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I first learned of the Fish Foot treatment when one of my friends posted pictures of her experience during her trip to Asia, and I was immediately fascinated by this method of getting rid of the dead skin from your feet by way of tiny fish basically nibbling at your feet. Yes, at first the concept sounds a little crazy, but everything I read mentioned how effective it was at truly exfoliating your feet — and I’m a sucker for wanting smooth feet because as a Southern California I pretty much live and flip flops and sandals. So while on my last trip to Dreams Playa Mujeres, when found out the Dreams Spa by Pevonia at the resort offered this unique spa services, I jumped on the opportunity to let this box of fish do their work The first part of the treatment included getting my feet cleansed and pampered first to ensure that I didn’t have any lotions or oils on my feet that would damage the fish — the cleansing and quick foot massage was a pleasant surprise to say the least. Then it was onto the chair where I’d sit of the next 15 minutes while the fish did their thing. I was initially hesitant to put my feet in the water, but I was assured by the spa staff that the fish nibbles wouldn’t hurt but instead it would feel like a little tickle — and about 20 seconds into the treatment, they were totally right. Those initial nibbles are a little alarming, mostly because it’s probably a sensation you’ve never felt before, but they feel just like tiny little pulses along the pads of your feet and it is not painful at all. About a minute into the treatment, you’ll be totally at ease and you can sit back and relax — or if you’re like me, you’ll continue to be fascinated by the idea of what’s going on and take photos and video of your experience. My 15-minute treatment went by in a flash and when the spa therapist dried off my feet, I was happy to feel the new smoothness on my heels as well as the pads of my feet. This treatment totally works! Due to lack of time, I only opted for the 15-minute session, but I would recommend a longer treatment if you can swing it. This is definitely a unique and fun experience you’ll enjoy and remember, and of course the bonus is, you’ll end up with beautifully smooth feet! To find out more information about booking your honeymoon or destination wedding, contact Wright Travel Agency at:www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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Hi guys, My fiance and I are deciding on which resort we would like to have our destination wedding at. Our wedding is August 4, 2018. We plan on having a "weddingmoon." We are from the United States. We cannot decide between Sandals Negril Beach & Spa or Hideaway at Royalton Negril. We definitely want an Adults-Only resort. Hideaway Royalton Negril is not open yet. They were supposed to open in January of this year, but its been pushed back a few times to March 31, 2017. I am hoping to speak to a wedding representative in the first week of April to see if my date is available. Does anybody here know of someone having a wedding at a Royalton Resort? That would be my first choice. Anybody here have their wedding at Sandals Negril Beach & Spa? I have invited 40 people, but I doubt most will come. My fiance and I stayed at Luxury Grand Bahia Principe in Runaway Bay in September 2016. We loved it there, but want to try some place new! Any information is appreciated!
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Luxury Style: 24/7 Butler Service at Karisma's Villa Carola
MarieSamSanchezPhoto posted a article in Planning
Imagine having 24/7 butler service while you and your family enjoyed a luxury vacation on a private property with all the comforts and convenience of an all-inclusive resort in a tropical paradise. Well that experience can be yours at Karisma Hotels & Resort's Villa Carola property in Puerto Morelos, Mexico. Villa Carola, an exquisite two-story private villa, is adjacent to the Azul Beach Hotel in the Riviera maya and offers 10,700 square-feet of luxury and privacy for 12 adults and 8 children, 6-ocean view bedrooms and bathrooms, and a private pool, beach and jacuzzi. But one of the villa's best perks is 24-hour assistance from your own personal Majordomo -- a butler of sorts who is there to make all your special requests and preferences come to life. The pampering at Villa Carola begins even before you arrive to the property, with pre-arrival service by your butler, who will make sure your vacation experience is perfect from beginning to end. No matter your requests, your Majordomo is ready and at your service because no wish is too far fetched and it always comes with a warm smile. According to Carlos, the Majordomo for Villa Carola, he communicates with guests from the very start even before their vacation begins, obtaining information on their likes/dislikes and preferences for food, activities or comforts and necessities inside the villa. Carlos is also there to help with planning reservations at any of the Azul Beach eateries, the Vassa spa or to help arrange any off-site excursions or transportation. "I am here to help and assist with any requests or needs the Villa Carola guests have," he said, adding that no requests is too big or too small. Besides the services from your personal Majordomo, guests at Villa Carola can also enjoy the delicious offerings of the Gourmet Inclusive Experience, including daily maid service, non-motorized water sports, daily activities, private beach butlers, delectable cuisine, and 24-hour room service. To find out more about staying at Villa Carola or the other two Karisma Villas in Riviera Maya, Mexico, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.-
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Besides the incredible massage and spa services the Vassa Spa offers at Azul Beach Hotel in Puerto Morelos, brides, bridesmaids and wedding guests can also enjoy the spa's full service hair and makeup salon to ensure they're picture perfect for the big day. The Vassa Spa salon staff is comprised of trained hair and makeup stylist who are very receptive to their client's inspiration photos and styling preferences. The staff also suggest that brides schedule a trial before the Wedding day to ensure that you get the look you've envisioned for your I Do's. "I would definitely suggest brides do a trial ahead of the Wedding day," says Yidan Ortiz, who has been one the salon's stylists for six years. Ortiz says that it can be challenging when the bride wants to try out a style or changes her mind on the day of the wedding because not all styles or looks work for every person's face or hair. Trial runs allow for the stylist and the client to nail down the perfect look for the final run come the big day. Hair and makeup trials should be scheduled in advance and requests can be made to work with the same stylist during both the trial and the Wedding day. The spa, which typically has at least four stylists on staff, uses Mac products for all makeup services because of its propensity to last in hot and humid weather conditions. Airbrush style makeup is also available upon request. Aside from hair and makeup services, Vassa Spa and salon also offers manicures and pedicures by appointment. Click here for more information about Vassa Spa's treatments, services and prices. And to book your stay at Azul Beach Hotel, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE!
