Via WSJ - "Airlines Fill a Void in Mexico"

It's true, airlines are flocking to cater to travelers and their increasing demand for flights to Mexico. The collapse of Mexicana de Aviacíon has the "biggest U.S. and Mexican airlines and a crop of low-fare carriers from south of the border are rushing to fill the void."

Photo credit: dreamstime.com

Mexico Automotive Manufacturing Market Continuing to Attract Global Investments

The Sacramento Bee - Mexico's manufacturing sector is continuing to see an increase in investment coming from overseas.

"Mexico is fast becoming a world leader in the manufacturing business, according to a recent Dow Jones Newswires story. In the first half of 2011, Mexico's production of automobiles has continued at a record pace resulting from significant demand from the Latin American market. Mexican output of cars and light trucks in the January-June period rose 14 percent to 1.23 million vehicles -- a record for the first half of any year in history, according to the Mexican Automobile Industry Association (AMIA).

Japanese automobile corporation Nissan Motor Company is referring to Mexico as "one of its fast-growing markets" this year. Nissan recently announced a US$1,050 million investment for the production of new models in its plant in Aguascalientes."

Find out what all the big league automakers have to say about making the production move to Mexico and the business benefits Mexico has to offer to their companies.

How Much FDI Did Mexico Receive in the First Half of 2011?

If you guessed that Mexico's FDI this first half of the year was around $10.6 billion, you'd be spot on.

Market Watch breaks down the amount of Mexico's FDI into new investment, reinvestment of profits and inter-company accounts. The main sectors in Mexico receiving foreign direct investment were manufacturing, financial services and commerce.

Photo credit: mexico.vg 

Mexico and Costa Rica Relationship Grows as Two-Day Talk Ends

Mexico's President Felipe Calderón met with Costa Rica's President Laura Chinchilla to discuss trade, security, and investment during two-day talks. Mexico's president signed an extradition treaty to improve international crime cooperation.

Photo credit: ticotimes.net

"In 2010, trade between Mexico and Costa Rica exceeded $2.7 billion, up from $551 million in 2001. Each of the last 10 years, trade between Costa Rica and Mexico has increased at a rate of 29.6 percent per year.

According to the Central Bank of Costa Rica, Mexican investment in Costa Rica surpassed $9.2 million in 2010. Mexico’s largest investments in Costa Rica are in the tourism, services, trade and industrial sector."

Read more about the Costa Rica and Mexico's relationship here.

Mexico's Economy Looking to Open Up Thanks to The Government

The Council on Foreign Relations blog recently posted about Mexico's economy in "2011: The Year that Mexico Opens its Economy?" Three branches of Mexico's government have taken steps in the past few months to open up Mexico's economy for freer markets and evening out the economic playing field. Her post touches upon the government's recent actions to fine companies for monopolistic behavior and other ways the Mexican government is cracking down on monopolies in Mexico.

What is Business Meeting Etiquette in Mexico?

From Kwintessential's "Mexico - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette" section are some
business meeting etiquette tips:

• "Business appointments are required and should be made at least 2 weeks in advance. Reconfirm the appointment one week before the meeting.
• Reconfirm the meeting again once you arrive in Mexico and make sure that the secretary of the person you will be meeting knows how to contact you.
• It is important that you arrive on time for meetings, although your Mexican business associates may be up to 30 minutes late.
• Do not appear irritated if this occurs as people often run behind schedule.
• Meetings may be postponed with little advance warning.
• Initial meetings are formal.
• Have all written material available in both English and Spanish.
• Agendas are not common. If they are given, they are not always followed."

This can differ depending what company you are working with in Mexico, can any business travelers share their experiences with the above business meeting etiquette?

Travel Tips on How to Have a Tech-Free Vacation

You're wired all the time at work and during travel for work - how about when trying to unwind when you're traveling for just yourself? Still have trouble getting tech-free? From IBTraveler are tips for a tech-free getaway, places to get unplugged, and the side effects of tech withdrawal.

