 |
 |
   |
Hacienda Summer- Fall- Winter 2009 - 2010 Blogger2009 Events 2010 Events During many events there is usually room for non-package guests! Hacienda de los Santos Resort Welcome to the Hacienda Blogger. It changes often, so please keep checking back for added events. Whether you spend a few hours or several days at the Hacienda, the experience will be memorable-an escape from ringing cell phones and multi-tasking. It is not necessary to be at the Hacienda during an event as Alamos and the Hacienda offer just what you need. Getting married or just getting away, Alamos is the place for romance. Alamos’s timeless qualities and scenic beauty are the perfect setting for romance---whether yours is the love of a lifetime or just beginning to bloom. The historic city has an intimate scale with adobe walls and secluded gardens, while endless skies and scarlet sunsets offer a glimpse of eternity. Perhaps it’s the slower pace of life that inspire couples to appreciate the moment---and one another. You are sure to leave with the memories of a lifetime. 'COPPER CANYON LUXURY GUIDED TOURS'
An experience you won't soon forget!
only $2,695.00 per couple (all inclusive) Expedition Dates: Next Expedition is February 8, 2010 email, jnswick@aol.com Click here for more details Intensive Guitar Lessons
Passionate about the guitar, Ramon Alcantar began teaching himself at the age of five. At the age of fifteen he became a member of La Estudiantina, a group of young men who play the guitar and dress in the traditional 18th century Spanish costumes. He was a dedicated member for eleven years and the last four years was the Director. Ramon speaks both English and Spanish. He spent four years studying music at the University in Hermosillo, where he composed lyrics for many of his own songs. He returned to Alamos to spend the next nine years as the first high school music teacher in the history of the village. Many of his students excelled and won high level music contests in Mexico. His quartet. Los Hacendados, have made three irresistible CD’s. They play nightly at Hacienda de Los Santos. Ramon has opened a music school in Alamos, very close to the Hacienda, and is looking forward to teaching adults of all ages and levels. The Academia is offering classical and popular guitar lessons. For Hacienda de los Santos guests, Ramon is offering intensive 3 hours per day classes for 5 days. His Academia program is for the beginner to the advanced guitar student. He seeks dedicated students who want to learn and raise their skills. Cost per 15 hour intensive session is $260.00 (USD). Class times are based upon availability, Sundays excluded. Click here for more information on Santiago's
Come and celebrate Mexican Independence 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Chef Rene’s Pozole $ 10.00 usd. per person + tax & gratuity
Best "Dove Hunting" in Mexico The Hacienda is happy to line you up with a professional guide. Guide will provide shotguns, shells, Suburban etc. Chef Rene Duarte and staff are happy to grill the dove for your group to enjoy. For more information: JNSwick@aol.com.
October, 2009 - May, 2010
This is posted on behalf of the "Alas de Alamos" bird watching club. "Alas de Alamos" has been formed by a group of local people with a strong interest and commitment to the fantastic bird life that is here in southern Sonora. Our group has been working and studying diligently for more than a year both in the field and in the classroom: honing bird identification skills, learning about local natural and human history, how to manage a group and improving basic English language abilities. Starting this Saturday, October 17th "Alas de Alamos" will be offering a three-hour bird watching walk to different areas around Alamos. This Saturday, we will meet under the Palapa at "El Pedregal" (David and Jennifer Mackay's place) at 6:30 a.m. From there, we'll do a short and easy walks on the trails of the property. This is a walk that is suitable for all abilities. In the past 4 years we have found 170 species of birds on the property of "El Pedregal", so there should be plenty to see and learn about! The cost for the walk is 100 pesos per person and all funds stay within the organization to continue the project. Birding with Las Alas de Álamos Come join us for a wonderful walk in the Sierra! The local Alamos bird club Las Alas de Álamos will offer a 2-3 hour outing for bird watchers of all levels, particularly beginners or people with budding interest! The bird walks start Saturday October 17th and run every Saturday through May 1st. Professionally trained local residents will lead the bird walks. All of the guides have completed the Sonoran Joint Venture/Pronatura Bird Guide Training Course and are participating in the Northwest Mexico Bird Tourism Project. They have