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After traveling to several countries and numerous resorts and hotels throughout the world, I've come to realize that what sets apart good resorts from excellent ones is customer service and guest experience. And these aspects truly made me appreciate and enjoy my weeklong stay at Azul Beach Hotel in Puerto Morelos, Mexico this past year because the customer service and guest experience here were second to none. From the moment we stepped foot on the resort grounds, we were welcomed by friendly faces who always went out of their way to ensure that all our needs and any special requests were taken care of. Whenever we were in communication with the front desk or concierge, we were always greeted warmly and our questions or requests were quickly addressed. Room service even happily arranged for a glass of milk to be delivered to our room every night for our 2-year-old little girl before she went to bed. And whenever we needed anything in our room, it was delivered promptly. I cannot say enough about the front desk staff and concierge -- they are always willing to help when they can. The Vassa Spa is another area of the resort where customer service really shines, the spa staff is completely focused on giving you a relaxing experience highlighted by top notch service from beginning to end. Scheduling an appointment at the spa is simple and easy and you will feel all your stresses melt away the minute you walk through the spa doors. But the guests experience doesn't just end there -- you are greeted with the same professionalism in all of the hotel's eateries as well. The hostesses are all very warm and welcoming and before you dine, they always ask for any allergies they need to be aware of. And I cannot say enough about the servers in each of the restaurants, all of whom were extremely friendly and attentive. Because our toddler would take naps in the late afternoon after spending hours at the beach or pool, my family and I often dined late for dinner. And while we were often the last guests left in the restaurants, we were never rushed or felt pressured to dine quickly. Our servers encouraged us to enjoy every part of our meal and always suggested dessert or coffee to wrap up our meals no matter how late it was! Having a wonderful dinner experience was always such a nice way to end our day. Another aspect that I really enjoyed at Azul Beach was the staff's focus on ensuring that families with children were well taken care of. Traveling and vacationing with young children can be so intimidating and stressful, but at Azul Beach, they go out of their way to make sure children's needs are met -- be it with an expansive kids menu at all the eateries, the many kids amenities in the rooms (bath robes, slippers, toys, crib, stroller, etc.) and throughout the resort (the kids pool, kids lounge chairs, toys on the beach, the kids club, etc.). The staff is there not only to serve the needs of adults, but that of their youngest guests as well! When you visit Azul Beach Hotel it feels like home. And before your stay even ends, you'll find yourself already looking forward to the next visit! To find out more about staying at Azul Beach Hotel in Riviera Maya, Mexico, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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5 Reasons Why Villas are Perfect for Family/Group Trips
MarieSamSanchezPhoto posted a article in Planning
Traveling with groups of family or friends can be quite challenging for several reasons. Besides the obvious intricacies of air/road travel in a large pack, finding a hotel or resort that can accommodate a large group while keeping everyone close to each other can be a real nightmare. So when it comes to group-style vacations, why not have everyone under one roof via Villa vacationing to help simplify things? Villa-style vacationing is becoming a quite popular trend for those with large families or traveling in groups. Here are five reasons why villas are ideal for family/group trips: 1) Your group will have complete privacy. At your villa, you don't have to worry about loud neighbors, making too much noise that might disturb your neighbors or having to plan gatherings when the grounds are not too crowded. Villa vacationing means your group will have the ability to enjoy your private space from morning till night without having to worry about other guests. If your villa comes with a pool, there's no need to worry about other guests crowding the pool space because it's all yours! A villa not only serves as your vacation hub, it's more like a vacation home giving you all the amenities and space you need for a relaxing stay. 2) It can be affordable when split between different parties and the perks make it worth it. Although pricing for villa vacations can often seem intimidating, when splitting the costs amongst your group, a luxury stay at a villa can be quite affordable. The perks of staying at a private villa also make the costs worthwhile for several reasons: open access to the amenities (pool, spa, pool tables, lounge furniture), homestyle comfort and a spacious living areas you simply don't get in a resort room or suite, ability to host gatherings for your large group on your own timeline. Villas also often come with kitchens so you can dine at home if you'd like, also cutting costs. 3) The Villa serves as the hub. There's no need to plan to meet anywhere or schedule a time slot where you group can gather, because your villa can serve as the hub for your group making outings or special activities much easier to plan. Want to plan a special meal for your group -- why not do it right on your villa property? Your villa gives you the space you need for any occasion. 4) You can still have a sense of privacy amongst your group. Villa vacationing doesn't always necessarily mean you'll be on top of one another -- there are spacious villas that will still give each family in your group the privacy they need on their own. For instance, the gorgeous Villa Carola by Karisma at Azul Beach offers separate entry ways for the first floor and second floor units -- yet both are on the same grounds and share the same pool, but each story has their own living room space giving each the privacy they need. And with six bedrooms and bathrooms, you can easily accommodate up to 12 adults and 8 children. 5) Builds camaraderie in your group. Sharing the same roof will not only give you a sense of togetherness, it also gives you more opportunity to create more memories together! Villa vacationing is perfect for groups especially large families -- how happy are kids when they know they can hang out with their favorite cousins from morning till night? Villa vacationing is truly the perfect option for families who want to spend time together and share a vacation experience they'll never forget! To find out more about villa options at your ideal destination location, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.-
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Renting a private villa like the incredible Villa Carola by Karisma Resorts for your destination wedding celebration has several perks, but perhaps one of the best aspects of renting a villa for your stay is that you can host private events outside of your wedding -- like a fabulous Welcome Pool Party complete with an abundance of food and drinks for you and your wedding guests to enjoy. Unlike hosting an event on the general resort grounds, a pool party at your private compound allows you a lot more flexibility and freedom to cater your gathering as you please: 1) You can schedule your Welcome Party during any time of the day. There are no strict timelines to abide by and no special section you must have your party at. When it comes to renting the Villa Carola property, you decide when you want to host your event -- just let your private butler know and he/she will take care of things. 2) Your party can last as long as you please. Feeling like partying from the day into the night? No problem, since you're on the private compound, the entire property is yours to use as you please with no time limitations on pool/spa use. 3) You can utilize the services of the private chef, bartender and staff to cater to your guests for the duration of the celebration to help make your gathering as stress-free as possible. Staying at Villa Carola means you have access to your own private staff. You will have the help of your assigned butler who can help plan and organize the party details with you along with taking note of any special requests you may have, a private chef who can create a scrumptious buffet style menu of grilled delights and tasty appetizers and desserts that you and your guests will love, a bartender who can keep the drinks flowing, and servers who will ensure that everyone is provided with the best services possible throughout the party. 4) Your guests can enjoy the beach, the private pool and spa at their leisure. Villa Carola is perfectly located on a beautiful stretch of turquoise waters adjacent to the Azul Beach Hotel. The villa has its own private access to the beach along with private beach beds, and a huge pool and spa that can only be used by those staying at the villa. You will also have access to private outdoor showers and lounge chairs throughout the grounds. 5) Your guests can either dine along the tables near the ocean view or relax in one of the poolside lounge chairs or on a hammock. Although this is a party, your guests can either socialize, stay active or completely unwind. There are several spots to relax on the spacious Villa Carola property. Renting a private villa like Villa Carola is a way for you to enjoy a luxurious vacation experience but also extend the pampering to your guests as they enjoy the atmosphere and perks of villa vacationing during your hosted events! To find out more about staying at Villa Carola by Karisma Resorts in Riviera Maya, Mexico, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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Villa Carola Perks: Host a PIzza Party for Your Guests
MarieSamSanchezPhoto posted a article in Planning
When you opt to stay at a private villa like the incredible Villa Carola by Karisma Resorts for your destination wedding celebration, you have the flexibility to use the private grounds to host various gatherings for your guests. From simple to elaborate, the villa space can be utilized as the hub for your group and it's the perfect spot for events like a festive Welcome Pool Party or perhaps a farewell lunch! As a guests at the villa, you can use the services of the private chef, bartender and staff for any planned events. If you want to host a unique celebration, consider a Farewell Pizza Party before your guests depart from your destination experience. At a villa-hosted pizza party, your guests will have the opportunity to create their own personal pizzas with fresh dough and delicious ingredients, including a variety of veggies, grilled meats and seafood. And of course, your personal cook will be on site to ensure your stone-fired pizzas are cooked to perfection and ready to serve fresh. And as usual, you can't beat the gorgeous views along the Villa Carola outdoor terrace. It's truly the perfect way to say thank you and farewell to your guests for being a part of your destination wedding experience. To find out more about staying at Villa Carola by Karisma Resorts in Riviera Maya, Mexico, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.-
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4 Reasons Why Staying at a Smaller Resort is Ideal for You
MarieSamSanchezPhoto posted a article in Planning
With so many options out there, choosing the resort to host your wedding festivities can be quite a difficult task. But besides location, a resort's size can often play a huge role in setting the tone for your entire celebration and getaway. Here are 4 reasons why a smaller resort is the right choice for you: 1. Group gatherings are easier to coordinate. When your resort is of smaller size, your wedding group will literally take over the property -- and that can be a great thing! It won't be hard to run into your attendees at a smaller resort and it makes it much easier to plan gatherings for the group. A unique camaraderie is one of the best things about destination weddings because you end up making great memories together! 2. Everything is conveniently located and you won't feel intimidated by the size of the resort. I've stayed at huge resorts before and while the walks from one spot to another helped ease the damage I was doing to my vacation waistline a la all-inclusive style vacationing, I didn't always feel like "hiking" everywhere. Big resorts while spacious and offer a lot to see, are not always convenient. Smaller resorts have a much more intimate feel and nothing is ever too far of a walk. When I vacationed at Azul Beach Hotel in Puerto Morelos, Mexico this past spring, I was surprised by the spacious but intimate feel of the resort. I loved that everything was just a short distance/walk away -- this is especially helpful on those warm days when all you want to do is lay by the pool or take a dip in the ocean because a dose of water therapy is always nearby! 3. You won't feel overwhelmed by the crowds. With large resorts come big crowds. At a smaller resorts you won't feel like the pools have too many people in them or that the beach is too crowded. And when you're looking for some true R&R, a smaller crowd is a must! 4. Getting dinner reservations is typically pretty easy. When you're staying at smaller resorts that offer a variety of food options, you'll find that dinner reservations aren't hard to come by. So planning that special dinner for two or perhaps a group meal will be a cinch. For more information about smaller resort options for your destination celebration or vacation, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel throughout the world. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.-
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5 Reasons Why Staying at a Larger Resort is Ideal for You
MarieSamSanchezPhoto posted a article in Planning
With so many options out there, choosing the resort to host your wedding festivities can be quite a difficult task. But besides location, a resort's size can often play a huge role in setting the tone for your entire celebration and getaway. Here are 5 reasons why a larger resort is the right choice for you: 1) There's lots of space and usually a plethora of options to host events and celebrations. Larger resorts will typically have more options for you to choose from when it comes to hosting weddings, events or gatherings -- and this is really important when it comes to larger celebrations that include a lot of guests (like Indian destination weddings). Aside from the wedding, if you plan on hosting a welcome gathering or farewell breakfast or brunch, a larger resort will give you different spaces/areas to choose from. Mega resorts like Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort in Cancun offer a wide variety of incredible spaces and location options for brides and grooms who want different settings/atmospheres for their celebratory events. 2) There's typically a lot of stuff to do on a large resort. Larger resorts will be packed with lots of different areas to explore and plenty of things to do. Expect an abundance of activities both day and night for kids and adults alike. It's impossible to get bored at a large resort because there are ways to keep busy from morning till night. 3) You will usually have a lot of food options and eateries to choose from. With a larger resort usually comes many food options and eateries. If you want you and your guests to have a variety of food and drink options, a larger resort will often give you more than enough choices. 4) Every day will give you an opportunity to explore a different part of the resort -- it's like you're in your own city! If you're the type who wants to be able to do everything and anything without leaving your resort grounds, consider a larger resort. You can choose a different part of the resort to explore and experience each day. Besides restaurants and pools, larger resorts will often have a nightclub, lounges, bars and daily entertainment for you to enjoy. 5) You will have the opportunity to meet and interact with a lot of different people. If you love being social, a bigger resort will give you plenty of opportunities to do get your mingle on. For more information about larger resort options for your destination celebration or vacation, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel throughout the world. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.-
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If you've always wanted to spend vacation bliss in an overwater bungalow, that memorable experience can now be yours in Riviera Maya, Mexico at the El Dorado Maroma Palafitos, which officially opened to vacationers in early September 2016. The luxurious overwater suites -- the first of its kind in Mexico -- are situated off the soft white sands of the Maroma Beach, considered by many as one of the top 10 beaches in the world. But besides the breathtaking views, these spacious 600-sq. ft. suites for two also offer a private infinity pool and an oversized deck with lounge chairs, glass bottom floors where you can watch the sea life move beneath your bungalow, and a ladder providing easy access to the clear turquoise ocean water. Each bungalow also features a private outdoor shower and a romantic indoor jacuzzi for two. Every bungalow is also equipped with: - King size bed - Air conditioning & ceiling fan - Smart TV - Telephone - Aromatherapy shower - Make-up mirror - High end toiletries - 100% cotton & thousand-thread-count sheets - Radio/alarm clock - Safety deposit box - Espresso Coffee maker and tea brewing station - Premium stocked minibar - The outdoor terrace is also equipped with luxurious wooden furniture, reading material and blankets Those staying at the all-inclusive suites will also have exclusive beach bed access, 24-hour room service and customized beach picnics. But the spoils do not end there, during your stay you'll also have your own butler, who can take care of all your unique vacation needs, including handling any pre-arrival requests and reservations to the delivery of reading materials, beverages and gourmet bites at the pool. The multilingual butlers will also provide services such as the unpacking of luggage, serving sunrise coffee experience and in-suite full breakfasts. Your personal butler will also ensure the suite is kept in perfect condition and arranged according to guests preferences. Palafitos guests can also exclusively indulge in rest, relaxation and rejuvenation with spa treatments at the overwater Náay Spa. And once your mind and body are at ease, you can dine on exquisite gourmet meals at The Haute Cuisine -- the overwater grill and wine bar serving only those staying at the bungalows. The eatery, which boasts spectacular ocean views and fresh tropical breezes, offers breakfast, lunch and dinner from the open kitchen grill. I had the pleasure of getting a sneak peek of the Palafitos this past spring and I can without a doubt say, it's a slice of heaven perfect for couples looking to spend some much needed time in a paradise all their own. With the bungalow set-up and convenient butler service, you'll feel like you've traveled to your own oasis where luxury and comfort are in abundance. It's the perfect spot for a honeymoon or anniversary trip or simply those wanting to get away and be pampered. Reservations for the Palafitos can only be made through a select group of luxury vacation consultants, like Wright Travel Agency -- the official travel agent group of the Best Destination Wedding Forum. For more information and assistance on booking your stay at the incredible overwater bungalow suites, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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Most people probably think a week at an all-inclusive resort sounds like a dream, where you don't have to worry about food or drinks and the toughest part of your day is deciding where to eat dinner. But for someone like me, who has grown up going on adventurous vacations where you're constantly on the go and eating where your travels take you each day, the thought of being on a resort for a week made me feel a little apprehensive. But you know what happened? My husband, our two daughters and I stayed at Azul Beach Hotel in Cancun-Riviera Maya for a week and we didn't go stir crazy, actually we loved it! My qualms about the all-inclusive experience before our stay at Azul Beach Hotel was feeling like I had to stay on the resort the entire time to make the investment worth it. But in actuality, the all-inclusive experience gives you everything you need without having to feel like you need to adventure off the property for anything. Everything we needed to have a relaxing wonderful week in paradise was provided for us at the resort -- from a plethora of delicious food options, to activities and entertainment for both children and adults, and even an amazing spa experience -- we found each day at our resort exciting and new and it was honestly an amazing vacation for us all. When looking into an all-inclusive vacation, here are a few tips I would suggest you consider as you plan your travels: 1. Pick a resort that has a variety of food and dining options: some resorts like, Azul Beach Hotel, provide only a la carte dining options (which is fabulous because you indulging in meals that are always fresh and made to order). But other resorts will have mostly buffet-style dining and a few a la carte options. Take your preferred dining experience into consideration when looking for an all-inclusive resort. Also check and see if the resort offers room service, which is a great option to have even if you don't think you'll use it. My husband soon found himself opting for room service when he had late night cravings -- keep in mind that most resort eateries will close, so having 24-hour room service is quite helpful especially if you're a late night diner! 2. Consider the resort activities and entertainment options: if your vacation style entails keeping yourself busy, a resort that offers a variety of activities in addition to daily entertainment would be your best choice. Also look at reviews to determine a resort's style -- is it more catered for adults or families with young children? Perhaps it's a mixture of both. 3. Look at the resort amenities: Whether you love being poolside, enjoy a day at the spa, or like lounging on the beach all day -- make sure your resort offers what you need when you look for a vacation. Also consider the resort's size, as some people love being on a huge resorts where you can wander through the grounds and others like being able to move about the resort with ease and not much walking. The resort amenities and its size will play a big part in determining the overall vibe of the property. 4. Can you easily plan and do excursions from your resort?: If you're the type of vacationer who likes to adventure about during the day, choose a resort that offers tours and excursions that can be planned or scheduled on-site. While we spent most of our time on the resort, we did go off-site one day for a camel safari at the beach that was about a 30-minute ride away. It was a perfect little day trip that still allowed us to enjoy and explore, but it was close enough to our resort that we didn't feel like we were wasting the day traveling. And of course, it's always wonderful coming back to the comforts of your resort after being off-site for the day! Overall, the choice to go to an all-inclusive resort doesn't have to feel confining if you pick a location that offers all the options you need to have a relaxed and fulfilling vacation. So take your time to look over the options and don't just jump at the best deal out there -- consider your vacation style and preference, then make your decision based on what you feel will give you the best overall experience! For more information about Azul Beach Hotel, or any other all-inclusive resort options, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel throughout the world. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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Azul Beach Hotel in Cancun-Riviera Maya is known for its family-friendly setting, and through the resort's Nickelodeon Experience, parents and their children can enjoy the ultimate family vacation. One of the hotel's most popular activities is the Nickelodeon sliming -- an experience your kids will soon not forget. Through the concierge, your family can schedule a private sliming -- what is this you ask? Just one of the coolest activities that kids love where you can get slimed with Nickelodeon's famous green goo! Sliming is a ritual enjoyed by the likes of celebrities like Justin Timberlake, Will Smith, Katy Perry and Kobe Bryant. So children of all ages will love to be added to that list of honor! And when the resort's Nickelodeon crew arrives for your private sliming, they'll also make it fun with a dance performance to start leading up to the moment. Sliming includes up to 4 people with a private photographer for a fee of $98. To find out more about scheduling a private sliming during your stay at Azul Beach Hotel, click here. For more information about Azul Beach Hotel, or to book your stay at this family-friendly resort, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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While Azul Beach Hotel in Cancun-Riviera Maya makes sure its youngest guests are well taken care of with special kids' menus throughout all of the resort's restaurants, the hotel also goes out of its way to create a fun dining experience for families with children through their character breakfast. Guests can start off their day by enjoying a delicious breakfast alongside SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer or the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles at the seaside eatery Chil. Families will not only get to enjoy an exclusive dining experience, they'll also get to meet and take pictures with the featured characters, who do their best to entertain diners. The morning we woke up for our early morning reservation, I wasn't sure I'd enjoy the character breakfast, but seeing my little one's face light up when she was presented with a table full of colorful and delicious breakfast bites was totally worth it. And when the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles appeared during our breakfast to entertain us while we dined, it solidified just how cool this experience is for families with children. Our freshly prepared breakfast was excellent, all the kids present had fun and dining with a picture-perfect view of the sparkling ocean is truly a great way to start off your day! The character breakfast at Azul Beach Hotel is priced at $29 for adults and $17 for children. To find out more information about booking a character breakfast during your vacation stay, click here. For more information about Azul Beach Hotel, or to book your stay at this family-friendly resort, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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Hello Beautiful Brides My fiance and I were so excited we had found a resort, Isla Mujeres Palace - it fit all our needs and our budget/guest's budget etc. But the more we looked at the venues the more we realized this was just not THE place for our ceremony and reception. We're super bummed to have to go back to the drawing board plus I feel awful for the TA we've been working with who did so much work for us - I can't say enough wonderful things about her. Any ideas out there? 3 must haves: No beach wedding adults only all inclusive (preferably Mexico, though where in Mexico is not important) Help!
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After spending eight blissful days at Azul Beach Hotel in Cancun-Riviera Maya this past spring, I am completely convinced that this beautiful all-inclusive resort is the perfect place for a family vacation. Here are five reasons why Azul Beach Hotel is perfect for families looking to get away. 1. Both adult and children have a lot of great options for entertainment. When it comes to the kids, rest assure they will have plenty to keep them busy at Azul Beach. The resort's Nickelodeon Kids Club will keep kids thoroughly entertained be it by the plethora of toys and books or indoor playground, or the fun activities and crafts offered by the kids club staff. Families can also partake in the Nickelodeon breakfast (tickets must be purchased in advance to attend) or perhaps even plan to get slimed Nickelodeon style! Besides the special kids pool and lounge chairs on the south end of the resort, Azul Beach also offers beach toys and games for families to enjoy, including all non-motorized water sports such as kayaks, hobie cat and stand up paddle boards. And after a long day at the beach, there's live entertainment for kids. Think of it as a rave for kids with Spongebob leading the party There are also tons of classes offered throughout the week such as salsa or merengue, yoga, cooking or even Spanish lessons. An activities program is updated weekly for all guests. But Azul Beach isn't just a great getaway for kids, adults have plenty to enjoy at night as well! Live music can be found at the popular Aquanox Bar, where you can indulge in your favorite cocktails and hear the ocean waves nearby. But if you're looking for more once the kids call it a night, check out the Agavero Lounge where you can get a real taste of Mexican tequila! 2. All the restaurants provide expansive menus that also cater to children. Azul Beach's gourmet all-inclusive offerings will have both adults and children looking forward to each meal. Each restaurant on site takes special care to note of any allergies or specific food requirements of its guests while still offering a plentiful menu or incredible options. There is a special kids menu at each eatery full of choices that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. High-chairs are also available throughout the resort for those dining with small children. 3. There are family comforts for everyone. What I really loved about Azul Beach is that they really try to accommodate the needs of all their guests, including small children. Families with small children can have their rooms equipped with a crib, bottle warmer, stroller, stuffed animals, changing table, bath toys, and other necessities for their child. The resort also offers small robes and slippers for kids so they too can feel like they're relaxing in paradise. It's little touches like these that really set this hotel apart in terms of customer service and guests satisfaction. 4. The resort promotes pure relaxation for the whole family. The resort's Vassa Spa doesn't just cater to adults, they also offer spa services for children ages 5 to 17. And if you're looking for more fun in the sun, take a dip in one of the resort's many pools or just sit in the beautiful Caribbean Sea. You can also take a relaxing snooze on one of the king-sized beach beds lined along the shore. If working out is your way of destressing, check out the hotel's Fitness Center, which is equipped with modern and comfortable gym equipment and air conditioning along with flat screen televisions. 5. The concierge can help you with off-site tours and excursions. If you're looking to explore the area outside the hotel grounds a bit more, the hotel concierge can help arrange tours or transportation for you and your family. They'll also give you suggestions on what's best for groups traveling with children of all ages (my personal favorites are: visiting Xel-Ha or Xcaret nature parks, beach-hopping and snorkeling, going on a Camel Safari at Maroma Beach, visiting the incredible Mayan ruins, or taking a stroll through Cancun or Playa del Carmen). Rest assure, if you're in need of tips and ideas on things your family might enjoy -- your personal concierge will provide you with plenty of ideas. For more information about Azul Beach Hotel, or to book your stay at this family-friendly resort, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort in Cancun is known for its wide variety of restaurants and eateries, but another excellent perk for guests is the resort's 24-hour room service and fully furnished in-room minibar and liquor dispenser. If you're like me -- not a morning person -- room service is the perfect perk when you want to sleep late, roll out of bed and enjoy breakfast or lunch in your pajamas. My husband also happens to be a late-night snacker, so the ability to order from Moon Palace's expansive 24-hour menu was so convenient during our stay (the grilled steak, shrimp cocktail and chicken lettuce wraps were his personal favorites!). Their 24-room service menu is simply a great option for those who want to drink and dine in the comforts of your own room. And because it's an all-inclusive resort, no fees or costs are involved to order room service. Best of all the service is quick, timely and your food is always served fresh! Another special touch that Moon Palace resort goers will enjoy is the in-room liquor dispenser and minibar. The liquor options include full-sized bottles of tequila, rum, whiskey and vodka. And inside the refrigerator, you'll also find a combination of juices, sodas and water -- so whatever your preference, there's an option for you. The dispensers and beverages are replenished daily, so you are always "fully-stocked!" Rest assure, when it comes to staying at Moon Palace, dining and drinks are readily available 24/7 and you don't even have to step out of your bedroom door to enjoy! For more information on Moon Palace resorts and its services, or to book your stay, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE!
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Azul Beach Hotel in Puerto Morelos is not only know for their awesome beach beds located right on the shore, the resort also offers top notch spa services that can take your quest for relaxation to a whole new level. Azul Beach's Vassa Spa gives guests more than just your typical spa treatments, they provide a complete spa experience. Besides being able to lounge and unwind in one of the relaxing warm and cold plunge pools, spa goers can also opt for a Beachfront Sky Massage, or experience a couple’s treatment in one of the spa's double massage cabins. During my recent stay Azul Beach, my husband and I had the opportunity to indulge in an hour-long beachfront sky massage, which takes place under an open-air palapa hovering over the Caribbean Sea, so while you're getting the massage of your life, you can also relax to the soothing sounds of the ocean waves hitting the shore. The spa allows you to schedule appointments for treatments and I didn't have any trouble picking my preferred time slot -- they are quite flexible and accommodating. You can even schedule a moonlight massage if that's what you prefer! Prior to your massage, the spa staff will have you check in and fill out a form to find out what type of massage you prefer while also finding out whether you have any trouble spots or tight areas that need special attention. The experience is customized from beginning to end, with your relaxation and pleasure in mind throughout. I can't say enough about the kindness and professionalism of Vassa Spa's staff, they really go out of their way to ensure that when you walk through their door, you are well taken care of. Getting a massage from one of their trained massage therapists is truly a wonderful experience that one should indulge in during their stay. With hair and makeup options as well as their expansive menu of spa services, Vassa Spa is a great option for brides-to-be and their partners as well as wedding guests. But children can also indulge in different beautifying and calming rituals, such as the Princess for a Day experience. The pampering is open to everyone! Click here for more information about Vassa Spa's treatments, services and prices. And to book your stay at Azul Beach Hotel, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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Aside from having a plethora of gorgeous spaces to hold your perfect wedding ceremony, Moon Palace Golf & Resort Spa in Cancun also offers couples the option to enter their wedding in grandeur and style with the use of a horse and carriage. The horse drawn carriage is an option for all couples should they choose to make a grand entrance for their ceremony or even use for epic wedding photos. The horse and carriage is also a ideal option for Indian weddings during the Baraat, where the groom's procession can include festive dancing and music but also a grand way for him to enter atop the horse drawn carriage. Because the horse and carriage are on the resort grounds, there is also no worries or problems with having access to its use. For more information on Moon Palace weddings or adding the option of using the horse and carriage at the resort, click here.