Photo credit: http://au.ibtimes.com

NY Times Opinion Piece "How to Sleep on a Plane"

It's interesting to hear different travelers' experiences of how they sleep on a plane. For me, I'm usually able to sleep right away because of the added stress of traveling for business. I also tune into some ambient music right after I settle into my seat. Check out this opinion piece of "How to Sleep on a Plane" by the New York Times. What's especially interesting to me is some of the comments from frequent business travelers. Anyone have any surefire techniques that allow them to get shut-eye on their flight?

Photo credit: munfitnessblog.com

Business Travel Tip: Packing Important Documents

Instead of wrangling through your briefcase or bag, try this business travel tip for packing your carry-on bag and "include a brightly colored, plastic envelope to hold your passport and other important documents. You can also save time by having enough currency exchanged into the denomination of the country you are going to for payment of taxis, car services, and tips."

Forecast for FDI in Mexico Raised to $20 Billion This Year

It doesn't come as a surprise that Bloomberg just posted the article "Mexico Raises Forecast for Direct Investment 11% to $20 Billion for 2011." With its proximity to the US, growing expertise in the manufacturing and engineering sector, and low wages - Mexico should not be overlooked as a source for FDI. Learn what other companies have been investing in Mexico's economy this year.

Tip on Booking a Flight for Travelers Near the US-Mexico Border

From Wiki Travelis a travel tip on flying and using domestic vs international flights to get to your destination. "As domestic flights are usually significantly cheaper than international flights for the same distance travelled, if you are in a city near an international border and wish to get to a destination in a neighbouring country, you can usually save quite a bit by crossing the border by land and flying from that country. For example, if you're in San Diego and need to get to Mexico City, you can cross the border to Tijuana by land and take a flight from Tijuana."

I wrote a post not too long ago with detailed tips on getting to Tijuana, Mexico for business travelers from San Diego, CA.

Tips on Eating and Staying Healthy When Traveling to Mexico

If you're traveling to a new place, it's normal to want to explore and eat the local food, however the last thing you need is to get sick on a business trip.

From Travel Dudes, a community of travelers offering their tips, gives advice on "How to Stay Healthy and Parasite Free in Mexico", and what travelers should do in situations where water, salsa, fruits & veggies, and fish are involved. Bottled water is your friend here!

Photo credit: culturemap.com

Nextel Mexico and China Development Bank (CDB) Sign Agreement to the Tune of a $375 Million Loan

From PR Newswire, "Nextel Mexico will receive up to $375 million in financing from CDB [China Development Bank] to assist in the deployment of its 3G network in Mexico."

Photo credit: mexico.vg

Business Meeting Etiquette Tips in Mexico

From Kwintessential are meeting etiquette tips for doing business in Mexico:

• When greeting in social situations, women pat each other on the right forearm or shoulder, rather than shake hands.
• Men shake hands until they know someone well, at which time they progress to the more traditional hug and back slapping.
• Wait until invited before using a Mexican's first name.

Any other travelers want to share their business culture experiences? Do you agree or disagree with the tips above?

Where to Stay When on Business Travel to Moneterrey, Mexico?

With Monterrey, Mexico continuing to be an integral hub for the manufacturing sector in Mexico, its growth is attracting more and more business travelers to the area.  It's important to know where to stay in Monterrey. Consider this TripAdvisor reviewed hotel in Monterrey for business travel located close to the airport.

Mexico's Economy Will Weather US Negative Outlook

Moody's Investor Services maintains that "Mexico's economy is well-placed to withstand shocks and its credit rating is not affected by a negative outlook in the United States." Read more about Mexico's economy standing assessment here.

What Airplane Models to Fly and Avoid for Business Travel

From Frommers, take a look at this article detailing what airplanes travelers should fly and avoid for their travels. Travelers can find out what airplane models are flown by which airlines on Seat Guru, here is information about Aeromexico's airplane models.

Mexican Airline to Offer Low-Cost International Nonstop Service to US

Mexican Airline, VivaAerobus, is expanding operations in flying nonstop from Mexico to the US. Read more from Mexico Today about this low-cost international nonstop service between San Antonio and Monterrey and the potential destinations on the horizon for VivaAerobus. Great news for those business travelers on a budget.

