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On February 1^st, 2024, for the first time, Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres, opened their doors to guests. I was there first hand to witness this. When I say first hand, I was literally the first guest to check-in to the resort. Here’s how it all played out…..

I was with some of our sales team at a different resort in the destination. When I saw I would be checking out the day one of the most highly anticipated resorts would be opening, I couldn’t pass up this opportunity. I had our agency’s preferred transportation company in the destination, Amstar, pick me up early so I could hopefully be the first guest on property. I did travel to opening day of Secrets Moxche in 2022, and I was the 6^th guest to check in. I had to beat my record and we did it!

Let me paint the picture for you.

We are pulling up to the resort and hanging out the window asking the security guards if anyone had arrived yet and then squealing.

When we got out of the transportation, we were met with a mariachi band, executive team, and so many more hotel employees. They played music, cheered, clapped…..it was like we were celebrities arriving for the Academy Awards.

We were invited to join for the ribbon cutting, which of course we said, yes. They passed out scissors with the resort engraved and all cut at the same time. We spent time with the social media team doing interviews of what we thought of the resort. We also did some great drone shots with the pool. We felt like real influencers. This was so eye opening on how much work goes into the Grand Opening day of a hotel. There were so many moving parts. The team did a great job.

Now was time to enjoy the resort. Let me tell you all about it. This is a large resort and they were supposed to open in December. They are doing a phase opening as there are a few things not quite open yet. The tune of this blog will be June. There will be 5 months without some things but there is still most things everyone will do especially for a resort that won't be at capacity right early on.

There were 3 amazing pools open. There is one more pool – the Jungle Pool – that will open by June. They are building a massive spa and gym. It’s going to be 2 stories. It sits in the back of the property. They are well underway but it will be June before guests can do hydrotherapy for example. They are offering massages and facials in some hotel rooms set up like spa cabins. We went and saw the set up and it’s a perfect set up in the meantime. The rooms even smell like you’re in the spa.

The resort will have a theatre by June 2024 as well as the popular Desires nightclub that you might have seen at other Secrets Resorts. Right now they are having nightly entertainment around the round bar. This will be the hub of people coming for a drink to hang out before dinner and sunset cocktails. It has a great atmosphere. The chairs were made by Mexican artists. Each of the chairs took 24 hours to make and were made in the state of Oaxaca.  The pillows were also made by artisans. The attention to detail at this resort is impressive. When we stayed they did a casino night, DJ, live band and Cirque type show. Each night they change it up. The butlers send out the schedule but there is also an App you can find the information on.

Our room we enjoyed was so spoiling. They put us in a Preferred Club Oceanfront Master Swim Out Suite. This room is so spacious and has a double balcony that connects to a wrap around shared pool with other swimouts. It faced straight onto the beach and ocean. The sunrise view was perfection. There’s a living room and bedroom, half bath and then large bathroom. It is a very open concept so not super ideal for more modest friends traveling together but we made it work. One amazing perk that was such a pleasant surprise for February travel is the swim out pool is heated. I’ve experienced some ice cold swim out rooms and this was perfection. We were also spoiled by our butler, Frank. He was assigned to us. He would send us the daily activities via Whatsapp. He also did things like help us with extra pillows or when you forgot your key and were locked out of your room (the hike to the lobby would be long in this category) and we also drew a fun bubble bath. He asked us what time and was there on time with a special tea oil that made it smell so good.

The rooms are pretty easy to figure out and I all of them face into the resort or straight onto the beach or ocean. The inside of the junior suites are all the same as far as the layout. There are a very limited number of rooms with 2 beds so just keep that in mind. This resort is more geared toward couples. The Preferred Club rooms have a tub on the balcony in addition to a more desirable location. The swimout rooms do not have the tub though.

One big question I have seen is if the Preferred Club level rooms are worth the extra cost. This is the resort group’s version of Club Level or Concierge Level at other hotels. To be perfectly honest I don’t think it is worth the extra cost at a lot of the resort group’s hotels. This one is one you will want to spring for. Preferred Club gives you access to the top pool. It’s a gorgeous infinity pool with cushy pool chairs and waitstaff ready to bring you frozen cocktails or food while you lounge. Another big perk of Preferred Club is the special beach club which is only for these guests. There’s going to be a beach bar and restaurant for the beach club and I know it will be the popular spot with upgraded chairs and service. The beach bar and restaurant are still under construction but by the looks of it will be finished before June. The Bali beds are also up for reservation specifically for Preferred Club guests. They are located in the PC beach club. The way they do the reservations is with the pool concierge and you need to do bottle service. The prices range from $150 - $250 depending on what kind of bottle you want and then this gives you the Bali bed for the day. They are set up for 2 people.

How was the food? This is always a question with a new resort. We had such a great food experience. The Market Café had all the typical fresh omelets, chilaquiles, and French toast anyone would be looking for. I would also like to give a shout out about the bacon. It was so good. I think we experience such blah bacon at most all inclusives and I was like, “Wow it’s just like restaurants at home!”  

The Grand Opening Day there were a total of 88 guests. They did not need all the restaurants open. They will all be open by the end of February 2024. We really enjoyed the Seaside Grill which is up by the pools with a great firepit for pre or post dinner hanging out. I had the Catch of the Day which was a Sea Bass. It had great flavor sitting on a yummy sweet potato mash. Another food shout out needs to go to the spinach dip appetizer. It comes with wonton chips and we all couldn’t stop talking about it. The other restaurant open for Grand Opening was El Patio. This is their Mexican restaurant and you also can get a really good filet. The filet was the favorite here as well as the corn soup. El Patio also has a Mezcal and Tequila cellar which can be used for private dinners. It has such a cool atmosphere.

One unique dining experience I was able to have with my co-worker Becky was at the Chef’s Table. This experience is at an additional cost but oh my goodness please do this if you have time. You are taken in the back to the kitchen where there is a special table with a window into the kitchen. This is a wine pairing meal and when you book they will go over the options of wine which will dictate the cost. The chef came out and explained about the food and a sommelier spoke of the Mexican wine he paired. The lava cake had a spice sauce with it that I am still thinking about. We all kept saying we couldn’t believe how good it was.

We loved the resort and are already planning a trip back. The resort is set on such a nice stretch of beach in Costa Mujeres. You can see the island of Isla Mujeres so it seems the island is blocking the sargassum. I know it’s mother nature but the resort had such perfect turquoise water and white sand beach that I know is what so many people are looking for.

We would love to help you plan your vacation to Secrets Playa Blanca

We took 3 kids under 12 to Japan for Thanksgiving 2023. I would like to start off with saying my kid’s are very use to travel. They are use to long flights so this wasn’t a far fetched idea for my family. We did not do an escorted tour and explored on our own. It’s very navigable but his blog is going to give you tips and tricks for traveling with your family to Japan!

Our family loves theme parks so of course we had to hit up Universal Studios in Osaka, Disneyland and DisneySea in Tokyo. Here’s what I thought about the 3 parks:

Universal Studios Japan –
Our hotel was in Kyoto and Universal Studios is in Osaka. This is such an easy train ride. There are trains leaving all the time from Kyoto so it was so easy. There is just 1 train change from the main train station in Kyoto and then the train takes you right to CityWalk. It couldn’t be closer.

Make sure to not pick a local train and then it just takes about 30 minutes.
I was so thankful for the Premiere Access pass you can purchase in advance. There are many different levels and we chose the top tier one that gave the most rides. They do it differently than in Florida or California. We had specific times we had to go to each ride. You are going to want to purchase this as early as you know what day you are doing Universal. The more the day fills up then the later the ride time slots will be. With the jet lag we were all waking up early so staying up late was rough. The lines can be intense so please just spend the money on this. We bought it on Klook as the Universal Studios App wasn’t as US credit card friendly.


The kid’s really enjoyed the Minon Land and they even have banana flavored popcorn. The popcorn buckets in Japan at all the theme parks are so unique. They also have a single rider lines for some of the ones that are not included in Premiere Access such as the Flying Dinosaur. I think this one might be more intense than Velocicoaster in Orlando!

Tokyo DisneySea –
Ok – let me start out by saying I had extreme jet lag on this day so my opinion of this park might be more negative than normal.
This is the only park like this in all of the Disney parks. One thing that is different about the Asian parks is they are not owned by Disney.


Positives –
The employees here are very nice and accommodating. You know how the employees in Orlando will give your kids a hard time for hanging on the railings, etc. I travel with 3 rowdy boys and it was not like this at all. I’m not saying my kid’s should hang on the railings but I’m so use to telling them to stop and then having the employees tell them give minutes later. It was just different. The employees don’t all speak English. Some do but a lot of them it was very minimal.

It is so much less expensive! The YEN was not strong when I was there so that is part of this but the tickets were about $65 when I factor the exchange rate. I thought this was a pleasant surprise. The prices in the gift shops I found to be shockingly less. Example – they had unique Mickey ears. They averaged in cost to be about $15 USD instead of $40 in the USA. I found a pair of Belle inspired ears that I’ve never seen before.


The characters just mingle around. It was not uncommon to see fur characters walking around the park. Guests just walked up and got autographs and picture. There were a couple that you knew where they would be like Duffy who seems to be more popular than Mickey in Japan. I was in shock and then after some research realized he was kind of created in Japan. He originally was just “The Disney Bear” in 2002 at Walt Disney World. A couple years later he was brought to Tokyo DisneySea and they added a story for him to make sense with the location. People had Duffy swag like I’ve never seen swag before. It was neat.

Constructive Criticism –
I always feel bad critiquing as I know this is just my perspective. I am a spoiled traveler so my annoyances might not even be noticed by other people. It’s also just because it’s different than I am use to.

The lines at both Disney parks are insane. I was in everything. We arrived at the park early and the line for rope drop was intense. Everyone runs to the rides as the lines quickly went into hours long ques. Everyone told me to try the popcorn. The lines for the popcorn or any food was like 30+ minutes at every stand. I just don’t have this level of patience for things like popcorn.

If you are bringing picky American kids consider yourself warned about the food. Their version of kid meals is not the same as ours. One person explained that a lot of Japanese kids eat Japanese curry like our kids eat mac & cheese. My kids would have fought someone for some chicken strips. The pizza was pretty gross with what it looked like pieces of hot dogs on soggy pizza. We can always find something and it was a challenge here. We ended up ordering Dominos delivery when we got back to the hotel.


There is a an app to try and buy a version of Genie +. It’s not the same and you can’t purchase anything without being in the park. I was still taking it all in when we walked in and by the time I went to see about it then the times were pushed all the way to the evening. The rides were way too long to wait so we did just a few and skipped a lot. When I say long, I mean like 3 hours long. One of the most popular rides is Soarin’ and it’s just like the one at home but they fly over Tokyo in it as well.

Disneyland Tokyo –
I didn’t cover this so this would be a good time to mention I did not stay at one of the official Disney hotels. I am normally a huge snob of this. It just was not possible. They only open up bookings in a close window and they sell out so fast. I was super disappointed. It worked out though. We chose Hilton Tokyo Bay. We were able to get a family suite with bunk beds. They offered free breakfast and it was right next to the Disney Toy Story hotel. We walked across the street for the monorail. The monorail does have a small fee. You can buy it per ride or a day pass.

We spent a half day here. I wish I would have had time to spend a full day here but it just didn’t work in our schedule. The park is laid out very similarly to the other Disneylands. The entrance is all covered which would be so nice if the weather was bad.


I don’t want to repeat the same information again as I have very similar feedback on Disneyland as I do DisneySea. The lines are long. The souvenirs are inexpensive. The food is weird. The employees are super nice.

One thing that is different is the parade customs here. Most people had little mini tarps and they laid them out on the ground. They did this well before the parade and this saved their spot. I saw people displaying a variety of Disney plushies to also save their spot. I was like, “oh wow! Is this for real?” and yes it was. They even sold these little tarps at the shops.

One thing that was a little different is Tom Sawyers Island, “Critter Country” and “Westernland” which is their version of Frontierland. It was not a popular area so the kids had full run of this without crowds. It was done so well. They also have canoe rides you can do.


Other than theme parks –

Yes we traveled around Japan and not just to the theme parks. Here are our favorite things we did.

Checking our luggage for the train – I was so glad they had this service. It was something I have never experienced before. At each of our hotels they were able to check our luggage to our next city. We were able to take the train without buying the extra luggage type ticket. We also didn’t have to drag our bags through the train station. They do take 24 hours approximately so what we did is packed a small overnight bad and sent the luggage before we left. So for example, if we were going to Kyoto on Tuesday we sent out luggage when we left the hotel in Tokyo on Monday morning. We had our luggage in the hotel waiting for us when we got to the hotel in Kyoto the next day. It was only about $30 per bag. Best money we spent!

Ninja Training – In Kyoto we signed the kids up for a private ninja class. They rated this as their #1 thing they did while in Japan. The ninja master was so patient with the boys and he had their full attention. The studio was all tricked out with secret doors and walls. The boys were able to throw the ninja stars and blow darts. It was a little scary for me as mom but they were so into it. We came home with ninja costumes and they are still talking about this day.


Sumo Lunch – We did such a quick trip to Japan that I was trying to make all the things happen. We were not traveling during Sumo tournament season but this was a great taste. This lunch experience included 2 retired sumo wrestlers who were very entertaining. They did a match while we ate a traditional Japanese meal. They then invited the kids to dress up in a sumo costume and challenge the wrestlers. It was great fun. This is located in Tokyo and we were able to take the subway to the restaurant.

Private drivers – I am a big fan of hiring private drivers for touring days. This gives so much flexibility to be able to do exactly what you want to do. We could stay for as little or as long as we wanted. The private drivers had example itineraries or we could do our own list. This is something I recommend having us set up for you when you travel.

Shibuya Crossing – This was my 11 year old’s request to see. We had a private driver in Tokyo and he was like, “of course!” This is the busiest intersection in the world or so they claim. We had so much fun crossing the street back and forth. The people of Japan are so polite that it was still just no big deal. I don’t think this would be the case in other countries. I want to go back and grab a table at a restaurant and just watch this. It was captivating.


Bamboo Forrest – This was during our time in Kyoto. It was so neat and there were little cafes and restaurants. I wish we spent the whole day here and just enjoyed the atmosphere. I will say this place is so busy. If you want the Instagram picture without 100 people in the background you probably have to arrive very early. The kids loved running around the forest. Another awesome aspect of this trip is traveling in November the Japanese Maples were changing colors. It was gorgeous!

Animal Cafes – The kids loooooved all the animal cafes. It was so crazy how they had so many different types of animals. We did the cat café which was a lot like the ones we have at home. We are a big cat family so we felt like it was a must. The big difference is the cats are designer cats instead of rescues looking for a home. I had never been around so many fancy cats.

The other café the kids tried was an otter café. There were so many otters. They had the kids wear masks and little hospital looking robes since the otters can get sick easily. They were sitting on their laps and all over. It was like nothing I’ve ever seen before. We also saw owl cafes, dog cafes, hedgehog cafes and more.

We would love to help you plan your family vacation to Japan. There’s so much to do. I think we could go back and stay so much longer with all new activities.

I get this question a lot. There are a lot of great all inclusive resorts for families but what about the ones for older kids. You know the ones that are not just going to be entertained with a daycare room or a bucket and shovel in the sand. Almost all resorts tote the “we have kid’s club” but will your kids even be interested in going? My boys are well seasoned vacation testers. Here’s what I have seen be a HIT with them.

Beaches Turks & Caicos

This resort does have a great young kid program. It was also a favorite when they were little….even babies. BUT as older kids (and when I say older 2nd, 3rd and 5th grade) what they love has changed. The kid’s club is more like a day camp. They have “cool” camp counselors that have all sorts of activities with them all over the hotel. They don’t even feel like they are in “kid’s camp” which I have found to be almost a dirty word in my house. They don’t want to feel like they are just being ditched at a daycare for littles. They also schedule downtime at the club which is an open air spot with game tables and bean bag chairs and movies.

In addition to the kid’s club experience, the kids love the included watersports. From hobie cats (mini sailboats), paddleboards, aqua trikes and daily snorkel trips, it is truly like an ocean playground for this age. The water has a “like a swimming pool” feel and is generally very calm to be able to do these activities year round. If your family is into scuba there is also a young certification program for as young as 10 that your child can try scuba diving in one of the most beautiful reefs in the world.

Of course this hotel also has a waterpark. The waterpark I would say is not a thrill seekers waterpark like you will see at some of the mega resorts. There are a few tall slides and a great lazy river. There’s a Flowrider which as always was a hit with the boys. There’s a swim up mocktails bar for the kids. There is also a 50s style diner with the typical hamburgers, onion rings and milkshakes. There’s outside seating for those in dripping bathing suits. They do not serve alcohol at the waterpark.

