Isabel Goldsmith-Patiño

Isabel Goldsmith-Patiño

Las Alamandas is the must-go destination for those seeking stripped down, natural luxury. Who better to create a paradise like this than
Isabel Goldsmith-Patiño, the granddaughter of the man who founded Las Hadas in Manzanillo, where Bo Derek filmed the movie 10. This little piece of paradise on a stretch of 1,500 acres with private beaches and intimate villas has hosted Brad Pitt, Jennifer Aniston, Meryl Streep, Robert DeNiro (who designed their state-of-the-art gym) and Sting (who was said to write songs there) is situated between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo. She has homes all around the world in London, Beverly Hills, Paris and Mexico. Find out how this travel destination scion’s vision was unique for Las Alamandas, her most cherished memories at the resort and her favorite travel destinations - oh, and how this heiress gets her shopping fix.

FACTIO MAGAZINE: How was your vision different than your grandfather’s for the destination?
ISABEL GOLDSMITH-PATIÑO: My grandfather had envisioned a resort Mecca, not unlike those found in abundance throughout such places as Cancun and Cabo San Lucas. At Las Alamandas, most of what is now a protected natural coastline, would have been concrete and golf course greens. My goal was to create an unspoiled natural haven for those seeking escape from the construction and crowding of man.

What is one of your most cherished memories at the resort?
I love Christmastime at Las Alamandas. There is something about the spirit of the season that combines with the magic of Las Alamandas for memories that are truly special. I especially enjoy this time getting to know families and couples who spend the holidays with us.

You are obviously a lover of travel! With living in different locations around the world, tell us what you love about each of these places?
I find much to be enjoyed everywhere I go, spending time with friends, shopping, exploring new creative ideas for the hotel, and did I mention shopping? Clearly, the weather in Los Angeles and Mexico is divine. London is such a long part of my heritage that I suppose I remain a bit nostalgic about it. Paris, well, is Paris, need I say more? Los Angeles allows me to be outdoors a great deal and I can easily travel to favorite spots in Arizona and other desert areas. Mexico is my place to relax and rejuvenate; and my mission has been to provide such a sanctuary to discerning travelers in search of the same.

When in Mexico, what are some of your favorite little towns?
Oaxaca and San Miguel de Allende

What are some of your other favorite travel destinations?
Marrakech is a great exotic destination and I love discovering spas.

What are the top three items that you pack when traveling?
Books, a great thriller is wonderful, a cashmere shawl to wrap myself in while on the plane and my ipod that my publicist gave me to void out screaming babies.

What is the best business advice that anyone has ever given you?
YOU must be the CEO of your own company.

How would you best describe your personal style?
Casual comfort with, I hope, a knowing sensibility.

Do you think money and style go hand in hand, or can style never be bought?
Having money doesn’t exactly mean you have taste. If you have money and no style, certainly you can afford the guidance of someone who does. But in the end, you might be back to square one because who’s the final judge?

What are people surprised to learn about you?
I’m practically unbeatable in table tennis.

Where do you like to shop worldwide?
I am a relapsing member of eBay Anonymous.
-Melissa Maynard