When Mexico calls, the only thing you can do is answer! Upon receiving an invitation to explore Ixtapa, Mexico, co-blogger Megyn Bell and I didn’t even think twice about accepting.  Sometimes when you think too much about something, you miss the opportunity, and discovering the luxuriously magical Capella Ixtapa was not a chance we were willing to miss!

Ixtapa Zihuatanejo is a tale of two towns, Ixtapa being the more luxurious of the two where high end resorts welcome travelers from around the world, and Zihuatanejo the quaint fishing village where locals catch their own lunch and barter at the local markets. Both balance each other in a harmony that can only exist on the west coast of Mexico.

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After meeting with our lovely hostess Luz, who’s “light” welcomed us at the airport, we were escorted to our suite, number 64 (the hotel has a total of 59 suites), where we happily slipped out of our travel outfits and into our bikinis.

It takes a minute to let go of life back in the city and allow your eyes to take in the beauty of the pelicans and fishing boats floating effortlessly past the horizon. To warn you though dear readers, once you let yourself let go, you might not ever want to go back.

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Capella Ixtapa is one of 5 current properties owned by Capella Hotels,  aside from Singapore, Dusseldorf, Saint Lucia and Washington DC. Bangkok and Rivera Maya locations are coming soon, and we can’t wait to explore those in the future.

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Capella Ixtapa rests on a rocky hillside by the sea, and I say “rests” for a reason. The large open rooms welcome weary travelers with secluded patios and private pools stocked to the brim with luscious towels, robes and other amenities. If beauty is in the details, there’s nothing like an ornate flower arrangement on your bed to leave you feeling that you’re exactly where you belong. No small thing goes overlooked by the staff at this hotel, not even a tiny flower petal.

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There’s no better place to kick off your shoes, pour a glass of tequila and soak in the sunshine. The refined yet laid back luxury and “tranqulidad” of Ixtapa is bottled up and served just the way you like it with a stamp that is exclusively Capella. Cheers! Welcome to wave after delicious wave of relaxation, hospitality and pure perfection.

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Our schedule was thoughtfully organized with just the right amount of structured activities and free time. After a glorious swim and a little photo session, first on the agenda was a trip to the spectacular infinity pool to try some cocktails and ceviche, our first of many amazing dishes crafted by the hotel’s Chef, Miguel Baltazar.

The Honey Moon margaritas were absolutely addicting, with just the perfect amount of spice. And don’t even get us started on the Yellowtail Tuna and Pineapple Ceviche paired with the best home-made chips I’ve ever eaten. If only we could take a bite out of these photos…

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Next up… bike ride!

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The hotel has a selection of beach cruisers, helmets and everything a guest might need to enjoy a bike ride through the tropical Mexican landscape.

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Playa Linda beach is just a short ride from the hotel, where it’s easy to get up close and witness beautiful birds and crocodiles in their natural habitat.

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Next adventure? Dinner! There are more than enough delightful choices when it comes to dining at Capella Ixtapa, and A Mares Restaurant is the ultimate culinary destination.

Every day Chef Miguel Baltazar welcomes the fresh catches that are brought in by the hotels private fishermen and prepares the seafood and other delicacies for guests to enjoy.

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Ready to find out what we did on Day 2? Be sure to check back soon!

Salud amigos! To Capella Ixtapa!

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Written by Jacqueline Chambers

Jacqueline Chambers

Jacqueline Chambers is the founder of TGIFguide. She uses her innate skills as a natural “connector” to serve businesses, brands and individuals in the LA area and beyond.