Adjacent to the waterpark is a game lounge. I think I had a bad attitude before my boys got a little older. I was, “Why does there need to be video games? They have this amazing resort to explore.” BUT it was a welcome change to break up the day. It was also a great option when we had a rainy day and the day after a sunburn. I stand corrected. The kids loved getting to run in there for some game time and I loved the break.

My family loves the Italian Village Family Suites at this resort. They are surrounding the Italian Village pool which is centrally located and one of the more lively pools during the day. The suites are a king bed and day bed in the main bedroom with a kid’s bedroom with a triple bunk. If you have a large family you can even get these rooms to adjoin so you could have sleeping for up to 12 all together. There are also some amazing villas at this resort. They book up early for prime family time so we try to book villas at least 2 year in advance (yup! You read that right!)

The Grand at Moon Palace Cancun

I was skeptical of this one. It’s a MEGA resort. When I say mega – think of the largest resort you have ever stayed in and it’s bigger. It is part of the whole Moon Palace complex which guest at The Grand can use the entire complex but it’s not reciprocal. It is set up like it’s own hotel. You check in at The Grand. The Grand has it’s own restaurants, pools, beach club, kid’s club and more.

The Grand has the most impressive waterpark I’ve ever seen at an all inclusive resort. There is truly something for all ages from toddler area, kid splash, lazy river and slide and some big kid slides that start at age 12. There is pop up entertainment (there was a really funny interactive marionette guy that involved the kids), included food (grilling burgers and hot dogs) and open bar. They also have 2 Flowriders (surfing simulators) which my boys just wanted to ride over and over at no extra charge. The quality is just elevated from the food to the towels (no towel cards here!) and staff.

The Playroom was a huge highlight at The Grand. This is their 2 story “kid’s club” but it’s a whole different level than any other hotel. The top level is for kids 7 and under with toddler play houses, maze and more. The lower level has an arcade, ropes course (bring tennis shoes!), bumper cars and so much more. I felt like we were at a free mini Main Event. My kids were obsessed with this laser game that was something out of Mission Impossible that they had to army crawl and jump over laser to make it to the other side of the room. The Playroom is next to the waterpark so kid’s can go back and forth. They just have to dry off but they have this dryer that blows warm air. It was so funny but it worked!

Off the lobby there is also a game lounge called Wired which was a hit. I think a huge thing for this was that there’s no extra charge for all the games. As a parent I really appreciate the games just being all included. There was a variety of game tables, a snack bar and even PC gaming. The kids were in heaven popping around from one spot to the next.

You can guarantee adjoining rooms by booking a family suite. This is a room with a king connecting to a room with 2 full size beds. I wish they were queens but alas I guess I can’t have everything I want at this hotel. I hope hotel designers read this and never plan a room with full size beds.

We were impressed with the food, the service was great and I would say the only bummer is the beach.. This hotel is prone to bad sargassum or seaweed in the water. If you’re hard core beach people then this might not be your spot but the rest of the hotel made up for it in my opinion.

Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana

I sing this hotel’s praises a lot in different scenarios but it really is a great family resort. There’s something for all ages. It is kind of like a big cruise ship on land. There’s a huge casino, amazing golf course, fun disco, shops and lots of restaurants.

The waterpark here is huge and so fun. The kid’s loved all the slides and the water park play area. It has 3 different areas with the big kid slides, waterpark, and then a more toddler area. It sits in the back of the hotel but you can easily ride the golf cart service right to the front door. There’s snack bar type food. There’s not bar service here when we came. I know it was in discussion. I guess we need to go back and check it out. There is no extra charge for the waterpark.

The kid’s club isn’t anything to write home about. It’s there but more like a daycare room thus why this blog is about best for kid’s over 8. This club is basically a “drop off for an hour or 2 for a trip to the spa. I wouldn’t plan for it to entertain kid’s much longer.

This resort was my boogie board loving boys dream. The resort sits on a huge stretch of beach with turquoise beautiful water and waves. They sold boogie boards in the gift shop and it was hours of fun. They have measured beaches by the ability to enjoy a boogie board so this one wins. Sometimes the waves were a little crazy for mom though.

There are a lot of pools all spread down the beach so the pool hopping ability is impressive. There is live entertainment and DJs by the main pool. The snack bar by the main pool is quick and everything they like. Another super fun option is you can rent a golf cart here. There is almost nothing my kids love more than riding in a golf cart. You do need to pay a cash deposit so make sure to bring extra cash if you plan to rent a golf cart for some or all of your stay.

Favorite room? There are a lot of suites at this resort that work for families. Rooms have undergone renovations since Covid which has been a welcome update. One room category that I am obsessed with has 2 King size beds and a sleeper sofa! What?! It works so great for families of 5 like mine and you aren’t paying the higher prices for a big suite.

I think there are a lot of all inclusives families would enjoy. I think I said, “Well their childhood sure is epic!” multiple times while staying at these resorts. We would love to help you plan your next family vacation!

Is it a good idea? What is it like over Spring Break?

See our latest: All Inclusive Hard Rock Hotels 101 Guide!

This is a common question we get from clients. Keep in mind Spring Break is wide spread. We were in Punta Cana March 7 – 10 which was Spring Break for University of Georgia, amongst other Universities across the country. I mention University of Georgia because word on the street was, there was a group of over 600 at the hotel for the week.

Here’s the good, the bad and the ugly.

The resort is huge. There’s so much to do from the expected beach and variety of pool selection to also the largest casino in the Dominican Republic, activities like VR, laser tag, bowling, arcade, and more. There’s also a ton of onsite shopping from tourist trinkets to trendy beachwear. I loved that there’s so much to do. The Spring Breakers were not bored. Even at night there was a huge outdoor disco set up with either a DJ mixing music at night or a live band and more. One night in the Moon Lounge they even held a Silent Disco where each guest wore headphones and chose their one genre of music. So fun. It’s really impressive how Hard Rock spends the money to keep everyone entertained. The casino has a ton of slot machines and table games. There were a lot of Blackjack tables were are my favorite and the tables start at $15 minimum. Something I want to note is the casino is available for outside guests to come in and gamble. Drinks are not included unless you are playing and there’s a champagne bar and restaurant that is not part of the all inclusive plan.

[video width='300' mp4='https://blog.vincentvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/119561597_301295048594802_4496958459543366550_n.mp4'][/video]There are 12 pools. You could pick what style you want from extreme Spring Break party pool or a quiet adults only pool in the gardens called Eden or if you are traveling with kids you can venture down to the kid’s pool with some smaller slides and even a lazy river complete with tubes.

One tip I have - Spend the money on a cabana. I rented one for our pool day. It was $100 and came with a dedicated waitstaff to makes sure we were taken care of with drinks. She brought us a cooler of ice filled with Pepsis and bottled water. She took drink orders and we didn’t have to wait in the long line at the bar. You can reserve this upon arrival in the lobby. We loved seeing Ramon who is the star pool waiter at the main pool. He’s so talented bringing you drinks he can balance on his head while riding a bicycle. I told him I saw him on TikTok and he smiled and gave me a big hug. The main pool is where you are going to find the DJ mixing music, live dancers in the afternoon and a great snack bar. If you prefer quiet – I would recommend Eden pool. If you prefer something more in the middle then just do one of the pools next to the main. This is a great thing about Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana. You can pick your mood each day.

Since I also take pride in being a “tell it like it is” travel advisor I also want to tell you the not so great parts. It’s crowded. At night if you enjoy a laid back bar for cocktails, don’t go during Spring Break. I know clients that this would be the end of the world to not be able to do. The young adult crowd really took over every bar. It was 4 and 5 people deep at every single one especially when it got to be later than 10PM. I kept saying it reminded me of Vegas. If you were out late, some of the bars even ran out of alcohol. I’ve never experienced this at a resort before. I was surprised. I kind of wonder if it was a true run out or a que to go to bed. Ha!



Another issue when you travel during peak times, like Spring Break, is it was also harder to get dinner reservations. You had to make a reservation even at the buffet for dinner time if you didn’t want to have to wait. There’s a place in the lobby that does all the reservations for the restaurants. Other feedback I had was it did also get kind of loud in the hallways at night. I can sleep through a marching band so it didn’t bother me one bit. I know some are light sleepers. I love to use the box fan YouTube to play if I need some white noise which would work just fine there with included free wifi. We also did see quite the scene with some drunk young adults but it wasn’t more than I would expect with the age occupancy like that. I have always seen how Hard Rock takes young people’s safety seriously. They will not hesitate to cut someone off. When you check in they also only issue the adult bracelets to over 18 years of age with a valid Passport.

To turn this around, let’s talk more about the food. We at the Mexican restaurant “Los Gallos” for dinner the first night. I had the cactus salad and it was so good. I ordered it to try something new which is the glory of staying at an all inclusive. It was pickled cactus and a huge slice of fresh avocado. I really enjoyed it. We also had some great flautas and fresh churros for dessert. The second night we ate at the steakhouse Torro. This is one of the most popular restaurants. I do live in Oklahoma so I don’t go into this like I’m expecting a prime steak. I’m all about setting expectations correctly. The steaks are thinner but they had good flavor. The atmosphere was great and the service was really good.

I will say the last night we ended up at “The Market” which is the buffet. I would say calling it “the buffet” doesn’t do it justice. It’s more like cooking stations around the world. I said “I feel like I’m at the Wynn in Las Vegas” because the décor is so cool. I ate a teriyaki chicken rice bowl and it was so yummy. I wish I had it earlier in the trip so I could have had it twice. I have been to this hotel multiple times and the food was just so/so. They have stepped up their game. Every meal I had I really enjoyed. I even had room service for breakfast on the last morning. It arrived within 30 minutes and the eggs were cooked correctly (I like over easy eggs) and everything was hot and fresh.



I think a highlight for me as a travel agent was seeing the room renovations they are completed at the hotel. I was in a Caribbean suite which is the back half of the hotel. I prefer the Caribbean Suite side as opposed to being in a Caribbean Sand in the front part of the hotel by the beach. A lot of people are always confused when I say this because typical hotel mode would be trying to get as close to the ocean as possible BUT there’s so much off the main lobby. I would rather walk to the pool/beach in my flip flops during the day and have a easy walk to the casino/restaurants when I’m dressed up at night. If you really don’t like to walk did you know they also rent golf carts? It’s a fun option and you can do it day by day that you know you’re going to use it. Anyway! The hotel renovations are perfect. They removed the big square tub from the middle of the room and put a jacuzzi tub on the balcony. They toned down the colors and added where you would normally step down and be at the jacuzzi is now a sitting area with a sleeper sofa. This is going to open up so many more sleeping options. Another amazing option is in some of the renovated islander junior suites are 2 King size beds and a sleeper sofa. It’s perfect for families traveling with 3 kids that need the extra room. The 2 King Islander sleeps up to 5 if 1 is a child. These also have the option to connect to a Rock Star 1 Bedroom Suite if you’re traveling with a group. The bedding combinations make this hotel such a great choice for groups with different needs.

[video width='300' style='float:right;' mp4='https://blog.vincentvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/dominican-republic-travel-agents.mp4'][/video]Did I answer your questions about Spring Break? Keep in mind Spring Break runs from the 2nd week of March through April in most cases. It’s a busy hotel but with a lot to do to keep everyone entertained. If the increased young adult groups would be a turn off but you still want to go when kid’s are out of school, I would say this would be a great one for Christmas Break when it’s heavier on the family travel or summer if you are looking for a lower price point.

Traveling to celebrate a milestone? Ask us about their great group program called, “Rock Your Milestone” where you can get a private event complimentary. We have had this work out for graduation groups or big birthdays. It’s a great option.

We look forward to helping you plan Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana.

See our latest: All Inclusive Hard Rock Hotels 101 Guide!

What I liked and didn’t like about Disneyland Paris, including staying on-property.

We are a Disney family. We aren’t annual pass holders level, but I would say we are almost there. We go often and sometimes I personally go more than once a year with work events. My kids have stayed on property at Disney in all levels from Deluxe to Value, and at Grand Californian in Anaheim.

We headed on a European adventure and made Paris one of our stops. At the time of the trip my three boys were 9, 7 and 6. We flew from London to Paris and then took a cab to the hotel. The cab line was easy to find and cost about 90 euros (in a larger van since there was 5 of us).

Upon arrival, it doesn’t have the warm fuzzy feeling like at Disney World. There wasn’t a welcome greeting but a direct to take our bags to a X-ray machine. We then went through a metal detector. We had Compass Club so we were able to check in right to the left. This was a great time saver as opposed to the main check in desk so I highly recommend this.

We chose to stay at Newport Bay. It sits walking distance from the parks (about 10 minutes) and has a shuttle. We walked each time, but they said the shuttle came every 1 minute. Our room had 2 double beds and 2 sleeper chairs, which worked great for our family to spread out. The bathroom had a shower and a separate tub all in the same little bathroom so that was odd, but convenient. The room was stocked with a couple of bottles of water and bathroom toiletries including robes and slippers.

The hotel is kind of dated. The wall paper in the halls needs to be redone and a lot of the hotel is a little tired. I can only imagine how a kid oriented hotel is treated on a regular basis. The beds were comfortable, though so no complaints on that. I can just see some being surprised especially given the price point.

The hotel had surprise meet and greets, so our first hour of being there my kids met Pluto, which they were excited about. The staff was good about transitioning between French and English. I noticed there were a lot of UK families staying, but not many from the USA, which was expected.

The hotel has both an indoor and outdoor pool. It’s a whole check in where they ask your room number, which is different than in the USA. The most startling thing to me - the unisex locker rooms for the pool. This, I’m sure is the norm in France, but I can see this being awkward for American travelers. The European guests are also not as modest as most Americans. My kids were like “why aren’t they wearing a swim suit top?” and things like that.

For having a club level room, we had access to the lounge. In club level rooms at Disney hotels I’ve stayed in previously, the club lounge is in the area of the rooms. This was on ground floor close to the lobby. They served daily breakfast and then snacks from 4-530PM. Snacks included different kinds of cakes, cake pops, pastries, fruit, cherry tomatoes with mozzarella and a lot of yogurt. My kids ate so my croissants. I was glad they would try new things like this banana Mickey cake they had. My biggest shock is they didn’t serve wine or beer. I would have thought in all places like France that wine or champagne would flow like water. It did not. Ha! You had your option of Coca-Cola products, Fuze Tea, coffee or hot tea. The drinks were always available.

In case you’re not totally familiar, Disney in Paris is 2 parks connected to Disney Village which is their version of Disney Springs. We chuckled at all the American brands in Disney Village from McDonalds which was always hopping to a 50’s style dinner, a BBQ place called Billy Bobs, Planet Hollywood and more. Disney Studios kind of reminds me of Hollywood Studios. Disneyland is laid out very similarly to Disneyland in California but with some fun differences.

One of the things we loved, you are able to climb up in and around the castle. The castle is Sleeping Beauty’s castle. There are stairs going up and it tells her story in stained glass. You can also go out and wave on the balcony like you see characters doing at other parks. There’s a neat glass blowing shop also in the castle with a door in the back of the shop that takes you downstairs under the castle with an animatronic dragon. My kids probably talked about this the most since they thought they discovered something on their own.

The kids loved Skull Island which is their version of Tom Sawyer’s Island with playground and caves to explore. There is also a cute Pinocchio ride.

Just this last year they completely refurbished and changed Space Mountain into HyperSpace Mountain. This is all Star Wars themed with the song blasting you off at the beginning. A big change for HyperSpace? This ride takes you upside down on one loop. My oldest said it was pitch dark and he only knew he was upside down by how his cheeks felt. I was too chicken to ride it.

Another unique part of Disneyland is the Alice’s Curious Labyrinth. This is the Queen of Hearts garden maze complete with card characters popping up, cute photo stops and a fun castle to climb up at the end. If you’re a big Disney person just coming for the unique experiences I think is worth it.

One thing about the park is from my perspective it’s very understaffed. I’m going to assume this is a worldwide issue caused my the pandemic. I'm used to being greeted at rides. I’m use to a lot of staff everywhere. It was sometimes hard to find someone. It was surprising when we had that amazing Disney service from an employee. This was probably the most disappointing. It wasn’t the same. I don’t know if it’s a cultural thing but it wasn’t the interactive chatty happy workers like what we experience all the time in the United States.

Park hopping is common and you don’t pay extra for it here. You easily can walk between the parks. Over at Disney Studios they have a great Cars and Toy Story area. There are some unique rides including a race car ride from Toy Story that does this half circle fall. It reminds me of the boat rides at the fair that swing.

Disney Studios, of course, has a lot of shows. From Frozen, to a magician Mickey show. Their new attraction for the park is Avengers Campus. They have modified Rockin' Roller Coaster into Avengers Assemble: Flight Force an Iron man and Captain Marvel ride and also added WEB to the campus just a couple weeks before we arrived. This is the same Spider-Man ride at Disneyland in California. It was a resounding favorite of everyone. It can sense your movements so it looks like you’re really throwing webs to help Spider-Man fight off some evil spiders. It’s so cool. We said we need a quick trip to California just to ride this one again.

