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This week,we will profile our three top-selling destinations in the Caribbean. All promise beautiful beaches, warm breezes and a laid-back atmosphere.
Jamaica is edged by pristine beaches and crowned by mountains that run across the center of the island. It has more all-inclusive resorts than any other destination; these properties wrap accommodations, meals, drinks and many activities in the upfront rate. Most of the main tourist areas are situated along the reef-protected shores of the north coast.
Negril is known for soft sands and calm waters that are perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. Vacationers in Ocho Rios can visit one of Jamaica's most treasured attractions, 600-foot Dunn's River Falls, while those in Montego Bay can take a gentle float trip down the Martha Brae River. Runaway Bay is near the Green Grotto Caves, where guided subterranean tours take visitors to a lake 120 feet below the surface.
The Dominican Republic comprises the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola and boasts more than 800 miles of coastline, championship courses designed by golf legends, and a culture threaded with Spanish, French, Haitian and African influences.
Experienced divers can explore interesting shipwrecks, including two Spanish vessels that sank off the north coast in the 16th century. Nature lovers can head to the country's national parks -- see crocodiles at Isla Cabritos and flamingos at Jaragua, for example. In the evening, nightclubs pulse with the beat of merengue music.
About 15 miles north of Venezuela, Aruba features broad beaches, a cactus-studded interior and distinctive divi-divi trees bent by steady trade winds. The waters teem with marine life, providing excellent snorkeling opportunities. Scuba divers can explore the shipwrecked Antilla, a sunken German World War II freighter.
Tall, multicolored Dutch colonial homes with wooden doors make a picturesque sight in Oranjestad, the capital city. Nearby Eagle Beach is one of the island's longest beaches, stretching for 200 yards. Palm Beach is a true Caribbean playground, with major resorts, fine golden sand and clear water.
Top Resorts of 2011
1/5/20123:45:46 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
10 of our best-selling beach resorts.
In no particular order, these are some of the most popular choices based on 2011 reservations.
They are located along the beaches of the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Mexico and Costa Rica. Most are all-inclusive, which means that accommodations, meals, snacks, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages and many sports and activities are included in the price paid upfront.
Barcelo Bavaro Palace Deluxe, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic -- This 5-star, all-inclusive resort faces a nearly two-mile-long beach that's protected by a coral reef, which makes for calm waters. It has a dedicated wing of family rooms tucked into a private area. Guests have access to a spa, 18-hole P.B. Dye signature golf course, seven tennis courts, and soccer and baseball fields. Choose from 11 restaurants, including a la carte options and international, Dominican and seafood buffets. After dinner, attend a show in the Vegas-style theater or visit the disco.
Hotel Riu Guanacaste, Guanacaste, Costa Rica -- Backed by lush, green hills, this 5-star Pacific Coast haven offers an array of land and water sports in its all-inclusive package, like beach volleyball, tennis, snorkeling, kayaking and windsurfing. Take scuba diving lessons in the pool, or indulge in a hot stone or shiatsu massage in the Renova Spa. A kids' program caters to young guests ages 4 to 12. Jacuzzi suites feature an ocean-view hot tub on the terrace.
Excellence Punta Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic -- A 5.5-star property that wraps dance lessons, archery, snorkeling, bicycle tours and yoga classes into its all-inclusive vacation package, the kids-free Excellence Punta Cana is a favorite for active couples looking for an engaging getaway. Two pools, eight a la carte restaurants, 10 bars, a spa and cardio-conditioning facility round out the list of on-site amenities.
Hotel Riu Santa Fe, Los Cabos, Mexico -- This 4.5-star property is located just a couple of miles from downtown Cabo San Lucas on Mexico's Baja Peninsula. It's a large resort, with 902 rooms, four specialty restaurants, seven bars, a spa, nightclub, conference rooms and gym. Daily activities and nightly shows keep guests entertained around the clock.
Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort Montego Bay, Montego Bay, Jamaica -- This 3-star, all-inclusive property is particularly family-friendly. The youth staff at the KidSpree Vacation Club organizes activities for ages 6 months to 3 years, ages 4 to 7 and ages 8 to 12. KidSuites feature a partially separated section for your young travelers, with bunk beds and a child's desk or play table, providing children their own space and parents a bit of privacy. The buffet restaurant includes a kids' corner and pizza bar. Sorrento offers fine dining with ocean views, Paella specializes in tapas and other Spanish dishes, and the beachfront Jerk Hut serves Jamaican favorites.
Breezes Grand Resort & Spa-Negril, Negril, Jamaica -- This 4.5-star waterfront resort is all-inclusive and caters to vacationers seeking a kids-free atmosphere. Guests can sail a Sunfish, windsurf or kayak over translucent blue waters. Evening entertainment runs from music at a cozy piano bar to dancing at the nightclub to a Caribbean-style beach carnival. Lavish buffets are supplemented by casually elegant restaurants that serve French, Italian, Japanese, Jamaican and continental fare.
Crown Paradise Club Cancun, Cancun, Mexico -- Family suites accommodate up to seven people at this 4-star, all-inclusive spot, making it a good choice for a vacation with the kids. Supervised activities are scheduled throughout the day for young guests, and in the evening they can join campouts, pajama parties and movie screenings. Children also will enjoy the miniature golf course and a water park complete with a pirate ship and eight waterslides.
Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island, Paradise Island, Bahamas -- This 4-star, all-inclusive retreat sits on a three-mile ribbon of white-sand beach, next door to the expansive Atlantis resort complex. On-site features include a gym, sauna, spa, swimming pool, sun terrace and buffets supplemented by four specialty restaurants.
Atlantis Paradise Island, Paradise Island, Bahamas -- This five-star resort is an expansive tropical playground with a terrific variety of attractions and dining venues. There's the 141-acre Aquaventure Water Park, with high-speed waterslides and a mile-long river ride with rapids and wave surges. Peer at sharks, barracudas and rays in on-site marine habitats, try out the rock-climbing wall or make an appointment at the 30,000-square-foot Mandara Spa. When you've worked up an appetite, there are 21 restaurants at hand.
Sandos Playacar Beach Resort and Spa, Playa del Carmen, Mexico -- Inspired by its surroundings on the Mayan Riviera, this 4.5-star all-inclusive property offers hacienda-style accommodations, freshwater swimming pools and a stretch of beach lined by shady, thatched palapas. On-site amenities include seven restaurants, four bars, a nightclub and ample children's facilities, with activities for toddlers 2-3, kids 4-12 and teens 13-17 (including a teens-only club). It also offers easy access to the archaeological sites of Tulum and Coba and the local water park, Xcaret.
Our Favorite All-Inclusive Kid-Free Retreats
11/9/20111:22:55 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Are you looking for a kid-free beach vacation? Some of the finest resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean are restricted to adult guests, and today,we would like to give you a brief overview of our favorites. In most cases, the minimum age at these properties is 18, although some accept younger teen guests.
Here, in no particular order, are some of our most popular kid-free retreats.
Excellence Punta Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic -- Excellence Punta Cana is a favorite among active couples looking for an engaging getaway. The 5.5-star retreat offers horseback riding, dance lessons, snorkeling tours and yoga classes in its all-inclusive vacation package. Other amenities include two pools, eight a la carte restaurants, 10 bars, a spa and cardio-conditioning facility.
The Royal Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen, Mexico -- At this elegant, 5-star property, guests can relax on canopied beach beds, visit the Mayan-inspired spa, participate in wine and tequila tastings led by the sommelier, attend nightly shows or try any of the nine dining options -- perhaps the Spanish tapas place, Caribbean seafood spot or Mexican-French fusion restaurant. The Royal is all-inclusive and within walking distance of Playa del Carmen's Fifth Avenue, a pedestrian street lined with shops and restaurants.
Iberostar Grand Hotel Rose Hall, Montego Bay, Jamaica -- Rooms at this 4.5-star, all-inclusive resort feature flat-screen TVs with DVD players, iPod docking stations, marble bathrooms with his-and-hers vanities and fully stocked minibars that can be customized to guests' preferences. There are six bars, including a swim-up bar and a cigar bar, and five restaurants. The property's artistic design gives it a boutique-like feel.
Iberostar Grand Hotel Bavaro, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic -- Iberostar calls this 5-star property its finest all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic. Mingle at the music bar, which is housed in a replica of a Spanish galleon, or treat yourself to a massage in the two-story oceanfront spa. There are five restaurants, some with al fresco dining, plus a snack bar, and five bars here. There's also an onsite, 18-hole championship golf course designed by P.B. Dye.
