 1121<br />

Fracc. Playa Diamante 39900<br />

700 150 50 530 1839 415 1 60 1 60 60<br />

seagardenaca@<br />

mayanpalace.com.mx<br />

www.mayanpalace.com.mx<br />

(744) 466 9000<br />

MAYAN SEA GARDEN<br />

Av.Costera de las palmas 121<br />

Fracc.Playa Diamante 39900<br />

75<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


Meetings & Convention Facilities<br />

GENERAL INFORMATION ROOMS & C APACITIES FOOD & BEVERAGE<br />

O<strong>the</strong>r Areas<br />

Banquet<br />

Capacity<br />

O<strong>the</strong>r Areas<br />

Max Capacity<br />

Bars<br />

Restaurant<br />

Capacity<br />

Restaurants<br />

Exhibition<br />

Area (sq m)<br />

Total Rm<br />

Space (sq m)<br />

Banquets<br />

Classroom<br />

Auditorium<br />

Cocktail<br />

Email/<br />

Website<br />

HOTEL Telephone<br />

info@hotel-lapalapa.com<br />

reserva@hotel-lapalapa.com<br />

www.hotel-lapalapa.com<br />

LA PALAPA<br />

(744) 435 1260<br />

Fragata Yucatan 210<br />

Fracc. Costa Azul 39840<br />

160 150 90 150 302 302 2 150 1 800 800<br />

reservaciones@playasuites.com.mx<br />

www.playasuites.com.mx<br />

(744) 485 8050 /<br />

800 091 9000<br />

PLAYA SUITES<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 123<br />

Fracc.Magallanes 39670<br />

450 250 90 200 270 30901 1 300 3 1500 850<br />

ventas@paradordelsol.com.mx<br />

www.paradordelsol.com.mx<br />

(744) 444 4050 /<br />

800 111 3210<br />

PARADOR DEL SOL<br />

Carr. Pie de la Cuesta a Barra de<br />

Coyuca, km 5 39900<br />

200 220 140 160 66 24 2 120 1 300 300<br />

reservaciones@quintareal.com<br />

www.quintareal.com<br />

(744) 469 1500,540<br />

/ 800 500 4000<br />

QUINTA REAL ACAPULCO<br />

Paseo de la Quinta 6<br />

Fracc. Real Diamante 39907<br />

258 260 128 180 503 324 2 230 3 150 150<br />

ritz_acapulco@ritzacapulco.com<br />

www.ritzacapulco.com<br />

(744) 485 8958,<br />

486 8106<br />

RITZ ACAPULCO<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 159<br />

Fracc.Magallanes 39670<br />

250 200 120 200 236 236 2 110 1 150 150<br />

hromanopalace@prodigy.net.mx<br />

www.romanopalace.com.mx<br />

(744) 484 7730<br />

ROMANO PALACE<br />

Av. Costera Miguel Alemán 130<br />

Fracc. Farallón 39380<br />

450 100 80 450 600 800 1 70 1 250 180<br />

hotel_villavera_aca@clubregina.com<br />

www.clubregina.com<br />

(744) 109 0570 /<br />

800 800 1585<br />

VILLA VERA RESORT, SPA &<br />

RAQUET CLUB<br />

Lomas del Mar 35<br />

Fracc. Club Deportivo 39690<br />

Rooms total in m 2 19662.24<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 76


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Convention Center<br />

DIMENSIONS (METRIC) CAPACITIES (METRIC) FACILITY SPACES (METRIC) SERVICES<br />

Security Gds<br />

Ext. Signage<br />

Ea. Rm Lightg<br />

Integrated<br />

Audio System<br />

A/C<br />

Serv. Provider<br />

Business Ctr<br />

Regis. Area<br />

Press Rooms<br />

Executive Rms<br />

Handicapped<br />

Access<br />

Theater Style<br />

Ext. Parking<br />

Int. Parking<br />

Qty 3x3 Stands<br />

Catering<br />

Cocktail<br />

Classrooms<br />

Auditorium<br />

Columns<br />

Total Area<br />

Height<br />

Width<br />

Length<br />

250 No Yes Yes 250 Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes<br />

CONVENTIONS<br />

HALLS<br />

Teotihuacán 120 57 9 6,840 7000 4500 10000 3000 253 7000<br />

Cholula 88 48 3.50 4,224 28 5000 2000 5000 3000 240 5000<br />

Chichén Itzá 98 48 3.50 4,704 27 5000 2000 5000 3000 240<br />

Huitzuco 18 14 2.75 252 1 250 100 250 150<br />

Olinalá 19.43 13.17 2.75 255.89 1 250 100 250 150<br />

Mezcala 19 9.77 3.40 185.63 200 40<br />

Triángulo del Sol 28 18 4 504 4 500 200 500 250 26<br />

Cine Centro 19.25 17.55 5.26 337.84 280<br />

Chilpancingo 30 18 5 540 400<br />

45 82 Varies 3,690 1188 1188<br />

Teatro Juan Ruíz<br />

de Alarcón<br />

Teatro Netzahualcoyotl 1,422 1700 2000<br />

E x h i b i t 250 No Yes Yes 250 Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes<br />

Teotihuacán 120 57 9 6,840 7000 4500 10000 3000 253 7000<br />

Cholula 88 48 3.50 4,224 28 5000 2000 5000 3000 240 5000<br />

Chichén Itzá 98 48 3.50 4,704 27 5000 2000 5000 3000 240 1700<br />

Triángulo del Sol 28 18 4 504 4 500 200 500 250 26<br />

77<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Lodging<br />

lodging options<br />

Selecting <strong>the</strong> ideal <strong>Acapulco</strong> lodging option requires an understanding<br />

both <strong>the</strong> lay-of-<strong>the</strong>-land and what your individual<br />

clients expect in terms of amenities, quality of service, price,<br />

and atmosphere.<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> has more than 200 hotel choices and some 18,000<br />

lodging units. But only a relatively small number of <strong>the</strong>se hotels<br />

are known to American and Canadian travelers. This is somewhat<br />

ironic, since <strong>Acapulco</strong> is also home to two of Mexico’s<br />

most recognizable and popular hotels: <strong>the</strong> Fairmont <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

Princess and Las Brisas.<br />

Unlike Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos or Cancun, <strong>Acapulco</strong> has<br />

evolved into a 75% domestic/25% international destination. The<br />

typical tour operator carries 8-10 <strong>Acapulco</strong> properties—that<br />

tend to cater to American and Canadian clientele. That’s not to<br />

say that you won’t find good choices beyond this short list. In<br />

fact, for value travelers, <strong>Acapulco</strong> has Mexico’s widest choice of<br />

beachfront offerings. Just be aware that a property with few US<br />

and Canadian visitors may operate with different service and<br />

facility standards. Do some extra research (at www.tripadvisor.<br />

com or www.starservice.com), and your clients are apt to be<br />

treated to some real diamonds in <strong>the</strong> rough.<br />

picking a location<br />

This is a critical part of your vacation planning service. Remember,<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> is spread out along over 30 kms of coastline.<br />