Here’s some important info. We were there over a weekend in the summer. The parks were at capacity. They do reservations just like we do in the United States. We wanted to be able to maximize so we upgraded to Premier Access Ultimate. This is something not in the USA parks so let me explain with a list to make it easier:

  - Cost was 140 Euros per person on top of park admission
  - There was a list of 9 rides at Disneyland and 4 at Disney Studios that are included.
  - With Ultimate you can walk up to any of these rides on the list at anytime during your day and go to the Premier line (what we like to call Fast Pass or Lightning Lane).
  - You only could use your Premier once per ride per person.

There was an option that was less expensive that you could schedule each ride and come back during your time slot. With us not loving making a plan, this wasn’t ideal for our family, but it would be a way to save money. You can also purchase premier access one by one with specific time slots. They ranged from $9-$18 per person per ride. This is all done on their APP.

We really loved the Premier Access. The PA lines were minimal, if anything while the regular lines were over an hour or more. I was calling it a mini-VIP guide day.

Overall, we are glad we went to Disneyland Paris. We had a great time! It was a great highlight for the kids on a European itinerary.

I tried to be as transparent and honest with our experience so you know what you’re getting. If this sounds like a vacation you would love, then please reach out. My office would love to help you plan a European vacation with Disneyland Paris as part of your adventure.

Top Mexico All Inclusive Resorts for families of 5

By Lia Vincent

A common request is, “We love this resort. What is the price for a family of 5?” Rooms or suites that accommodate a family of 5 can be a challenge especially at all inclusive resorts.  As a family of 5 myself, I know this first hand. It can be such a challenge finding resorts with bedding to accommodate but still have the kids close.  We put together a list of our favorites in Mexico which our clients have loved, I personally have loved, ones that have more than just a couple suites so it’s realistic to be able to book and are rated a minimum of a 4 star all inclusive.

Dreams Playa Mujeres –

Located - Playa Mujeres, Mexico

With more room options than most, Dreams Playa Mujeres did it right when building this resort with multiple categories with 2 queen beds and a sleeper sofa to accommodate the family of 5. They also have a variety of water slides and a water park geared toward kids 5 and under.

Pro tip - Parents have the option to go next door to adults only, Secrets Playa Mujeres for dinner while the kids enjoy a buffet of all their favorites in the Explorers Club (ages 3 – 12).

Hard Rock Riviera Maya –

Located – Riviera Maya, Mexco

Unique family suites with nonstop fun from an onsite waterpark , indoor skatepark and private beach cove at Hard Rock Riviera Maya make this a top pick for families looking for an all inclusive that will keep everyone happy. The Deluxe Family Suites are guaranteed adjoining rooms with a room with 1 king and a room with 2 double beds. Another great suite that accommodates a larger family are the Deluxe Platinum Connecting Sky Terrace  Suites which offer 1,928 square feet with 1 king, 2 double beds and an outdoor terrace with lounge chairs and a hydro spa tub.

Pro tip – Normally this resort is divided to create half for adults only. A chunk of summer, Christmas and Easter do not have restricted adults only areas so kids can have the run of the entire property.

Marival Armony –

Located – Punta Mita, Mexico

A brand new build which opened in 2019, Marival Armony had families in mind when they built this luxury all inclusive in Punta Mita just north of Puerto Vallarta. The resort has a variety of two bedroom suites which include a king master, living room and an adjoining room with 2 double beds. These suites include 3 bathrooms.

Pro tip - Book the Family Emotions category of suite. This will include a custom picnic on the beach, additional kid friendly amenities in your room and a family portrait session.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya

Located Playa del Carmen, Mexico

For families of 5 looking for the ultimate in luxury but still an all inclusive environment look no further than the Grand Velas Riviera Maya. The AAA Diamond Award recipient resort since 2010 boasts top dining options, a world class spa and a perfect choice for upscale families seeking adventure and/or relaxation.

The Two-Bedroom Zen or Ambassador Suites feature 1 king and 2 queen size beds to accommodate up to families of 6. Parents will love the variety of drinks and snacks the suites are stocked with as well as 24 hour butler concierge service.

Included Children’s Activity Program: Grand Velas´ exciting Kid´s Club is an innovative program where children can play and learn through fun activities in a safe, friendly environment supervised by highly qualified personnel. The program provides numerous fun activities such as flying kites, table games, soccer and treasure hunting for young children ages 4-12.

There are English-Spanish classes to help kids learn the names of colors, clothing, and body parts; arts & crafts; live shows with animals where children will appreciate the importance of ecology and care for nature. There are endless outdoor activities and watersports at the pool in addition to indoor fun at the video area that includes a home theater and X-Box.

The Kid´s Cooking classes is a favorite among the young crowd who love to decorate miniature cakes using multi-colored whipped cream and later enjoy the taste of delicious muffins from our bakery.

Pro tip – No need to over pack! Items such as baby monitors, strollers, walkers, and illuminated mobiles can all be requested thru the baby concierge!

Cozumel Palace

Located – Cozumel, Mexico

Traditionally known as a scuba divers paradise, Cozumel Palace has set the bar when it comes to family options people love. The Loft Suite features a king bed with private bath and shower on the lower level and an upper level with 2 double beds also with private bath and shower! Amenities like 24 hour room service, nightly turndown service and stocked minibar make this truly a vacation for everyone.

Stays of 5 nights or longer include a $1500 resort credit which can be used for scuba diving, spa or tours on the island. (16% service fee applies)

Pro tip – Playacar Palace is just across the way on the ferry. Guests of Cozumel Palace can journey over and have a change of scenery for the day with just the cost of a ferry ticket. Food and drinks included at Playacar Palace.

Riu Sante Fe –

Located - Los Cabo, Mexico

This resort is a go-to for traveling with teens but wanting them to stay close by. Riu Sante Fe saves their 2 Bedroom Suites to only be booked with a minimum of 4 guests that are over the age of 13. This is a great option for parents traveling with teens! The onsite waterpark, Splash Water is included with the all inclusive.

Pro tip – Book early! This resort has very few of these suites and is often sold out during school holidays.

Royalton Riviera Cancun –

Located – Rivera Maya, Mexico

This increasingly popular Canadian resort chain has thought of families with all their rooms sleeping 5 or more. Royalton Riviera Cancun appeals to active families with their endless variety of activities for all ages. Included kid’s club and even a teen’s club for the hardest to please guest makes Royalton a great choice for a wide range of ages.

Pro tip – Ask about Diamond Club! Some of the resort areas are exclusive to Diamond Club and the upgrade is sometimes very minimal.

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta

Located – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

This resort is tucked away just south of the town of Puerto Vallarta on the private beach cove of Mismaloya Beach. Almost all the rooms at the resort have an ocean view!

The Hyatt Club Level Suites feature 2 double beds and a sleeper sofa for families up to 5. The Club tower a private check in in an exclusive area, VIP in-suite refreshment center and access to exclusive club lounge with continental breakfast, table games, books and premium brand liquors.

Pro tip – Select the club suite with hot tub! The hot tub is on your balcony with great views. It’s perfect for an escape after the kids crash from a day of fun!

Generations Riviera Maya

Located – Riviera Maya, Mexico

Unique swim up suites and upscale dining options make Generations Riviera Maya a perfect resort for what a lot of families are looking for. All rooms are oceanfront and the resort features 1, 2 and even 3 bedroom suites that can sleep up to 12!

Pro tip – Guests 18 and up are welcome to dine at El Dorado  Royale which is just a short stroll away.

Barcelo Karima

Located – Manzanillo Bay, Mexico

For travelers looking for something different consider Manzanillo on the Pacific side of Mexico. Barcelo Karima is located only 15 minutes from town and 30 from the Playa de Oro International Airport. The resort offers 6 interconnecting pools with waterfalls, 5 bars, 4 restaurants, 24 hour room service and sits on a private cove beach. There is a kid club for ages 4 – 12 with supervised activities

We love the Master Suites which are 2 bedroom suites. They have 1 king, 2 double beds and a sleeper sofa to sleep up to 6. These suites are 1259 square feet.

Pro tip – Upgrade to the Master Suite with private pool!

On a budget?  Here are some great options that won’t break the bank!

Dreams Puerto Adventuras

Located – Riviera Maya, Mexico

Dreams Puerto Adventuras prices one of the lowest for families of 5 or even 6 in Riviera Maya with their Family Suite options which include 2 double beds and a sleeper sofa. Families love the dolphins on property, 24 hour room service at no additional charge and the included Explorer’s Club for ages 3 – 12.

Pro tip – Part of Sip, Savor and Dine Program! You can dine for dinner at nearby Dreams and Now Resorts for no additional charge. (transportation not included)

Riu Dunamar

Located – Costa Mujeres, Mexico

Located north of Cancun in the newly popular Costa Mujeres, this family friendly all inclusive was built in 2017. The 2 bedroom suites consist of 2 guaranteed adjoining rooms which can have up to 4 double beds and accommodate up to 8 guests. There are 5 pools, a children’s pool, water park with slides and an expansive beach area make this a great choice for families traveling on a budget.

Pro tip - Children’s Activity Program: 'RiuLand' for children 4-12 years old. Children are divided into two groups - ages 4-7 and 8-12, and each group features its own entertainment team and programs. Kids will enjoy exciting themes, such as Games Day, Riu Holiday, Pirate Day, Aqualand and Olympic Games.

Barcelo Maya Grand Resort

Located – Riviera Maya, Mexico

This huge complex boasts one of the most amazing beaches in the Mexican Caribbean with a stay at one, play at four experience that includes a wide variety of activites in the resort complex.

Options include guaranteed adjoining rooms or families with smaller children love this option for the Oceanfront Junior Suites which have 2 double beds and a sleeper sofa all in one room.

Pro tip – Ask your Vincent Vacations agent about booking with All Inclusive PLUS which includes express check-in, unlimited ala carte dining  and upgraded in-room amenities.

Marival Emotions

Located – Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Beachfront resort located on a large stretch of beach, Marival Emotions is the ultimate in suite options for large families. The resort does a great job with nightly shows, playground and children’s water play area.

The resort features 1, 2 and 3 bedroom suites with the ability to sleep up to 9! The two bedroom suites sleep up to 7 with a king in each bedroom as well as a sleeper sofa in the living room. A unique feature is these include 3 bathrooms!

Pro tip – You can pre-reserve dining reservations in advance. Inquire with your Vincent Vacations agent!

Sunscape Sabor

Located – Cozumel, Mexico

Located on the south side of Cozumel on one of the best beaches, Sunsape Sabor features 2 swimming pools, a kids club for ages 3 – 12 and 4 restaurants.

The family suites will sleep a maximum of 5 with guaranteed connecting rooms offering approximately a total of 1,250 square feet. Each room has a king and a sleeper sofa. There is not an age minimum or maximum so works great for all ages of families.

Pro tip -  Located very close to the island’s main reeds for snorkeling and scuba diving. Snorkel gear is available at no additional charge or bring your own!

Sunscape Dorado Pacifico

Located – Ixtapa, Mexico

Located on the Pacific Coast in the beautiful town of Ixtapa, Sunscape Dorado is a great choice for active families.

Kids love the onsite waterpark with slides and splash zone. Teens have their own supervised social group  - The Core Zone to escape to. Movies on the beach and Monday night tailgate parties are just some of the included activities

Parents love the guaranteed adjoining rooms with 1 room with a king and the connecting room with 2 double beds.

Pro tip – Watch for kids stay free! This is a common promotion this with property.

In typical Vincent Vacations fashion, we flew down opening week to check out the newest resort for our clients. Here are my best tips for picking the perfect stay at Dreams Flora Resort and Spa.

Please book a Preferred Club room if it’s available. There are so many great inclusions with this resort for having Preferred Club. There’s a great air conditioned check in lounge. The preferred club area of the beach. The preferred club pools. Seaside Grill for ala carte dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner is all for Preferred Club. I think it used the term Preferred Club a lot of times in one paragraph but you get the idea.



Swim Up Rooms are awesome here! We were in love with our swim up room where we could swim from the room to the bar. This is so unique and I think the only place I’ve ever experienced it like this is at El Dorado Casitas in Riviera Maya. This makes it worth the extra cost. These will be so popular so make sure to book early.

Enjoy the nightly shows! The resort has a large theatre off the main lobby. They have a different show each night. It is a great environment with a thatch roof and you can easily go back and forth from the lobby bar.

Be ready for fun! There’s a great waterpark on property with two sides to it. There’s bigger slides for kids and adults and a smaller one for little kids. I really liked that it’s a simple waterpark and easy to walk over to. You can go for an hour and then head back over to the beach. There are 7 slides at the waterpark.

There’s a large variety of restaurants from Italian to Asian to Mexican or seafood. There are no reservations required except for the cooking show at Himitsu.

The beach! We loved the beach. The entertainment team has a lot of activities going on during the day on the beach and there’s 2 great beach bars that sit right on the sand. There’s food service and picnic tables. It has a great vibe. There are also a lot of chairs for everyone. One tip is to be aware of all the vendors on the beach. Bring small bills if you want to shop for souvenirs and you can barter with them. If you don’t want to shop then you sometimes have to be firm with your “No Thank You”.

There’s a large variety of suites. The Master Suites have a living room and bedroom. This would be perfect if you are hosting a group and needed somewhere to congregate. The Master Suites also have soaking tubs on the balcony. I would recommend requesting a second floor suite if you plan on using the tub. There’s no privacy in the ground floor suites with the tubs being right by where people walk by.

Junior Suite – The Junior Suites also have a sleeper sofa! I was so happy to see this. It’s so nice when families have the ability to spread out a little. The hotel also has family suite that sleep the sometimes difficult “family of 5”. The resort has really thought about all these things to make vacation easier for different sizes of families.

Location! The location is great. It sits next to the former Dreams Palm Beach and is only 20 minutes from the Punta Cana International Airport. They also have seaweed barriers up which is so helpful (but doesn’t make it perfect) during the big seaweed prone summers.

Grand Opening Rates! Dreams Flora has a lot of Grand Opening specials. This resort is perfect for a Destination Wedding or family reunion. We would love to block discounted group rates for you. Please contact us to start planning.

Planning a destination wedding can be a great way to have a fun and memorable experience without breaking the bank. To save money while planning your wedding, consider these great tips and ideas!

#1, using a destination wedding travel agent can be a great resource for saving money when planning a destination wedding. We have access to deals and discounts that you may not find on your own, and we can help you plan the best itinerary for your wedding to ensure that you get the most for your money. We can help you find the best flights, hotels, and restaurants, as well as coordinate transportation, activities, and other services. We can also help you find ways to save money on wedding-related items like decorations, catering, and entertainment. We can also help you save time by taking care of all the planning and handling the travel arrangements for you and your guests, so you can focus on enjoying your special day.

Here are some great ways to save money having a destination wedding.

Consider having a smaller guest list, as fewer people usually means lower costs.

Look for venues that offer all-inclusive packages, as this can save you from having to pay for each element of the wedding separately. All-inclusive resorts offer discounts for destination weddings, so you can save money on food, drinks and activities. We specialize in finding the perfect all-inclusive resort for destination weddings and romance travel.

Have a daytime wedding. Daytime weddings are typically less expensive than evening weddings, and you can always have a nighttime reception afterwards.

Check out the local wedding vendor options. Research wedding vendors in the area to compare prices and find the best deals.

Consider having the ceremony, reception and even your honeymoon at the same location to save on travel costs.

Try to book your wedding during off-peak times, when prices are usually lower.
Ask your family and friends to help out with tasks such as decorations, catering, and photography.

Utilize online tools such as wedding planning websites to help you organize and keep track of all the details.

Look for discounts and special offers from hotels and resorts in the area.

To explain more, every location has a peak season and a low season. If you have an off-season wedding, this can save TONS on your overall budget. People typically schedule the most popular cities in Mexico for their destination wedding. This can include Cancun and surrounding areas, Puerto Vallarta and more. The peak time for destination weddings in these areas is around September to February. These months are great months due do the beautiful tropical winter with moderate temperatures at night and warm days. Compared to the weather back home, the winter months in Mexico are nice change.

Pick a day other than a Saturday. Saturday is the most popular day for destination weddings.

Work with your destination wedding travel agent to understand the benefits of bundle services with 1 vendor and ask about a package savings.

Reduce your guest list to only the most important out of your friends and family.

Limit the plus one's. Only include +1's for anyone married, engaged or in a serious relationship.

Pick a location and venue that is already so perfect, it doesn't require many decorations.

Plan a multi-purpose venue (ceremony, reception, honeymoon at same resort location)

Embrace 'all-inclusive'. This means decor, catering, etc. can all be included. In fact, the more included, the better!

Work with a travel agent who specializes in destination weddings. We have relationships with on-site wedding planners, which help you save money and reduce stress. Many meet with you virtually!