excelled in the training program and have basic to very good English skills and excellent knowledge of the amazing birds and natural history of the surrounding area. Price includes services of one or two excellent local guides (depending on group size), use of a telescope for optimal bird viewing in the field, a bird species checklist, natural and human history insight and interpretation, and paid entrance fee to the Sierra de Álamos Reserve when applicable. Start times will vary depending on location to be visited and level of current bird activity. Bird walks will dovetail with the start of the weekly home tours so that visitors to town can easily do both activities if they choose. In fact, we will often start and end in the Plaza so that it is possible to participate in both activities. Reservations are requested to help us determine transportation and weekly locations, although not required if you decide to come at the last minute. A limited number of binoculars are available for use at no charge, so please call ahead to make sure they are still available. Bird locally! It’s possible to see nearly 400 species of birds in southern Sonora while experiencing fantastic landscapes and vistas. This is a great way to promote and support a very environmentally friendly tourism-based economy on a very local level, while getting to know the Álamos area in a very special way! Plus, your fees will be used to purchase equipment for the guides, fund outings that will broaden the guides’ knowledge, and provide the guides with a stipend for their time and commitment. One goal is to grow this program so that we can offer longer day trips as well as overnight trips to other locations in southern Sonora. In Álamos, over the last year we have been working to train a team of local residents to be birding and natural history guides. As part of their training, these volunteer guides participated in an initial three-day training workshop where they gained basic skills about bird identification, group management, guiding, and other important details. Since then they have participated in weekly birding outings to continue to develop their skills as birders and guides. They have also volunteered five hours per month on different conservation and environmental education projects, contributing to the bigger picture of conservation in the community. Help Las Alas de Álamos take wing! This sounds fun for Hacienda guests as well as very worthwhile. We would be happy to make Hacienda guest reservations and give you directions or a ride to the location of the day.
October 28 - November 1, 2009
New pilots are encouraged to attend! For a sample itinerary, click here for the 2009 program of events below. A $400.00 deposit required for all pilot events, refundable more than 21 days prior to event, credit given for future stay more than 14 days prior to the event. Forfeiture of deposit if cancellation is two weeks, or less, prior to the event unless the reservation is filled by another party. October 2009 & March 2010 Complete Package rates $1,399 Guest Rooms USD per couple plus tax and optional Gratuity Contact JNSwick@aol.com to make your reservations.
October 29
$30 / person Enjoy two fabulous hours of beautiful performances by a professional ballet troupe of 40. The Fiesta Buffet consists of Mexican Food cooked over a mesquite fire:
Click here to view the flyer. Please reserve: 647-428-0222 or elviahacienda@hotmail.com.
November 1 - November 2, 2009
Sunday, Nov. 1st
Monday,Nov. 2nd
Contact JNSwick@aol.com to make your reservations. November 5 - 7, 2009
The AOPA Aviation Summit is in Tampa this year on November 5, 6 & 7. Please be sure to stop by our airplane in the static display area and say "Hello" to Ret. Admiral Bruce Boland & Jim Swickard. We will be offering our pilot's super value AOPA package for those attending this annual event. Planned route is Alamos to Louisiana to Tampa to Key West (over flying Cuban airspace) to Cozumel to Zacatecas to Alamos. Any "Pilotos" wanting to make the loop in their aircraft too, please contact Jim at jnswick@aol.com
November 20, 2009
In the Revolution of 1910-1917
The Mexican Revolution took place from 1910 to 1920. It was a "constitutionalist war", basically a fight between the have's and the have not's. Pretty much everyone has heard of its most famous heroes, Pancho Villa and Emilio Zapata. This is the U.S. version of the 4th of July This is a wonderful celebration starting with a parade that passes the front of the Hacienda. The portal is set with comfortable chairs for viewing. There is complimentary coffee and iced tea to enjoy as this delightful parade passes. Bring a camera to capture the day's activities. There are several Mexican events that are unique to the village of Alamos. Lots of dancing horses, horse races and music.