Photo credit: mynetbizz.com

Mexico Gaining Manufacturing Business from New Zealand Companies

In times of economic troubles, New Zealand company Fisher & Paykel Healthcare is looking to save $20 annually by expanding manufacturing operations to Mexico. With its expertise in the manufacturing sector and availability as a low cost alternative for other countries, Mexico is building its global reputation in manufacturing.

Photo credit: nzherald.co.nz

Perfect Spa Destination for Business Travelers to Baja California

While on a business trip to Baja Califrnia, why not treat yourself to one of the top destination spas according to Travel and Leisure? Mexico Today features this wonderful look at Mexico's Rancho La Puerta, which opened doors in 1940, and the services offered at your fingertips. A world-class spa with a longstanding reputation for excellence and pampering in a gorgeous location- what more could you ask for on your business travels to Mexico?

Mexico Wine Industry Showing Growth

Move over Chile and Argentina, Mexico is starting to show promise in the wine industry. In the last 5 years, Mexican wine production has increased close to 40 percent.

Photo credit: mexicovacationtravels.com

Mobile Virtual Card Technology Coming to Mexico

Net 1, "provider of secure and affordable transaction channels between formal business and un-banked and under-banked individuals", is increasing its business presence in South America. The company signed a deal with a Citigroup subsidiary (Banamex, a Mexico-based bank) to provide mobile virtual card technology in Mexico.

AOL Travel - "Five good business habits that suffer when you travel"

It's easy to try and cram as many things on your agenda into as little time as possible.  AOL Travel reminds business travelers of "Five good business habits that suffer when you travel", take a look and see if you've fallen victim to business travel constrictions and how to keep yourself grounded and not overexerted.

US Plastics Manufacturer Acquired Plant in Mexico

More companies are looking to expand to Mexico these days thanks to Mexico's strength and increasing capabilities in the manufacturing sector. Dickten Masch Plastics, a full-service plastics company with thermoplastics and thermoset molding capabilities, has announced its acquisition of a plastics plant in Monterrey, Mexico.

Leading Pharmaceutical Company Expands to Mexico City

From Business Wire - Eisai, one of the leading global pharmaceutical companies, has announced that the company is establishing a subsidiary company in Mexico City. Eisai's commercial focus is on neurology, gastrointestinal disorders and oncology/critical care.

Eisai President of New Markets and ASEAN, Hajime Shimizu stated, “The establishment of this new company enables Eisai to introduce many of its products to people living in Mexico who currently do not have access to these medicines, and this is essential to Eisai’s human health care (hhc) mission to satisfy unmet medical needs and contribute to the health and well-being of people worldwide.” Read more about this new business to Mexico here.

Why You Should Lather on that Sunscreen When Traveling to Mexico

Mexico Expo reminds travelers that they may be underestimating the sun's strength when on business travel to Mexico. Even if you're not visiting Cancun, take extra caution with your skin as you may still receive more exposure to the sun than you're used to.

The amount of sun travelers receive, "in Mexico is almost certainly more than you normally receive, for three different reasons. Numero uno... you will probably be spending more time outdoors while on vacation in Mexico than you normally do at home. Numero dos...even if you spend a fair amount of time outdoors at home, the sun exposure you get is probably not tropical sun. The sun becomes more intense as you head towards the equator, and most of Mexico is in the tropics. Numero tres...is our friend Mr. Reflection. Sun reflecting off the sand and off the water can double the amount of sun you are exposed to, making the need for adequate sunscreen even more important."

Even if you're not planning to be on the beach, remember to keep your travels to Mexico a seamless one & lather up on that sunscreen when traveling to sunny places.

How to Tip Appropriately When Traveling to Mexico

Tipping can be a headache as it's not always certain what the proper etiquette is for different services. This ambiguity is amplified when having to travel for business to another country.

MexicoExpo offers great advice on tipping practices in Mexico:

"Unlike the United States where tipping is often 20% of the bill amount, tipping in Mexico is often done on a smaller scale. Generally speaking, a tip of 10% is standard in Mexico, although there are times when tipping more or less may be justified.

Porters that help carry your bag from the airport to your transportation, or to your hotel room also deserve a tip. Giving a dollar for 2 or 3 bags is acceptable, maybe a little more if you have a lot of luggage."

Those are just a few tidbits of tipping etiquette in Mexico, find out more at MexicoExpo.

Photo credit: mexico.com

Next Mexico Travel Destination for Airline Virgin America to Expand to?

Virgin America recognizes the increase in demand of travelers seeking out Mexico as a popular travel destination. The airline plans to add another Mexico destination to its flight lineup.

Virgin America President and CEO David Cush says, “We’ve seen a strong demand for travel to our Mexican destinations...and we’re looking forward to giving our fliers another world-class leisure option.”

Visit Mexico Today to read more about Virgin America's potential Mexico travel destination.

Photo credit: Mexico Today

Honda Motor Company to Build a New Manufacturing Plant in Mexico

From Mexico Today, Honda Motor company is set to invest 20 billion yen or 260 million dollars to build a new car plant in Mexico, which will join an existing Honda plant in central Mexico.

Photo credit: Mexico Today

Free New, User-Friendly Cancun Travel Guide App Directly from Cancun

This newly launched app, Cancun Mobile Guide, is a must need travel app for anyone traveling to Cancun. All business travelers, including the very last-minute travelers, have the opportunity to maneuver Cancun at the touch of his/her phone. Visit Mexico Today to find out more about the wealth of travel information the Cancun app possesses. The mobile guide was released by the Cancun Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) to point Cancun travelers in the right direction.

Photo credit: mexicotoday.org

What Shipping Carrier to Use When Shipping to Mexico?

If you haven't looked at Mexipreneur's blog for news in the Mexican business world and tips on doing business in Mexico, be sure to add her to your bookmarks now.

A good way to cut down on your businss travel luggage is to send your business meeting materials to the hotel beforehand. An informative post by Mexipreneur lays out the different shipping carrier options you can use for shipments to Mexico (DHL vs. FedEx vs. USPS vs. Estafeta).

Aeromexico to Receive $65 Million in Investment from Delta Air

According to MarketWatch, "Delta Air Lines Inc. will invest $65 million for an equity stake in Mexican carrier Grupo Aeromexico SAB, the chief executives of the airlines said Wednesday."

Delta Chief Executive Richard Anderson commented that "expansion in Mexico and South America offers one of the best opportunities in the world, he said. 'The Mexican economy is doing quite well,' he added."

Photo credit: flickr.com/photos/72602812@N00

Video: First Look at GE CEO Testimonial About Why to Do Business in Mexico

General Electric (GE) is a multinational company that operates through four segments: Energy, Technology Infrastructure, Capital Finance and Consumer & Industrial. GE currently employs 11,000 people in Mexico.

The President and CEO of GE Global Growth and Operations, John Rice, speaks to the growth potential of Mexico and what factors make the country attractive for GE and other companies to invest and do business in Mexico. Don't miss out on the first testimonial in the "Mexico: Driving the Americas Forward" series from Mexico Today.

Mexico Today is a part of an initiative to provide the latest information on the Mexico's economy, tourism, culture, environment, Mexico and the World, and more. Visit the site today for up-to-date news on Mexico. This program shines a light on the Mexico that its people experience every day.

Tips for Doing Business in Mexico

When traveling to Mexico on business it's important to know what the business culture is.

Kwintessential provides some sound guidance for your business travel to Mexico:
"Mexican society and business are highly stratified and vertically structured. Mexicans emphasize hierarchical relationships and people respect authority and look to those above them for guidance and decision-making." Since rank is important, those above you in rank must always be treated with respect. Thus, you should always know which person is in charge which allows you to direct questions and feedback to the right authority and someone who will delegate orders.

Photo credit: sanmiguelwritersconference.wordpress.com

Question for Business Travelers: Does Being a Well-Dressed Flier Get You More Perks?

I stumbled upon USA Today's article "Fly Guy: Do well-dressed fliers get more perks?" and it posed an interesting question, is it worth it to be dressed to impress while traveling by air?
Usually when taking a flight , I wear a business suit in order to cut down on luggage weight. When I've taken economy class, only once have I been bumped up to business class. I'd like to pose the question to other travelers - what are your experiences with dressing up (or down) for flights?