Forgo engagement or bachelorette parties (or keep it simple on location). This can include a simple bonfire on the beach. This works great with all-inclusives, because drinks can be found close by - think walk-up beach bars.

Skip sending physical 'Save the Dates' - Keep the Invitations Simple (use an online company)

RSVP - RSVP online

Rent and return (rent suits, decor, etc)

Borrow - Think of anything someone might let you borrow

Opt for buffet over plated, food trucks, BBQ or Mexican are easier on the wallet

Skip Appetizers during cocktail hour

Start with the basics with your planning. This can include arrangements, excursions, vendors and then you can always upgrade later when you have more of an idea of total cost.

Hire a DJ that provides ceremony music as well (it usually doesn't cost much to add)

Skip flowers for your bridesmaids

Repurpose flowers (use wedding bouquets as centerpieces)

Forgo wedding favors

Icing on the cake (buttercream saves you money)

Cut the cake cost - do a small cake, then cupcakes or some other type of dessert

Do your research - ask about hidden costs that can inflate your bottom line

Reserve room blocks (save on your room or even get it free)

Consider a wedding dress from a retailer, online store or even rent

Do your own hair/makeup

Choose silk or paper flowers over real flowers

Hire someone that is just starting out (ex; music student)

Use coupons to find deals on craft items, wedding supplies and accessories

Consider a cocktail reception (skip the full dinner)

Use a credit card that gives you rewards back, points or frequent flyer miles

Fill your centerpieces and bouquets with more greenery and filler. Or use wildflowers

Skip the bottle charge with champagne and opt for what's included on location like white wine or sparkling wine instead

Do 1 photographer instead of 2 photographers

Attend a wedding expo to learn more and score deals on vendors

Do a single or simple flower bouquet for your bridesmaids

Plan your cake cutting/first dances early in the night to reduce photography time

Repurpose items you have

Browse online marketplaces for used wedding items (ie: Facebook groups)

Once you are done with your wedding items, sell them and recoup extra cash

Limit your meal options (more choices equal more money)

Choose 'in-season' flowers

Adults-only all-inclusive. Having adults-only and no children / families can lower costs. For example, offering a plus one, but not a plus 5!

Negotiate, and understand your full budget range

Skip ceremony programs, menus, etc

Forgo seating chart and place cards

Keep track of your spending (yes, this will help you save money in the long run)

Don't spend a lot on your shoes (choose something comfy)

Take your honeymoon when you can get a better deal

Buy a dress off the rack instead of ordering

We have so many more ways to help you with your big day! Contact us today to learn more.

A first look means seeing your partner right before the ceremony. With destination weddings, this is becoming more and more popular mostly due to the amazing locale. Having a first look allows couples to have a private moment where they can take in all the excitement of the big day and focus on their love. This is the perfect time for a photography to capture this secluded moment.

When you’re having a destination wedding, it can be difficult to have some alone time as a couple. Your group of friends and family have traveled there to see and spend time with you. Sometimes, a private first look in a remote location is a great way to spend some quality time with your loved one before the grand ceremony. Whether it’s an exotic jungle in Costa Rica or a beach gazebo in St. Lucia, you can schedule time to share this private moment together.

Having a first look is an important decision. This one question will determine what your timeline will look like for the overall day.

At our stunning destination wedding locations, you will have a plethora of backdrops perfect for that first look moment you will cherish forever. Whether you want the grand reveal to take place in front of the oceans or you want to be surrounded by tropical palm trees, we can help bring your vision to life.

WHY A FIRST LOOK?

First Look is a staged moment between the two of you (just bride and groom) and usually the photographer and/or videographer. This moment is done typically right before the ceremony and is built for your fiance to see you for the first time in your wedding dress / couple dressed in perfection.

This is an option, instead of the traditional first look down the aisle.

When you grew up you probably thought about seeing your soon-to-be spouse down the aisle. Every movie that has a wedding scene in it mostly like depicts the bride walking down the aisle. It’s what we grew up thinking was the norm. Well I’m here to tell you that you have a second option...The “First Look”

Why Consider A First Look?

The day goes by so fast as it is. The first look allows us to stretch out the day a little bit and take some time to focus on just the two of you, in an intimate setting.

Logistics on the wedding day can sometimes be stressful. And including a first look will allow to take pictures earlier in the day and not squeeze them in after the wedding.

You can get a bulk of your portraits done before the ceremony even starts. This includes Bride/Groom, Wedding Party, and Family Photos.

This also allows you to spend time in cocktail hour with your guests (if this is important to you). Most of the time, our couples who do a first look can head right to cocktail hour or you can build in more bride/groom and wedding party photos, maybe some bar photos or stop at a park.

I always say the wedding day goes by so fast. It’s nice to have at least one part of the day where you’re not being rushed off to the next activity. Most couples opt to do it alone where they can have some one-on-one time.

Note: If you have an early ceremony (1:00pm or before), a first look can sometimes be harder since you do not have as much time to get ready.

When it all boils down, you can see each other for the first time any way you want. Just make sure you include your wedding photographer in the loop so they can plan accordingly.

Having just returned from a family and Disney VIP trip, I felt it was time to post about Magic Kingdom at Disney World and some fun tips and facts! I also picked up a few 'insider Disney secrets' during my VIP tour and wanted to share.

Whether it is your first time at Disney World, or you are a seasoned Disney veteran, the child-like excitement hits everyone the moment they step into Magic Kingdom.

Did you know that Magic Kingdom is home to Disney's longest running parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade? It has been around since 1971! Many of the trees and shrubbery throughout the Magic Kingdom are fake, but they were designed to look so realistic that you wouldn't even know.

The Haunted Mansion at the Magic Kingdom is filled with secrets. One of the most iconic is the pet cemetery out front, which features headstones with names of Disney staff members' pets. There's also the secret room behind a hidden bookcase, the hidden hatbox ghost, and the fan favorite - the Hitchhiking Ghosts. Inside the mansion, you can also find a music organ and the secret bride, who can be seen in the attic, if you look closely!

Main Street USA in Disney's Magic Kingdom is full of surprises! Here are a few to look out for:

• Just inside the entrance to Main Street, you can find a hidden Mickey Mouse! Look for a pattern of three circles in the brickwork.


• The names on the windows of the shops on Main Street are the names of actual people who worked for Disney in the past.


• The clock tower at the end of Main Street is actually based on the clock tower at the Harvard University campus.


• If you look closely, you'll notice the sound of a train whistle and steam engine when you walk down Main Street. The sound is actually coming from the speakers hidden throughout the area.


• The windows of the buildings on Main Street spell out a secret message. If you look closely you'll be able to read the message and discover its meaning!

• Look for the hidden Mickey's throughout the land. There are plenty.

There is a pet cemetery in the back of Splash Mountain.

• The Frontierland Train Station is the only one in the Magic Kingdom that has a functioning whistle and bell.


• If you listen carefully, you can hear the sound of a banjo coming from the Country Bear Jamboree.


• There is a secret area behind the Haunted Mansion gift shop where you can take pictures with the hitchhiking ghosts.


• If you look carefully, you can spot a hidden audio-animatronic of a frontier explorer in the bottom of the Rivers of America.


• The Country Bear Jamboree was the first ever audio-animatronic stage show.


• The Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was the first roller coaster in the Magic Kingdom.


• Tom Sawyer Island has a secret underground tunnel system.


• The Mark Twain Riverboat is powered by four paddlewheels.

• Started at Magic Kingdom


• We rode Big Thunder Mountain, Haunted Mansion, Seven Dwarves Mine Train, Space Mountain
  
• Break for Mickey bars and water


• Escorted through the backstage of Magic Kingdom to our SUV transfer over to Hollywood Studios!


• Greeted with snacks when we arrived!


• We rode Rockin’ Roller Coaster, Tower of Terror, Toy Story Mania, Slinky Dog Dash, Millennium Falcon, Rise of the Resistance, and planned on Minnie and Mickey’s Runaway Railway but it went down right when we were ready to ride!


• We ended with Mickey pretzels as our special snack of the day! 🐭🥨🍿🎢 It was a great day!

I had the honor of visiting the brand new build, Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen, in the heart of Riviera Maya. The word, Moxche, comes from a tree growing in this area and they have incorporated the wood throughout the property. The attention to every detail is evident from the ocean view the moment you arrive. This resort is 5 minutes north of Playa del Carmen in the gated community of Coracol. It sits right between Royal Haciendas, timeshare place, and Sandos Caracol. It opens on April 18th, 2022. The resort has 483 suites, which are all oversized, starting around 600 square feet.

There is also a tower called “Impressions”, which is a step above Preferred Club. It is sold as a separate hotel. This section, as I keep calling it, since it’s right there, is slated to open August 1st, with 200 additional suites. At Secrets Moxche there’s a huge variety of suites with their standard suites being nicer than suites at its competitors. There are swim out suites, master suites and more. The swim outs went in a new direction with a divider between each room, making it an impressively large private pool on each room. This category is going to be so popular, especially with honeymooners.

The entry level room is a jr. suite tropical view. There are options for a king or 2 queen size beds. The Preferred Club status will get you extra amenities in your room like a stone soaking tub on your balcony, stocked wine cooler, Nespresso machine, daily stocked snacks and the extra bathroom amenities. I love having all these little extras in my room because I seem to forget something and they think of it all. This also gives you access to the rooftop observatory, which I will go into detail about next.

There are 3 rooftops, which they are calling observatories. On top of the main lobby is just for Preferred Club guests. It has an infinity pool, drink and food service. It is jaw dropping. It gives a view of the entire property and the ocean. The observatory on the roof of Impressions has double the size of infinity pool and is closer to the beach for a straight ocean view. The 3rd roof top is for weddings. WOW! It will be the #1 venue for privacy and views. They have also brought over Carolina, from Secrets Akumal, to have the best of the best wedding coordinators for this new property. I’m so excited for our future brides to have this amazing option. It’s going to book up quickly so we need to start reserving dates for now and 2023.

The gastronomy is being taken to a new level with this new resort. There are some similar experiences like The Market which is located off the main lobby with that picture perfect view of the whole property. They also have added new restaurant concepts such as personalized teppanyaki and indoor/outdoor seating at most restaurants. There are new names to restaurants here as well. I think I’m the most excited about Dos Almas which is Mexican Soul Food. I don’t know if I had a favorite food group before I heard of this restaurant but I’m pretty sure I have found it. They also will have a tequila tasting menu and taco bar. Impressions will have 3 restaurants exclusively for their guests but they also have access to all the restaurants on property.

It wouldn’t be a Secrets without an amazing spa and Secrets Moxche is no exception. The spa is located in a quiet section to the front of the property (further from the beach) with an impressive entrance with banyan trees. There are 16 cabins and 6 master cabins. There’s a his and hers side with sauna and steam room with an outdoor area for everyone. The outdoor area has an impressive hydrotherapy area with all the water massage you could hope for. I almost enjoy the spa experience before the massage more than the actual massage so I can’t wait to get back here and try it out.

As I brag to being a “honest, tell it like it is” travel agent I want to address the beach. This is going to be a hurdle for those that are die hard perfect beach lovers. This stretch of beach is not known for perfection and is prone to seaweed especially during the spring and summer. Secrets Resorts have always been diligent about cleaning to the best of their ability but mother nature sometimes is a real witch. If this is a deal breaker for you then I would encourage you to come November – February. I do want you to hear me out though. This resort is exceptional. They have overly over compensated with tons of pools. One of them even has a sandy beach so you can put your toes in the sand without ever stepping outside the resort. They have 2 natural cenotes on property too which are cool and refreshing. There are also multiple pools with swim up bars.

Have I talked you into this yet? I am hard to impress and I was giddy. Every time I turned the corner I was like saying, “Oh wow I love that. I want my house to look like that! How did they do that? Where did they shop?” and on and on. If you’re an avid all inclusive traveler we decided this is a mix between Atelier and Unico 2087 which makes is even more perfect.

We spend our trips touring hotels so we can be the best travel agents possible. We would love to help you plan a vacation to Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen. It’s one of a kind.

We are happy to assist you with all your Italy travel planning needs. Italy is a country rich in history, culture, and love. It truly is a bucket list destination that every traveler should experience once in their lifetime.

Top 5 Bucket List Activities

1) Take A Neapolitan Pizza Tour

A bucket-list must is traveling to Naples to eat the world famous Neapolitan pizza!

Made with fresh local ingredients and slow cooked in a classic wood oven, this HAS to be on the top of your bucket list Italy adventure!

2) Hike Through Cinque Terre

Dating back to the early medieval times, Cinque Terre is a combination of 5 vibrant fishing villages tucked into rugged cliffs.

All connected by footpaths, spend a day hiking between these fascinating villages laced with quaint vineyards!

3) Road Trip Along the Amalfi Coast

Travel along the Mediterranean Sea on this beautiful scenic coastal road! This is sure to be a vacation highlight.

This road is shaded by the regions Sfusato Amalfitano lemon trees, be sure to
enjoy one on your travels!

4) Reminisce the Renaissance in Florence

Florence's rich collection of architecture embarrass its well-known history. The
skyline will take you back in time!

Uncover pieces of history around ever turn while strolling the charming cobblestone streets!

5) Compose A Love Letter to Juliet in Verona

If you're a heartbroken lover or Shakespeare enthusiast, make sure to visit the home and birthplace of Juliet Capulet in the beautiful fair Verona.

Make sure to visit the endearing piazzas to Castelvecchio fort and the delightful Giardino Giusti gardens!



Great Ideas for a Weekend in Tuscany

Go For A Wine Tasting

Visit the beautiful cascading fields and Italian villas while tasting a famous glass of Chianti Italian wine

Taste Truffles in San Miniato

Visit this sweet little agricultural town to taste some wonderful homemade Italian Truffles.

Rent Your Own Private Villa

Maximize your relaxation experience by renting your own private villa nestled in the Tuscany hillside. This is the perfect way to take in the scenic views, and the quaint humble Tuscany essence.

Go For An Olive Oil Tasting

Sample some of the purest forms of olive oil in the world! Pair it with a glass of wine and other culinary delights.



Ideas for 1 Day In Sicily

Palermo Street Food Walking Tour

Explore the streets of Palermo like a local and attend this famous food walking tour to taste local delicacies and listen along as a guide provides you the history and culture of the city.

Etna & Taormina Tour

Spend the day visiting the Mount Etna active volcano, the historic resort town of Taormina. You can even explore a natural lava cave, an ancient Greek theater, and a wildlife reserve!

Italian Opera in Taormina

Enjoy the birthplace of Opera for an evening show at Taormina’s San Giorgio Theater. Sip on
a glass of wine in the theaters terrace overlooking the old town, and then settle in for a magic evening at one of the most beloved Italian operas.



Best Options for the Ultimate Italy Travel Bucket List

MUSEUMS

Sistine Chapel
Vatican Museums
Galleria Borbonica

CAFES

Caffè Florian, Venice
Gran Caffè Gambrinus, Naples
Caffè Gilli, Florence

LANDMARKS

The Colosseum
St. Peter's Basilica
Pantheon



Rome In Autumn: Where To Go & What To See

If you enjoy the cooler months of the year and are also Looking for cheaper travel options, then autumn is the time to go!

A city as classic as Rome is inviting all year-round, however to catch the essence of the city in its prime, you want to make sure to visit during the Autumn months. With perfect weather for exploring, staying outdoors, sightseeing, and adventuring around the city, these months also tend to have fewer large crowds and tourist traffic. If you enjoy the cooler months of the year and are also looking for cheaper travel options, then Autumn is the time to go! With fewer tourists and lines, it is a prime time to visit landmarks such as the Colosseum, St. Peter's Basilica, Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, and the Sistine Chapel. Rome also is the welcoming season for multiple cultural events celebrating art, music, theatre, food, and festivals. With comfortable temperatures and beautiful surrounding foliage views, this is also the prime time to stroll along the charming cobblestone streets and enjoy a nice hot cup of coffee from one of the quaint neighborhood cafes. Autumn through Winter travel to Europe tends to offer great discounts with very budget friendly affordable prices.


Whether you are a art and history lover, outdoor activity enthusiast, or a bucket list world traveler... don't miss your chance to experience the beauty and wonder that is Rome, Italy in Autumn!

Use our Italy Get A Quote Form to contact us to learn more and book your Italy vacation package today!

Costa Rica is like no place in the world. From almost every vantage point, rainforest vistas tumble into picture-perfect inlets and coves that punctuate the shoreline.

With activities including canopy zip-lining, kayaking through mangrove estuaries, catamaran cruises, rafting, horseback riding, sea kayaking, hiking, birding AND local wildlife featuring monkeys, tropical birds, iguanas and sloths, there is no place like Costa Rica.

Please contact us for more ideas and to book your travel to Costa Rica today!