With traffic delays, transit times from one end to <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r can<br />

be lengthy. Book a client out in <strong>the</strong> Diamante area who expects<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay setting (or vice versa), and you’re headed for<br />

problems. Become familiar with <strong>the</strong> area’s layout to make sure<br />

you’re truly suggesting <strong>the</strong> right lodging option for your client.<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> hotel properties are concentrated in one of four<br />

main areas. (Look for <strong>the</strong> area symbols under each hotel listing<br />

on <strong>the</strong> following pages.)<br />

a <strong>Acapulco</strong> Diamante: This includes Revolcadero Beach<br />

and nearby Puerto Marques. Close in to <strong>the</strong> airport, this area has<br />

four terrific golf courses and some fine beaches, but no shopping<br />

or dining outside of <strong>the</strong> hotels. Large chain hotels and<br />

condo developments dominate here. Remember, <strong>the</strong> taxi to<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay will cost $20-25 each way and take 20-40 minutes<br />

depending on where you’re headed. Beach swimming is ideal<br />

along Puerto Marques, but often too rough along Revolcadero.<br />

a Golden <strong>Acapulco</strong>: This refers to <strong>the</strong> heart of <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay.<br />

These properties are ei<strong>the</strong>r beachfront, or across <strong>the</strong> Costera<br />

boulevard on hills overlooking <strong>the</strong> Bay. Guests here get easy access<br />

to beaches, shopping and <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s legendary dining and<br />

Golden<br />

Zone<br />

Pie de la Cuesta<br />

Traditional<br />

Zone<br />

Diamond<br />

Zone<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 78


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Lodging<br />

nightlife. However, with a few exceptions, hotels are in a very<br />

urban setting—with traffic, people, neon signs, and round <strong>the</strong><br />

clock activity. Hillside properties offer some relief from <strong>the</strong>se<br />

conditions, but can be remote from <strong>the</strong> action of <strong>the</strong> Costera<br />

and <strong>the</strong> Bay’s safe swimming beaches. This zone is also home to<br />

dozens of private homes and villas, especially in <strong>the</strong> area around<br />

and below Las Brisas.<br />

a Traditional <strong>Acapulco</strong>: ah… for those seeking nostalgia<br />

and an au<strong>the</strong>ntic encounter with Mexico’s original beach resort,<br />

this downtown area is <strong>the</strong> ideal choice. Located at <strong>the</strong> Bay’s<br />

western end and engulfed by lush vegetation, this area has<br />

but a few lodging choices. Guests here have <strong>the</strong> privilege of<br />

staying where Hollywood’s elite vacationed over half a century<br />

ago. While a bit past its prime, Traditional <strong>Acapulco</strong> offers a<br />

quiet and less commercial atmosphere. Properties accessed by<br />

<strong>the</strong> somewhat crumbling series of twisted hillside streets are<br />

characterized by small hotels and spectacular Bay views. None<br />

of <strong>the</strong>se hotels have beach frontage.<br />

a Pie de la Cuesta/Coyuca Lagoon: for <strong>the</strong> escapist! Located<br />

up <strong>the</strong> coast from La Quebrada some 20-30 minutes, this tropical<br />

paradise is rustic, laid-back and inexpensive. Forget about<br />

<strong>the</strong> discos and swanky dinner houses. It seems like little has<br />

changed here since <strong>the</strong> 60’s, except for <strong>the</strong> crowds of visitors<br />

from Mexico City during holidays and summer. The beach is<br />

wide, clean and gorgeous (though too rough for swimming).<br />

Grab a hammock and a coconut gin, and watch <strong>the</strong> sun melt<br />

into <strong>the</strong> Pacific…<br />

Hotel Rating Amenities<br />

SERVICES<br />

G.T.<br />

5<br />

Star<br />

4<br />

Star<br />

3<br />

Star<br />

Air Conditioning X X X X<br />

Babysitter X X<br />

Banquet & Convention<br />

Facilities<br />

X X X<br />

Bar X X X<br />

2<br />

Star<br />

1<br />

Star<br />

Bathroom in <strong>the</strong> Room X X X X X X<br />

Big Private Room X X<br />

Cable TV or Satellite X X X<br />

Cafeteria Restaurant X X X X X<br />

Casino or Similar<br />

Children Playground & Games X X<br />

X<br />

Closet in <strong>the</strong> Room X X X X X<br />

Commercial Style Furniture X X<br />

Exclusive Designed Furniture X X<br />

General Safe Deposit Boxes X X X<br />

Gourmet Restaurant(s)<br />

Gym X X<br />

Handicap Facilities X X<br />

Individual Safe Deposit Box X X X<br />

Laundry & Dry Cleaning X X X<br />

Lobby X X X X<br />

X<br />

Medical Service X X X X X<br />

Medium Private Room X X X X<br />

Money Exchange X X X X X<br />

Parking Lot X X X X<br />

Pool X X X<br />

Post Office X X X X X<br />

Public Telephone X X<br />

Reception X X X X<br />

Reservation System X X X X<br />

Room Service X X<br />

Simple Furniture X X<br />

Small Private Room X X X X<br />

Spa X X<br />

Stores X X X<br />

Telephone in <strong>the</strong> Room X X X X<br />

Television X X X X X<br />

Tennis Courts X X<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> Agency X X X<br />

79<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Lodging<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Lodging<br />

special category (sc)<br />

Camino Real <strong>Acapulco</strong> Diamante sc<br />

Camino Real is back in <strong>Acapulco</strong> with this beautiful boutique<br />

hotel located in <strong>the</strong> new <strong>Acapulco</strong> Diamante development<br />

at Puerto Marqués. The 156 rooms and one- and two-bedroom<br />

suites, are located in a modern four-story building that<br />

combines cement, stonework and canopied awnings to create<br />

a modern but elegant look. Spacious rooms feature marble and<br />

textured cement floors, contemporary quilted fabrics, original<br />

Mexican art, marble combination baths, furnished ocean view<br />

balconies, phones, mini-bar and satellite TV. There are three<br />

winding free-form pools complete with waterfalls. Two restaurants,<br />

two bars, lighted tennis courts, health club, meeting<br />

facilities, and small private beach. “Club” rooms have special<br />

amenities, private bar, concierge service. B’93<br />

Reservations: 1-800-7 CAMINO<br />

www.caminoreal.com/acapulco<br />

AAA Rating: uuu<br />

Incredible pool area (largest in <strong>the</strong> world!), 18-hole golf course,<br />