El Dorado Royale, Playa del Carmen, Mexico -- This 5-star retreat is noted for its gourmet all-inclusive program, with specialty restaurants, "gourmet corners" and 24-hour room service. Those looking for a truly relaxing getaway might opt for a swim-up suite that fronts a "lazy river" pool system, so you can step off your patio right into a cool current. More than a dozen other swimming pools are scattered around the resort. Kayaking trips, scuba clinics and complimentary use of paddleboats and snorkeling gear are offered.
Couples Swept Away Negril, Negril, Jamaica -- Situated on seven miles of white-sand beaches, Couples Swept Away is an intimate retreat designed exclusively for couples. This all-inclusive, 5-star resort features all-suite accommodations housed in two-story villas spread throughout acres of palm trees, tropical flowers and beautiful beaches. Couples can stay active with a vast array of land and water sports including tennis, golf, parasailing and snorkeling, or experience the ultimate in relaxation at the spa or in a hammock on the beach.
Golden Parnassus All-Inclusive Resort & Spa Cancun, Cancun, Mexico -- This 4-star, all-inclusive resort is about 25 minutes from the airport. A large, inviting swimming pool faces the blue Caribbean, and daily activities include Spanish language lessons, cooking classes, water aerobics and beach soccer. For dinner, try the seafood dishes at Pier 12, gourmet a la carte selections at Shangri-la or Japanese fare at Sumo. There are also buffet options and several bars.
Secrets St. James Montego Bay, Montego Bay, Jamaica -- This 5-star, all-inclusive resort is situated on a half-mile stretch of private beach about 20 minutes away from the airport. Featuring all-suite accommodations, Secrets St. James has a British colonial ambience with rich, dark woods. This property shares a common area known as The Promenade with its sister resort -- Secrets Wild Orchid. The Promenade has seven restaurants as well as bars and lounges. Activities and amenities include aerobics and yoga classes, tennis and basketball courts, Hobie cats, a gaming lounge and nightly entertainment.
Brand New Beach Resorts plus Hurricane Irene Update
9/2/20111:42:13 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Before making landfall in the US, Hurricane Irene skirted Antigua, the US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, then slammed into the Bahamas as a category 3 storm, with maximum winds of 115 mph. The islands suffered downed trees, damaged roofs, power outages and flooding.
Many resorts in these areas sustained cosmetic damage but a few were damaged enough to force temporary closures:
Sandals Royal Bahamian is closed for clean-up and repairs and will reopen September 28.
Beaches Turks & Caicos is closed for clean-up and repairs and will reopen October 6.
Breezes Bahamas is closed for clean-up and repairs and will reopen on November 1.There's something special about vacationing at an all-new resort, and this week, I will reveal five brand-new, tropical resorts, as well as several properties that have recently undergone extensive renovations or expansions. The resorts are located in Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii and Las Vegas, and they accept guests of all ages unless otherwise noted.
All-inclusive resorts, where your upfront price includes lodging, meals, beverages and activities, are noted as well.
First, the all-new resorts. One property opened in December, one is scheduled to open this week, and three more are slated for November debuts.
In general, I don't recommend planning a visit during the first few weeks since resort openings may be pushed back due to construction delays and/or some amenities may not be finished, and I like to give the new hotel staff some time to work out any kinks. But after a short grace period, it's a pleasure to walk into a tropical oasis where everything is new and the staff is especially eager to please.
Villa de Palmar Cancun Mujeres Beach Resort -- Playa Mujeres, about 25 miles north of Cancun's hotel zone, is home to this 4.5-star, all-inclusive property. Rooms are equipped with kitchenettes or full kitchens, and some of the two-bedroom suites can accommodate up to eight guests. Guests can enjoy a massage at the spa or in a beachfront cabana, or take part in nonmotorized water sports like kayaking. Opened December 2010.
Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla (kids-free) and Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda (family-friendly) -- These neighboring all-inclusive properties, each rated with 5.5 stars, are perched on a small bay on Mexico's Riviera Maya. The complex is surrounded by a mangrove preserve and has views of Cozumel Island. The two resorts share a common area with 10 restaurants (three offer a kids-free ambiance), 10 bars, the Yhi Spa, an activities center and a theater. Guests who book the Royal Service category of accommodations at La Perla receive extra perks, like butler service, a private lounge with complimentary Internet and a private pool and beach area. Meanwhile, vacationers who check into the Family Concierge level of suites at La Esmeralda get a beach kit for the kids, pint-size bathrobes and slippers in the closet and nightly turndown with milk and cookies. Both properties offer swim-up suites. Scheduled to open in November 2011.
Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa -- This 4.5-star retreat hugs the golden sands of Huatulco on Mexico's Pacific Coast. It's a kids-free, all-inclusive resort with several bars and lounges and eight restaurants, plus a cafe for coffee and pastries. Evening entertainment includes theme parties, live shows and movies on the beach. All rooms face the ocean, and some have private Jacuzzis on the terrace or swim-out access to the resort's pool. Scheduled to open in November 2011.
The resorts below have undergone major, multimillion-dollar renovations or expansions.
I've included a few key details for each resort below. For full profiles or online quotes, click the applicable link.
In the Caribbean:
Barcelo Bavaro Palace Deluxe (renovations completed March 2011) -- A 5-star, all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
IBEROSTAR Dominicana (renovations completed April 2011) -- A 4-star, all-inclusive property in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana (renovations completed May 2011) -- A 5-star, all-inclusive resort with a kids-free ambiance in the Dominican Republic, formerly NH Royal Beach
Now Larimar Punta Cana (renovations completed May 2011) -- A 5-star, all-inclusive getaway in the Dominican Republic, formerly NH Real Arena
Frenchman's Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort -- The Frenchman's Reef portion of this 5-star resort in the U.S. Virgin Islands will reopen after renovations in September 2011. The Morning Star section remains in operation.
The BodyHoliday LeSPORT (scheduled to reopen October 2011) -- A 5-star, kids-free resort on Cariblue Beach in St. Lucia
Radisson Blu Resort Marina & Spa (scheduled to reopen December 2011) -- A 4-star property on Anse Marcel Cove in St. Martin
IBEROSTAR Cancun (scheduled to reopen December 2011) -- A 5-star all-inclusive resort in Mexico, formerly the Hilton Cancun Golf & Spa ResortTravel to Mexico
4/18/201111:29:47 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Destination Information
Every customer is looking for a unique vacation experience. Every Mexico destination offers a different experience for different clientele. Hopefully in facts below will make you understand the difference for each destination.Cozumel
• Cozumel offers something for everyone
• Fantastic white-sand beaches, world’s best scuba diving, nightlife and jungle adventures
• Home to the world’s 2nd largest coral reef in the world with incredible water clarity
• You can easily get to Playa del Carmen on the mainland via a short ferry ride
• Visit the Chankanaab Beach Club for swimming with the dolphins, snorkeling and more
• Visit charming San Miguel with a laid-back environment that also has fun bars and restaurants
• Enjoy several options for jungle adventures with jeep tours and horseback ridingCancun
• Mexico’s most popular tourist destination
• One of the world’s finest resort areas
• Breathtaking white-sand beaches and turquoise waters
• Incredible nightlife with world-famous clubs and bars such as Coco Bongo
• Tons of shopping ranging from world-famous designers to local crafts
• Enjoy cultural activities available such as bullfighting
• Just a short ride from the Mayan ruins – one of the seven wonders of the world
• Variety of activities available including swimming with the dolphins, dinner cruises and moreLos Cabos
• Stunning rugged desert landscape with sapphire waters and beautiful mountains
• Twin towns of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo both offer a uniquely Mexican experience
• Cabo San Lucas is renowned for its bustling nightlife restaurant scene
• Wander through charming and relaxed San Jose del Cabo for shopping, art galleries and old Mexican flavor
• If the ocean is too rough by your hotel, ask how to get to Medano Beach where the waters are calmer
• Check out a variety of tours including whale watching, dune buggies, regatta sailing and zip lines
• Take a cruise past the world-famous Land’s End Arch rock formation and view their native seal inhabitants
• Golf at over 8 championship courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman and Tom WeiskopfRiviera Nayarit
• A new, exclusive area just south of Puerto Vallarta that’s becoming very popular for tourists
• Enjoy pristine, golden sand beaches and calm sapphire waters ideal for swimming
• Offers the best of both worlds since it’s just 15 minutes from Puerto Vallarta
• Over 20 excursions available ranging from zip lines to sunset sailing and city tours
• Enjoy several golf courses with stunning ocean views
• Incredible whale watching during the winter months of December through March
• A wide variety of sprawling, palatial resorts surrounded by lush greenery and natural beautyRiviera Maya
• Limitless options for relaxation and adventure
• Surrounded by white-sand beaches, lush jungles and turquoise waters
• Home to Mayan Ruins including Chichen Itza and Tulum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World
• Head to the charming city of Playa del Carmen for shopping, dining and nightlife
• Visit a cenote, which is an underground cave connected by a freshwater river system
• Choose from a variety of water adventures ranging from reef diving to cavern and wreck diving
• The deep channel acts as a natural pipeline for game fishing including sailfish and marlin
• Explore the wonders of natural eco-parks like Xcaret or Xel-Ha for swimming, snorkeling or relaxing
??? Take a tour to Maroma Beach, rated one of the best beaches in the worldPuerto Vallarta
• This city oozes Mexican authenticity with charming cobblestone streets, cathedrals and more
• The perfect resort setting for those who want to be in the heart of the action
• Stunning backdrop on Banderas Bay surrounded by the breathtaking Sierra Madre mountains
• Take in all the culture the city has to offer with limitless festivals, restaurants, shops and art galleries
• Famous nightlife scene with a variety of options ranging from wine bars to discos
• Experience adventure with over 20 tours including deep sea fishing, city tours and eco-adventures
Laws on Children & Passports and Traveling From United States to Mexico
3/14/20113:19:02 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
U.S. citizens under the age of 18 must comply with additional laws when traveling to Mexico. While a U.S. passport is required for travel by air to Mexico and a passport card is sufficient for entry by land or sea, minors must have the documented permission of any absent parent. Before heading south of the border, be certain that you have everything you need to travel with your child, to avoid any unnecessary delays while traveling.
The Law
Mexican law requires that any non-Mexican citizen under the age of 18 departing Mexico must carry notarized written permission from any parent or guardian who isn't traveling with the child to or from Mexico. The purpose of the law is to reduce child abductions, often committed by a parent or relative.
Written Permission
Written permission should include the name of the parent, name of the child, name(s) of anyone traveling with the child, notarized signature(s) of the absent parent(s), travel dates, destinations, airlines and a brief summary of the circumstances surrounding the travel.
Proof of Relationship
In addition to the parent or guardian's written permission, you must provide proof of the relationship between the minor child and the absent parent. A birth certificate or court document with a custody decree counts as proof of relationship. Please note that a passport doesn't include parents' names and can't be used as proof of relationship.
Original Documents
Both written permission and proof of relationship must be original documents. Photocopies and scanned or faxed copies are not acceptable.
Iberostar Lindo - Riviera Maya
12/27/20102:34:47 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Hello John,
Thank you for all your advise and booking our Mexico trip to Rivera Maya at the Iberstar Lindo, I would say that the beach being over one mile long and pure white smooth sand has to be the best trip so far you booked for us. You can walk out 20-30 feet into the Carribien Sea and be waist deep. Put on your snorkel gear and swim to the yellow marks and thats were the coral at. There is not one complaint about the Lindo .Fantasic place and I do Recommend eatinfg at the Maya Steak House and Maya Meterian Fish house. We did not want to return. Dec.9th-16th. The best time in Mexico and thanks for the price you found. Merry Christmas and Happy New year. We are telling everyone about you and your company for we brought back hundreds of pictures and are showing them. Thanks againWesley Zameda
New Mexican Law on Accepting US Dollars
10/5/201011:34:04 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
The Mexican Government passed a new law which goes into effect in Mexico
beginning September 14, 2010. With this new law, the use of American Dollars
(CASH) to make purchases in Mexico will not be as free as it has been in the past.
Many repeat guests to Mexico who have become accustomed to freely using
American Dollars (CASH) in Mexico will notice the difference. Other payment
methods such as credit cards of all types and all issuing banks, Travelers Checks,
Mexican pesos and non-American foreign currencies (such as Euros or Canadian
Dollars) are not affected in any way by this new law.
The most noticeable differences to customers will be:
• Hotels and Exchange Booths will only be able to change a maximum of
$1,500 USD CASH per person per month into Mexican Pesos. Previously
there was no limit.
• Businesses (including Amstar DMC in Mexico) will only be able to accept a
maximum of $100 USD CASH per transaction - but the number of transactions
per customer is not restricted.
• Certain businesses may not be able to, or may choose not to accept American
Dollars for any purchase at all (this may include shops, etc).
If a customer wants to purchase an excursion (for example) that costs $139 US
dollars per person, he/she will only be able to pay $100 of this amount in USD
CASH and the remainder will need to be in another form of payment (credit
card, Mexican pesos, etc).
Vacationers should never carry large amounts of American dollars with them to
Mexico, but instead they should consider either using a Credit Card, taking or
locally withdrawing Mexican Pesos, or use Travelers Check’s (of any currency).