Photo credit: USA Today

"Hipmunk": a New Travel Search Site to Take Note of

At Hipmunk, a new travel search site, presents flight results in a visual "timeline" that allows travelers to select the best flight for them at a glance.

Photo credit: Hipmunk

Mexico Strengthens Ties with Yet Another Country in Bringing Flights to Mexico

Mexico Today has the scoop on what Asian country is now partnering with Mexico to begin flights. Mexico has seen an increase in signed air transportation agreements from other countries within just the past few months. Amidst the sensationalist media news about Mexico, these increased partnerships indicate other countries' faith in investing in Mexico's economy and travel market.

Photo credit: Mexico Today

Delta Implements New 72-hour SkyMiles Policy

The Ticket, a news blog for frequent travelers, comments on Delta's new 72-hour SkyMiles policy:

"Starting August 15, if you want to change or cancel a SkyMiles award flight within 72 hours of departure, your miles will be forfeited.  You read that right: If you must change or cancel your award flight within 72 hours of your trip, you now forfeit the miles. Poof! Gone! Buh-bye…"

Read the rest of the article to find out Delta's motivation in changing the policy and voice your concerns directly with them.

Via Springwise "Video Interviewing Platform Simplifies Recruitment Process"

Springwise has a knack for recognizing the newest of entrepreneurial ideas and has spotlighted a "video interviewing platform" that "simplifies recruitment process." California-based Ovia offers a solution that streamlines this ordeal for the employer and the candidate. How much time ends up being devoted to scheduling interview times, only to be rescheduled? Now apply that to companies working and hiring people abroad, not to mention scheduling a time that works for people in different time zones. This program frees up valuable time that can be utilized for other parts of your business and the recruitment process. For a small-medium business with operations in Mexico, this could make an even greater impact.

Mexico City Gem for Business Dinners or Late Night Eats

Mexico City can serve up some international eats and do it exceptionally well.

The semi-formal bistro Au Pied de Cochon is located in the Polanco nighborhood and right around the block from the W Hotel Mexico City. The restaurant is open 24 hours and offers late night eats and Mexican celeb sightings. It serves well as a place to have a leisurely dinners and business dinners. Try the steak tartate and pomme frites, absolutely delicious. Read other business traveler's positive reviews on TripAdvisor.

Photo credit: Au Pied de Cochon

Tips for Faster Travel Through Airport Security

I like to dress very simply for travel through the airport as it's more comfortable and always gets me through the airport as quickly as possible.

Some relevant travel tips for faster travel through airport security from the How to Have it All blog include:
-Having your laptop in an easy to access spot since it always has to be taken out separately for scanning. (I always forget this and have to reach deep into the bottom of my bag for this)
-Wear shoes that you can easily slip on and off.

Take a look at her blog post for more tips for easily navigating through airport security.

Photo credit: atulsworld.files.wordpress.com 

Consumer Good Giant Unilever to Build State of the Art Plant in Mexico

Unilver, a multinational corporation that owns many of the world's consumer product brands in foods, beverages, cleaning agents and personal care products, has decided to build a state-of-the-art plant in Mexico.

Visit Mexico Today to find out what consumer goods will be produced, the amount of investment being poured into the project, and the implication of this business in the North America and South America region.

Photo credit: investmentpropertiesmexico.com

Mexican Consumers Confidence at its Highest Point in 3 Years

Read more at Reuters to get the numbers behind the highest consumer confidence in Mexicans in 3 years time.Though Mexico's economy is closely tied with the US's economy, this rebound displays Mexico's ability to stand on its own. Mexico, Latin America's second-largest economy, has stood alone among its peers by not increasing interest rates since the global recovery took hold.

Photo credit: www.mexico.vg

Travel Tip for Carrying Cash While in Mexico

When traveling to Mexico, you should have on hand smaller denomination currency. US dollars are generally accepted in Mexico however it may be hard for vendors to break a large bill such as a $20 bill. Yes, you heard right - with a $20 US bill, you may be out of luck when trying to purchase items or may have a harder time paying for a taxi ride. If you don't plan on leaving the hotel while on business in Mexico, this may not be as much of an issue, but it's a tip that could help you move more quickly in your business travels.

