Riviera Nayarit - Dreams Villamagna Nuevo Vallarta

I was hosted superbly by the Dreams Villamagna Nuevo Vallarta Resort, which is also where the Travel Show prize trip winners will be staying. It is the newest generation of All Inclusive resorts and I highly recommend it as a base for Riviera Nayarit vacations. The huge rooms have Jacuzzis on the balconies with views to the Pacific Ocean or the Sierra Madre mountains . A series of four pools lead down to the beach: the last is an infinity pool right on the beach itself. And the spa is an oasis of peace; their Tropical Escape Treatment was memorable – I emerged from an exfoliation smelling of mangos and coconut oil and with my skin silky smooth. I even watched a wedding at sunset.

Riviera Nayarit – The Experts

Finally, I warmly thank my guides and mentors from Riviera Nayarit CVB. Richard Zarkin and Silvia Duarte shared their knowledge and their passion for this very special destination with me: gracias amigos!

Whistler, British Columbia

In a few months time, this mountain resort will be the focus of the world, as much of the Winter Olympics unfolds on its slopes Feb 12 to 28, 2010. For now, it is a wonderful place to soak up the atmosphere of anticipation and say: “I was there before the world came to town!” The symbol of the games, this massive inuksuk gazes down impassively upon Whistler from high atop Blackcomb Mountain.

Whistler Town

The resort town of Whistler is looking ready for its days of glory that will come shortly. All is ready. The town is spruced up and ready to rock. Actually, it’s always ready to rock, as any of the young workers who make the town tick will tell you. I stayed at the impressive Fairmont Chateau Whistler, perched in the Upper Village by Blackcomb Base. First class in all respects. Just down the road from the hotel is the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, a new way to learn about the Squamish and Lil’wat peoples and their culture.

Whistler Scenery

The landscape around the town is magnificent. Snow-capped mountains virtually surround the town and small glaciers sparkle in the sunshine in their folds. The lift system makes it easy for everyone to ascend high on to Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains so that the high peaks are accessible for everyone. Whether you want to ride the gondola up for a hot chocolate at the mountain restaurant or to embark on a strenuous hike – it’s all here in Whistler.