Delta 2014 - (Page 44)

This colonial city is also a bustling business center with more than a few claims to fame. It's famous for its production of agricultural products and leather goods-hence the "Shoe Capital of the World" moniker bestowed upon it some years ago. Make sure you pencil in some shoe shopping, as well as time to visit its historic center. BEST PLACE TO STAY With comfortable and updated rooms, onsite restaurants and proximity to local attractions, Enterprise Inn is among the most popular in the city among business and leisure travelers alike. BEST NATURE EXPERIENCE Metropolitan Park features more than 740 acres of protected area for outdoor recreation and bonding with nature. It's a perfect spot for birdwatching, as hundreds of migratory species stop by throughout the year. Boat rides on the man-made lake (which has the ruins of a hacienda in its center), bike rentals and other activities are available-even trolley tours. Each fall, Leon makes headlines around the world when it hosts the International Hot Air Balloon Festival from the park. Make sure to hop on a bike-Leon is among the most bike-friendly cities in Latin America, with many paths available. BEST CULTURAL EXPERIENCE A walking tour of Leon reveals various monuments and notable buildings that are worth a stop. The city's Plaza de los Fundadores and its famous fountain with imposing bronze lions is a jumpingoff point from which to visit the Municipal Palace and its neoclassical facade, the Parish of San Sebastian and Martyrs' Square, ﬂanked on three sides by neoclassical archways. Not far is Our Lady of Light Basilica, which dates back to the middle of the 18th century. Leather goods are also part of the cultural experience in Leon. The Zona Piel, or Leather Zone, is the place to feast your eyes on shop after shop of footwear, bags and belts. If you have time, take a day or overnight trip to the city of Guanajuato and to San Miguel de Allende. BEST KEPT SECRET A guacamaya-a local sandwich ﬁlled with pork rinds and a special sauce. The Arch of Leon Los Cabos LOS CABOS LEON Leon Parasailing in Los Cabos The magic of the Sea of Cortez is enough incentive to head to Baja California Sur, but the beauty and creature comforts of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, sister towns connected by the Transpeninsular Highway, make a visit that much sweeter. Take in the famous Arch, get tickled by a spicy margarita at Medano Beach, book a spa treatment and go art gallery-hopping in San Jose, as this destination is all about fun and play. BEST PLACE TO STAY One&Only Palmilla, a celebrity favorite with its own yacht, beach concierge and 24hour butler service, is the place to be. Another top choice is the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort, which offers a full roster of activities ranging from tequila tastings to Spanish classes for the kids. Award-winning dining is a common trait-try Pitahayas at the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar, and Market at One&Only. BEST NATURE EXPERIENCE Take a boat ride along the Sea of Cortez to spot sea lions frolicking about, dolphins putting on a show and, during the winter, eight species of whale swimming in from Arctic waters. Go on an ATV or dirt bike adventure along mountain trails and desert dunes. Explore the underwater beauty of the Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park and its ancient coral reef from glass-bottomed kayaks or on a scuba jaunt. BEST CULTURAL EXPERIENCE Pencil in an additional day at sea to ﬁsh for marlin, tuna, yellowtail, dorado and other species, with expert guides and vessels available from two modern marinas. Keep a dorado for yourself, as there are a few "you catch it, we cook it" spots that will prepare it to your liking and serve it with a side of your favorite libation. Make sure you take in some afterhours culture, too-complete with rowdy college folk and the occasional celebrity-at the Giggling Marlin or El Squid Roe. BEST SPORTING LIFE Perfect your golf swing at more than a dozen championship courses designed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Phil Mickelson and others. BEST KEPT SECRET The weekend live music sessions at Hotel El Ganzo. 44 D38-D49.indd 44 12/20/13 11:26 AM

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Delta 2014

Editor's Notes
Hotel Desk: Aloft Hotels
Tour Talk: Swain Destinations
Uniworld's Queen Isabel
Disney Magic
Delta Air Lines Travel Guide 2014
Macau
Egypt Update
Scandinavia Exposed
B Hotels & Resorts
What's New in Las Vegas

Delta 2014