The desire to see and do as much as possible has resulted in record bookings for Abercrombie & Kent’s “Wings Over the World Journeys” that explore a region more in depth while traveling aboard private air. The latest addition to A&K’s lineup is “Wings Over Mexico,” a journey that showcases the cultural diversity and scenery found south of the border, beyond the beaches and all-inclusive resorts. Visitors can learn about the ancient civilizations that shaped contemporary Mexico and helped make it one of the most popular culinary destinations in the world.
“This new journey is an invitation to explore Mexico’s diverse culture and rich history, from bustling Mexico City to the imposing Mayan ruins of Palenque and Chichen Itza and the verdant rural landscapes of Colima and Oaxaca, where indigenous roots are still strong” explains Beth Sherer, director of product development and operations, A&K. “Privately chartered air makes it possible to fly directly from each destination to the next to include sites that range widely across the country.”
The canals of Xochimilco are a vestige of the Aztec agricultural technique of using “chinampas” to create arable land for farming in swampy areas, which made it possible to sustain a large population. Teotihuacan is home to one of the world’s largest pyramids; the base of The Pyramid of the Sun is virtually identical in size to that of the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt. Palenque is considered by experts to be the most impressive Mayan site as it contains exemplary architecture, sculpture and bas-relief carvings. Chichen Itza is Mexico’s most famous Mayan archaeological site, an important place of worship and rituals. Nearby sinkholes (cenotes) provided fresh water. Natural wonders include the Piedra Herrada Sanctuary in the highland forests, where monarch butterflies from the U.S. and Canada migrate each winter.
Designed for no more than 12 guests, “Wings Over Mexico” features exclusive experiences, including a private after-hours opening of Frida Kahlo House, with dinner in the courtyard. There is a private opening of the National Museum of Anthropology, home to an extensive collection of pre-Columbian Mexican art and ethnographic exhibits about Mexico’s present-day indigenous groups. An after-hours visit to the Museum and ex-convent of Santo Domingo showcases one of the finest examples of Dominican architecture in Mexico. Guests can discover why the city of Oaxaca is known as the “Land of the Seven Moles” during a hands-on cooking demonstration with a renowned local chef.
Wings Over Mexico offers a choice of Design Your Day experiences in Merida. Guests can explore the Celestun Biosphere Reserve, a mangrove environment that is home to migrating flamingos in the winter months. They can also visit the lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Uxmal and Kabah or indulge in a spa treatment at Chable Yucatan.
A&K’s “Wings Over the World” journeys combine luxury small-group travel with the convenience of privately chartered air. Luxurious accommodations reflect the distinctive character of each destination, from the contemporary Four Seasons Mexico City to a boutique hotel set in the former 16th-century Convent of Santa Catalina de Siena and a hacienda in the evergreen foothills of the Volcan de Colima.
Guests can savor local cuisine with a balance between planned group meals and mealtimes left unscheduled, besides opportunities to dine a la carte. They will also have access to exclusive offerings such as Traveller’s Valet, complimentary mid-journey laundry service, Travelling Bell Boy service to transfer luggage from hotel to hotel, and Breakfast in Bed, offering guests two leisurely mornings with in-room continental breakfast. Private arrival and departure transfers are always included, regardless of date of arrival.
Prices start from $27,995 for 12 days. “Wings Over the World” journeys are also available for Africa, Europe, South America, the Middle East and New Zealand.
For more information, visit abercrombiekent.com.
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