12 lighted, clay tennis courts, Brio Health Spa, two gourmet<br />

restaurants, and openair bars round out <strong>the</strong> attractions of this<br />

remote but fully-equipped dazzler. The only hotel in <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

with a sea turtle hatchery. B’93/R’06<br />

Reservations: 1-800-996-2926<br />

www.<strong>the</strong>grandmayan.com<br />

AAA Rating: uuu<br />

Las Brisas sc<br />

Known for its lovely hillside location, private pools with<br />

breathtaking views, and unrivaled honeymoon packages, Las<br />

Brisas is one of <strong>the</strong> world’s great resorts. 263 deluxe “casitas”<br />

with private or semi-private pool are sprinkled across 40 acres<br />

overlooking <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay. Rooms are simple, but very comfortable<br />

and attractively decorated with marble floors, white and<br />

pink walls, wood and built-in furniture. TV with premium cable.<br />

All rooms have spacious shower only baths. Continental breakfast<br />

is delivered daily about <strong>the</strong> time your pool man makes a<br />

visit. This property offers weddings on site and <strong>the</strong>re are several<br />

wedding venues each with breathtaking bay views to choose<br />

from. Special rates and upgrades afforded to newlyweds.<br />

Emporio <strong>Acapulco</strong> sc<br />

An <strong>Acapulco</strong> tradition, <strong>the</strong> Emporio is located next to <strong>the</strong><br />

Playa Suites in <strong>the</strong> heart of <strong>the</strong> Costera Beach area. Two towers<br />

(one 11-story, <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r, newer 14 stories, plus a newer allsuites<br />

wing) offer 390 air-conditioned rooms with ocean view<br />

and terraces, mini-bars, cable TV, phones, and marble baths.<br />

The meandering, moat-like pool, complete with an island and<br />

surrounded by lush gardens, is one of <strong>the</strong> most beautiful in<br />

town. Three restaurants, 4 bars, social activities, complete water<br />

sports center, gym. Five meeting rooms. B’60/R’2005<br />

Reservations: 52-744-469-0505<br />

www.hotelesemporio.com<br />

Grupo Mayan <strong>Acapulco</strong> sc<br />

This property is, without doubt, <strong>the</strong> crown jewel of <strong>the</strong> Mayan<br />

Palace Resorts chain. An elaborate combination of Mayan<br />

and Mexican contemporary styles make this 200-acre resort one<br />

of Mexico’s most spectacular. The 20 acres of lakes and canals<br />

for boating are unique in Mexico. 380 rooms (including deluxe<br />

suites, crowne suites, and 1-2 bedroom units) have polished<br />

marble floors, light wood furnishings, beautiful original art,<br />

bright floral fabrics - beds are on a raised, painted platform, armoires<br />

with lattice wood doors, and large marble combination<br />

baths complete with hair dryers. All rooms have phone, minibar,<br />

satellite TV and spacious furnished ocean view balcony.<br />

Guests can rent pink and white jeeps (a real status symbol)<br />

to explore <strong>the</strong> area, but why leave? There are four world-class<br />

restaurants on site, and <strong>the</strong> beach club is spectacular. The club<br />

features an outstanding restaurant, fresh and salt water pools,<br />

and a Mediterranean air of sophistication and glamour. Impeccable<br />

service and very classy. Two meeting rooms. B’57/R’06<br />

Reservations: 1 888 559 4329<br />

www.brisas.com.mx<br />

AAA Rating:uuu<br />

The Fairmont <strong>Acapulco</strong> Princess sc<br />

The queen of <strong>Acapulco</strong> resorts, <strong>the</strong> Princess is located on<br />

480 magnificently manicured, beachfront acres. 1,017 air conditioned,<br />

spacious rooms (485 sq.ft.) with tiled floors, combination<br />

baths, private balconies, ocean and garden views, and<br />

complete amenities including internet access. The spectacular<br />

16-story pyramid-like structure is flanked by free-form pools<br />

with waterfalls and lush vegetation and two 10-story towers.<br />

Shopping mall and assortment of restaurants and bars for every<br />

taste (though not everyone’s budget). Fully-equipped ballroom<br />

and 15 meeting rooms. Great beach for horseback riding and<br />

beach combing, but not safe for swimming. Two fine18-hole<br />

72 par courses, 11 tennis courts (including indoor), 5 swimming<br />

pools (2 with swim-up bars, 2 salt water). Willow Stream Spa<br />

(2003), 14,000 sqft, $3.5 million spa and complete fitness center.<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 80


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Lodging<br />

Yuca Nightlclub is a hot salsa club. Beachside weddings pkgs<br />

offered including an on site wedding coordinator. B’71/R’04<br />

Reservations: 1-800-441-1414<br />

www.fairmont.com/acapulco<br />

AAA Rating: uuuu<br />

Quinta Real sc<br />

Opening its doors in June of ‘98 as <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s newest<br />

deluxe property, this luxurious 74 room hotel features <strong>the</strong><br />

customary Quinta Real design - gracious Mexican mansion setting<br />

with super elegant appointments. Master and Grand Class<br />

Suites (all ocean view, some with private swimming pool) with<br />

two double beds or one king size bed. Individually controlled<br />

air-conditioning, color satellite TV, marble floors, direct dial<br />

telephones and all <strong>the</strong> amenities you expect from a Quinta Real<br />

Resort. A gourmet restaurant and bar serving Mexican specialities<br />

and international favorites, plus informal Beach Club dining.<br />

One of <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s finest beaches. Large freshwater swimming<br />

pool. Terrace Bar. Meeting facilities for up to 200 people. New<br />

Spa Milenium Miguett is superb! B’98/R’05<br />

Reservations: 1-866-621-9288<br />

www.quintareal.com<br />

AAA Rating: uuuu<br />

granD tOurism (gt)<br />

Elcano gt<br />

On <strong>the</strong> Costera on Icacos Beach, <strong>the</strong> Elcano is set back from<br />

<strong>the</strong> busy avenue, and a refreshing oasis from <strong>the</strong> hotel zone’s<br />

constant clamor. This landmark property built in1957 underwent<br />

an extensive renovation in 1994. Its 10-story rectangular<br />

tower houses 180 rooms. The art deco lobby is a lodging: a<br />

real showpiece. Its turquoise pillars and spiral staircase blend<br />

toge<strong>the</strong>r to create cool, quiet surroundings reminiscent of <strong>the</strong><br />