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is the epicenter of cloud forest exploration and the pride and joy of ecotourism in Costa Rica. With over 400 unique bird species, Monteverde is an especially treasured destination for birding.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Hike
Transfer to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve for a hike through the high elevation forest with professional naturalist guides! Trek through the misty forests’ dense vegetation and majestic trees. You will see giant prehistoric tree ferns, trees covered with blooming bromeliads, and many of the species of birds that call Monteverde home. Keep an eye out for the shy Resplendent Quetzal bird!

Monteverde Sky Tram & Trek Zipline Tour
The tour starts with the Sky Tram, a ride on the cableway up to the platform where the Trek zip line adventure begins. This is one of the most extensive canopy tours in the country, with 2 very long cables and 11 cross-sectional zip lines. After zipping through the treetops, you will have time to unwind and enjoy the panoramic views from 2 observation decks. **Height and weight restrictions apply. Inquire for details.

Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica
Jacó and the surrounding Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is peppered with spectacular national parks and beaches, offering a breadth of coastal experiences and wildlife viewing opportunities. A mountainous shoreline with strips of sandy beaches overlooking a sparkling expanse of blue are characteristics of the Central Pacific coast. The region is home to the popular surf town of Jacó, Playa Herradura, Carara Biological Reserve, and the Tarcoles River.

Tortuga Island Catamaran Cruise
Early this morning you will transfer by ground to Puntarenas. Enjoy a snack-type breakfast en route before boarding a catamaran for a cruise through the Gulf of Nicoya to Tortuga Island. Just 12 nautical miles from Puntarenas, Isla Tortuga is a sanctuary of white sand beaches and turquoise waters, home tropical birds, and flora typical of the Costa Rican Central Pacific area. Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing under the shade of palm trees on this beautiful island. A tropical lunch will be served on the island.

Horseback Riding with Ocean Views & Waterfalls
After your equipment and safety instructions, depart on your horseback journey to the waterfalls. Along the way you will see farms and get a closer look at nature as you ascend through the rainforest. You may be able to spot toucans, Scarlet Macaws, and White-faced capuchin monkeys. Upon arrival to the swimming area, your guide will set you up with fresh fruit and water, and you will have time to relax and enjoy the waterfalls.

Costa Rica’s south Caribbean coast
Costa Rica’s south Caribbean coast is lined with perfectly imperfect beaches swaying palm trees. The clear, turquoise water welcomes swimmers, sunbathers, surfers, and snorkelers. This off the beaten path area managed to fly under the radar of Costa Rica’s tourism boom. It continues to remain a pristine beach and rainforest destination with a unique, Caribbean culture of its own.

Snorkel & Hike Cahuita National Park
Cahuita National Park is a nature lover’s playground full of land and sea adventures. Start your adventure at the beach, climbing on board the boat for a ride out to the local coral reef. You will then have roughly 2 hours in two different parts of the national park to snorkel in the ocean, depending on the weather. After, fuel up with tropical fruit on the beach before heading out on a hike through the coastal rainforest. Since the park is home to an abundance of diverse wildlife, chances are good that you’ll spot monkeys, tropical birds, sloths, iguanas, poisonous dart frogs, and other interesting creatures.

Jaguar Rescue Center, Bri Bri Chocolate Tour, & Waterfall Hike
Start with an educational visit to the Jaguar Animal Rescue Center, which serves as a refuge and rehabilitation center for many local animals, including wild cats, monkeys, snakes, and sloths. Then, witness organic chocolate made from scratch by a member of the Bri Bri indigenous tribe— from plant to plate! The Bri Bri have a long history of chocolate production in the Puerto Viejo area. Finally, head about 30 minutes outside of town to a breathtaking Puerto Viejo Waterfall for a hike and refreshing swim.

Pacuare River Whitewater Rafting: Class III-IV
You’ll depart your Puerto Viejo hotel early in the morning for a drive to the Rios Tropicales Operations Center. Here you will enjoy a Costa Rican breakfast before heading to the put-in on the banks of the Pacuare River. Here, your guides will give you rafting & safety instructions. Then, you’ll begin to paddle 14 miles deep into the heart of one the primary rainforest. As you master the river’s wild rapids, you’ll pass through densely vegetated rainforest gorges and pristine waterfalls. After this adrenalinepacked adventure, you’ll return to the operations center to change and have lunch. Return to your hotel late in the afternoon.

Costa Ballena
The stretch of South Pacific Costa Rica coastline from Dominical to Ojochal, known as the Costa Ballena, is Costa Rica’s up-and-coming beach and rainforest destination. The South Pacific Coast is more remote than other areas of the country, sitting just north of the Osa Peninsula. Pristine rainforest, miles of ocean views, and solitude are some of the South Pacific’s most magnificent features.

Marino Ballena National Park Sea Kayak & Snorkel
This tour begins at low tide as the waves shift to one side of the Whale's Tail, which is a good spot for snorkeling. Paddling to this point will take between 30 to 45 minutes. The snorkeling portion of the tour will take between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours and will give you the opportunity to see a variety of fish and coral species, such as Giant Conch, starfish, Parrotfish Snapper, Damsels, eels, Moorish Idol, Surgeons and various types of coral species. Catch a wave and ride back into shore on your kayak. Then, enter a small mangrove forest in Ballena Marine Park where it is possible to spot sea birds, toucans, and some small reptiles.

Whale & Dolphin Combo Tour (seasonal)
Board a boat from Punta Uvita Beach and visit the famous Punta Uvita Whale’s Tail, Ballena Island, Tres Hermanas Islets, and Ventana Sea Caves. During the tour, you will search for Humpback Whales (seasonally) and two different species of resident dolphins. The boat will pass near the caverns of Ventanas Beach where you can observe wonderful rocky formations and the amazing caverns that were carved out by the ocean over thousands of years. **Tours during the dry season (January – Feb) include a short session of snorkeling on the reefs of the Marino Ballena National Park

Half-Day Sportfishing
Put your sport fishing skills to the test on this half day tour. The waters off the Osa Peninsula on the South Pacific coast of Costa Rica are rich in nutrients, and there is a great variety of fish such as mackerel, roosterfish, snapper, and tuna. The inshore fishing is done within a few miles off the shores of Bahia Ballena.

Manuel Antonio
Located on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio remains one of the country’s best beach and rainforest locations. Manuel Antonio National Park is the main attraction of the region, with monkeys, tropical birds, and iguanas comprising a large portion of the wildlife population. From almost every vantage point, rainforest vistas tumble into picture-perfect inlets and coves that punctuate the shoreline.

Damas Island Estuary Boat Tour
Explore one of Costa Rica’s most unique environments from the comfort of a boat! As you glide through the Damas Island Mangrove Estuary, you might spot curious families of monkeys as they migrate across the mangrove ecosystem in search of food and adventure. You might also see tropical seabirds, turtles, a range of reptiles, and maybe even a caiman or two! You will wind through acres of pristine Costa Rican estuary as guides explain why the mangrove eco-structure so vital to Costa Rica and the world. This tour will end with a relaxing yet rewarding meal.

Damas Island Mangrove by Kayak
Paddle gently through the inland waterways of the Damas Island Estuary, one of the most unique eco-systems on the planet. This important ecological area is where the salt waters of the ocean meet the fresh waters of tropical rivers, creating a periodically submerged forest of hanging roots. On the banks, you might spot local inhabitants, like the Sally light foot crab, boa constrictors, silky anteaters, monkeys, lizards, seabirds, and sometimes even crocodiles!

Coastal Sea Kayaking
Paddle your way around the Manuel Antonio coastline on this active kayaking tour. Beginning at the port of Quepos, you will start your adventure by paddling south. From a vantage point only possible in kayaks, you’ll catch awe-inspiring glimpses of Manuel Antonio’s breathtaking cliffs as we follow along the coastline. Depending on the tide, you may stop off for a snack at a secluded beach. Then, paddle close to tropical rock formations, where shorebirds are known to nest. This fun half-day on the water is a great way to explore the area and get moving!

Rainmaker Reserve Hike
Located about 30 minutes from Manuel Antonio, this private rainforest reserve is a great place to experience local wildlife, like birds, butterflies, frogs, and lizards. Explore the Rainmaker trails with your guide, who will teach you about the history and biodiversity of the reserve and its inhabitants. After this, you'll have a chance to navigate the canopy bridge system and experience the rainforest from an elevated perspective.

Nocturnal Jungle Walk
This unique guided adventure is 2 hours to be a part of one of the most fascinating ecosystems in the country – the nocturnal tropical wet forest. Get in contact with many of the nocturnal inhabitants of the Wildlife Refuge, such as the kinkajou, the
armadillo, or various snakes! With more than 30 identified snake
species, you’ll learn about which are dangerous and about their
natural history. You’ll also have the chance to visit the Tropical
Aquatic Gardens, which is home to a variety of frog and toad
species.

Local Flavors Cooking Class
Learn how to prepare classic Costa Rican dishes on this local
food adventure! First, you’ll head to a farmers’ market in nearby
Quepos to find the best ingredients for your dishes. Then, visit a
nearby ranch to meet the culinary team and search the organic
garden for some final ingredients. Finally, begin preparing your
Costa Rican staples, following local recipes. You’ll cover
everything from tortillas to “picadillo” (minced meat and veggies
with spices).

Jamaica is a Caribbean Island steeped in history, culture and beauty that welcomes just over 4 million visitors each year. With the national motto of “Out of Many, One People” and unofficial motto of “One Love” you can expect to be welcomed warmly.

And what is there not to love? Endless white‐sand beaches, covered by lush foliage and crisscrossed by streaming rivers and cascading waterfalls. Capturing the essence of this enchanted paradise, there are so many all-inclusive resorts and vacation experiences in Jamaica. Come experience the warm hospitality and natural beauty this country is known for. Featuring some of the world’s best beaches, such as Negril’s Seven-Mile Beach, amazing scuba dive sites, and exciting experiences including adventure tours, championship golf and world-class dining, is it any wonder that Jamaica was ranked in 2019, the #1 Caribbean Destination and the #14 Best Destination In The World by Tripadvisor?

19 Reasons to Love Jamaica

Rastafari
Did you know that Rastas live a Rastafari lifestyle based on so much more than just wearing dreadlocks and smoking ganja? Rastafari actually began as a political and religious movement in the 1930s by descendants of African slaves that were converted to Christianity but combines Protestant Christianity with pan-African political consciousness and mysticism. Besides their dreadlocks, you may notice that their primary wardrobe is made up of the colors red, green, gold, and black which are the colors of their flag. They also live a close-to-nature life with a vegetarian diet.

Even though Jamaica is synonymous with Rastafari because of Bob Marley, there is only about one percent of the Jamaican population that actually identify as Rastafari.

Red Stripe
An iconic symbol of Jamaica, Red Stripe beer was created and first brewed in 1928. But the version you can find now when vacationing in Jamaica was formulated in 1938.

I love when a favorite product is combined with a good cause. The Desnoes and Geddes Foundation, named for Red Stripe’s inventors, runs a program called Learning for Life Programme which helps to teach hospitality, retail, entrepreneurship, and bartending.

Carnival Costume
Soca music, parades, and costumes! Carnival in Jamaica is an experience like none other. This celebration happens across the country from Kingston to Ocho Rios. Be sure to plan in advance to get tickets to the best fetes also known as parties.

Carnivals began as celebrations among enslaved Africans as a way to have their own parties while their European settler owners hosted glamourous balls. They often included rituals and dances as well as elaborate costumes. The Carnival of Jamaica became an official celebration across the country in 1990 by Jamaican musician Byron Lee.

Montego Bay Resort
From the ideal honeymoon with an overwater bungalow to a celebratory anniversary trip, Jamaica is the perfect getaway for romance.

Think differently about romance and luxury. Why not surprise your partner with a private bungalow over the Caribbean Sea? Enjoy your own hammock for relaxing and great views of the marine life with glass bottom floors as you take your luxurious vacation to the next level.

Heart Montego Bay Sign
Montego Bay is a favorite Caribbean destination for more than 4 million passengers each year. And now you can commemorate your visit with a picture of the “I love Montego Bay!” sign. One of my favorite places in the Caribbean. I Love Montego Bay!

Bamboo Raft
See Jamaica from a different perspective as you board a 30-foot bamboo raft with a local guide that will tell you stories or sing you a song as you relax and float down the Martha Brae River.

Legend says that Martha Brae town and river got its name from a Taino witch that was tortured by Spanish settlers looking for a chest of gold. After she shared the location of it, she used her witchcraft to change the path of the river and sealed the entrance to the cave full of gold. While we may never know if there really is gold, you can be sure that you will get an entertaining story from your guide as you float down that same river on a bamboo raft.

Dunn’s River Falls
Original Arawak settlers had a name for places like Dunn’s River Falls called Xayamaca which means land of rivers and springs. And Dunn’s River Falls lives up to that name with its 180 feet of beautiful cascading waters. I highly recommend you plan an excursion or day trip to see and climb the falls on your next Jamaican getaway.

For a unique adventure in Jamaica, consider a day trip to Dunn’s River Falls. You can join a tour group led by local guides that know the falls like the back of their hand. Work together to form a human chain and help each other climb the falls with fun stops in natural pools along the way.

Water and Palm Trees
Did you know that Jamaica has more than 900 kilometers, or 560 miles, of coastline? From big beach resorts to small family-run properties, you are bound to find a vacation spot that will give you a chance to enjoy a stretch of that coastline and beach while you gaze out across the Caribbean Sea.

Imagine…you are in the perfect beach chair on Seven Mile Beach with a cool breeze blowing in off the Caribbean Sea and a cocktail in your hand. Do you smell the sea? Do you hear the waves?

Negril Cliff and Water
Besides the perfect movie backdrop, the Negril Cliffs are something to behold as they tower 40 feet above the water. And they are a great spot to watch a magical sunset given their location on the west end of the island.

Negril may be known for its beaches, but it also is a favorite spot for the adventure of cliff diving. Enjoy watching locals soar over the edge of the cliffs into the water or the brave traveler having a go at the experience.

Surfer
Did you know that you could learn to surf on your next Jamaican vacation? Gentle waves near Port Antonio make it a great place for beginners to take a lesson.

American surfer Laird Hamilton once said, “The biggest sin in the world would be if I lost my love for the ocean.”

Ocho Rios Green Bank and White Boat
Ocho Rios is considered the more natural and tranquil option when considering where to vacation in Jamaica. Its highlights like Dunn’s River Falls and Mystic Mountain Rainforest are just a couple of the natural wonders that attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Ocho Rios is assumed to mean eight rivers based on its Spanish settlers and is lovingly referred to by locals as Ochi. But did you know that there are actually only four rivers that run through the town: Dunn’s River, Cave River, Roaring River and Turtle River.

Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains of Jamaica are a must see for nature lovers. The flora and fauna are unmatched with its greater than 800 species of plants and more than 200 bird species. See how many you can spot on one of the many hiking trails.

While there are some great hiking trails, the more advanced hikers need to remember to bring their machete to work their way through some of the tougher trails.

Coffee Mug and Beans
Is there such a thing as luxury coffee? Blue Mountain Coffee is some of the most sought-after beans in the world as they are still hand-picked, and hand inspected.

“May your coffee kick in before reality does.” – Anonymous

Treasure Beach Boats
From colorful boats to colorful fish, Treasure Beach is an off-thebeaten-path area in Jamaica with a 200-year fishing village history. Its beautiful location has resisted big resort development but is becoming a must-visit destination.

Off the south coast of Jamaica lies Treasure Beach known for its fresh seafood. Visitors often wait anxiously for fishermen to return with the freshest catch of the day.

Drummer
Drums were initially used by slaves as a way to communicate but have long since evolved to be a symbol of Rasta worship as well as an important part of reggae music.

The undeniable sound of the reggae one drop rhythm is one that can easily help get you into vacation mode as you relax on the beach.

Craft Market
Take a stroll through one of Jamaica’s Craft Markets to find the best in local crafts, hand painted pieces or even fresh fruits and vegetables.

From Kingston Market on the waterfront to the Harbour Street Craft Market in Montego Bay, you can find all the best handmade souvenirs like dolls, fans, dresses and more.

Wedding Couple
Noted as one of the most romantic places in the world, Jamaica is a top choice for destination weddings and honeymoons. Leave your worries behind as you make beautiful and romantic island memories.

Warm weather, beautiful beaches, and stunning waterfalls are just a few of the reasons why Jamaica is known as a top location for destination weddings.

Reggae Falls
One of the best kept secrets of Jamaica is Reggae Falls located in St. Thomas Parish. Take a day trip from Kingston to enjoy the beautiful falls and warm spring pools.

Reggae Falls is known by the locals as Damhead and was created around 1920 to power a hydroelectricity station. It is a quiet retreat that is visited mostly by locals but welcoming to visitors alike.

Bob Marley Mural
Bob Marley is often thought of as one of the fathers of reggae and was known to marry reggae beats with ska music.