November 27, 2009
The Hacienda Thanksgiving Celebration is nearly as much fun as going to Grandma’s, maybe more……much more!!! Please be a part of the Hacienda family for this year's Thanksgiving Celebration. Menu
...a traditional sweet touch to end year's most anticipated meal You may choose to sit at the Community Table or reserve a table $32.00 US + tax & gratuity Please call 1-888-777-0164 for reservations.
Just imagine a candle lit procession, with soft guitar music, as Joseph leads a very pregnant and tired Mary through a barrio close to the Hacienda. The evening is crisp and they are refused entry at each stop. We follow along and feel their pain and disappointment. Then the huge 18th century two ton Hacienda doors open and they are lead to an authentic manager created by the Hacienda family. Many tears are shed on this journey as we finally "get it." The baby is born and the Celebration begins. Alamos is not about gifts.it's about feeling. And the feelings are shared by all, guests, locals and staff. It is in the air everywhere and you will know why you spent this Christmas at the Hacienda. Let this "experience" be your gift. The Hacienda Christmas Experience
All taxes and gratuities….$1,695.00 for one or two guests per Hacienda Guest Room Email jnswick@aol.com for reservations
2:00 p.m. December 5, Saturday Over America
Hacienda de los Santos Dinner and Show
This night promises to be one to remember. For the first time in public these two Sonoran favorite Musicians are joining forces to give us their best. Bring your Holiday guests, children are welcome. Chef Rene Durate will be presiding over the Mesquite Fire grilling hearty faire, which will be served as you enjoy this evening of fun.
$22.00 usd + tax and optional tip Includes Dinner and Show from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Please reserve Jamiehacienda@hotmail.com. The Hacienda de los Santos New Year's Eve Gala "2010" Well Drinks & House Wine Included
7:30 p.m. Los Hacendados and Cocktails (Black Tie Optional).
9:00 p.m. Be ready to party and play.
Get your Sweetie nearby as Mid-night approaches.
Menu
$90.00 per person* Reservations Necessary Please: 428-0222 or elviahacienda@hotmail.com. *Tax and 15% Gratuity will be added to the bill
The Hacienda New Year Experience December 30th, 31st, 1st with a departure on the 2nd On this “experience” you will have the time to rest up from the hectic Holidays at home and be pampered till you feel whole again. This is a time for you to rejuvenate and let your cares slip away as you experience the caring of the Hacienda family. Your wish is their desire. Have your breakfast in bed, dine by your fireplace or mingle with the other guests. You will need this rest to be ready for the Big Night. 7:30 p.m. Los Hacendados and Cocktails (Black Tie Optional).
At 9:00 p.m. be ready to party and play. The evening will pass quickly. You will find dancing to this group irresistible. They are full of fun surprises. Get your Sweetie nearby as Mid-night approaches. The Champagne will flow and we will Toast new friends and old. The dancing will get a bit more Romantic and at 1:00 a.m. Miniature Sandwiches will be served. Experience includes:
Hacienda Guestroom: $1,245.00*(USD) All New Year's Party attendees from 9:00 P.M. to 1:00 A.M. will receive their choice of complimentary domestic wines, domestic liquor and domestic beer. At midnight there will be complimentary Champagne, plus a light snack at 1:00 A.M. * All package room rates are Per Couple, + tax & optional gratuity.
