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Playa del Carmen

julio 27th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in DESTINATIONS - (0 Comments)

 

Playa del Carmen, bathed by the Caribbean Sea, is situated on the Mayan Riviera, south of Cancun. Up until the mid 1980s, Playa del Carmen was a quiet fishing village with a population of less than 1,500. Over the last couple of decades it has grown into one of the Mayan Riveria’s major tourist destinations thanks to the countless attractions both in and around this fabulous location.

Playa de Carmen is at once relaxing, romantic and vibrant. Here you’ll find locals, visitors and residents from all over the world that makes for a unique cosmopolitan atmosphere. If you love fine white sandy beaches lined with palm trees and caressed by a cooling breeze, then Playa del Carmen is the place for you.  Here you’ll be able to admire the 7 different tones of its waters, ranging from blue to turquoise green.  Visitors to this destination simply can’t resist relaxing in a beachfront hammock before taking a refreshing dip in the sea.

The Quinta Avenida is the centre of this Caribbean city. If you’re a fan of retail therapy, then you’ll adore the local craft stores dotted between the exclusive fashion boutiques that run the length of this avenue. And when it comes to eating, you’ll be spoilt for choice; you’ll find Mexican, Mayan-Yucatan, Italian, French or Asian restaurants.

Playa del Carmen is renowned for its fabulous nightlife.  Take your pick from the bars on the beachfront or in the centre of town.  In addition to food and drink, many also offer live entertainment and music.  Enjoy the sounds of marimba or a group of Huapangueros that we can pretty much guarantee will appear on the beach. There’s no need for transport here: you can make your way from bar to bar and back to the hotel on foot.

Once you feel totally relaxed and chilled, you really should take the time to join some of the excursions to discover more about this privileged location.

If you’re a nature lover (and even if you aren’t!), you mustn’t miss a trip to the Xcaret Nature Eco-Park, which runs programmes for the conservation and reproduction of typical floral and fauna such as the sea turtle,  manatee and spider monkey. Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of water-based activities in its cenotes, underground rivers and lagoons.

From Playa del Carmen you can take a ferry to Cozumel, a stunningly beautiful island that is a paradise for scuba divers thanks to the magnificent coral reef that lies below its crystal-clear waters.

A tour of the Mayan archaeological site of Tulum is an unforgettable experience. Standing next to the sea, this ancient walled site, perched on top of a 12 metre cliff, boasts the remains of what was one of the most spectacular cities of the Mayan civilisation.

Those with an interest in archaeology should also take the time to visit Chichen Itza, one of the most famous cities of the Mayan civilisation and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The choice is yours: when on holiday in Playa del Carmen you can either indulge in total relaxation or spend your time exploring the countless places of interest on the Mayan Riviera.

 

“IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts has two 5 star hotels in the Playa del Carmen area. Both the IBEROSTAR Tucán and the IBEROSTAR Quetzal offer all inclusive accommodation. Guests staying at either of these hotels will be able to luxuriate in the kind of services and facilities that only hotels in this category can offer: spa services, sports, the finest gastronomy and delightful rooms. What’s more, the facilities at these hotels make them the ideal venue for weddings or business conventions.”

 

 

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Riding the waves with Elisa

julio 27th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in The View | THE WORLD OF IBEROSTAR - (0 Comments)

 

Riding the waves with Elisa

A dose of excitement is an essential ingredient for any memorable holiday, mixed with a few unforgettable experiences and a generous helping of lifelong memories. But if in addition to all that there’s enough to share with all our friends and family at exactly the same time as we’re savouring it, then doesn’t that make the whole experience even better and more intense?

What will Lucy and Shane think when they see Elisa riding the Caribbean waves on board a fun banana boat? Exactly. They’ll realise that they’re missing out on a holiday experience they most probably deserve more than anybody. We enjoy seeing others enjoy themselves; after all, we want only the best for ourselves and those we love. And that is what the campaign that reveals IBEROSTAR’s marvellous world of vacations is all about. A 2.0 experience in which our guests share their thoughts, sensations, joy and happiness with everyone.

And to make this possible, IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts has arranged for a professional production team to film guests while they have fun telling their family and friends all about their holidays. Once recorded, the video message will be sent to the recipients, while guests continue to have a fabulous time at some of the world’s finest resorts. But that’s not all: they will also have the chance to see via their webcams the recipients’ reactions when the messages arrive from our fabulous destinations.