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One of the perks of a destination wedding is the opportunity to really use your unique destination environment as part of the overall decor/setting for your wedding. In other words, showcase that gorgeous beach you're getting married on, or the extraordinary cliffside view where you'll be sharing I Do's. With a destination wedding, you don't need a whole lot of decor to embellish your already beautiful atmosphere. BUT, if you're one of those brides who wants to not only showcase the environment but also bring other decorative elements into your wedding day -- by all means, DO IT! An exciting trend for both weddings and vow renewals these days is incorporating luxurious decor elements with an outdoor setting. Here are a few ways you can bring a touch of chic luxury into your outdoor celebration: 1. Hang a chandelier: bring a little sparkle to your ceremony or reception by hanging a beautiful chandelier up above. It not only will bring some shine to your overall decor but also serves as the perfect focal point to your celebration. 2. Go big on linens and chair covers: Adding gorgeous linens to your table tops or luxurious coverings to your ceremony and reception chairs can make a huge impact on your decor. These are key ways to infuse your wedding colors into your decor but also very practical decor elements. You can also add fabric to your wedding arch or even on the walls to your reception. Go big on fabric to create a glamorous vibe. 3. Use mirrors or reflective pieces: Mirrors and reflective decor not only creates depth, it also can make spaces appear larger and more spacious. Embellished mirrors are great to use for weddings signs and also in table centerpieces. 4. Use decorative pieces throughout as accents and don't hesitate to use diamonds and pearls: Candlesticks, pillows and vases are just a few ways you can make your outdoor space feel more "indoors." Pick unique pieces that you'd typically find in an indoor space and don't think twice about bringing it outside. Also don't be afraid to use pearls and sparkles to accent your decor and other reception elements like napkins, centerpieces and tablescapes. 5. Have an outdoor lounge area: It's not only a great place for your guests to relax during cocktail hour, it's also a space that will give your celebration a cozy feel. Again infuse elaborate fabrics to create a chic lounge area accented by comfy loungers and couches, and don't forget the pillows! Karisma Hotel & Resorts -- which offers some of the most popular destination locations for brides and grooms in Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica -- gives couples the choice of several different decor themes in their Memorable Moments Signature Wedding Collections. These decor packages incorporate a plethora of incredible decor tips, including their "Pure Glamour Signature Wedding Package" -- which is the perfect way to give your celebration a touch of luxury by bringing old Hollywood glitz to an elegant tropical locale. Other popular design themes from Karisma include: Vintage Elegance, Coastal Bliss, Colonial Charm. To see a complete list and additional details on Karisma's Memorial Moments Signature Wedding Collections, click here. * All photos credited to: MarieSam Sanchez Photography - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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"Daddy...outside." As my 20 month old baby girl, Brooklyn, patted her eager little hand on our hotel room door, these are the words she excitedly uttered. Mommy had departed early for morning meetings and it was just my peanut companion and I, left to our own devices to explore and enjoy the Sunrise section of Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort. My bubbly, curly haired partner and I put on our swimsuits and headed out into the warm Cancun sun. As we headed poolside, my miniature sidekick quickly let me know where she wanted to stop first. "I hungy, daddy", reassured me that making the Palapa Barracuda our first stop for lunch was not a mistake. After feasting on fresh melt in your mouth grilled fish, crispy chicken fingers, perfectly marinated arrachera and various other scrumptious fare, we decided to head to the Piscina de Ninos (the kid's pool), but not before we were distracted by the screams of excitement coming from boogie boarders and body surfers at the La Terraza Flowrider. The great thing about Moon Palace is that it keeps kids of all ages entertained. The Flowrider in particular is a fun wave pool that the older kids love because it's both challenging and fun. After finally making our way to the Kids Pool, lil Brooklyn approached the colorful crocodile and frog water slides with a look of wonder on her tiny face. Her saucer sized eyes scanned the pool from the castle complete with functioning water cannons to the water bucket suspended above a slide being filled with water and dumped every so often onto ecstatic children eagerly anticipating the shower below. She was anxious and apprehensive, but the energetic sounds of kids frolicking about in the knee high deep water was all she needed to make the courageous entrance into the kiddie pool. The fact that Moon Palace provides kids with their own pool section is great for parents who want to ensure their kids are in a safe environment when it comes to enjoying the water. Plus the kids pool is large and spacious enough to give the little ones enough room to play without feeling too far away from mom and dad. An hour later, Brooklyn was rotating between sipping her first ever virgin strawberry daiquiri, splashing the cool, crystal clear pool water over her head and venturing down the crocodile and frog water slides. My once timid little girl was in love with the kiddie pool and her frozen drink treat was just the icing on the cake. Brooklyn was equally impressed with the Playroom and children's fun zone which is designed for providing kids with the ultimate fun experience. From an incredible playground structure equipped with winding slides, tubes and the genuine look and feel of a real 4 story pirate ship to a massive indoor play area with video games, carousels, fashion room, beauty salon and dollhouse area. Getting Brooklyn to leave was almost like pulling teeth as her attention was completely taken by the laundry list of activities offered including Jenga and Xbox tournaments, balloon sculpting, cooking, pinata making and mask making classes. The plethora of exciting activities will surely keep any kid enthralled for hours on end. Luckily, my ace in the hole to lure my lil kiddo away from the endless fun was the poolside personal pizza oven and the mouth watering selection of ice cream delights at the 24 hour ice cream bar. It was the perfect way to end a fun filled day of activities, swimming, eating and drinking for my sidekick and I. The only thing left to do was to return to our spacious and AC chilled hotel room and rest our weary bodies with a nice afternoon nap. My tiny bambino gladly closed her eyes, with her tummy full of ice cream, and a wide smile on her face. "I love this place" is what I believe went through the mind of our 20-month-old when we walked the beautiful expansive grounds of the Moon Palace Resort. Spending the day with my little one on the Moon Palace grounds, while Mommy was busy with work, gave me the chance to make awesome memories with my daughter that I'll remember for a lifetime. Moon Palace is the perfect place for families looking for a relaxing getaway with top notch accommodations and amenities to keep both adults and children happy and busy.
