How did you feel when you turned 22?

Today marks a special milestone as my daughter turns 22.

Watching her embrace new adventures and chase her dreams reminds me of youth's boundless possibilities.

But who says that sense of excitement and discovery is reserved only for the young?

As Luxury Travel Advisors, we have the incredible opportunity to reignite that youthful spirit in our clients, no matter their age.

Just as my daughter is stepping into a world full of potential, I believe we can craft journeys that offer fresh experiences and rekindle the joy of exploration.

Let's help our clients rediscover the world with the wonder and excitement of someone celebrating their own milestone.

So, as she just came back from a long weekend on the beach, I want to talk today about my favorite beach in Mexico, Punta Mita.

Nestled on Mexico's Pacific Coast, about 10 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita is a 1,500-acre private peninsula that has transformed into a haven for luxury travelers.

Its name comes from the Aztec word "Mictlan, " which means "gateway to paradise," and it certainly lives up to that nickname!

Experiences in Punta Mita

• Private Yacht Tour of Marietas Islands

  • Explore the famous "Hidden Beach" (Playa del Amor), a secluded beach inside a cave with a hole in its roof.

  • Snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.

  • Gourmet lunch prepared by a private chef featuring local specialties like fresh ceviche and grilled fish.

  • Premium open bar with top-shelf liquors and champagne.

• Exclusive Golf Experience

  • Play on the Jack Nicklaus Signature Pacifico Golf Course, which is consistently ranked among the world's best golf courses.

  • Enjoy the famous 3B hole, the world's only natural island green, accessible only at low tide.

  • Personalized instruction from a PGA pro is available upon request.

  • Post-game massage at the clubhouse spa, using locally sourced botanical ingredients.

  • Finish with a tequila tasting featuring rare and premium varieties.

• Whale Watching in Style

  • Private catamaran tour during whale migration season (December to March).

  • Expert marine biologist guide to provide insights on humpback whale behavior and conservation efforts.

  • High-tech hydrophones to listen to whale songs underwater.

  • Champagne brunch while observing these majestic creatures.

  • Opportunity to participate in a whale photo-identification project contributing to research efforts.

DESTINATION Experts

Journey MEXICO

Journey Mexico is a prominent luxury travel DMC specializing in creating unique and authentic travel experiences throughout Mexico.

Here are some key aspects of Journey Mexico:

• Specialization: Journey Mexico focuses on crafting tailor-made itineraries for discerning travelers who seek memorable experiences, ranging from cultural explorations to adventure tourism. They emphasize personalized service and local expertise to enhance the travel experience.

• Custom Itineraries: They design fully customized travel plans that include accommodations, activities, and transportation, ensuring each itinerary reflects the client's preferences and interests.

• Unique Experiences: Journey Mexico offers a variety of experiences, such as exploring Mayan ruins, culinary tours, and adventure activities in locations like Baja California and Copper Canyon.

• Sustainability Commitment: The company is dedicated to environmentally responsible travel practices, supporting local communities, and promoting conservation efforts.

• Awards: Journey Mexico has received accolades such as the 2016 Virtuoso Peer-to-Peer Award for "Best Destination & Experiences" and has been recognized as a Virtuoso Preferred Supplier since 2006

In summary, Journey Mexico is a DMC that combines personalized service with a deep understanding of Mexico's culture and natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking high-end experiences.

LODGING Experts

Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Resorts Collection

• 59 ultra-luxury guest houses and suites, plus 30 contemporary residences, all with expansive ocean views

• Situated on a pristine white sand beach surrounded by tropical jungle

• Three cascading infinity pools descend to the beach, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Banderas

• Four distinct dining experiences, including Casamilpa, the signature restaurant showcasing coastal Mexican cuisine with an innovative twist

• Onda Spa, inspired by the healing properties of water and local traditional remedies, features outdoor treatment areas and a garden where guests can pick fresh herbs for their treatments

• Kids' club offering immersive experiences in Mexican culture and nature

• Curated adventures, including surfing at the resort's white sand beach break, hiking to hidden beaches, and whale-watching excursions

• Commitment to sustainability with eco-friendly practices and a sea turtle conservation program

• Opened in late 2022, bringing a fresh, contemporary luxury experience to Punta Mita

Susurros del Corazón, which means "Whispers of the Heart" in Spanish, offers a blend of authentic Mexican culture and modern luxury.

Its recent opening makes it one of the newest additions to Punta Mita's luxury resort scene, providing state-of-the-art amenities alongside a deep connection to the local environment and traditions.

Other Lodging Options:

Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita

• Beachfront casitas with private plunge pools

• Five-star dining options, including the beachfront Bahía by Richard Sandoval

• Apuane Spa offering indigenous-inspired treatments

The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort

• Mediterranean-inspired villa accommodations

• Signature St. Regis Butler Service

• Three infinity pools and two Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses

Conrad Punta de Mita

• Modern Pacific Mexican design

• Seven world-class restaurants and bars

• Unique “temazcal” ceremonies at the Conrad Spa

For FOODIE Experts Only

Punta Mita's culinary scene blends local flavors with international flair. Here are some must-try dining experiences:

Sufi Ocean Club Restaurant

• Oceanfront fine dining with a Mediterranean twist

• Fresh, locally sourced seafood and organic produce from nearby farms

• Signature dishes include grilled octopus with black garlic aioli and lobster risotto with saffron

• Spectacular sunset views over Banderas Bay

• Weekly guest chef program featuring international culinary stars

Tuna Blanca by Chef Thierry Blouet

• Gourmet Mexican cuisine with French influences by renowned Chef Thierry Blouet

• Intimate beachfront setting with just 12 tables, ensuring a personalized experience

• Extensive wine list featuring Mexican and international selections, with expert sommelier guidance

• Tasting menu changes nightly based on the freshest available ingredients

• Don't miss the signature dish: local tuna prepared three ways

Si Señor Beach Restaurant

• Authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients

• Stunning beachfront location in Punta de Mita with panoramic views of Banderas Bay

• Signature dishes include zarandeado-style fish (grilled with a special marinade) and seafood molcajete

• Extensive tequila and mezcal selection, featuring artisanal and small-batch producers

• Vibrant, colorful decor reflecting traditional Mexican art and culture

• Live mariachi performances on select evenings

• Popular "feet in the sand" dining experience during sunset hours

• Cooking classes and tequila tastings available upon request

🗓️ Upcoming Luxury Events in Punta Mita

• Punta Mita Gourmet & Golf Classic: April 2025 (exact dates TBA)

  • Four-day event featuring celebrity chefs, golf tournaments, and wine tastings

  • Exclusive dinners prepared by Michelin-starred chefs in unique locations around Punta Mita

  • Golf clinics with PGA pros on the area's world-class courses

• Punta Mita Beach Festival: July 2025 (exact dates TBA)

  • Celebration of beach culture with surfing competitions, paddleboard races, and beach volleyball tournaments

  • Beachfront yoga and fitness classes led by international wellness experts

  • Nightly beach parties featuring top DJs and local musicians

• Day of the Dead Celebrations: October 31 - November 2, 2024

  • Traditional altar displays and “ofrendas” (offers to the dead) throughout Punta Mita resorts

  • Special menus featuring traditional Day of the Dead dishes and creative cocktails

  • Cultural workshops on sugar skull decorating and papel picado (Mexican paper-cutting art)

  • Candlelit procession and beachfront ceremony honoring ancestors

📨 SHARE The Expert’s Guild Weekly

Send this newsletter to your colleagues and friends. Let them enjoy The Guild Weekly, too!

If you received this Newsletter from a friend and would like to subscribe, please do so here: