Travel Planner English - the Acapulco Academy
Travel Planner English - the Acapulco Academy
Travel Planner English - the Acapulco Academy
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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 />
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<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 />
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<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 />
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<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 />
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<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 />
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<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 />
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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 />
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<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 />
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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 />
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<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 />
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<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 />
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<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 />
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<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 />
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<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 />
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<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 />
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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 />
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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 />
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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 />
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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 />
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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 />
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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)