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When in Mexico, it's natural to have high expectations for Mexican food and drinks, and Los Caporales restaurant at Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort in Cancun does not disappoint. As one of the many eateries on the all-inclusive resort's grounds, diners at Los Caporales can indulge in delicious fajitas and tacos as well as several other well-known Mexican specialties off their a la carte menu. But perhaps one of the most popular items on the menu is their special Mayan coffee -- the perfect after-meal treat for your body and an incredible presentation for your senses. This speciality coffee is prepared with tequila, coffee, sugar, orange and topped with whipped cream. But before you indulge in its rich flavors, you'll be mesmerized by the preparation and presentation of this delightful post-dinner treat. It's definitely worth a try if you plan to stay at Moon Palace and a quite a bonus at the end of a great meal! Los Caporales is located in the Central lobby of the Nizuc region of the resort. The restaurant is open from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. for dinner daily. - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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Have you ever had a meal that was so good it literally made you want to cry tears of joy? Well that's pretty much how I felt while dining at Azul Beach Hotel's premier restaurant "Latino" this past April. Honestly, it was the first time I've heard my husband say, "I've never been this sad that my plate's empty" after he devoured his meal. And trust me, we have eaten plenty of delicious meals and we have the bellies to show for it Latino is one of five restaurants at the gourmet all-inclusive resort in Cancun-Riviera Maya, Mexico. And when I say they do everything well here, I seriously mean EVERYTHING. Nothing came out of that kitchen during the two times we dined there that I didn't absolutely love. The servers here will start you off with a deliciously fresh salad topped with mango dressing followed by a platter of "Latin Bites," which features a variety of appetizers made from different Latin American countries, such as Colombia, Valenzuela, Argentina and Mexico. Because Azul Beach is all-inclusive, we decided to splurge a bit and also try their tuna tartar and empanadas -- again, they did not disappoint because everything here is prepared to perfection. To satiate our thirst, our wonderful server suggested we try their special sangria lemonade and mango sangria. Let's just say, sangria has now become my new drink of choice The sangria here is absolutely exquisite. This portion of the meal alone will send your tastebuds into heaven, but it's just the precursor for the main course of your choosing. As big meat eaters, we opted for the highly-touted rib eye steak and tequila lime shrimp, both of which came with a side of grilled vegetables and mashed potatoes. This is where my meal basically brought tears to my eyes. It's honestly the best steak I've ever had in my life, cooked exactly the way I like and full of flavor. The shrimp was fresh and side dishes were just as incredible -- it was the perfect compliment to the steak, which I later learned is imported from Canada. As an all-inclusive resort, Azul Beach is focused on providing top notch quality food and flavors to its diners. So how do you top off a fantastic meal? With extraordinary desserts of course! Although we came into Latino during the last 45 minutes of the restaurant's hours, our server encouraged us to complete our meal with one of their speciality desserts. So with bellies already quite satiated, we topped off our wonderful meal with tres leches cake, churros and hot chocolate. Let's just say, I wish I could have put a dozen of those churros in my pocket to take home with me. It was a divine way to end a meal that my family and I still talk about till this day. YES, our meal at Azul Beach Hotel's Latino was THAT GOOD. The servers here are friendly and personable and if you want a combination of two dishes (say, surf and turf?), just ask and they shall provide. When you come to this resort, the staff is here to please and they want nothing more than for you to walk away with a dining experience that you will fondly remember for years. Latino is a great dinner spot for large groups but if you want a quiet evening with just your sweetheart, it's ideal for that too. The ambience is chic and serene and the food is impeccable. Latino bistro is a vibrant celebration of food, energy and music, culinary preparations from the Southern tip of the Americas up to the Northern part of Mexico. Refreshing and unpretentious, Latino is the perfect place for family celebration with enticing meals including an impressive kids menu. The restaurant serves a la carte dinner services from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily. - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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10 Reasons Why You Should Stay at an All-Inclusive Resort
MarieSamSanchezPhoto posted a article in Planning
I am spoiled for life. Why? Because I just spent eight blissful days at a beautiful boutique-style all-inclusive resort in the Riviera Maya, Mexico and frankly, I don't think I'll ever be the same again. The minute I left Azul Beach Hotel, I was already thinking about planning a trip back with the rest of my family. First you must know that as a lifelong traveler, I am not accustomed to the all-inclusive way. Having only been to two all-inclusive resorts in the past, most of my travels comprised being "more adventurous" and thrifty -- that is, find a nice affordable resort and then trying a plethora of different restaurants throughout my stay. This is how my parents vacationed with us as kids and as I grew old enough to travel on my own, it's eventually how I vacationed with my husband and my kids too. But now, I'm 39 and I'm here to say -- my weeklong stay at this all-inclusive resort spoiled me rotten and I'm thoroughly convinced this is the way everyone should vacation and here's why: The steady stream of food and drinks. Let's face it, part of the lure of going on vacation is eating and dining on delicious food as you please. Well being at an all-inclusive resort, you have the ability to eat and drink till your heart's content. Want to sip on a cocktail or two after dinner? Or perhaps an early morning coffee or smoothie is what you crave. Food and drinks are readily available 24/7 and at an all-inclusive you simply walk into a restaurant or dining area and place your order without having to look at prices -- because you can have anything on the menu without worrying about the costs. All-inclusive menus also encourage you to try new dishes because everything on the menu is included. Have you ever wanted to try something new at a restaurant but feared that you wouldn't like it then suffer diner's remorse, then wishing you had ordered a usual staple? When it comes to an all-inclusive you have the freedom to be more adventurous when it comes to your dining experience and that can be pretty exciting, especially when you're on vacation! If you've got kids, knowing that they can order anything they want on the menu can also be a relief -- especially if you've got picky eaters. You don't have to worry about carrying money around the resort (with exception of money for tips). I have this habit of carrying my purse everywhere "just in case" I need money. When you're at an all-inclusive there is really no need to carry around cash except for tips. So you have peace of mind when heading out to the pool for the day that you need not carry a wallet full of your debit/credit cards with you. Being able to vacation without making sure you've got enough money on you is truly relaxing. It's easy to dine separately or coordinate meals together, especially if you have a larger group. If you've traveled with a large group before, you know how difficult it can be to coordinate meals while also making sure to pick a restaurant that can satisfy everyone's tastes and budget. At an all-inclusive, eating alone or planning meals together is a much easier