More info at iberostarconnection.com

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A massage on a beach in the Mayan Riviera. Could it possibly get better than that?

julio 27th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in The View | THE WORLD OF IBEROSTAR - (0 Comments)

 

Barbara Massage

Feeling the gentle Caribbean breeze caress your skin; being lulled to sleep by the rhythmic sound of the waves breaking on a seemingly endless shore of fine white sand; unwinding under the gentle pressure of skilled hands that reenergise every corner of your body…this is the kind of 100% IBEROSTAR holiday experience that Barbara is longing to share with her loved ones.

We enjoy seeing others enjoy themselves; after all, we want only the best for ourselves and those we love. And that is what the campaign that reveals IBEROSTAR’s marvellous world of vacations is all about. A 2.0 experience in which our guests share their thoughts, sensations, joy and happiness with everyone.

More info at iberostarconnection.com

 

 

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Teide

julio 26th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in DESTINATIONS - (0 Comments)

Do you know the name of the island that the Teide Volcano towers over and where IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts has a five star hotel?

Here are a few clues. It’s one of the largest islands in an archipelago where spring lasts all year and the climate is the best in Europe. The volcano, Mount Teide, rising up 3,718 metres above sea level, is the highest peak in the country. What’s more, its Carnival celebrations are the best-known and most popular in Europe. The lunar landscapes on the slopes of the volcano make you feel as if you are in another world, whilst the beaches on the southern coast are without a doubt the finest in the world. Its ports and harbours are the point of departure for whale spotting, off-shore fishing and scuba diving excursions.

Still don’t know the answer? Of course you do. It’s Tenerife in the Canary Islands. A land blessed by nature where IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts offer you not just one, but three 5 star hotels, all in the Grand category: the IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel el Mirador, IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Mencey and IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Salomé.

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Is envy a good thing?

julio 24th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in The View - (0 Comments)

A little envy is harmless enough. The kind of envy you experience when you enjoy seeing others having a great time. The kind of envy that makes you want to explore, discover, experience, enjoy and savour. The kind of envy we all feel when we hear Canadians Kiefer and Michelle telling us about their vacation experience from the IBEROSTAR Quetzal in Mexico or when Michael gives his passionate vision of the culinary delights on offer at the IBEROSTAR Costa Dorada as he hugs his kids.

We enjoy seeing others enjoy themselves; after all, we want only the best for ourselves and those we love. And that is what the campaign that reveals IBEROSTAR’s marvellous world of vacations is all about. A 2.0 experience in which our guests share their thoughts, sensations, joy and happiness with everyone.

And to make all this possible, IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts has organised a professional production team that films guests as they show their friends and family what a great time they are having on vacation. Once recorded, the video-message is sent to the receivers, whilst the stars of these fabulous vacation experiences get on with having the time of their lives in the world’s finest destinations. But there’s more: via their webcams, we also get to see the receivers’ reactions when they open their message from a dream destination.

More info at iberostarconnection.com

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“Xaymaca”, a land of forests and water.

julio 19th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in DESTINATIONS - (0 Comments)

The island of Jamaica, situated south of Cuba, is a lush and exciting land with an intriguing history. Its first settlers were the Taino Indians, an Arawak-speaking tribe originally from South America that named the island “Xaymaca”, which means a ‘land of forests and water’. It was discovered by Columbus in 1494, who described it as “the most beautiful island I have ever laid eyes on”, and for 500 years it attracted colonisers from all over the world.

After the Spanish occupation, the island was conquered by the British in around 1650. The existing colonists freed and armed their slaves, who sought refuge in the centre of the island, giving rise to the legendary Maroons, who constantly defied the new colonists, taking on the fearsome British troops in countless battles.

Under British domain, Jamaica became a dynamic and wealthy colony. In the 18th century, the island was known as the “jewel in the British crown” and grew 22% of the world sugar production on its vast and highly profitable plantations. However, the Africans paid a high price for this prosperity, as thousands were shipped to the New World as slaves. As a result of this cruel and oppressive slavery, Jamaica suffered more revolts than any other of the Antilles. Frequent news of slave uprisings and other forms of resistance that were brutally put down by the colonists, eventually stirred the conscience of Europe. In 1838, two years earlier than planned, slavery was abolished and the British government resorted to importing labourers from India and China who rapidly integrated into Jamaican life.

Today Jamaica is an aspirational tourist destination for lovers of all things authentic. Bob Marley’s homeland boasts everything you could wish for: magical beaches, headily beautiful nature dotted with seemingly impossible rivers, waterfalls and mountains, an internationally renowned music scene, a highly contagious joie de vivre, a proud people and an outstanding range of facilities for tourists, highlights of which include the IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Rose Hall and the IBEROSTAR Rose Hall Beach and Rose Hall Suites.