1950’s. The simple beachside pool is delightful. Attractive large<br />

rooms, studios and suites (all with ocean view; most with balconies)<br />

are beautifully appointed with white and blue tile, light<br />

blue and white wicker furnishings, original art, phones, TV and<br />

mini-bars. Two excellent restaurants (including El Faro), bars, spa<br />

and 4 jacuzzis. B’57/R’94<br />

Reservations: 1 800 090-7500<br />

www.hotel elcano.com<br />

AAA Rating: uuu<br />

Grand Hotel <strong>Acapulco</strong> gt<br />

The Grand Hotel <strong>Acapulco</strong> is formed by a tower of 23 floors<br />

with an spectacular view of <strong>the</strong> Bay of <strong>Acapulco</strong>. Its 640 Rooms<br />

and Suites recently renovated offer <strong>the</strong>ir distinguished visitors<br />

with a complete new image of <strong>the</strong> hotel. Three first class<br />

restaurants offering a variety of Mexican Cuisine, Seafood and<br />

International. A lobby bar and a unique pool bar facing <strong>the</strong><br />

ocean. Two big pools, social and family activities and an extensive<br />

calm Beach Area with 80 “palapas”, water sports activities,<br />

gym, Business Center, Synagogue, and a tennis club (5 minutes<br />

away from <strong>the</strong> hotel).<br />

No cost from USA 1 866 961 2774<br />

No cost from Canada 1 877 307 5790<br />

No cost from Mexico 01800 091 2300 and 01800 832 1162<br />

www.grandhotelacapulco.com<br />

AAA Rating: uuu<br />

The Fairmont Pierre Marques gt<br />

(All Inclusive) Smaller and more intimate than its sister hotel,<br />

<strong>the</strong> Princess (with use of its facilities and none of its crowds),<br />

<strong>the</strong> Pierre Marques is <strong>the</strong> perfect spot for a relaxing, secluded<br />

vacation. The property now has <strong>the</strong> feel of a Mexican hacienda<br />

following an extensive $30 million remodel in ‘03. The excellent<br />

18-hole course (just a few paces from <strong>the</strong> front desk) is a Robert<br />

Trent Jones. Jr. masterpiece. Accommodations are in <strong>the</strong> 5-story<br />

main building, a 2-story wing or in one of <strong>the</strong> 11 two-story villas<br />

surrounded by lawns and gardens. All 335 rooms, suites, villas<br />

and bungalows are furnished identically to those at <strong>the</strong> Princess<br />

and have <strong>the</strong> same amenities. Four tennis courts, 3 freshwater<br />

pools. Opened in 1957, <strong>the</strong> Pierre Marques is one of <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s<br />

historic hotels. Fairmont has brought it back to its former glory.<br />

B’57/R’03<br />

Reservations: 1-800-441-1414<br />

www.fairmont.com<br />

AAA Rating: uuuu<br />

Villa Vera Resort, Spa & Racquet Club gt<br />

Ideally situated on 15 acres of landscaped gardens in a<br />

neighborhood above “hotel row,” <strong>the</strong> Villa Vera enjoys spectacular<br />

bay views from its fine restaurant and pool. The hotel<br />

underwent a $2 million renovation in 1999, updating lobby<br />

and pool area décor and room amenities. There are 59 superior<br />

rooms, each with marble floors, white interior, subdued<br />

contemporary fabrics, and marble combination baths, many<br />

units with balconies. There are 7 villas with private pools and<br />

3, two- to four-bedroom casitas. Cable TV, fully-stocked minibar,<br />

phones, 24-hour room service. Ideal for smaller incentive<br />

groups; conference room for 20-70 people. European spa.<br />

81<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Lodging<br />

Conference villa has two upstairs bedrooms with balconies. Two<br />

lighted clay courts, 2 paddle tennis courts, exercise rooms with<br />

sauna, massage and beauty salon. A charming, cozy property,<br />

now part of <strong>the</strong> Raintree Resorts group, that still attracts <strong>the</strong><br />

rich and famous. Offers on-site wedding coordinators with a<br />

variety of wedding reception packages. This is where Elizabeth<br />

Taylor and Michael Todd married in 1957. B’53/R’99<br />

Reservations: 1-877-247-5157<br />

www.clubregina.com<br />

AAA Rating: uuu<br />

FIVE STAR<br />

Avalon Excalibur <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

All-Inclusive. Formerly Plaza las Glorias Paraiso this hotel is<br />

located on <strong>the</strong> Costera on Playa Hornos. The Avalon has one of<br />

<strong>the</strong> few beaches shaded by abundant palm trees. 400 rooms<br />

feature air conditioning, in-room safe, minibar, remote control,<br />

local cable. Two swimming pools underwent a multimillion dollar<br />

renovation, producing not only a beautiful outdoor area, but<br />

also an improved image for <strong>the</strong> resort. Three restaurants, live<br />

entertainment every night, 2 bars, very pretty pool area, water<br />

sports center. B’68/R’03<br />

remodeled), two restaurants, three bars, meeting facilities for<br />

200-800. All-inclusive optional plan available. R’04<br />

Mexico: 01 800 710-9888<br />

www.hotelescopacabana.com<br />

AAA Rating: uu<br />

Crowne Plaza <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

Located in <strong>the</strong> heart of <strong>the</strong> hotel zone, this self-contained<br />

resort (formerly <strong>the</strong> Costa Club <strong>Acapulco</strong> ) is a 28-story tower,<br />

with 454 rooms and 79 suites. The rooms feature marble floors,<br />

painted wicker furniture, marble combination baths, cable TV,<br />

mini-bar, phones, and ocean view balcony. Lining <strong>the</strong> entrance<br />

is a 2-story shopping mall with 50 shops and boutiques. Six<br />

large ballrooms and meeting rooms, 4 pools, health club with<br />

sauna and jacuzzi, and 3 tennis courts. Four restaurants including<br />

Italian gourmet, 3 bars (including live music nightly in <strong>the</strong><br />

lobby bar), an active beach scene with all water sports, and<br />

plenty of poolside activities keep <strong>the</strong> resort ever popular. Allinclusive<br />

program available. Costa Kids programs. B’82/R’2006<br />

Reservations: 1-877-587-9648<br />

www.crowneplaza.com/acapulco<br />

AAA Rating: uuu<br />

Reservations: 1-800-261-5014<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 485 5050 Fax: (52 744) 485 5440<br />

www.avalonvacations.com<br />

Calinda Beach <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

Housed in an 18 floor cylindrical tower on <strong>the</strong> beach in <strong>the</strong><br />

heart of <strong>Acapulco</strong>, <strong>the</strong> Calinda features 350 standard rooms<br />

and 7 suites (remodeled in ‘99). Wedge-shaped rooms have tile<br />

floors, pale fabrics, simple furniture, tile combination baths,<br />

balconies, 70% with ocean view, satellite TV and phones. Two<br />

restaurants and two bars. One pool is beachside with a small<br />

waterfall; <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r is on <strong>the</strong> sun deck on <strong>the</strong> third floor. Popular<br />

with Canadian groups. B’70/R’99<br />

Reservations: 1-877-657-5799<br />

www.hotelescalinda.com.mx<br />

AAA Rating: uu<br />

Copacabana <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

Next to Elcano on Icacos beach, <strong>the</strong> Copacabana is a<br />

modern 18-story Y-shaped structure. The 422 standard rooms<br />

feature stucco walls, tile floors with throw rugs, rattan and<br />

simulated wood furniture, marble, full baths, phones, cable TV,<br />

minibars and small ocean view balconies (corner units have<br />

best views). Pool with jacuzzi bar faces <strong>the</strong> ocean (completely<br />