Aside from his music, Bob Marley was well known for his efforts to fight for peace and justice. His efforts earned him the United Nations’ Peace Medal of the Third World.

Bobsled Model
Jamaica gained notoriety in 1988 when its army recruited athletes and sent its first bobsled team to the Winter Olympics.

“Feel the rhythm, feel the rhyme. Get on up, its bobsled time.” – Cool Runnings Movie

Walt Disney World's 4 Theme Parks
Make dreams come true in four uniquely themed parks, each with its own special version of Disney magic! Fantasy becomes real and reality becomes fantastic as you relive childhood memories and create new ones.

Make sure you have a chance to see the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration! Only available through March 2023!

Also, don't miss your last chance to see Beacons of Magic - Behold dazzling spectacles as classic Disney Parks icons light up the night. And Mickey's Celebration Cavalcade - Wave to some of your favorite Disney pals as they float down Main Street, U.S.A.

21 Fun Facts about Walt Disney World

Balloons
Balloons have been a guest favorite since day one. Disneyland started selling them in 1955! And fun fact – if you pop your balloon while in the park just bring it back to the vendor and they’ll replace it! Ready to pick up yours? Then, let’s get planning! What’s the Disney souvenir of choice for you or your little ones? Balloon? Plush? T-shirt?

Beast and Belle Flower and Garden
The Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot runs annually starting in the spring. Did you know that more than 500,000 plants, trees and shrubs are installed for the festival? A lot of people call it their favorite. Are you ready to find out? Our personal favorite Flower and Garden Festival topiary can be found in the France pavilion – Belle and Beast. If you’ve been, what was your favorite?

Boardwalk
Staying on Disney property is special. Not only are you immersing yourself in a story and experience, but you might even be so close to the parks that you have this view! Ready to explore the onsite possibilities? Tell us, do you stay on Disney property? What is your favorite and why?

Carousel
No visit to the Disney parks is complete without a ride on the carousel. With the backdrop of the castle, it stands as the most classic ride of them all. Ready to put this attraction on your must-do list? Do you know how to identify Cinderella’s horse?

Castle Fireworks
Another Disney tradition is catching the nighttime fireworks! There have been many iterations over the years, and they just keep getting better and better. If you’re ready to see them in person, let’s connect! What has been your most recent fireworks show favorite?

Cinderella’s Castle
Cinderella’s Castle as pulled straight from the movie, is said to have drawn influence from Versailles and Fontainebleau in France as well as Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany. Do you see the resemblance? The regal Cinderella’s Castle stands as our favorite castle from any park across the globe. Which castle is your favorite? What memories does it hold for you?

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival
Epcot holds a lot of festivals throughout the year and our favorite can be seen here – the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. Watch the park come to life in bloom each spring. Ready to schedule a visit to one of Epcot’s festivals? Topiaries? The fresh snacks? Scavenger hunt around World Showcase? What’s your favorite part of Flower and Garden?

Epcot Skyliner
The Skyliner is the newest form of transportation on property having opened in September of 2019. It connects four resorts and two theme parks. The system is easy to navigate, convenient and the views while riding are mesmerizing. Ready to ride? Let’s get you there. The Skyliner has quickly become a transportation favorite among guests. Have you had the chance to experience it? Did you love it?

Expedition Everest
There are a bunch of fun facts about Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Most notably, it’s the tallest attraction on property. But did you know that despite its name, riders aren’t actually navigating Mount Everest? Instead, it holds the fictitious name of Forbidden Mountain. Disney Imagineers created it just for the storyline of the attraction! Riding forward…Riding backward (in the dark)…An 80 foot drop. Yikes! Do you love or hate Everest, um Forbidden Mountain?

Haunted Mansion
As you weave through the Haunted Mansion queue pay close attention. The names on the tombstones are those of Imagineers! Some even worked on the build of the attraction itself! Another fun fact, as you exit there’s a pet cemetery. Towards the back there’s a tribute to Mr. Toad! Besides it’s 999 happy haunts, there’s a hidden Mickey inside the Haunted Mansion! Do you know where it’s located?

Mickey Ears and Castle
Ears for some are a must have collectible. During your visit to WDW keep an eye out for ears that pay tribute to certain attractions and characters. If you’re looking to jump on an even hotter trend, go for one of the many color specific ears. Rose gold and purple potion are two favorites. Get your ears on!

Mickey Waffles
Some say that waffles just taste better when they’re in the shape of Mickey and consumed on property. There is an abundance of breakfast locations where you’ll find this icon! And, while the mouse himself is the most widely available, you might spot Stitch or Simba at some spots as well! We love Mickey waffles! What’s your favorite Disney snack?

Monorail
There are three different monorail lines. The Epcot line connects guest to Epcot via the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC). The Resort line stops at Magic Kingdom, all three surrounding resorts and the TTC. The Express line is a direct connect between MK and the TTC. If the Express line is too long, hop on the Resort line if there’s a much shorter wait time and only make one additional stop at the Contemporary! The classic. The monorail. It’s our favorite. Is it yours too?

Pandora
The stunning Pandora – World of Avatar. The film’s writer and director James Cameron played an integral role in the design of this land in Animal Kingdom as did producer Jon Landeau. They were joined by legendary Imagineer Joe Rohde. Did you know they left a little easter egg at the exit of Flight of Passage? Keep an eye out for it during your next visit! Flight of Passage. Pandora’s must-do attraction. Do you rope drop it? Or save it for your last attraction before close?

Spaceship Earth
Spaceship Earth or as some call it, “the giant golf ball” is the very first ride that we take when visiting Epcot. We just can’t get over the fact that we travel in there! Imagineering at it’s finest. What is the first attraction on your list when visiting Epcot? What’s your favorite scene on Spaceship Earth? Rome burning? The Phoenicians?

Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge
The most recent addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Galaxy’s Edge was announced in 2015. After over six years of concept development and construction, the first guests were welcomed in 2019! And, for reference, the timeline you’re entering when coming into the land is between the eighth and ninth film! Did you know there’s a hidden mini– Millennium Falcon ON the Falcon itself? Know where it is?

Teacups
The teacups were our first ride EVER in the Magic Kingdom! We spun that thing so fast …you could hear the joy and excitement in our screams and laughs! What was your first ride EVER at a Disney Park? Share with us below. Ready to ride again? Let’s chat! Did you know the teacups were a Magic Kingdom opening day attraction? Can you name some others?

Tomorrowland
Tomorrowland was a land that opened when the park itself opened on October 1, 1971. But it only featured two attractions, and Space Mountain wasn’t one of them! They were the Grand Prix Raceway and Skyway to Fantasyland, which, sadly, no longer exists. Rank your favorites! Choices – Space Mountain, Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover and Carousel of Progress.

Tower of Terror
The Imagineers on the attraction watched every single episode of The Twilight Zone for inspiration, and it can be seen in the attraction’s queue area. There are a ton of easter eggs and the attention to detail is incredible. You might even spot some props used in actual episodes! The story of the hotel is that it was struck by lightning, and that’s the state you see it in. Do you know what date that strike occurred?

Tree of Life
We encourage you to take the time and explore the paths that surround the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom. They’re often overlooked as most others head straight for the main attractions. Here you’ll get a break from the crowds, an up-close view and excellent photo ops! There are 300 animals carved into the Tree of Life.

And did you know, it's NOT a Small World After All! Disney World encompasses over 50 square miles.

Planning a trip to Disney takes a lot of thought and planning. That’s why you’re using a travel agent, right? Even with the best laid plans, one can encounter a bump or two along the way.

Here are some common mistakes we see at the 'Happiest Place on Earth', and 8 great reasons to use a travel agent to book Disney:

Mistake #1 – Not reserving table service meals in advance. You’ll absolutely need to make a reservation for sit down meals 60/180 days prior to your arrival. And, beware…they go fast, especially signature and character experiences.

Mistake #2 – Not using mobile order. If quick service dining is preferred, we encourage you to order using your device in advance. Payment via this method is contactless and all you have to do is pick up your order and go.

Mistake #3 – Not budgeting in advance. This is especially true for food and merchandise. Scope out menus ahead of time and don’t impulse purchase. Try to go in with a PLAN and a budget and stick to it.

Mistake #4 – Overpacking. You don’t need four pairs of shoes and two pairs of Mickey ears per day! Make and stick to a packing list, but don’t forget essentials! Sure, you can find them on property, but at a premium.

Mistake #5 – Over planning. Prioritize your parks and attractions, but don’t pen anything in. Variables like weather and crowds could quickly derail a day that has been booked down to the minute. Be sure to plan for breaks with all of that walking!

Mistake #6 – Ignoring the forecast. Monitor the weather in location prior to departure and adjust accordingly. Likely rain gear will be needed for summers, and a sweater, sweatshirt or jacket needed for cooler winter nights.

Mistake #7 – Visiting at the wrong time. As a rule of thumb, holidays, school breaks, summer, and weekends will bring the crowds. If they’re too much for you and/or you prefer a more relaxed vibe, check out other times of the year.

Mistake #8 – Wearing the wrong shoes! You should not purchase those cool new sneaks specifically for this trip. New shoes are culprits for a world of hurt, and Band-Aids. Stick with pairs that are broken in and comfy.

There you go, the mistakes we see most often! We can help you avoid all of these and more. Reach out when you’re ready to plan your next trip to Disney or Disney experience. Remember to book well in advance, even six to nine months before travel!

Bonus! How do you make the right Disney property selection?

Staying on Disney property is certainly our recommendation. At the end of the day Disney is always telling a story, right? Well, the resorts on property certainly aren’t an exception. Plus, staying on property comes with perks that hotels off site just don’t have. Added value! With more than 25 resorts, how do you select the one that is best for your family? Here’s a quick look!

Disney separates its resorts into four categories - value, moderate, deluxe and villas (usually part of the Disney Vacation Club). Pricing, features onsite and availability of certain amenities start off pretty basic and add on from there.

Value – Pretty basic rooms and baths. Recreation and dining are limited – think large pool and food court. Transport is typically going to be via bus.

Moderate – Rooms here are larger and in different configurations as is the bath. View options, pools, recreation, and dining are a little more robust. Bus transport is typical here, but you might find a property with a boat.

Deluxe – Most posh rooms! Types and sizes can vary. The main draw is the proximity to the parks. This is as close as it gets! A park could be a quick walk or monorail ride away.

Villas – We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program (but can be booked for cash). Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is like a deluxe property.

Evaluate each category as described and make your selection based on the needs of your family. Need help in choosing which is best for you and your family? Let us guide you each step of the way!

I just returned home from a wonderful 4 nights at Secrets Bahia Mita. Let me give you the scoop on this property.

It’s a new build as of 2021. It’s unique for this brand as it’s built in a very long U with one side being Dreams Bahia Mita and the other side is Secrets Bahia Mita. Dreams side is for everyone and Secrets is adults only.

Between the 2 is a big courtyard which is where they had evening entertainment. One of the nights they had an amazing mariachi band. We really enjoyed it.

At night there’s a sports bar called Desires. They play games on the TVs and music when it gets to be about 11PM. One fun tip is behind the big screen is a secret door to their Speak Easy. There’s another bar back there, dance floor and bathrooms. It was a very fun vibe in the evenings.

We stayed on the Secrets side. It was nice having full reign of the property with a lot of restaurants and pool to choose from. One tip I would say is if you’re traveling not as a couple - I would pick the Dreams side. The Secrets side has a more open bathroom without privacy for the shower.
We also were in a Preferred Club junior suite. Perks of preferred Club?
Access to rooftop top pool which had food and drinks service and AMAZING views.
Access to Oleo - a Mediterranean restaurant reserved only for Preferred Club guests. I had the beef short rib and my husband had the mahi mahi. They were both excellent.
Our room also had additional amenities for being Preferred Club which as snacks (Pringles and Peanut M&Ms restocked daily), mini liquor bottles in our mini refrigerator and the bathroom amenities had extras like toothpaste and sunscreen. Great touch!

We also spent time at the spa. There’s this water feature that is shockingly cool that is this huge cylinder with waterfalls going down to the the hydrotherapy area. There’s a large selection of treatments. I opted for a relaxing massage. You can use the hydrotherapy before or after your massage. One thing I loved is they dried my swimsuit during the massage so I didn’t have to put on a cold wet suit after. Great touch!

The beach at the resort is smaller than some in the area and it does have some rocks. There is a lot of chairs though on the beach with drink service. There was also a volleyball net with games going on. The beach isn’t a straight shot down so it wouldn’t be ideal for anyone with mobility issues that want to try and use the beach.

The resort has in it’s name - Surf and Spa. While I didn’t try surfing, there is surfing available right onsite. They also have the boards for you to use. We saw a lot of surfing going on. It did seem to be more entry level waves which would be a fun thing learn while on vacation. We did notice the waves were a little bigger in the morning.

I really enjoyed my time at the resort. Here are some of my tips for who would love this resort the most and what to do.

-This would be amazing for Destination Weddings. This resort group does such a top notch job with private events and the guests could pick which side they prefer to stay.
-Be ready to walk. The resort is long and skinny so walking from lobby to beach is quite the hike.
-Splurge for Preferred Club. It gives you access to some great areas of the resort.
-I wouldn’t recommend for anyone with mobility issues. It is spread out and hard to enjoy the beach easily.
-I wouldn’t recommend if you want a true adults only experience. Think of this as a resort with adults only building and pool. You can still hear the kids screaming and playing from Secrets pool.
-Great choice for multigenerational group or families looking for a lot going on. The shows, restaurant choices, waterpark, kids club, and evening nightlife make it a great choice to make lots of people happy.
-Plan a day trip to Sayulita from the hotel. This is a popular surf town that has been made famous by the show Bachelor in Paradise. It was a $31 cab ride each way. It had great unique shopping and restaurants. We ate at Barracuda. It was so good.

We hopped around Europe with our 3 kids spending 3 nights in each spot. We totally fell in love with Scotland and we can’t wait to come back.
Here’s a run down on what we did. We needed more time. There’s so much to do here!

We stayed at the Kingsmill Hotel and Spa. This is the hotel that Adventures by Disney uses for their group tours so I knew it would be family friendly. It is an older hotel that isn’t super updated but felt very authentic. The service was great. I was really impressed with the attitude of the staff, attentiveness in the restaurant and bar and the front desk. The housekeeping was even friendly walking down the hall. It had a very homey feel and we were perfectly happy with this choice.
They had a great indoor pool with hot tub and steam room that was open until 9PM. We had a family suite. This was a large ground floor room with a king bed and sitting area. It has bathrooms and a bunk room (basically the size of a walk-in closet) with 2 sets of bunk beds.
The hotel doesn’t have air conditioning but the Scottish Highlands do not get hot. They gave us a large fan for airflow which was perfect.
The hotel is located on the outskirts of the city of Inverness. It took about 10 minutes (and 10 roundabouts) to get to the city center which is still very quiet. We had Pizza Hut delivered for the kids one night and my husband and I ate in the restaurant at the hotel. Everyone was happy.
There is a nice park with playground directly across the street from the hotel and the grounds are beautiful. We noticed the hotel (and a lot of places in Scotland) was dog friendly. If only it was close for us to bring our dog. Ha!

During a stay in the Scottish Highlands you have to search for Nessie. I’ve heard of the Loch Ness Monster as basically a fairy tale but I don’t think until I started planning a trip to Scotland that I realized exactly where it lived. We took an hour only Jacobite cruise on the Loch Ness which is the name of the body of water. There are a lot of Lochs in the area and Ness is the one with the monster. The cruise told the story of how it was spotted and people who have searched for it for almost 100 years. There’s even a man who they said 20 years ago left his wife and job to buy a cabin on the banks of Loch Ness to search for him. Alas he has not found him and has resorted to selling trinkets to tourists with no regrets.

I was on a mission to see the Hairy Coos or the Scottish Highland cows. I had read that the Culloden battlefield was a great area to see them. There are actually some that live on the battlefield. Another fun fact - this is one of the filming sites for the show Outlander. I haven’t watched this show so this was lost of me but I know a lot of people love it.
The kids loved running around the grass area. It’s 14 pounds per adult for the museum with a guided tour. They did a family pass for 30 pounds (I was so impressed with how there were family discounts everywhere in the UK) but you can walk around the outside area for no charge.

Keep your eyes peeled - Just down the street we found the Hairy Coos.

