We hear the same comment about once a week “We are looking for an unspoiled getaway. We want the Caribbean and Mexico as it was before the high-rises and all-inclusive resorts dotted the landscape. We want the unique yet with all the luxuries intact.” We suggest a few opportunities “south of the border….of Mexico”.

As the chill sets in and we prepare for Christmas, our neighbors in Central America are offering many opportunities to escape the snow and cold. From a resort in Belize accessible by boat to an estate in Panama to a flat in Costa Rica, we have options from the Caribbean to the Pacific available through the winter season. Even if you missed the booking window for Christmas, it’s going to be a long winter (which by the way officially began on Monday, Dec. 21st) so do not delay because as we enter the ice-box up north, in Central America, it’s just heating up.

While Mexican lodging opportunities range from the 1-star dives to opulent waterfront vacation rental villas, airfare has always been a concern. However, with the H1N1 scare of last winter/spring and airlines looking to fill seats, airfare from the United States to Mexico is down 25% from last fall to $392 round trip. Our estate managers in Mexico have been most proactive concerning rates and enhanced opportunities for their deluxe and luxury vacation rentals.

On the Riviera Maya, our partners at Akumal Villas are offering discounts on new villa bookings from 5% to 35% on select villa rentals for 5+ nights (excluding Christmas and New Years).

On the Pacific Ocean, our partners at Lifestyle Villas are offering a 10% discount of Christmas and New Year’s stays if booked prior to October 31st (next week) Offer valid on new reservations only, must be booked through Lifestyle Villas. Discount on nightly rate, stays between Dec 19, 2009 and Jan 2, 2010, 7-night minimum stay required. Mention code: NOEL09