El Presidente <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

This older <strong>Acapulco</strong> landmark has a central location on hotel<br />

row, placing guests right across <strong>the</strong> street from <strong>the</strong> best shops<br />

and restaurants, and offering an easy walk to most of <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r<br />

Costera hotels. 146 comfortable, but dated, standard rooms and<br />

16 suites feature painted brick floors, simulated wood furnishings,<br />

pale floral fabrics, marble shower-only baths (most have<br />

combination baths), cable TV, and phones. 90 standard rooms<br />

and all suites have ocean view. Swimming pool, children’s<br />

pool, gym, water sports, 3 restaurants, 2 bars. Meeting room.<br />

B’59/R’96<br />

Reservations: 52-744-484-1700<br />

www.elpresidenteacapulco.com.mx<br />

AAA Rating: uu<br />

Fiesta Americana Villas <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

With a prime location next to <strong>the</strong> Fiesta Inn in <strong>the</strong> heart of<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay, <strong>the</strong> Fiesta Americana is always lively and actionpacked.<br />

The 18-story oceanfront tower is set on a rock outcropping<br />

with splendid views of <strong>the</strong> bay. The property is one<br />

longevity (built in 1960 and remodeled in 2005) and prominent<br />

location. A rectangular pool sits atop a rocky outcropping with<br />

a grand view of <strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay. The fine sandy beach is accessed<br />

by a long wooden staircase. The beach is lined with tropical<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 82


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Lodging<br />

landscaping and blue umbrellas. Facilities include two restaurants<br />

and one bar. All 400 sleeping rooms offer balcony, tile<br />

floor, satellite TV, mini-bar, and shower-only bath. This property<br />

is ideal for guests looking for a central location along <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s<br />

famed “Costera.” B’60/R2005<br />

Reservations: 1-800-FIESTA 1<br />

www.fiestaamericana.com.mx<br />

AAA Rating: uuu<br />

Park Royal <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

All Inclusive. Formerly <strong>the</strong> Radisson, this lovely hotel is<br />

hidden away on <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s secluded Guitarrón Beach below<br />

Las Brisas. The hotel was completed in 1991 and underwent an<br />

extensive renovation in 2005. 210 cliffside rooms, 14 suites and<br />

villas with phones, cable TV, mini-bar, and balcony, some with<br />

ocean view. Rooms are in 13 hillside villas and feature tile floors,<br />

light brown textured wicker furniture, phones, satellite TV, minibars,<br />

and coffeemakers. Several elevators and a funicular make<br />

getting about somewhat easy, given <strong>the</strong> hotel’s impossible topography.<br />

Three restaurants, 3 bars - one featuring live Mexican<br />

trio performances, a lovely private beach, two swimming pools<br />

with swim-up bars, health club. Meeting and banquet facilities<br />

for 10-200. R’05<br />

Reservations: 1-800-713-2228/29<br />

www.parkroyalhotels.com.mx<br />

AAA Rating: uu<br />

Parador Del Sol<br />

10 hectares of green area located between <strong>the</strong> Pacific<br />

Ocean and Coyuca Lagoon offering <strong>the</strong> “All-Inclusive” concept.<br />

Ecological location ideal for rest and relaxation in <strong>the</strong> charming<br />

surroundings of Coyuca Lagoon where <strong>the</strong> best sundown<br />

in <strong>Acapulco</strong> may be enjoyed. Convention and banquet rooms<br />

for 100 to 1200 guests. Gym, two swimming pools, four tennis<br />

courts, football field, basketball and volleyball plus a great variety<br />

of aquatic sports. R’06<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 444 4050 Fax: (52 744) 444 4125<br />

www.paradordelsol.com.mx<br />

AAA Rating: uu<br />

Ritz <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

All-Inclusive. 240-room ocean-front resort, <strong>the</strong> Ritz (formerly<br />

<strong>the</strong> Qualton Club) is ideally located on <strong>the</strong> Costera offering an<br />

excellent palapa-shaded beach and accessibility to shopping,<br />

restaurants, and night life. 240 ocean view rooms are located in<br />

two towers, one 11 stories with 104 rooms, most with private<br />

balcony; <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r is 14 stories with 136 rooms, all with private<br />

balcony. Non smoking rooms available. The all-inclusive program<br />

features all meals (buffet style), one a-la-carte restaurant<br />

(plus 2 o<strong>the</strong>rs), unlimited drinks and domestic cocktails (3 bars),<br />

daily activities for adults and children age 4-12, unlimited nonmotorized<br />

water sports, scuba lessons, disco. Pool and wading<br />

pool, dance and aerobics room. R’98<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 485 89 58 Fax. (52 744) 486 7863<br />

www.ritzacapulco.com<br />

AAA Rating: uu<br />

FOUR STAR<br />

Aca Bay<br />

Its 118 rooms all have bay view, air conditioning, TV, cablevision<br />

and telephone. Safety deposit box, room service, doctor,<br />

pharmacy, hair salon, mini super and travel agency. Pool with<br />

area for children and sun deck. Beach club.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 485 4739 Fax: (52 744) 485 0774<br />

www.hotel acabay.com.mx<br />

Aca Sol<br />

Air conditioning, T.V., fan, telephone, refrigerator (optional),<br />

Buffet Restaurant. Swimming Pool. <strong>Travel</strong> Agency, Tennis Court<br />

. A short distance away from <strong>the</strong> <strong>Acapulco</strong> Convention Centre<br />

and one block away from <strong>the</strong> beach.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 484 2700 Fax: (52 744) 484 0977<br />

www.hotelacasol.com<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Malibu<br />