The Current featured artist at Hacienda de los Santos Resort and Spa
Manfred Rapp was born in Germany in 1956 and began drawing at the age of four. By the time he was sixteen, he was serving an apprenticeship as a graphic artist at a West German firm. Upon completion of his apprenticeship he began his career as a graphic designer and illustrator for televised children’s stories, books, and designing performing arts posters for artist such as Diana Ross, Barry Manilow and Phil Collins. During this time, many study trips were made to Paris, Rome and Venice where he visited the famous art museums and began a study of the Great Masters. The many museum visits sparked a passion in Manfred for oil painting. At age twenty-four he enrolled in the Art Academy of Konstanz, where he studied from 1980 to 1986 under the close guidance of renowned Czechoslovakian artist, Professor Karel Hodr. Manfred has the distinguished honor of being one of only three students in his class to receive a Masters Degree in Fine Art from the Academy. Manfred was greatly inspired by the French Impressionists. After many years of study and experimentation he has combined his own artistic visions in developing his unique style. Combining Impressionism with glazing techniques of the Old Masters his representational rural, urban and landscape scenes are rendered. Museum exhibitions of his work have been held at the International Museum of Contemporary Masters, Salon International 2006, San Antonio, Texas. The Art-East Museum, Balatonfured in 2004. The Ernst Museum, and City Hall of Budapest in 2003. Other exhibitions include numerous private gallery shows having been held in Germany, Italy and throughout the United States. Throughout the month of January, 2010 Manfred, will be doing a very special showing of his latest work, at the Hacienda. There will be a cocktail reception on the evening of January 2nd at 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at “Santiago’s” Bar & Grill at the Hacienda. The artist will be present.
For information on Manfred Rapp and his work, please contact:
Luxury Birding at
Hacienda de los Santos, Alamos
How about a unique birding experience that includes luxurious accommodations and fine dining? Does this sound like your kind of birding? If so, please join us on our Hacienda de los Santos trip to Alamos, January 8 - 17, 2010.
We have been offering trips here every year since 2002, and our clients have been delighted with the experience. There are a number of very small, very private, gourmet restaurants in Alamos that provide an unforgettable dining experience for our guests. And, of course, there are the birds!
Alamos lies at the northernmost boundary of tropical deciduous forest that extends all the way to Costa Rica. This unique habitat has been mostly destroyed, but the Alamos area maintains the largest intact portion. Many endemic birds, such as Elegant Quail, Russet-crowned Motmot, Purplish-backed Jay, Black-throated Magpie Jay, Sinaloa Wren, an d Happy Wren, make their homes in this habitat. As a bonus, we stop for the night at the San Carlos Plaza. All of our rooms have balconies overlooking the Sea of Cortez, and the beach is steps away. Birding here is quite interesting as well with Blue-footed and Brown Boobies, Heermann's Gulls, Costa's Hummingbirds and many others right outside our windows. Join us for a relaxed and comfortable birding trip that you won't soon forget. For more information on this fabulous tour please contact: webmaster@hilonesometours.com January 22nd-30th: 27th
A week long international festival of music held at various venues throughout town. Formal evening performances are held in the Palacio. This is an event named after the "Caruso" of Mexico, Dr. Alfonso Ortiz Tirado who was the most famous male opera singer in Mexico. The event is world class and is sponsored by the state and federal governments bringing musicians, dancers and performers from North and South America, Cuba and Europe. Special discounted rates will apply for those attending four or more days of the event. Jackets or informal attire is appropriate for all of the events.
Music Street Performance Art Route Conferences and book presentations Artistic workshops Event Schedule
For reservations and rates, please go to our Reservation and Package Link. 3rd Annual Alamos Silver Festival
Food, knowledgeable presentations, and above all, shopping! Come experience Alamos, Mexico and all theHacienda de los Santos Resort and Spa has to offer. Featuring Silver Artists:
'COPPER CANYON LUXURY GUIDED TOURS' An experience you won't soon forget!
only $2,695.00 per couple (all inclusive) Click here for more details Email jnswick@aol.com for reservations February 10 - 14, 2010
Click here for more information and schedule February 11 & 12, 2010 Santa Fe Weaving Gallery
February 12, 2010
$30 / person Enjoy two fabulous hours of beautiful performances by a professional ballet troupe of 40. The Fiesta Buffet consists of Mexican Food cooked over a mesquite fire:
Please reserve: 647-428-0222 or elviahacienda@hotmail.com. Spring Reunion of Club Pilotos de Mexico
For a sample itinerary, click here for the 2009 program of events below. A $400.00 deposit required for all pilot events, refundable more than 21 days prior to event, credit given for future stay more than 14 days prior to the event. Forfeiture of deposit if cancellation is two weeks, or less, prior to the event unless the reservation is filled by another party.