Anyone else have any tips for carrying cash or pesos in Mexico?

Mexico and Columbia Sign Telecoms Partnership Agreement

This move by Mexico and Columbia in signing an agreement for cooperation in the telecoms and information technology sectors, allows for cooperation regarding network security, and the sharing of information and materials within the sector. Mexico and Colombia remain the second and fourth largest wireless markets in the region and have 93.2 million and 44.4 million mobile subscribers respectively as of March 2011.

Photo credit: telecomsinsight.com

Businesses Still Expanding Operations in Mexico

You can count Ocean Mist Farms, the largest grower of fresh Artichokes, as one of the companies still expanding into Mexico for growth opportunities. The company most recently "completed the upgrade and expansion of its Baja Mist production facility in order to increase Mexico-grown product offerings; the company celebrated the opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony May 23 at the facility located in the Mexicali Valley of Mexico."

What are the Current Airline Baggage Fees?

Airfarewatchdog has a chart of compiled the airline baggage fees - the chart is constantly updated and is recent as of June 7, 2011. The chart is divided by airline and lists fees for first checked bag, second checked bag, additional bags, overweight bags, and oversized bags.

I've been lucky in choosing flights that didn't have airline baggage fees, but now it seems that every airline has one nowadays. On my last trip, I made the mistake of not checking AirTran's baggage fee and kicked myself for not packing lighter. Check before booking or packing!

Photo credit: airfarewatchdog.com

Your New Website for Lower Airfare Alerts and Deals

Airfarewatchdog is a low airfare alert site that covers all airlines and lists promo code airfares and airline-site-only deals. What makes this different from other low airfare alerts is that Airfarewatchdog lists low fares that are found and verified by humans.

The Airfare Watchdog alerts allow the traveler to pick his/her cities and subscribe to email alerts when the airfare matches the price travelers are willing to pay. I've been able to take advantage of a few lower-cost fares to Mexico, so check it out!

Replace Your Backpack With Smarter Business Travel Luggage

It might be time to ditch that backpack and look into some new luggage for your business travels. There are more options than ever now that cater to the needs of business travelers on the go. Frankly, I'd lean towards this bag - the Chrome Backbone Messenger Pack. The bag is designed by bike gear maker Chrome, but the items have found a place among American business travelers. The messenger pack works as a backpack, is cleanable, and available in this sleek design with a variety of colors.

Anyone else have business travel bag suggestions?

Photo credit: chromebagsstore.com

Photo credit: chromebagsstore.com

Mexico Receives Business Consideration from Toyota

Toyota Motor Corporation, one of the world’s largest automotive distributors, currently has one automobile manufacturing plant in Mexico that opened in 2004.

Read more at Mexico Today for the possibilities of where and when Toyota is expanding its business in Mexico.

Photo credit: moneyaccumulator.com

Student Finds New Business Opportunity While Studying Abroad in Yucatan, Mexico

Via NJ.com - When studying abroad in Mexico, student Christian Wagner "sparked an idea that has become an experiment in international business and a boon to the Yucatan economy."

Drawing on Mexico's culture, he obtains hammocks made in Yucatan and then crafts chairs that use the handcrafted hammocks. If the business is successful, he may continue selling these chairs. Take a look at the article for some inspiration, what a great idea! I hope he sees some success in his initiative, and if not, he's already gained valuable business skills that cannot be taught.

Mexico's Newest Business Opportunity: Biofuel

If you missed it the first time, Aeromexico successfully charted a long haul commercial flight from Mexico City to Madrid using their own biofuel. Jatropha is the crop behind the biofuel and is cultivated in areas not suitable for growing food. The plant is native to Central America and places in Mexico.

Director General of Airports and Auxiliary Services (ASA), Gilberto Lopez Meyer speaks to the business goals of Mexico in the biofuel industry, "This will help boost the industry. By the year 2015 we are aiming to power 1 per cent of the flights on biofuel and by 2020 15 per cent. This is a strategic goal.”

The Mexican government aims to be the leading supplier of airline biofuel in the area. Read more at the Financial Times to learn about the great potential for this biofuel industry and Mexico's position within it.