80 rooms with balconies, air conditioning, TV, telephone,<br />

swimming pool, Tabasco Beach Club. Within close distance of<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Acapulco</strong> Convention Centre.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 484 1070 Fax: (52 744) 484 0994<br />

www.acapulcomalibu.com<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Park<br />

88 rooms with cable T.V., telephone, air conditioning, refrigerator<br />

and some have kitchenettes: enjoy three lighted tennis<br />

courts under management by a professional tennis team available<br />

for private lessons for beginner and advanced players. Our<br />

swimming pool is surrounded by a beautiful tropical garden<br />

and is one of <strong>the</strong> largest pools in <strong>Acapulco</strong>.<br />

Reservations: 01 800 000-1111<br />

www.parkhotel acapulco.com<br />

83<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Lodging<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Tortuga<br />

A helpful staff and a prime location across from Condesa<br />

Beach make this less expensive hotel a good choice. One of <strong>the</strong><br />

few off-<strong>the</strong>-beach hotels to have a lawn and garden around <strong>the</strong><br />

pool. Spectacular atrium lobby is draped with vines. The Tortuga,<br />

an 8-story tower, offers 230 standard rooms and 22 junior<br />

suites with patterned beige stucco walls, carpeting, pale floral<br />

fabrics, Mexican art, wicker and simulated wood furnishings,<br />

cable TV, mini-bar, and phones. Balconies face <strong>the</strong> ocean across<br />

<strong>the</strong> Costera. Pool, swim-up bar, lobby bar, and two restaurants.<br />

B’71/R’96<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 484 8889 Fax: (52 744) 484 7385<br />

www.hoteltortuga.com<br />

Alba Suites <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

A family oriented hotel, located on a quiet hillside overlooking<br />

<strong>the</strong> Bay in <strong>the</strong> middle of a peaceful residential area of<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>. 300 suites distributed in 7 low-rise buildings with<br />

quiet garden setting. Private balcony with ocean or swimming<br />

pool view. Air conditioning, kitchenette, cable TV. 5 pools and<br />

jacuzzi.<br />

Tel. US: 1 866 805 4626 Can: 1 877 428 1327<br />

www.albasuites.com.mx<br />

Caleta<br />

Located in Traditional <strong>Acapulco</strong> just across from <strong>the</strong> aquarium<br />

of Isla Roqueta, its 255 ocean view rooms all have air conditioning,<br />

ceiling fans, T.V. and telephone. Fresh and salt water<br />

swimming pools. Towel service and board games from 9a.m. to<br />

6p.m. Miramar Snack Bar, exclusive beach, squash court, diving<br />

school and water activities at an extra charge.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 483 9234 Fax: (52 744) 483 2121<br />

www.hotelesposeidon.com.mx<br />

Casa Inn<br />

Next to <strong>the</strong> Grand Hotel <strong>Acapulco</strong> on <strong>the</strong> beach, and two<br />

blocks from <strong>Acapulco</strong> Center, this 15-story highrise offers 328<br />

rooms with private balconies facing <strong>the</strong> Costera and a few with<br />

Ocean View: 18 of <strong>the</strong>se rooms have kitchenettes. All have cable<br />

Club del Sol<br />

Its 400 suites have air conditioning, fully equipped kitchenette,<br />

satellite T.V., 4 swimming pools, swimming area for<br />

children, air conditioning, parking and shopping center.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 485 6600 Fax: (52 744) 485 6595<br />

www.hotelesclubdelsol.com.mx<br />

El Mirador<br />

Originally built in 1933 and one of <strong>the</strong> first <strong>Acapulco</strong> hotels<br />

of international tourism quality, El Mirador is located north of<br />

town at La Quebrada. The hotel’s steeply pitched levels, connected<br />

by three funiculars offer Mexican charm in an isolated<br />

setting (crowded only during cliff diving performances). Most<br />

of <strong>the</strong> 130 rooms offer expansive ocean views because of <strong>the</strong><br />

cliff-side setting. Rooms (all refurbished in late 1994) are each<br />

unique in layout and feature Mexican tile floors, Mexican ceramic<br />

lamps, blue Mexican-style striped fabrics, tiled baths (some<br />

combination), phones, satellite TV. All rooms have balconies.<br />

Most units have refrigerators, 28 are one-bedroom suites. Three<br />

pools (2 saltwater), 2 bars, restaurant. B’33/R’02<br />

Reservations: 1-866-573-7197<br />

www.hotelelmiradoracapulco.com.mx<br />

AAA uu<br />

El Tropicano<br />

A block away from <strong>the</strong> Grand Hotel <strong>Acapulco</strong> and across <strong>the</strong><br />

street from <strong>the</strong> beach on <strong>the</strong> Costera, El Tropicano is a good<br />

value property housed in a 3-story 1950’s motel-style building.<br />

Rooms face <strong>the</strong> garden pool areas. There are 140 carpeted<br />

rooms with white tile floors, air conditioning, cable TV, phone,<br />

and private balcony. Two pools, restaurant, three bars. R’04<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 484 1101 Fax: (52 744) 484 3308<br />

www.eltropicano.com.mx<br />

Fiesta Inn <strong>Acapulco</strong><br />

Located in <strong>the</strong> heart of <strong>the</strong> Costera and occupying a wing<br />

of what was formerly <strong>the</strong> Hotel Presidente, <strong>the</strong> Fiesta Inn is<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>’s newest hotel. It debuted in 2001, and brings Fiesta<br />

Inn’s casual functionality and affordability to <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s most<br />

T.V., rustic furniture and telephones. Open air swimming pool, 9<br />

hole mini golf course, gym, game room, coin operated launderette,<br />

internet service. One restaurant (Bellavista), beach club<br />

1/2 block away. Favored by Quebecois tourists. Meeting and<br />

convention facilities. B’79/R’05<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 435 2000 Fax: (52 744) 435 2037<br />

www.casainnacapulco.com.mx<br />

popular resort area. The free-form pool is on a terrace overlooking<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Bay and <strong>the</strong> sandy beach below. There is one<br />

restaurant (Café La Fiesta), ocean view work-out lodging: facility,<br />

meeting rooms for up to 400 guests, a very complete business<br />

center, and Fiesta Kids club. There are 220 rooms (including four<br />

junior suites) housed in a 15-story beachfront high rise. Interiors<br />

have tile floor, modern décor, combination shower/tub bath<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 84


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Lodging<br />

with hair dryer. All rooms have balcony and ei<strong>the</strong>r full or partial<br />

ocean view. B‘02<br />

Reservations: 1 800 FIESTA 1<br />

www.fiestainn.com<br />

AAA Rating: uuu<br />

Hacienda Vayma<br />

This is truly a paradise between Coyuca Lagoon and <strong>the</strong> Pacific<br />