'COPPER CANYON LUXURY GUIDED TOURS' An experience you won't soon forget!
only $2,695.00 per couple (all inclusive) SOLD OUT! "Club Pilotos" Tour An experience you won't soon forget!
only $2,695.00 per couple (all inclusive) Click here for more details Email jnswick@aol.com for reservations August 5 - 9, 2010
( the lowest rates of the Year...available only to current Club Piloto members.....email Jim today at jnswick@aol.com for package details, sign-up before January 1, 2010 and receive a complimentary one hour Spa treatments for Two! No Deposits Required until June 1st. October 27 - October 31, 2010 (note: the itinerary below is the 2009, the 2010 will be announced one month prior to the 2010 event...use for planning purposes only, there will be different speakers, times, places, etc.)
New pilots are encouraged to attend! Tuesday, October 26th (Early Arrivals must Clear Customs prior to Alamos) NOTE TO ALL PILOTS…
Wednesday, October 27th (Day One) Due to security, we ask that no one enter the hangar or ramp area after dark or prior to 6:30 a.m. on Sunday.
1:00-3:00 p.m. Lunch at Café Agave, at your leisure (Included in package)
2:00 – 5:00 p.m. 6:15 P.M.
7:00 to 9:30 Dinner at the Sugar Mill 9:00 P.M. Blu-ray movie. WHAT TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME? Important…sign-up on Wednesday in Reception for Cooking School with Chefs’ Rene & Rosa (Thursday and Friday) with Mexican Cuisine specialties on Thursday and Deserts on Friday (no charge), seating is limited to 15. Sign-up required for Archery and Horseshoes on Saturday (no charge). Another great option is to relax in the Spa! Don’t forget to use your “Spa Bucks” toward a manicure, pedicure, facial or massage. Please check with Reception for the location of your spa appointments…..we have improved the experience for those wanting Manicures and Pedicures with our new location by the bridge…ask for directions. Massage is located in a new area also. The former Spa property is no longer part of Hacienda de los Santos and is operating as a seven bedroom B&B, “Posada Tacubaya” Reservation information is available in Reception also. This was created primarily for those with pets and children, as well as those driving to Alamos from within Mexico. It offers economical rates, off-street covered parking and is very pet friendly. Rates are in the $80-$100 range with Continental breakfast. Every morning, except Sunday, we will have a 7:00 a.m. walk with Jim. If you would like some coffee first, come to the Agave Café or Santiago's (check you itinerary each day for location) Different routes each day, wear walking shoes.. 1st day 30-40 minutes, city history walk, 2nd 45 minute cemetery walk, and Saturday a hike up the mountain of one hour and 15 minutes. Be sure to bring along your camera for a good shot of the village. Thursday, October 28th (Day 2) 7:00 a.m. Morning Walk leaves today only from “Santiago’s”, to the cemetery. Stay an extra day if you wish for “Day of the Dead” when the cemetery really becomes alive! November 2nd…. 7:00-10:00 a.m. Breakfast at the Agave Café. 10:00 a.m. Aviation film in the Theater. 10:00 a.m.Cooking with Chef Rosa, and her special desserts, in the Colonial Kitchen. Thursday Lunch, 12:00-1:30 P.M., Agave Cafe 2:00 Meeting for Pilots flying the Copper Canyon on Friday with Bruce Boland. Bruce will outline our route of flight on Friday, advise of communication procedures and provide other important information regarding this scenic flight. Attendance is required to make the group flight. After the briefing there will be a one hour film, “Pay-off in the Pacific” more great WWII footage from newsreels, government archives, etc. Thanks to Greg Herrick @ Historic Aviation……. Thursday evening…….6:00-9:30 P.M. Mexican Fiesta Buffet……. Entertainment this evening will be announced with your arrival packet located in your room.