 

 

 

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We’ve been waiting for you for almost 3,000 years

julio 18th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in DESTINATIONS - (0 Comments)

Let the gentle breeze caress you – the very breeze that accompanied Picasso during his childhood. The same coasts and beached that in ancient times were coveted by Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Goths, Byzantines and Arabs alike today form a holiday paradise for international jet setters and travellers eager to discover its many wonders.

Malaga has it all. A prime location in the south of the Iberian Peninsula, a mild, year-round climate, some of the world’s finest golf courses, Europe’s most luxurious residential developments, the most stunning beaches you can imagine and the legendary Costa del Sol, over which Marbella and Puerto Banús reign supreme, offering visitors a fabulous, star-studded nightlife.

The marvels of Malaga start to shine with the first light of day, when the early rays cast their golden tones onto the sea. It’s the perfect time to stroll along the sea promenade or around the bustling Atarazanas Market in the heart of the historic quarter. In the afternoon, head for a street terrace in areas such as Plaza de la Merced, Calle Alcazabillas, Calle San Agustín or Plaza de la Constitución and Calle Larios. Relax and enjoy some pleasant conversation with friends or simply spend your time people-watching.

When night falls, it’s time to make your way back to the Sea Promenade and revel in the lively atmosphere of the world-famous chiringuitos (beach bars) before setting off for the historic quarter to enjoy the nightlife of the area that lies between Plaza de la Merced and Plaza de la Constitución, and Granada, Alcazabilla, Plaza de Uncibay, Convalecientes, Comedias, Luis de Velázquez and Santa Lucía streets,…to name just a few, all packed with great spots to spend a fabulous evening in.

But if you’d prefer something a little more relaxing, then Malagueta, Paseo de Sancha, Limonar and Pedregalejo are your best choice.

Live this wonderful city to the full. We’ll be back soon to tell you how to experience all the bewitching charm of Andalusia in places such as  Marbella, Torrox, Puerto Banús and Mijas…

Are you considering Iberostar Hotels & Resorts for your next trip to Málaga? berostar Hotels & Resorts is proud to offer 4-star resorts in Málaga: the Iberostar Marbella Coral Beach in Marbella and the Iberostar Málaga Playa in Torrox-Costa. Both resorts are ideal for a couple’s escape or a fun-filled family trip with children.

 

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Crete. The island of the Minotaur.

julio 17th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in DESTINATIONS - (0 Comments)

This is a land that is the stuff of legends, and the site of truly legendary landscapes and beaches. Crete is not only rich in natural treasures, but also in history, myths and traditions.  Indeed, legend has it that Androgeus, son of Minos, King of Crete, was murdered by the sons of Aegeus, King of Athens, in order to take the island throne. The gods of Olympus punished the Athenians by ordering them to send 14 young people (7 boys and 7 girls) every 9 years to Crete, to be devoured by the Minotaur, a huge monster with the head of a bull on the body of a man who dwelt in a labyrinth created by Daedalus. One of these unfortunate young people, Theseus, aided by his beloved Ariadne, decided to challenge the monster. Ariadne gave him a ball of thread which he tied to the entrance of the labyrinth, enabling him to find his way out after slaying the Minotaur.

Legends apart, by unravelling Ariadne’s ball of thread you will discover the countless delights of this fascinating island. Idyllic beaches such Balos, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful on Crete with its fine white sand bathed by crystal-clear waters; Elafonissos (Elafonisos) is a small islet connected to Crete by a shallow reef that can be crossed on foot at low tide;   Preveli Beach where the River Kourtaliotis flows into the sea and Malata Beach, flanked by cliffs that make it a delightfully private spot.

Highlights also include ruins and relics from another age such as the Minoan palaces of Knossos and Phaistos, the Gortyn archaeological site, and the picture-postcard towns of Chania, Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos and Rethymno, without forgetting Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest ravine that stretches out for 16 kilometres.

Get ready to discover another world. Remember to pack a book by Odysseus Elytis, winner of the 1979 Nobel Prize for Literature and download a selection of songs by Nana Mouskouri on your MP3 – both artists were born on Crete. And most importantly of all, book a stay at one of the fabulous hotels that IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts boasts on this island.

 

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Recipe:Dominican Sancocho

julio 16th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in SOMETHING DIFFERENT - (0 Comments)


Sancocho is undoubtedly one of the Dominican Republic’s culinary treasures. It is generally served on special occasions only, as it takes quite a while to make and includes lots of ingredients. Yet the preparation time is probably one of the best things about this dish, as it’s the perfect opportunity to spend time with friends over a cold beer or glass of rum.