Another spot we hit was Rothiemurchus we. This is an outdoor activity place in a National Park. There’s a farm store, barn (which is their cafe), gift shop and more.
There are so many activities here. They have things for small children to adults.
Our kids did the Landry cars (PowerWheels sized Land Rovers) and fishing. The Landry’s go around a small track in the forrest. They go pretty slow. I would recommend this for 8 and under.
On property they have several stocked ponds with rainbow trout. It was 17 pounds per kid for a pole, net and bait. You were permitted one fish for this as well if you wanted to take one home.
We are not fishermen so I was having a hard time helping the kids cast their poles. I had the kids go fish by some young teens who noticed their inability and started helping them. It was perfect. The teenagers were so nice. They made it a competition between the boys to catch one. They quickly each caught a trout. They showed them how to hit it in the head (they were going to keep one) and how to release the other. The kids were on cloud 9.
There is so much to do here. They had falconry experiences, ATVs, horses, ropes course and more. It is also a place you visit on an Adventures by Disney tour. If you’re coming on your own make sure to prebook what you want to do. The activities sell out especially in the summer.

We also spent a full day to ride the Jacobite Steam Train. This is on the West Coast of Scotland from Fort William to Mallaig. It is the train featured in the Harry Potter films.
There are a bunch of ways to make this happen.
If you’re driving yourself, there are round trip train rides from Fort William. It gives you a break in the town so you can enjoy a quick lunch.
If you’re not going to ride it then you could go to Fort William and take pictures at the train, and then there is a spot to wait while it goes over the Glennfinnan Viaduct with easy parking, toilets and a cafe. In the town of Mallaig there’s a neat Haggrid’s gift shop for all the merchandise. This town is right on the with views of the Scottish Isles. I would love to come back and visit the Isle of Skye.
The train ride is beautiful though so we booked a tour. We were driven in a mini bus from downtown Inverness. They also have these day trips from Edinburgh. We made stops along the way. We rode the train one way, had time for lunch (amazing fish and chips!) and then we journeyed back with stopping to watch the train pass the viaduct.
It was nice to sit back and relax and let someone else drive for the day.


The people of Scotland were so friendly. I might even say best overall service as far as friendliness than anywhere I’ve been in the world.
Make sure to bring your rain gear even in the summer. It went back and forth from sunny to raining without any notice.
If you’re renting a car just a reminder that they do drive on the left. Inverness was the perfect place to do this with minimal traffic and mostly coy try driving. We had the kids say “Left side Daddy!” regularly to help. You can rent a car with a credit card and USA driver’s license. No special license in required. The cars are smaller here. We had a mid-size which was equivalent to a Mercedes C class. It was a good thing we only had carry on bags to fit in the car.

It’s a wonderful country and we can’t wait to go back.

I would like to start off by saying, “What a magical place!”

I am just returning from a holiday weekend where we stayed at the JW Marriott, Marco Island. This is the flagship of Marco Island. When I was checking in I heard one of the employees say it was the busiest Marriott in the United States. I believe it and for good reason. Here’s how the weekend played out.



The JW Marriott Marco Island Resort & Spa, or the JW, as I will refer to it going forward in this blog site, is about 1 hour from the Ft Meyers airport / RSW. It sits on an amazing massive white sand beach (they even have food and drink service on the beach!).
The resort has a large conference center and can quickly fill up with groups, so this is somewhere I’m glad we booked early.

The room options are mainly 1 king or 2 queen beds with some adjoining doors for those traveling in larger families. There are multiple restaurants on site including one of the best wood fired pizza places. The pizzas run $18-$22 and a Caesar is $14. Tip - The salads are meant to share just like the pizza so just order one per 3 or 4 people with your pizza. In addition to the pizza place, there is also an adults only restaurant, sushi bar, and more. We really had more choices that we didn’t get to try all of them.


There are multiple pools which are heated in the winter to the low 80s. There’s a large resort style pool with cabana rentals and a family pool with 0 entry, slide, waterfall, spraying splash pad type things and more. Each pool had a casual outdoor dining option next to it with the family pool having the tiki bar with the most amazing Miami Vice frozen drinks. Tip- If you don’t know what a Miami Vice is then it’s half pina colada and half strawberry daiquiri. It’s a perfect combo. They have the machines right there so it’s a perfect ice purée. They will also serve these poolside with a great staff working drink orders with little flags at the chairs.
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Tip - I loved how they had a water station where you can use their cups or a refillable bottle at no charge. I told my kids that was their option during the day and the fact that it was DIY made it more fun for them.

One of the highlights of this resort is 10K Alley. This is on level 5, and an oasis of fun. For starters, it was the largest arcade I’ve ever seen at a hotel. We joked we had Dave and Busters right there on site. In addition to video games, 10K also has bowling (smaller ball version where you don’t have to put your fingers in it and not special shows required). Bowling was $10/game (not per person) and was a hit. You can also order food and drinks to be served at your lane.
In addition to bowling, 10K also has neon mini golf. It’s a small course of 6 holes and runs $8/person. Tip- Don’t play the last hole and let the kids play to their heart's content before the last hole, so it’s not $8 over and over again.

We explored a little outside of the hotel mainly to just try restaurants. Our two favorites -

1. Snooks Inn - This is how I picture Saturday nights on an island. It’s a restaurant on the docks. There’s a huge outdoor bar with live music and people just enjoying the fun atmosphere. There’s indoor and outdoor seating. I heard from multiple people to order the blackened grouper and I’m so glad I did. It’s melt in your mouth fresh. The meals also come with a great salad bar and pickles. I should have asked about the pickles but they had a whole tub of HUGE pickle slices which were so crunchy. I’m salivating just writing about them. If you eat off hotel property, Snooks needs to be on your list. During the day you can also arrive by boat and that just sounds so fun to me. It’s a destination in itself.

2. Doreen’s Cup of Joe - WOW! This breakfast place has indoor and outdoor seating, a huge menu and some of the best OJ I’ve ever had in my life. This place is a well oiled machine with a stream of customers, a line to put our name on the list but then we only waited about 30 minutes for a table on a holiday. They have fresh squeezed Florida orange juice like pressing it right there while you wait. Wow! I keep saying wow but yes I was wowed. So good! I ordered the famous Crunchy French Toast which I will now dream about until we go back to Marco. It was cornflake crusted with strawberries and whip cream. My husband had their Mexican Skillet. He loved it and it came with a fresh made biscuit. Tip- He asked for a side of gravy and for a small charge he turned that biscuit into biscuits and gravy. Brilliant! Please be aware - they do not have a children’s menu or coloring/entertainment. They do offer simple meals that pleased my kids like plain pancakes or a scrambled eggs/bacon/toast option.
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A couple of expenses to keep in mind when planning this vacation while staying at the JW. There’s a parking fee of either $25/night for self parking or $30/night for valet. We had plans to do self parking but we kept going out and about with kids falling asleep on the way back so valet was so convenient.

There is also a resort fee of $33/night plus tax. The resort fee included wifi (and really wifi is important here since it seemed data signals were pretty low), q hour tennis court rental, 2 spa fitness classes 2 chairs and umbrella on the beach during the day, and golf course shuttle.

There is a lot to do in and around Marco Island. We would have taken advantage of more if we stayed longer.

Family Vacation Must do’s when we go back

- Rent a boat. There’s a '10,000 Island' boat tour where you will go to one of the only places in the world that have both alligators and crocodiles.
- Day trip to the Naples Zoo. We passed by and it looks really nice. It would be a great half day excursion with littles.
- Ferry to Key West. I think this sounds fun. It does look long but I love a Key West day trip. The added bonus to arrive by boat is intriguing to me.

All in which I’m sure you can tell, we loved the JW and Marco Island in general. We have always been big Hawaiian family vacationers and we had that Hawaiian island feel for an easy quick flight for a weekend trip.

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Tahiti: Where to Splurge & Where to Save Money

I recently returned from a trip to Tahiti and this trip was as memorable and relaxing as it was beautiful. For many people, visiting here is on their bucket list, simply because it is unlike any other place in the world. 

Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia, located in the South Pacific archipelago. It’s divided into two main areas: the larger, northwestern section of Tahiti Nui and the smaller, southeastern portion called Tahiti Iti. In total, the island covers an area of 403 square miles and French is the official language, although you may sometimes hear the Tahitian language being spoken. If you’re traveling from Oklahoma to Tahiti, when you arrive, the time difference will be 5 hours behind what you’re used to.  Tahiti features two inactive volcanoes, sprawling black sand beaches, waterfalls, and rainforests. If you’re looking for a vacation in a warm tropical oasis, Tahiti is a great place to consider visiting. Here are some helpful tips for your trip to Tahiti. 

Tip #1: Take the ferry and don’t be afraid of the bus.

Save: When my husband and I arrived, we took the ferry to Moorea and rode the bus from the ferry to the hotel. This was a huge cost savings, saving us about $600 for two people! The ferries travel every hour and the bus will meet every ferry, so we didn’t even have to arrange it ahead of time. 

Splurge: When we were ready to head home, we splurged on a taxi back to the airport, simply because it is hard to know when the bus is going to come back around. Be sure to call and arrange the taxi service ahead of time, as they don’t have as many on the island as other places might. If you need help with that, the concierge at your hotel is happy to do this for you the night before you’re going to leave.

Tip #2: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks.

Save: Everything is expensive in Tahiti and the surrounding islands so if you’re looking to save some money, pack plenty of snacks and drinks that can last you the duration of your stay. We packed containers of almonds and granola bars and we took advantage of the bottled waters that the hotel provided in our room. The Hilton Moorea provides a minibar with pop, beer, and bottled water, so we decided to empty it every day so it would be restocked fresh daily for us. 
If you plan on drinking alcoholic beverages while you’re there, consider buying liquor at the Duty Free inside of security in the U.S. and pack it with you. They will tell you the exact amounts you can travel with. This will save you a lot of money, because alcohol in French Polynesia is very expensive. For example, cocktails at the resorts can range from $20-$35 and beer is usually $10 or more. In Bora Bora, bottled water was $10, so we took advantage of all of the included breakfast buffets and drank plenty of water and juice at breakfast since it was all included. 

Splurge: There is nothing like fresh, local seafood when you’re visiting Tahiti. During your time there, splurge a few times on some of the local food that the area offers. We had some of the most amazing tuna that we’ve ever tasted and we also enjoyed fresh French pastries and crepes everywhere. Delicious! 

Tip #3: Know the difference between overwater bungalows vs. garden bungalows.

Save: To save money, don’t stay in an overwater bungalow the whole time. Even though they are amazing, you can save money by staying in garden bungalows at the Moorea resorts, which I loved. They were posh, but had a fun camp-feel, kind of like the camp scenes that were featured on the original Parent Trap movie. The price difference between a garden bungalow and an overwater bungalow for a 3-night stay in Moorea could be over $1,000 depending on the time of year you travel, so that is a huge savings.    

Splurge: If you decide to travel to multiple islands, use the money you saved in the garden bungalow and splurge for a panoramic overwater bungalow in Bora Bora. Here, you need the overwater bungalow – the views and direct ladder access to the water is absolutely worth the splurge. 

Tip #4: Eat outside of the resort.

Save: A lot of the restaurants on the island of Moorea will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the restaurant to eat, so you don’t have to pay for a cab. We stayed at a hotel that had a neat local restaurant that we could walk to, and it was in the front yard of a home! There were picnic tables and we were able to chat with a Parisian lady while she cooked. Not only was it charming, but it was delicious and half the price of the hotel food. The service was outstanding compared to some of the more tourist-centered places. In Bora Bora, our resort had designated time that a boat would take you to the mainland where you could eat for less and take time to explore the island. 

Splurge: There is nothing like finding amazing food while you travel to a new spot. You have to have a BBQ lunch on Bora Bora Motu. Where else in the world can you be served champagne and lobster while sitting at a table in the water?  Amazing! 

Tip #5: Know about currency exchanges.

Save: Use the ATM, not a currency exchange booth. The currency exchange booth at the Papeete Airport was 83 XPF - $1 USD. The ATM was 99 XPF - $1 USD. Just be sure to tell your bank in advance that you are traveling so the ATM does not decline the transaction.

Splurge: There will be an ATM fee and it’s worth the splurge. Be sure to get enough cash for the entire trip – ATMs are few and far between and sometimes they’re out of money! 

Tip #6: Take advantage of onsite water sports.

Save: Most of the resorts are going to have onsite water sports. They provide the gear you need, including snorkel gear, kayaks, paddleboards, Hobie Cats, and more. Take advantage of these. It’s a great time to try something you never have before. 

Splurge: Splurge on a jet ski tour in Bora Bora. The lagoon is protected by all the outer islands so you can jet ski in calm water with stingrays and black tip reef sharks right below you. If you book a 2-hour tour, you will have time to circle the entire island. Make sure to book it from your hotel, as the resorts are so isolated that a water taxi could be very expensive. 

Your trip here will be filled with unforgettable experiences and you might even fall in love with French Polynesia from the minute you step off the plane!  I’m proud to be a certified Tahiti Specialist and can’t wait for people to experience the beautiful islands of Tahiti! Contact me today to get your trip booked. 

 

A luxury train, beautiful scenery, top notch service….these are all the things I think about when I think how can I start this blog about the experience of Rocky Mountaineer.

My journey started in Vancouver, BC. We flew into Vancouver 2 days prior to boarding the train so we could have a full day of experiencing Vancouver.

In Vancouver I realized Vancouver could be a vacation in itself. There’s so much to do. We crammed in as much as possible and I can’t wait to go back.

We had lunch at Granville Island. No one lives on the island and it’s right off the city connected by a bridge. There are a lot of little boutiques and souvenir shops. There’s one hotel in the island called The Granville Hotel with a nice water and city view.
We were obsessed with the Public Market. It was a farmer’s market, food court, bakery, and craft show all under one roof. I could have spent hours wandering through all the booths and admiring all the produce and baked goods.

We spent the afternoon at Capilano Suspension Bridge. I had been to Capilano in 1999 so it was neat seeing how they have added some experiences. The Capilano Suspension Bridge was built in 1889 for workers to use to get across the canyon. It started to become famous where people came on their days off to walk the bridge. By 1910 it become so popular they started to charge admission.
In the last 20 years they have added treetop bridges that are smaller Suspension bridges connecting between trees. I hope you include Capilano on your pre-train itinerary.

It was finally train day. They picked us up from our hotel that was all part of the Rocky Mountaineer package. The train station is about 10 minutes from downtown.
Boarding the train was easy. They have a few out to assist where to go and a man playing the bagpipes. It really added to the excitement.
We were lucky to be in Gold Leaf Service. Let me explain the differences.
Silver -
You have all 1 level. This actually would be a great choice if you’re really tall like over 6’5 since the Gold one is a split car.
You still have great views with the big windows that go up to the ceiling like the Gold always has had.
Meals are all included. You eat your meals at your seat. A tray comes down from the seat back in front of you like an airplane. It’s an oversized tray compared to airline travel. There’s a small outdoor platform to go outside.
Silver has a little more limited menu but it’s still all cooked to order. The drink menu is all the same and included.

Here’s my experience in Gold.
You have assigned seats. The seats are a plush leather. They recline, heat and have a have a leg rest. If you’re traveling with another couple one thing with that is so fun about Gold is your can rotate your seats to face each other and play cards. I loved this option.
There’s an additional staff member than in silver to cater to Gold passengers. They start alcoholic drink service at 10AM with a wide variety of wine, beer, sodas and juices.
We boarded early and they released half the car to go downstairs for breakfast. Those on second seating were served coffee and pastries.
Breakfast was cooked to order. They had a menu with a lot of options and could accommodate food allergies and preferences. Downstairs still has great big windows so you get to enjoy the scenery while eating. I loved the skillet that I ended up ordering both mornings. Everyone with me had different things and it all looked wonderful.
It worked this same way with lunch and we had fun switching up our dining table mates to meet new people.
The Gold car has an extended outdoor area and we spent a lot of time enjoying the fresh air and seeing the scenery go by. The attendants would let us know about things coming up so we could get our cameras ready. They talked to other trains and even told us when they knew some bears were going to be seen. We saw a white bear which the staff said was so rare and it was their first time seeing one.
Our halfway stop was in Kamloops which is a small town. They warned us the hotels in Kamloops are really basic so it was fine. We arrived at the train station and they had motor coaches waiting for us for a quick 5 minute drive over to the hotel. They had our suitcases already in our rooms since they came ahead in a truck. Smart! It made it so easy and had our room keys pre-programmed to pass out. I love little details like this.
Our second day on the train came early but I felt lucky since my body was still on central time zone so getting up early didn’t feel as early as the weather coasters. The scenery just got better and better. The train meals changed and they had little surprises of treats and a wine and cheese before arriving in Banff.
My number 1 trip for this journey is to do west to east if at all possible. It really builds on the beauty of the scenery.

What a gem Banff is. I kept saying how much I loved Banff and couldn’t wait to come back while I was there and hadn’t even left yet. The town of Banff was bustling with all sorts of shops and restaurants. The Fairmont Banff Springs is just up the hill from the town of Banff and such an easy walk but with a idyllic setting in the trees with a stream behind it. There were elk in the grass around the hotel. It really set the scene. There are restaurants, a great lounge, spa and more. I loved the igloo option for a special event. What a picture perfect option for an anniversary dinner or a proposal.