Friday, October 29th 7:00 a.m. Morning walk leaves from the Agave Cafe. 7:00-10:00 a.m. Breakfast at the Agave Café 8:45 a.m. Copper Canyon Flight, meet at the front door by Reception, wheels-up at 0915. 10:00 a.m. This morning, Cooking Class with Chef Rene, Sonoran cooking at its best! 12:30 P.M. Lunch at ‘Santiago’s’ (both inside and on the portal for seating) 2:00 p.m. Hacienda Theater Guest Speaker(s), to be announced when you arrive. 5:00….Riders to the front door….horses are rarin’ to go to the Ranch! 5:30 p.m….All of the others will take horseless carriages to the ranch; meet in front of the hotel for the bus. This evening we will have a BBQ at the family ranch with live Cantina music. Belly up to the Palapa bar in your Levi’s and just enjoy an evening of music, more good food and the Sonoran stars and moon. 9:00 p.m….Return to Hacienda de los Santos (transportation provided) Saturday, October 30th 7:00 a.m. Morning Walk leaves today from “The Agave Café” and we head up the original El Camino Real which was the road used in 1775 for the trek to establish San Francisco. 7:00-10:00 a.m. Breakfast at the Agave Café 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. 9:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. Event to be announced. 10:30 a.m.-11:45 p.m. "Hang-out in the Hangar" 2:00 p.m. Guest Speaker(s) to be announced. 6:30 P.M. – 7:30 P.M (to be announced) 7:30 P.M.- 9:30 P.M., Dinner and Music to be announced Sunday, October 31st Sunday Morning….. 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Those flying direct to the U.S. must get a flight plan at the tower and see both Immigration and Customs prior to departing the runway. Officials will be available for flight plans at 8:00 a.m., those needing to leave from another point in Mexico may do so at daybreak without a written flightplan. The vans will be running beginning at 7:30 based upon your needs. Any departures prior to 8:00 a.m. should take care of any spa or bar bills on Saturday. If you would like to extend your stay by one or two days, just visit Reception to make your reservation. Add-on nights, before or after the Reunion, only $150.00, plus tax, for two with all meals included. October 2010 Package Rates Contact JNSwick@aol.com to make your reservations. Be Sure to Attend the AOPA Expo in Long Beach, California
Come and visit us in the Static Display
Just imagine a candle lit procession, with soft guitar music, as Joseph leads a very pregnant and tired Mary through a barrio close to the Hacienda. The evening is crisp and they are refused entry at each stop. We follow along and feel their pain and disappointment. Then the huge 18th century two ton Hacienda doors open and they are lead to an authentic manager created by the Hacienda family. Many tears are shed on this journey as we finally "get it." The baby is born and the Celebration begins. Alamos is not about gifts.it's about feeling. And the feelings are shared by all, guests, locals and staff. It is in the air everywhere and you will know why you spent this Christmas at the Hacienda. Let this "experience" be your gift. The Hacienda Christmas Experience
Click here to see a short video of our 2009 Posada Email jnswick@aol.com for reservations Home and Garden Tours
Located in the Sierra Madre foothills of southern Sonora, Mexico, Alamos is an architectural delight. Founded in the late 17th century, Alamos was a major silver mining center for Spain for more than 200 years. Mine owners accumulated great wealth and built lavish homes in the Spanish Colonial style. But by the beginning of the 20th century the mines were depleted. After the Mexican revolution the mansions were left to fall into ruins. In the 1940's and 50's, however, Alamos was rediscovered by visitors from north of the border who began to buy and restore some of the abandoned homes. This process has continued over the past half century until now Alamos has regained much of its original beauty and grandeur. It has been designated by the Mexican government as a "Pueblo Magico" and is being considered for World Heritage Site status. Since the early 1980s, members of the expatriate community of Alamos have opened their homes and gardens to the public for a small fee to benefit the local community. These funds were first used to establish a public library. After the state of Sonora took over responsibility for the library, the group began assisting local children with education. Now in its 26th year, Amigos de Educacion de Alamos provides financial support for nearly 300 students, most of whom would not be able to progress beyond the 6th grade without this aid. Critical support for this program comes in large part from these tours of homes and gardens in this historic community. Tours leave from the Church Plaza in front of the Museum every Saturday morning at 10:00 am from mid-October through April. Suggested donation is $10, or the peso equivalent. Larger donations are gratefully accepted. Amigos de Alamos is a registered tax-deductible non-profit charitable organization in the United States.
|
|
