A treasure collection of hotels and restaurants in the state of Michoacan , Mexico . Each has its own distinct character. Ranging from luxury to moderate, and from city-center to country inn, they all share essential criteria of quality, regional authenticity and “ sense of place” .

The “place” is Michoacan, a region in central Mexico with its own colorful culture ? the living legacy of the indigenous Purepechas (also known as Tarascans), innately artistic since ancient times.

Then, in the 16th century, came the Spaniards and their colonization. The “fusion” of civilizations in Michoacan produced an enchantingly rich culture where art is a way of life. Touring the countless colonial towns and quaint craft villages, each with its own artistic specialty, is essential to the Michoacan experience.

Member hotels offer private guided excursions for amazing sightseeing and fabulous shopping opportunities -- ceramics, pottery, copperware, embroidery, artwork, even guitars and crafted furniture.

At least ten days, combining stays in Tesoros member hotels in different locales, would be recommended for a memorable “introductory” experience.

Michoacan is also famed for the winter migration of millions of monarch butterflies , as well as the mystical Day of the Dead ceremonies in November. (Note: UNESCO has proclaimed Day of the Dead as an “intangible” treasure; 2004 is the first year it is celebrated as such.)

The state capital, Morelia , known as “the aristocrat of colonial cities” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies midway between Mexico City and Guadalajara and is connected to both cities by a modern toll superhighway.

Additionally, a new toll highway connects Morelia with the tropical beach resort destination of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo on the Pacific Coast , just a scenic three-hour drive (picturesque Patzcuaro and Uruapan are en route). This colonial/beach link creates opportunities for open-jaw air itineraries: fly to MLM then return from ZIH.