Top 10 Mexico/Central America/South America Hotels

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun
Beaten by Hurricane Wilma, Cancun’s Ritz didn’t just repair, it remade its appeal. Reopened in September 2006, the resort now boasts a half-million-dollar Culinary Center programmed with cooking classes, and wine and tequila tastings six days per week. The upgraded Kayantá Spa hones bikini bodies in an expanded fitness center while the added Cliff Drysdale Tennis Center drills the racquet set. A new seaside restaurant serves in 16 private and romantico cabanas. (800) 241-3333 or 011-52-998-881-0808, www.ritzcarlton.com

2. JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa
Another Wilma victim that sprang back to life this past year, the JW Marriott Cancun rebuilt infrastructure as well as amenities. The former now includes hurricane-resistant windows, while the latter spans flat-screen TVs in the guestrooms and new fitness facilities in the Mayan-themed spa. Re-establishing its beach, six spacious cabanas come with up to six sun beds, a private sundeck, and food and beverage service. (888) 813-2776 or 011-52-998-848-9600, www.jwmarriottcancun.com

3. Las Ventanas al Paraíso, A Rosewood Resort, Los Cabos
New spa suites and dedicated spa butlers mean never having to leave your quarters. Rent a Porsche Boxster when you do. Spied here: Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Anniston, Sandra Bullock. (888) 767-3966 or 011-52-624-144-2800, www.lasventanas.com

4. One&Only Palmilla, Los Cabos
Get a pedicure designed by the well-known Bastien Gonzalez, charter a 50-foot yacht, or nosh on spa cuisine from celeb chef Charlie Trotter, among new options here. (800) 637-2226 or 011-52-624-146-7000, www.oneandonlyresorts.com

5. Le Meridien Cancun Resort & Spa
Now run by Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Le Meridien Cancun does Mexico with European flair including seawater facials. 011-52-998-881-2200, www.cancun.lemeridien.com

6. Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires
A new Mediterranean restaurant, health club with outdoor swimming pool, and Inca-informed spa treatments update this Buenos Aires address. Sighted: Shakira, Bono. (800) 819-5053 or 011-54-11-4321-1200, www.fourseasons.com/buenosaires

7. Four Seasons Hotel Mexico, D.F.
An enlarged health club and spruced gardens create a sanctuary in the city, while super-fast WiFi upgrades plug you into the world beyond. (800) 819-5053 or 011-52-55-5230-1818, www.fourseasons.com/mexico

8. Copacabana Palace, Rio de Janeiro
Soon to open: a three-story, seven-room spa and the two historic, now refurbished, “casino rooms” for parties. (800) 237-1236 or 011-55-21-2548-7070, www.copacabanapalace.com.br

9. Las Brisas Acapulco
The company announced it will spend $60 million to update its seven properties in Mexico, including this pink pamperer in Acapulco. (800) 223-6800 or 011-52-744-469-6900, www.brisas.com.mx

10. CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resort
Reopened post-hurricane with storm-resistant windows, flat-screen TVs, and renovated gym, spa, playground, and restaurants. (888) 727-2347 or 011-52-998-881-2000, www.casamagnacancun.com    


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