Ocean: located at merely a 15 minute drive from <strong>Acapulco</strong>,<br />

return to nature at <strong>the</strong> famous Vayma Hacienda. Its mediterranean<br />

style and tropical atmosphere offers sand, sun, palm trees<br />

and pelicans where 21 suites with fan or air conditioning can be<br />

<strong>the</strong> perfect holiday location for an enjoyable vacation. Its rooms<br />

offer <strong>the</strong> choice of king size beds and suites sleeping 2, 3 or 5<br />

guests.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 460 2882 Fax: (52 744) 460 5260<br />

www.vayma.com.mx<br />

La Palapa<br />

All-Inclusive. This 30-story highrise on <strong>the</strong> beach features<br />

200 one-bedroom suites with private terraces. Each room<br />

sleeps 4 or more, and <strong>the</strong> hotel attracts long stay visitors.<br />

Guest rooms have tile and carpeting, simulated wood, orange<br />

and floral fabrics, phones, bar (you supply <strong>the</strong> booze), marble<br />

shower-only baths, furnished ocean-view balconies. The weight<br />

room features massage and a juice bar. Ocean-view pool, two<br />

restaurants, bar, water sports, conference rooms. B’76/R’03<br />

Tel.: 1-888-790-5264<br />

Fax: (52 744) 484 5518<br />

www.hotel lapalapa.com<br />

AAA uu<br />

Las Hamacas<br />

One of <strong>the</strong> original <strong>Acapulco</strong> hotels, Las Hamacas is located<br />

across from <strong>the</strong> beach, and not far from downtown <strong>Acapulco</strong>.<br />

Las Hamacas is housed in three low-rise buildings facing a small<br />

pool plus wading pool, set in a courtyard with landscaped<br />

grounds. 160 standard, 1- and 2-bedroom and 15 junior-suite<br />

units feature carpet or tile floors, Mexican 50’s decor, simulated<br />

wood furnishings, phones, TV, mini-bar. Suites have ocean<br />

views. Restaurant, bar, meeting facilities. B’63/R’00<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 434 1740 Fax: (52 744) 483 0575<br />

www.hamacas.com.mx<br />

AAA Rating: u<br />

Maralisa Beach<br />

Located on <strong>the</strong> beach between <strong>the</strong> Crowne Plaza and <strong>the</strong><br />

Ritz, opened in 1965 and remodeled in 1988, <strong>the</strong> white, fourstory<br />

Maralisa features 90 rooms. Each has marble floors, floral<br />

fabrics, white furniture, marble combination baths; each room<br />

with a balcony or patio, color TV, and phone. Five one-bedroom<br />

suites are also available. The sun deck is unusual and picturesque<br />

with its two pools, palm trees, and ceramic tile. Private<br />

beach club, water sports, terrace restaurant, and bar.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 485 6677 Fax: (52 744) 485 7363<br />

Email: maralisa@acabtu.com.mx<br />

Maris<br />

86 rooms with private terrace, ocean view, cable T.V., telephone,<br />

restaurant and bar.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 485 8440 Fax: (52 744) 485 3934<br />

Email: hotelmarys@hotmail.com<br />

Panoramic<br />

200 rooms with two double beds, color satellite T.V., safety<br />

deposit box, air conditioning, telephone, minibar and balcony.<br />

The hotel offers two tennis courts, kids pool, two restaurants,<br />

football field, recreational activities, swimming pool, bar, tobacco<br />

shop, babysitter service and laundry.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 484 0724 Fax: (52 744) 481 0132<br />

www.hotelesposeidon.com.mx<br />

Playa Suites<br />

This twin 18-story beach front towers (Catalina and Diana)<br />

house 506 fully furnished suites, Located on El Morro Beach.<br />

Suites offer private balcony with ocean view, marble floors,<br />

combination bath, rooms with two queen beds on upper level<br />

and sitting area with sofa bed, sink, mini refrigerator, and balcony<br />

on lower level. Air conditioning with independent control.<br />

Two restaurants, two bars, free-form pool with swim-up bar,<br />

wading pool, and complete water sports rental on <strong>the</strong> beach.<br />

R’06<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 485 8050 Fax: (52 744) 485 8731<br />

www.playasuites.com.mx<br />

Romano Palace<br />

279 Roman style rooms offer private balconies and all enjoy<br />

ocean view, air conditioning, color T.V., telephone, swimming<br />

pool, kids pool, sun deck, bar at swimming pool, lobby bar<br />

with live music, convention and meeting rooms for up to 200<br />

85<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Lodging<br />

people, beach club for hotel guests with free snorkel, fins,<br />

boogie board, floating equipment, kids games (mechanical<br />

and electronic) as well as board games, golf courses and tennis<br />

courts only 10 minutes away from <strong>the</strong> hotel.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 484 7730 Fax: (52 744) 484 7995<br />

www.romanopalace.com.mx<br />

Torres Gemelas<br />

Rooms with ocean view, color T.V., telephone, air conditioning,<br />

bathroom, kitchenette, mini fridge and two double beds<br />

for up to 4 people. Restaurant, gym, cybercafé and convention<br />

facilities.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 435 0300 Fax: (52 744) 435 0301<br />

www.lastorresgemelas.com<br />

THREE STAR<br />

Acamar<br />

Located in <strong>the</strong> heart of Nautical <strong>Acapulco</strong>, built on Caleta<br />

Beach, this hotel maintains its Traditional <strong>Acapulco</strong> charm which<br />

is worldwide famous nowadays.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 482 0570 Fax: (52 744) 482 2119<br />

www.acamaracapulco.com<br />

Bali Hai<br />

Its 121 rooms have air conditioning, refrigerator, Cable T.V.,<br />

telephone and fax. Laundry and dry cleaning services, as well<br />

as safety deposit boxes. Two swimming pools, restaurant, bar,<br />

travel agency, large parking area within <strong>the</strong> hotel, gardens.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 485 6622 Fax: (52 744) 485 7972<br />

www.balihai.com.mx<br />

Costa Linda<br />

You will enjoy a family atmosphere of peace and quiet in<br />

<strong>the</strong> heart of Traditional <strong>Acapulco</strong>, which still has <strong>the</strong> atmosphere<br />

of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Acapulco</strong> of yesterday. Costa Linda offers tennis<br />

courts, parking and a fabulous pool with a wading pool, good<br />

music, a waterfall and tropical vegetation for those people that<br />

wish to rest and relax. The rooms have air conditioning, cable<br />

television, refrigerator and telephone.<br />

Tels. (744) 483 4017 / 482 2549 / 482 5277<br />

www.acacostalinda.com<br />

El Cid<br />

Located in <strong>the</strong> middle of <strong>the</strong> Bay on <strong>the</strong> Costera Miguel<br />