Mexico's newest business opportunity - Jatropha plant
Photo source: domesticfuel.com

Alaska Airlines Has 'Low Fare Fiesta' Sale on All Mexico Flights Today

From PR Newswire, Alaska Airlines has launched a 'Low Fare Fiesta' sale on all their Mexico flights today. Take advantage my friends!

Via Mexico Today "Mexico Makes History Through Biofuel Development for Transcontinental Commercial Flights"

Mexico, Aeromexico, and Boeing have succeeded in debuting the first transcontinental commercial flight powered by bio-combustible fuel.

"Boeing and Airports and Auxiliary Services (ASA) have provided biofuels for Aeromexico flights from Mexico City to Madrid that produces 12 percent less carbon dioxide per seat than its competitors and will accomodate over 250 passengers." Go to Mexico Today for more information on this breakthrough flying with a smaller carbon footprint. It's great to see that Mexico is placing priority on becoming more environmentally friendly - add this to the list of Mexico business opportunities.

Tip For Travelers Who Miss the 30-minute Cut-off at the Airport

It's a terrible thing to rush to the airport and find out that you've missed the cut off mark for boarding, especially knowing that you could make that plane.

Photo source: images.inmagine.com

Airlines with the Best Wines in Business Class

The 2010 annual Business Traveller Cellars in the Sky awards gives recognition to those airlines who serve the best business and first class wines. It's great to kick back with a nice glass of wine, especially with the hectic life of traveling. Qantas, flag carrier of Australia, swept for quite a few awards. Find out more airlines that were top contenders.

More than 75 airlines were contacted and 36 airlines stepped up to the plate to enter their wines.
Here are a few categories below:

• Best Business Class White
• Best Business Class Red
• Best Business Class Sparkling
• Best Business Class Cellar
• Consistency of Wines Across Business and First Class

Top 5 Hotel Groups with Free Wi-Fi Access

I wrote about a post linking to the top 5 hotels with the most expensive wireless. From Business Insider, here's the other side of the coin: top 5 hotels with free wireless access, music to my ears! With some of these hotels you have to be a member to access the free wireless, but joining is free - hence, wireless is free.

Top 5 Hotel Groups with Most Expensive Wireless Access

You plunk down your laptop on a table in the hotel lobby and try to connect to the wireless. At this point, a prompt pops up asking for a credit card payment to access the wireless. In some hotels, the wireless fee may be a small one to pay, but at these hotels, wireless comes at an expensive price. No matter whether you're traveling for a big company vs a small business, these wireless costs add up and you should know what business travel expenses to expect.

Photo Source: HotelChatter

Carlos Slim Launches $6.5 Billion Bid for Teléfonos de Mexico

Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim bid $6.5 billion to purchase the 40% of Teléfonos de México (Telmex) that was not already owned by his América Móvil telecoms company. Currently, Telmex is Mexico's biggest landline provider and buying this would strengthen Mr. Slim's ability to offer consumers a bundle of mobile, fixed-line and broadband services.

Read more about this big move from the Financial Times.

Last Minute Souvenir Shopping at Mexico City Airport

You know the deal - you travel to Mexico on business and promise to get souvenirs for your significant other/kids/parents/friends/crazy aunt/coworker and lo and behold you arrive at the airport to depart Mexico City without a souvenir in hand. What's a business traveler to do?

Midwesterner in Mexico dedicated a post to shopping in the Mexico City Airport - take a look at her great post to see what you can grab before your flight departure. I have to say, I'm a fan of the chicken-shaped egg baskets she spotted.

Photo Source: mexconnect.com

Looking to Extend that Cancun Stay While on Business? Living Social Deal Has You Covered

This LivingSocial deal for a "Five-Day, Four-Night All-Inclusive Stay for Two in a Lagoon View ($760) or Ocean View ($800)" at the Hotel Gran Meliá Cancún, a AAA Four Diamond resort in Cancun, Mexico, shaves off 58% of the original cost. One amenity the hotel has thrown in is a "25-Minute Couples' Massage and Water Ritual Treatment" - sounds great for a business traveler who has been running from place to place in Mexico.