A few years back, my sister and I enjoyed an idyllic respite at Rio Caliente Hot Springs Spa Resort near Guadalajara. You can read about it here. Having lived in Mexico on-and-of for the past decade, I adore the place. So, my heart ached today when I read this newsletter (see below) from Rio Caliente owner, Caroline Durston. I hope you’ll read it with an open mind and share it with a generous heart.
Vaya con Diós,
Ellen
Reflection of Different Times
Our longstanding friends and guests will recognise that this newsletter is a bit different than the ones we usually send you - a reflection of how different and challenging things are these days.
We all have been affected in some way by the economic downturn. Then in early April there was widespread media coverage of drug wars at the US/Mexico border. And since April 23, you’ve all been hearing the swine flu stories.
Like the drug war coverage, it is now being reported that there was an overreaction to the swine flu which may be no more severe than seasonal influenza. The Economist reported on May 4 that “the overreaction extends to an unfair vilification of Mexico, which in fact has handled this outbreak in a laudably transparent and competent manner.” The impact of this overreaction may cost the Mexican economy something like $5 billion.
We know there certainly has been an impact on Rio Caliente. We’ve experienced unprecedented numbers of cancellations and the lowest occupancy levels we’ve ever had at this time of year, creating uncertainty and stress for our Mexican staff. The guests who are here, however, have been enjoying absolute peace and tranquility and a research biologist from California told us in early May that she couldn’t think of a safer place to be at this time.
So we decided to write and remind you that a wise person once said the only thing we have to fear is fear itself. We are in one of the safest parts of Mexico, inside a State Forest, nowhere near the border problems or the declining incidents of swine flu. We are safe, affordable, simple and friendly - and we take care of you. We would never knowingly put the safety of our guests or our staff at risk.
We are asking for your support. Visit our Spa Vacation Specials page to see the Discount Rates and the Special Summer Offer we have for you.
Spread the Message and share your thoughts, particularly if you have been here in recent weeks. Become a friend on our Facebook page. Visit our Forum or Blog on our Stay Connected page.
Or perhaps, just start thinking now about your fall or winter restorative vacation at Rio Caliente. We look forward to welcoming you once again.
Thank you for your support,
Caroline, Alba, Igor & all your staff at Rio Caliente
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".