Aleman, in front of Tamarindos Beach in <strong>Acapulco</strong>’s Golden<br />

Zone. Rooms with balconies, telephone, air conditioning, color<br />

television and mini bar. Also a snack bar with an excellent view,<br />

pool, green areas, safety deposit boxes, money exchange and<br />

beauty parlor.<br />

Tels. (744) 485 1312 / 485 1387<br />

www.cidacapulco.com<br />

Hacienda Maria Eugenia<br />

Its 61 rooms and 41 suites are decorated in Mexican Colonial<br />

Style each with two double beds, bathroom, air conditioning,<br />

telephone, color T.V., minibar, kitchen, swimming pool, restaurant.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 435 0660 Fax: (52 744) 435 0669<br />

www.haciendamariaeugenia.com.mx<br />

Los Flamingos<br />

Welcome to our family where our home is your home (“mi<br />

casa es tu casa”). Enjoy staying at one of our rooms in <strong>the</strong> tropical<br />

atmosphere admiring wonderful sunsets from your terrace.<br />

Our bar is <strong>the</strong> creator of <strong>the</strong> worldwide famous “Coco Loco,” as<br />

well as of a wide variety of exotic drinks. Our cuisine is highly<br />

recommended by both locals and visitors and our personalized<br />

service, <strong>the</strong> tranquility of its gardens and <strong>the</strong> immensity of <strong>the</strong><br />

ocean are only some of our attractions. Home to “John Wayne y<br />

Johnny Weissmuller”.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 482 0690 Fax: (52 744) 483 9806<br />

www.hotellosflamingos.com<br />

One <strong>Acapulco</strong> Costera<br />

The hotel is located on Costera Miguel Alemán Avenue, in<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>´s prestigious Golden Zone, just 15 minutes from <strong>the</strong><br />

Juan N. Álvarez International Airport. It is close to many of <strong>the</strong><br />

resort town´s most popular attractions, including CICI Water<br />

Park, Baby´O Disco, Alebrije Nightclub and Jai Alai Sport Center.<br />

It is just five minutes from <strong>the</strong> <strong>Acapulco</strong> Internetional Center,<br />

several upscale shopping malls and <strong>the</strong> entertaiment district.<br />

The One <strong>Acapulco</strong> Costera was designed from <strong>the</strong> ground<br />

up to be attractive and modern, yet simple and efficient. It<br />

features 126 rooms, including 49 doubles, 69 queens, 7 singles<br />

and a special need room.<br />

Reservations: 01 800 504 5000<br />

www.onehoteles.com<br />

Real Bananas<br />

140 villas and rooms with satellite T.V., two restaurants (international<br />

and Italian), two bars, two swimming pools (one for<br />

children), transportation to Beach Club and Logo shop.<br />

Tel.: (52 744) 484 2280 Fax: (52 744) 484 7344<br />

www.realbananas.com.mx<br />

www.visiteacapulco.com 86


<strong>Acapulco</strong> Lodging<br />

NEW DEVELOPMENTS<br />

Banyan Tree Cabo Marques<br />

With crystal clear waters, brilliant blue skies and golden<br />

beaches that burst into a kaleidoscope of vistas, <strong>the</strong> bewitching<br />

allure of <strong>Acapulco</strong> is irresistible. This subtropical paradise that<br />

flaunts one of <strong>the</strong> most increible sunsets in <strong>the</strong> world, enyoys<br />

halcyon wea<strong>the</strong>r all year roud.<br />

Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués, a flawless syn<strong>the</strong>sis of modern<br />

opulence and <strong>the</strong> inherent beauty of <strong>the</strong> land, is testament<br />

to <strong>the</strong> exquisite luxury of <strong>the</strong> globally celebrated Banyan Tree<br />

Hotels & Resort, synonymous with Asian warmth and hospitality.<br />

Perched atop a dramatic cliff that cascades into <strong>the</strong> Pacific<br />

Ocean, this premier all-pool villa world class resort, <strong>the</strong> firts of<br />

its kind on beautiful <strong>Acapulco</strong>, is nestled in <strong>the</strong> bay of <strong>the</strong> ultra<br />

exclusive Cabo Marqués. This romantic retreat transcends all<br />

convention of intimacy, romance and rejuvenation, making it a<br />

sanctuary for all <strong>the</strong> senses.<br />

Boulevard Cabo Marqués Lote 1 Col. Punta Diamante<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>, Gro. C.P. 39907<br />

Conm: (744) 434-0100<br />

Fax: (744) 434-0101<br />

Email: cabomarques@banyantree.com<br />

www.banyantree.com<br />

Grupo HABITA - Hotel Boca Chica<br />

Boca Chica Hotel in old <strong>Acapulco</strong> is like <strong>the</strong> set of a 1950’<br />

s movie. This 36 room gem with a unique design offers <strong>the</strong><br />

most exclusive service in a trendy enviroment. The hotel offers<br />

a ground floor Lobby, Bar & Disco, Gym & Spa, Sushi Cuisine,<br />

sea level Marina, Store, Habita Books and a beautiful swimming<br />

pool. The hotel invites <strong>the</strong>ir guests to an unforgetable experience<br />

in one of <strong>the</strong> most spectacular sightseeings of acapulco<br />

bay.<br />

Punta Caletilla s/n Fraccionamiento Las Playas<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong>, Gro. C.P. 39390<br />

Tel: (52 55) 5280 1813<br />

Fax: (52 55) 5280 1813 Ext. 110<br />

Email: mbracho@hotelhabita.com<br />

www.hotelbocachica.com<br />

87<br />

<strong>Acapulco</strong> Destination Marketing Office


To Coyuca Lagoon &<br />

Pie de la Cuesta Beach


To Diamond Zone & Airport


Impreso en Impresos Trece, S. de R. L. de C.V.<br />

México, D.F.<br />

Tel.: +5255 5399 9932 • 5527 0179<br />

E-mail: contacto@itrece.com<br />

Coordinación y Dirección General del Proyecto<br />

Jesús Radilla<br />

Coordinación General de la Edición<br />

Pedro Correa Sánchez<br />

Diseño Gráfico y Formación Electrónica<br />

Juan Haquet (juan@haquet.net)<br />

Retoque Digital e Imposición<br />

Andrés Monroy<br />

Colaboradores<br />

Piquis Rochin (Traducción)<br />

Arely Figueroa<br />

Luisa Ruiz<br />

Daniel Martínez<br />

Giovanni Reséndiz<br />

Proyecto Original<br />

Greg Custer (Destination Ventures)

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!