Sancocho is traditionally prepared with beef.

Ingredients:
• 1 whole chicken, chopped into pieces

• 6 pork chops

• 1 lb of minced beef

• 1 lb of manioc cut into large pieces

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into large pieces.

• 3 or 4 bananas cut into medium-sized pieces

• 1 yam, peeled and cut into pieces

• 1 yautia (tannier) cut into pieces

• 1/4 squash, peeled and cut into pieces

• 2 corncobs cut into pieces

Seasoning:

• 1 large finely chopped green chilli

• 1/2 sprig of parsley

• 2 small finely chopped red onions

• 2 cloves of crushed garlic

• 2 or 3 large coriander leaves

• 2 chicken stock cubes

• 1 beef stock cubes

• 2 tablespoons of vinegar

• 1 tablespoon of gravy mix

 

Preparation:

Pour 2 ½ tablespoons of oil and a little sugar (half a teaspoon) into a large pot and place on a high heat. Add all the meat at once to tender and brown. Cover and allow to cook (approx. 20-30 minutes), stirring from time to time until most of the liquid has evaporated. Remove the meat and put to one side. If the chicken is becoming overcooked, remove and leave until the end. And it does not matter if the meat is whole; in fact it is even better.  Add water to the meat stock (fill the pan to half full) and bring to the boil; add the remaining ingredients and place the vegetables on top to season, cover and allow to boil (for approx. 40 minutes) or until the ingredients are cooked. Then add the meat and the spoonful of gravy mix. Ten minutes before the sancocho is finished, add the vinegar (around 2 spoonfuls). Test for salt and season if necessary. If you wish to include the typically Dominican banana dumplings (see below), place on top and allow to boil until the sancocho is finished.  Banana dumplings: peel the raw bananas and chop finely. Add slightly salted water and roll into balls measuring approximately an inch across. Corn flour dumplings: mix the flour with a little milk and salt and a teaspoon of butter. Roll into balls just like the banana dumplings.

 

Handy tips
This dish should be served with white rice and avocado.

 

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Greece. Cradle of the gods

julio 12th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in DESTINATIONS - (0 Comments)

And of democracy, philosophy and western civilisation; of the Olympic Games and mathematics, of Socrates and Plato; of astronomy and science; of the 300 Spartan warriors, of Zeus and Apollo; of a thousand fabulous islands blessed by the gods…the cradle of everything and everyone.

Delve deep into its culture and unique way of life. Explore its coasts and beaches, many of them worthy of a picture postcard; stroll around the twisting narrow streets of mythical places such as Mykonos or Santorini… Feast your eyes on the brilliant white and deep blue of its towns and villages. When visiting Athens, take the time one evening to discover rebetiko music and dine in one of the restaurants that nestle at the foot of the Acropolis. If you’re looking to get away from it all and relax on a practically deserted beach, then head for the islands of Lipsi and Tilos, close to Asia Minor, or even better, enjoy a relaxing swim in the waters that bathe a secluded beach hidden among the cliffs on the island of Zakyntnos, which can only be accessed by boat. And if you’d like to experience life in the Greece of yesteryear, then take a donkey ride around the island of Hydra (known as the island of artists and intellectuals). This is place where time has stood still, cars are not allowed and donkeys and bicycles are the only means of transport permitted.

But perhaps even more spectacular than all this is Cos, one of the Dodecanese Islands. Its warriors fought in the legendary Trojan War, recreated in the film starring Brad Pitt in the role of Achilles. Cos has so many treasures to discover that you won’t know where to start. The finest sandy beaches backed by lush vegetation such as Paradise, Ayios Stefanos, Camel, Crazy Beach and the region of Kefalu in the south of the island, and to the north, Ai Ioani and Tigaki. Nor should you miss a visit to the Temple of Aphrodite, the ancient Agora and the portico. At the site of another archaeological dig you can admire a Roman spa, Roman villa, gymnasium and Odeon.

The island of Cos boasts countless culinary delights and a lively nightlife. The finest local fare is served at the Kogili and Argonaftis. Enjoy some pleasant conversation over an aromatic coffee at Ciao, 4×4 and Plaisir. And the liveliest nightlife of all is to be found at clubs such as Cactus, Doors, Connection, Kalua, Heaven, Ice Factory, Menphis and Elena House.

Cos, the birthplace of Hippocrates, the patron of physicians, will soothe away all your stresses and strains and provide a unique holiday experience. On this island IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts offers you its 5 star IBEROSTAR Odysseus.

 

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