Cities of gold: required reading for the traveler in Mexico

Latin Trade, Feb, 2005

BEST MEETING SPACE

The Centro Internacional de Negocios Monterrey (Cintermex) can handle a meeting tot as few as eight or up to a convention of more than 2,000. Now 13 years in operation, it's at the entrance of the Parque Fundidora and is home to events like the International Book Fair and meetings held by the United Nations, which has hosted two conventions here. It's also an ideal place for a small meeting. Surrounded by two of the city's best hotels, Cintermex has an 18,320 square-meter exposition area. [52] (81) 8369-6900. www.cintermex.com.mx

BEST SHOPPING

Considered by some to be the best shopping center in northern Mexico, Plaza Fiesta San Agustin has department stores, theaters, restaurants, cafes, a supermarket, bars and specialty shops like jewelers, toys, Mexican handicrafts and sports, among others. In one of metropolitan Monterrey's most exclusive areas, here you'll find retailers like Sears, JCPenney, Liverpool and Zara. Plaza Fiesta San Agustin is close to two of the city's four main hotels, 40 minutes from the international airport and 25 minutes from downtown Monterrey. [52] (81) 8363-2380.

BEST COFFEE

Sanborns is a popular spot to meet with friends, especially in the mornings for coffee or breakfast. Lunch recommendations include the enchiladas, chiles rellenos and the cochinita pibil. The chain is owned by Grupo Carso, part of the empire run by Mexican magnate Carlos Slim. In addition to being a cafe and restaurant, Sanborns offers goods and services like photo developing, jewelry and toys. Depending on size and location, some of the stores are open 24 hours. [52] (81) 8123-0048. www.sanborns.com.mx

BEST WEEKEND ESCAPE

Just 30 kilometers from Monterrey is a thickly forested area surrounded by mountains. In the eastern Sierra Madre mountains, it's known as the Cola de Caballo (horse's tail) due to its magnificent waterfalls. It's a favorite among locals on the weekends, although there are spots few can reach. Here's where you'll find Mexico's highest bungee jump and travel agencies that provide tours along various routes, kayaking expeditions, parachuting, horseback riding, mountain biking and trips to the El Chipitin falls. A bungee jump costs a little more than US$30, while a kayak trip is $75.