With a history dating back to the fourteenth century, Mexico City blends indigenous pre-Hispanic roots with colonial architecture and Spanish-baroque influences. This unique fusion, crafted from local materials like cantera and tezontle, inspires artists and architects alike. Iconic structures like Diego Rivera's Anahuacalli Museum and Juan O'Gorman's Cave House proudly embody the city's rich history. Today, Mexico City serves as a vibrant backdrop for renowned filmmakers such as Alejandro González Iñárritu, Alfonso Cuarón, and Michel Franco. Discover a city of wonders, where history and creativity come to life.
Santo Domingo, the vibrant capital of the Dominican Republic, stands as both the nation's cultural epicenter and a living testament to its rich history. Hailed as the oldest European city in the New World, its meticulously preserved Zona Colonial invites visitors to journey through time, with architectural treasures dating back to the 1500s. Yet Santo Domingo is far more than a historical landmark-it is a cosmopolitan haven where culinary delights, artistic expression, sun-kissed beaches, and electrifying entertainment converge effortlessly.
This city of endless marvels proudly claims its heritage as the birthplace of fashion icon Oscar de la Renta and as a filming location for cinematic masterpieces such as The Godfather Part II. It is a place where modernity meets tradition, and where the ocean's embrace is never far away. Along the famed Malecón, the city's waterfront boulevard, the island's spirit flows freely, connecting its people to the rhythm of the sea.
In this stunning portrait of Santo Domingo, texts by David Collado, the visionary Minister of Tourism for the Dominican Republic, and cultural connoisseur Rosanna Rivera, provide an insider's exploration of this extraordinary destination. Complemented by the evocative photography of Aline Coquelle, the book captures not only the city's timeless beauty but also the essence of its most illustrious residents, whose creativity and passion continue to shape Santo Domingo into the dynamic cultural jewel it is today.
Hotel Esencia, one of the world's top 25 hotels, sits on a 50-acre property along Mexico's Riviera Maya between Tulum and Playa del Carmen. This estate features a pristine white-sand beach and a lush backdrop of jungle. Known for its understated luxury, the hotel combines white concrete with bright primary colors, filled with unique designer furniture like Charlotte Perriand chairs and Picasso ceramics. Kevin Wendle, the entertainment mogul who owns the hotel, infuses it with personal style and attention to detail. Authored by Melinda Stevens, the hotel's book showcases its serene beauty, sea turtle nesting grounds, and vibrant wildlife. Guests can enjoy the 12,000-square-foot mansion with a speakeasy, Beefbar Esencia, and what might be Mexico's best margaritas. Hotel Esencia's signature hospitality is defined by surprises and unforgettable experiences, ensuring guests are constantly enchanted and inspired.