Rocky Mountaineer was founded in 1990. We could tell their employees love what they do. I think this is huge. For nature, scenery and train enthusiasts this trip is a must.
They also have expanded to a USA route from Colorado to Moab, Utah.

Does this vacation sound right up your alley? 2022 is almost sold out and we are booking for 2023. My office would love to help you. Please email me or give us a call.

I've had a lot of interest in the Ireland trip I just experienced.

Here is a list of 5 must do's when traveling to Ireland.

1. Plan to hop around the country and stay in different cities. There's so much more to explore outside of the big cities like Dublin or Shannon. We stayed in 5 different places during our 7 night trip. It was go go go, but I felt like we were able to really maximize our vacation, without having to back track like if we had just done day tours. It also gave us more time to experience the local towns.

[video width='181' height='320' mp4='https://blog.vincentvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/plan-ireland-trip.mp4'][/video]2. Hire a driver, or join a tour for traveling outside of Dublin. On this vacation, we hired a driver. It was one set cost for the driver, vehicle, and gas. We created an outline of where our hotels were each night so this also included accommodations for our driver, which he arranged on his own. If you really want to dive in deep, you can also hire a professional guide. We were content with a driver, which he still had a lot of knowledge, but a professional guide would be another level. One of the big perks of hiring a driver is you get to pick your schedule. Are you having fun at a pub and want to stay longer? No problem. Are you not big museum people but just want to see the highlights and hit the road? No problem. The driver program gives you 9 hours per day of drive time to set your own schedule.

3. Stay in castles! What a bucket list and unique experience it was for us to stay in some castles during our trip. There are many historic castles that operate as full service hotels with all the modern luxury amenities. Let me tell you about our 2 experiences.



Dromoland Castle

This castle dated back to early 11th century. It is a 5-star experience with onsite 18 hole golf course and leisure center. This is where they have an indoor pool, gym, sauna, steam room, bicycles to borrow and more.

On property there is a spa, tennis courts, some shops and 3 restaurants. There's a host of activities onsite that you can pre-book. This includes activities like archery, horseback riding, or clay shooting. You can also rent a golf cart to explore the grounds.

The castle was refurbished in 2017. I was in an East Wing Executive. This wing of the castle was built in 2001. The rooms are spacious with a bay window. The standard East Wing rooms do not have a bay window. The room is well appointed with bathrobes, slippers, mini bar and coffee station. The bathroom has a soaking tub, shower and double sinks. We loved the towel warmer. It's something I don't see at home or at hotels too often.
Daily breakfast is included with all room categories and some also include a round of golf.

Dromoland Castle is very convenient to Shannon airport and Cliffs of Moher.

Ashford Castle [video width='426' height='240' mp4='https://blog.vincentvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/ireland-travel-ashford-castle.mp4'][/video]

This castle was built in the 13th century. It sits on the largest lake in Ireland, so the views are jaw dropping. The property and castle were purchased by the Guinness family in the 19th century, and they poured a lot of money into the estate. This is also the property that a lot of the movie, The Quiet Man, was filmed.
There is onsite golf and a spa. There are 3 restaurants, plus they set up High Tea in the afternoon you can book. One of the restaurants is called, The Dungeon. It is themed in red with knights and flags. It's known for their steaks but also has a large variety of menu options. I had some really good salmon. This one does not have a dress code, but the formal dining room upstairs, men will need to bring a sport coat and everyone is asked to not wear denim.

Activities are plentiful onsite as well. You do not have to be a guest of the hotel to book activities. There is horseback riding, archery, clay shooting and the School of Falconry.
Our first afternoon we did a 'Hawk Walk' with the School of Falconry. Our guide was a French girl with such a passion for the birds. Her genuine love for the birds was contagious and we loved our experience. We walked around with her in the forest with two Harris Hawks. They are trained to come when someone wears a black leather glove and when you hold out your arm. She brought food, chicken skin and chopped up mouse, to incentivize the hawks. They flew with little bells on so we could hear where they were. It was so interesting.

I was nervous at first, but the birds weighed under 2 pounds, so it was easy for them to land on our arm and they were not aggressive at all. She said they love being fed and haven't ever just flown off. She said one time a hawk killed a duck, so she took the duck home and cooked it. I was totally captivated by this. She said people can live in the wild without a weapon and they hunt with their bird.

The next morning, we went horseback riding. This was different as it is English riding. Not that I know really much of anything about horseback riding, I had no idea it was different.

The saddles don't have the knob to hold onto, the stirrups are smaller and you hold the reigns “like a cup of tea”. They led us around the grounds and by the castle. It was a neat experience.

There are a lot of accommodation options at Ashford. There are newer rooms in 'The Lodge', standard rooms and staterooms. The staterooms are all different and historic. We had a corner stateroom complete with about 30' tall ceilings, a canopy bed that looked straight out of a movie and a sitting area. I was in castle room heaven. The bathroom has heated floors, heated towel rack, and double vanities. There are robes and slippers. They include water and a bottle of Sherry in your room. There is also a mini bar with a price list.
We totally fell in love with Ashford and see why it's a favorite to visit over and over.

4. Skip Ring of Kerry and opt for Dingle instead.

Nothing against Ring of Kerry. It's a beautiful drive with a lot of scenic spots to stop, but it's a ton of driving. Some of the most beautiful spots can be seen on the drive from Dingle, including spots made famous from Star Wars and movies like Far and Away.

In the spring is when you will see the lambs everywhere. The farm, where they filmed Far and Away, has a lamb program where you can hold the baby lambs for 4 euros. When we stopped they had a lamb only 2 days old that was a runt. When the ewes have triplets the runt will be ignored and the farms have to bottle feed the runts so they will survive. The owner of the farm, who was a kid living at the farm during filming of Far & Away, told us some stories about Tom Cruise and about where they set up the filming. It was fun to hear about.
Dingle can be a half day trip from Killarney. It's a great coastal town with shops and restaurants. If you're going during the summer, you can also plan to make a stop at Inch beach along the way. It's an expansive beach you can drive on, and has vendors renting boogie boards. Something I was surprised to find in Ireland.

5. Cliffs of Moher is a must, but so is Doolin

I don't know if you can do a first trip to Ireland without stopping at the Cliffs of Moher.

[video width='320' height='180' mp4='https://blog.vincentvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/best-ireland-travel.mp4'][/video]It's that awe inducing picture spot with the gorgeous - but dangerous, if you don't follow the signs - drop off cliffs. It cost 10 euros per person for entrance. They have a visitor center with bathrooms, gift shop and coffee. Something I didn't know about is the cute little town of Doolin only 4.3 miles from the Cliffs. If you're a hiker, this is a popular hike option. What a memorable way to see the cliffs!

In the town of Doolin, you have to eat at McGanns. We had some of the best food in all of Ireland and probably the best service. Everything is fresh. The chef makes the soups from what's on hand from the garden, and local caught fish and chips. They said the fish are basically jumping out of the water there, so might as well be fresh. My husband had a short rib dish we fawned all over. When we left, we said we can't wait to come back. It was picture perfect. They also have live music in the evenings.

There is so much to do in Ireland! The people we met, the songs sung at the pubs, the wonderful food...it's all so worth the trip. I can't wait for the next trip to the Emerald Isle!

As a family of 5, we have the hardest time finding resorts - instead of condos - that have rooms that accommodate without having to splurge for a second room. We were glad to welcome Hyatt Regency Clearwater Resort and Spa to our list of great options.

This resort is located in Clearwater, Florida. It’s across the street from the beach (which all of them in this area are) and this didn’t end up being a big deal. The pool is on the 8th floor, so the kids weren’t running from pool to beach anyway. At the beach the city sets up chairs with umbrellas or these little tents. They range from $35/day to $80/day and you can charge it to your room. There’s not food service to your beach chair, but there are restaurants all along the ocean-front area. We tried both the burger and pizza place on the ground floor of the Hyatt. They were both great!

[video width='300' mp4='https://blog.vincentvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/275874545_384359569817705_4947652508672294506_n.mp4'][/video]The resort had an activity calendar when we checked in with stuff going on poolside adhering the day to entertain the kids from a pop up snow cone stand to arts and crafts or games. There’s a toddler pool with a small fence and one big rectangular pool. There are awesome cabanas around the pool each with their own private bathroom, inside TV room and patio with table and loungers. These cost $399 per day. The hours are 10AM -8PM.

There’s a variety of rooms at the resort which are all oversized and include a kitchenette. Our room was all one room (some have a door between kitchen and bedroom) with 2 queen beds and a sleeper sofa. We mentioned at check-in that the 3 kids do not like to share a bed so they offered a blow up mattress in addition. (Roll-aways in our room category we’re a fire hazard) Perfect! All the rooms also have a balcony with table and chairs.
We ordered from Shipt and they dropped off our drinks, snacks and breakfast stuff with the bellhop who helped us with a cart to the room. It made it so easy to have things at our fingertips when the kids want for example a drink or snack every hour. Ha!

We did not rent a car did our stay. An XL Uber was about $50 each way. There’s plenty so close to the hotel so it ended up being over a $600 savings to not rent a car with the high rental car costs, parking and gas. There’s endless restaurants, shops and excursions within 1 mile of the hotel.

One of the favorites the kids did was the Pirate Ship Cruise. It departed about 2 blocks from the resort. It was about 2 hours long, included drinks, and the best part was they entertained the kids the whole time from telling jokes, having water gun fights and playing musical chairs. It was a great activity.

[video width='300' mp4='https://blog.vincentvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/VincentVacations_7076073028626550062.mp4'][/video]There were tons of other activities all leaving from this same marina as the pirate ship such as a shark themed dolphin cruise, parasailing, deep sea fishing, speed boat fours, jet skis and more. We were here during Spring Break and didn’t have any trouble getting activities booked with so many options available right there.

We had some great meals. Our absolute favorite? The Bait House. We heard about this place from several locals so we had to try it.

The restaurant sits on a dock and is tiny so plan to go early to be able to eat here. They said they can’t build on because they are grandfathered into their location. They serve fresh fish caught that day and are famous for their “drunken shrimp”. The shrimp come in a little pot in the yummy sauce and served with chunks of ciabatta bread.

The staff here were awesome. They have a few birds that hang out that they feed their bait to. It was fun and they let the kids feed one. One is named Skipper because he had a broken leg and now has a limp.

All in all it’s a great family destination and resort. We did go during Spring Break and some of the days were only in the low 70s. The adults thought it was too cold to swim but the kids didn’t care. They had a great kid’s room for movie nights and games.

It’s a great low key beach getaway.

I just returned from Hotel Xcaret Arte. This is a new resort that opened in 2021 to compliment Hotel Xcaret with the stand out difference being that it’s adults only. I have stayed at the original Hotel Xcaret a couple of times so this was great to compare the two resorts.

This is the perfect resort for an active group of friends, couple or family with adult children. I wouldn’t recommend for anyone with mobility issues or the inability to walk longer distances.

Here are some of my 10 tips when choosing this resort for your next vacation –

1) Stay as long as you can! This resort includes all of the 9 Xcaret parks as part of your inclusions. They all leave you wishing you could stay longer.

2) Plan to eat! This resort is known for gastronomy. The food at breakfast, lunch and dinner was impressive. We had some really amazing authentic Mexican food. They have3 restaurants on property that require reservations so make sure to schedule this when you arrive to be able to hit all the great ones.

3) Transportation is included via motorcoach to and from the airport. If you miss it you can be waiting 30 -45 minutes for the next bus so private transportation is always an option if you prefer. We paid $65 one way for a private transfer.

4) Brush up on your Spanish. We found this resort to cater to a wide rage of international guests. English was spoken but not as fluently as other resorts in the area. We were always able to figure it out but sometimes had to get creative with English and Spanish.

5) Explore both sides. Staying at Xcaret Arte gives you full access to Hotel Xcaret. The spa on Hotel Xcaret side can’t be missed. It is carved out of the rock so your treatment rooms are inside of individual caves. They connect by the waterfalls and you walk on a bridge over the river.

6) Leave high heels at home! This resort requires a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. The pathways just from the lobby to the rooms were stone. We would also recommend brining water shoes for swimming in the river as there are a lot of rocks.

7) Masks! They were more pro-masks than any resort I’ve been to during the pandemic. They asked you wear a mask almost anywhere on property by having a person walking around with a “Please wear your mask” sign. They did not confront people though about wearing a mask unless it was in a restaurant.

8) Dedicate a day to enjoying the hotel. The parks being included is amazing but the resort is equally as amazing. There are caves, the river, amazing swimming pools, paddle boarding, kayaking and more all without leaving the hotel.

9) Plan for later hours…..this resort is catering to a wide range of countries. The United States is one of the few that like to eat dinner at 6PM. When we would go to dinner at 6PM it would be a ghost town. The restaurants come alive starting around 9PM and there’s even tacos available until 4AM outside the SpeakEasy.

10) Speaking of Speakeasys….this is a trend I am loving. We made it one night to the SpeakEasy (located in the music wing). It’s in a service area of the hotel. You follow red lights on the ceiling to get there and seems like you are walking into a parking garage and then all of a sudden there’s a way cool bar with live jazz. This should not be missed!

We just returned from a wonderful week aboard the Disney Fantasy.

Disney just started sailing again in August and yes there are some changes so I was happy to check it out so our clients can be more in the know.

Disney welcomes everyone over the age of 6 months to cruise. At the time of our sailing, anyone under the age of 12 and not vaccinated had to test prior to arrival at the port. Starting on sailings January 13 and onward, everyone 5 and up will have to be vaccinated so this will just apply for the under age 5.

COVID Testing


Once we arrived at the port they had testing tents set up. It was an easy process with a lot of people directing everyone. It’s a self test while they watch to make sure you do it correctly. My kids liked that they got to do it and it helped with the nerves. We were then directed to another tent to await results. After we were given an all clear (about 30 minutes later from the testing time) we were directed to check in for the cruise like normal. This was our 3rd Disney cruise so it all seemed similar but no paperwork. It’s a check in online process now and after we did everything we had a QR code. We kept it readily available as this is what they scanned about 5 times at different points to access our information. If made it so much easier than having a bunch of papers to keep up with.

We were told the ship was about 40% full and they would sell up to 50%. We didn’t experience long lines or crowds. It was really nice to have access to chairs and things like that.

Now what was different?



Kid’s Club.
The kid’s club is still included but you make a reservation for their time. We reserved right after dinner each night so the kids could be served quickly and head to the club while we leisurely dined. They did this so they could control the crowds. The kids told me they did games with them and they stayed with their color group. I am assuming so they didn’t all congregate in one area. They asked to go every night and came back with all sorts of prizes from scavenger hunts and competitions. They loved it. I was told I could make more reservations than the 1 per day it allowed on the website in person just based on availability.

Fireworks.
They still had fireworks but they did 2 smaller shows to correlate with your dining. Typically the deck is packed with no elbow room for fireworks. Cast members delegated a spot with a dot on the ground for each family group. They played music and had a dance party outside where you had your own space. It was awesome.

Masks.
Masks were required when you were inside and not in your stateroom. I will say I appreciated that they were not mask nazis like I was expecting. A gentle reminder if you forgot or they offered a disposable one. They were very positive and accommodating.

Spa.
If you’re a person who loves the hydrotherapy experience before a massage this was amazing. For $175 you reserved the Rainforest Room for 2 hours. You could have up to 10 people from your family and it was totally private for the sauna, steam room, jacuzzis, heated loungers and more.

Excursions.
If you’re traveling with unvaccinated children, a Disney escorted excursion is the only option for leaving the ship with the exception of Castaway Cay. While porting in Castaway, there’s not excursion purchase required.
We chose Swimming with Dolphins in Cozumel and a Beach Break in Jamaica. Vaccinated guests have the option to explore on their own using or booking whichever vendor their choose for activities.
When we returned from the Disney excursions, we were able to head off and do a little shopping on our own as long as the kids stayed on the ship.

Characters.
We saw the characters all the time. The Princesses, Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto and more were in the atrium for pictures and chatting. What was different? While you spoke to them they asked you keep your mask on. They had you stay 6 feet away. When you were ready for a picture you could turn and take off you mask and smile. It was a great compromise to still get those great photos and safely interact with all the favorites.

Entertainment.
They still had the same great entertainment onboard. During our sailing they did Aladdin, Frozen and Disney Believe which is a compilation. What was different is they had cast members seat you so you stayed 6 feet away from other parties and had every other row blocked off. It worked this same way with the smaller shows like they had a great ventriloquist onboard and a magician.
There is also a movie theatre onboard. They no longer sell popcorn for the shows but they had a lot of great first run movies my kids were excited to see that are currently in theaters.

Time to Book?



Is now the time to book a Disney Cruise? Our answer is yes! They are only little for a short time. The prices are lower than I’ve ever seen before and Disney has made the experience as safe as possible without having the measures be impactful to your vacation experience.