Casa de Sierra Nevada and Sazon Cooking School, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Cool terraces and gardens, bubbling fountains, stone arches, and traditional wooden doors… The elegance and charm of Colonial Mexico beckons at Casa de Sierra Nevada. The luxurious boutique hotel, acquired by Orient-Express Hotels, Trains and Cruises in February, is a historical landmark, dating from 1580. The hotel is comprised of a collection of colonial mansions centered around cool, flowering courtyards, and consists of 33 deluxe rooms and suites. Highlighting the distinctive original architecture, these rooms are each unique, boasting rich art and antiques, exquisite fabrics, tiled bathrooms, working fireplaces, and private terraces overlooking San Miguel. Recognized as one of the finest hotels in the world, Casa de Sierra Nevada has an impressive list of accolades: Conde Nast Traveler World's Best Awards and Gold List, Zagat's 2006 Top International Hotels, Andrew Harper's Hideaway Report, Travel and Leisure T500, Robb Report, NYT…(whew).

The hotel is reason enough to visit this magnificent city, steeped in rich history and culture. But Orient Express has just announced an exciting new enticement: the acquisition of the Sazón Cooking School, which will now be part of the hotel. Guests learn to cook with the masters of Mexican cuisine, with a variety of programs ranging from one hour cooking classes on local specialties to week-long culinary packages. In addition to featuring regional culinary talent, the hotel will also include a "Toque Travels" series, featuring renowned chefs from around the world, such as Chef Raymond Blanc of Orient-Express's Michelin two star, Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons in Oxfordshire, England.