process. Everyone in the group can eat/snack whenever they please, but if you opt to eat together, it's so much easier to choose when you know costs aren't involved. You'll love the flexibility and convenience of room service. My family and I are extreme night owls, so we're usually asleep while others are enjoying breakfast and just waking up as breakfast is about to end. But when you're at an all-inclusive you often have the option of 24-hour room service and that's like gold when you want to eat breakfast but you're not much of a morning person. It also comes in handy if you're a late night snacker -- like my husband. When you're at a regular resort, room service normally comes with higher prices. But an all-inclusive, price doesn't even come into play. You can snack as you please. Spending your day in the ocean or lounging by the pool can often leave you craving a delicious drink or snack and beach/poolside service is pretty much a given at most all-inclusive resorts. So rest assure, if you're sitting poolside reading a book all afternoon, you won't need to get up anytime soon, because soon enough a server will come by asking if you want a drink or snack. Lots of all-inclusive resorts will also have snack bars, bakeries or dessert bars on site to help curb your appetite in between meals. Now how perfect is that? The service is second to none. I can't say enough about the level of service I have received at the all-inclusive resorts I've stayed at. Your resort fees not only go toward lodging and dining, but you're also paying for top level customer service in every aspect of your resort stay. The staff is there to please you completely from the moment you check into the resort till the time you leave. During our stay at Azul Beach Hotel, we were blown away by the engaging nature and kindness of all the resort workers -- especially during our meals. The servers were funny and engaging and always went out of their way to make sure we were happy with our meal from beginning to end. The top-notch service alone makes the all-inclusive experience stand on its own. You have access to free entertainment. All-inclusive resorts are usually packed full of entertainment options for guests. Whether it be nightclubs, bars or lounges or shows for both children and adults -- you'll have a wide variety of entertainment and activities to choose from. These resorts are focused on keeping you happy and entertained while on the property so you don't feel the need to leave for anything. If you're the type that always needs to be connected, free wifi is usually also included during your all-inclusive stay. You have access to non-motorized water sports. Many all-inclusive resorts give their guests full usage of sports and water equipment like snorkels, kayaks, and paddleboards. Family friendly resorts will also give children access to beach and pool toys, which helps a lot when you're trying to limit how much to pack in your suitcase. While there may additional charges for certain sport/water activities, you usually get considerable access to a variety of tools/equipment with your already paid-for resort fees. It can help you save on your Wedding Day. Several all-inclusive resorts will throw in bonuses when couples choose to have their wedding on-site -- especially if you have a large group. These perks can help you save a ton when it comes to planning your celebration. So make sure to ask the resort what their wedding packages or options include. Often times, all-inclusive resorts will work with preferred travel agencies who can also offer additional perks if their entire wedding party/guests book through that particular agency. (Wright Travel Agency -- the official agency of bestdestinationwedding.com, is a preferred agency with several of the destination wedding resorts throughout Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica as well as other prime destination locations. To contact the Wright Travel, click here.) You don't worry about staying on a budget. There's something completely liberating about going on vacation and not having to worry about how much you've spent and how much cash you have left in your wallet. When you stay at an all-inclusive resort, the money for your lodging and food/drink has been paid upfront and your time there can be spent in total relaxation mode. If you haven't tried an all-inclusive resort, you should try it at least a couple times. Even if you're one of those travelers like me who's grown accustomed to always being on the go -- the all-inclusive experience is worth trying at least once. You just may find yourself spoiled by it like me and waking up post-vacation, wondering why no one is there bringing you a cocktail or ready with your morning omelette To find out more information about booking an all-inclusive vacation for your honeymoon or destination wedding, contact Wright Travel Agency at: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.- 1 comment
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I've been fortunate enough to do a lot of traveling throughout my life and for the most part have been extremely lucky when it comes to accommodations during my travels. So after staying at so many great hotels and resorts through the years, I've come to realize that it's the little details and special touches that really stand out to me when I'm traveling. I recently spent five days at the Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort in Cancun and it was my first visit there as well as one of the few times I've stayed at an all-inclusive resort. Besides the overall grandeur of the resort, the luxurious accommodations and the beautifully landscaped grounds, the Moon Palace offered a lot of special little touches that really impressed me. One of the details that frankly, floored me, was that part of the room accommodations included CHI Bath Products and Hair Styling Tools. As a self-professed beauty and hair product addict, I have to admit I may have squealed a little when I discovered the CHI products in our room. Let's just say when I found the pro-style hair styling iron/straightener in the bathroom drawer, I may or may not have held it up like a sword and shouted, "YESSSSS!!!!" You see, one of my dilemmas every time I pack my suitcase for a trip out of town is having to decide whether or whether not I should bring my hair straightener -- especially when it comes to traveling to the tropics where my hair is either looking "beach water fresh" or "fresh outta the shower." So it's reassuring to know that if I'm ever staying at a Palace resort, then I need not worry about bringing a high quality hair straightener or blow dryer because my room will be equipped with one. The same goes for the always constant query, "should I rely on the quality of the resort shampoo/conditioner or bring my own products?" Well if you've booked a room at one of the Palace resorts, then rest assure, you don't have to worry about bringing big bottles of shampoo or conditioner because they've got you covered -- with good sized hair products might I add that are restocked daily! Things like this are especially important these days where airlines have become stringent on charging travelers for baggage and weight fees. “When most women travel, typically, they’ll find an average blow-dryer in their room — and certainly not a hair iron — so they will pack heavy hair tools and products.” said Gibran Chapur, Executive Vice President for Palace Resorts. “By partnering with CHI, a brand women know and love, Palace Resorts is further pampering them with the professional quality hair and beauty products they would find in a salon.” A resort perk since August 2012, all of Palace's oceanfront resorts provide guests with the original CHI Ceramic Hairstyling Iron and CHI Pro Hair-Dryer, as well as the CHI Infra Shampoo, Infra Treatment (conditioner), body lotion, and bubble bath. And if you're staying at a Palace resort and realize you've become attached to one of their products, you also have the option of purchasing any of their styling tools or bath products from the resort's salon. - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
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