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Planning your perfect honeymoon, destination wedding, romantic getaway or the perfect vacation of a lifetime has never been easier with Enchanted Honeymoons travel agents.
Looking for ideas and inspiration for your next trip to Jamaica? You’re in luck! Earlier this month, travel agent Michelle Jaffrey and her husband spent five days in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Below, Michelle recapped the highlights of her recent visit including reviews on the resorts, excursions, and the lively Ocho Rios area as a whole!
1. Which Resorts Did You Stay At In Ocho Rios, Jamaica?
We stayed at Moon Palace Jamaica Grande Resort & Spa for two nights and Sandals Ochi Beach Resort for three nights. Moon Palace is family-friendly while Sandals Ochi Beach is adults-only resort, so we got to experience two completely different atmospheres!
2. Describe the beaches, pools, rooms, and amenities at the resorts.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
The beach at Moon Palace Jamaica Grande is broken into two areas, a lounge area and then a little cove where the water sports are available. It is a narrow beach but fairly long in length–perfect if you like to take long walks or go for a run along the shore. However, when you cross the property line (which is marked with a security guard) there are some locals soliciting for excursions. The water at Moon Palace Jamaica Grande is very calm and safe for kids. It’s also great for paddle boarding!
The main activity pool at this property has the most going on, while there are also a couple of quieter pools with their own swim-up bars. We liked that the beach chairs had so many umbrellas set up at both the beach and pool areas! The restaurants were great and the dress code is casual for the majority of them. We thought that the service was outstanding–everyone was so attentive and friendly.
Sandals Ochi Beach
Sandals Ochi Beach also has their beach split up into a few different sections, with an area for swimming and snorkeling, a calmer middle section with floaties, and a third area for all of the water sports. This beach is narrow and rockier with some noticeable seaweed. While we were there, the currents were pretty strong which made watersports difficult at times. There are so many pools and hot tubs to choose from, but our favorite pool was located on the hillside of the property at the Manor House with the largest swim-up bar.
The food here is amazing and the service is good too. We stayed in the Honeymoon Hideaway Luxury Club Level Villa Room. It is located in a nice, quiet area with views of the brooks and has a cottage feel to it. This property, in general, is very active and has activities at all hours of the day so it is impossible to get bored!
3. How long were you there? Would you recommend more or less time to future travelers?
We were in Ocho Rios for a total of five nights, and felt like that was plenty of time to be able to do a wide range of excursions and activities. One more night would have been nice, especially because a couple of the days were partial due to travel time (along with the hour and a half transfer from the airport).
4. What was your favorite part of the trip?
Our favorite parts of the trip were definitely the excursions. We did zip lining, the river tubing and blue hole excursion, and golf at Sandals Golf and Country Club. All of the tour guides were amazing and made everything fun and safe. The blue hole is beautiful and the water is truly blue and crystal clear. This excursion consisted of cliff-jumping, a rope swing, and venturing into the waterfalls. For zip lining, there were five lines at different heights and lengths, starting from the longest and highest and moving down in size. River tubing was relaxing and such a fun experience to be on a river in Jamaica. You can bring drinks on the river, and the guides are always helping along the way. Sandals Golf and Country Club is beautiful and a caddie is required. They are so knowledgeable and really help your golf game!
5. What was your least favorite part of the trip? Is there anything that you would advise against to clients?
Our least favorite part was the drive from the airport to the resorts, as an hour and a half in the car after flying makes for a long day of travel. On the plus side, the drivers were very fun, informative, and laid back, making it feel more like a guided tour than a transfer. We learned a lot about the country itself on the drive and got to see Jamaican life outside of the resorts. All in all, we would always do the drive over again to get to the Ocho Rios area!
6. Did you learn anything new about the area?
We learned that tourism and bauxite are the major sources of income for the area. Also, May is generally rainy season but due to the tropical climate, it doesn’t last long. We were worried when we looked at the forecast ahead of time because it said there was 80% chance of rain every day. It ended up being mostly sunny with very short periods of rain.
Have you visited the beautiful island of Jamaica? We’d love to hear all about your trip in the comments!
Call us at 402-281-3022.
As the current winter weather continues to surprise us with the unexpected, a romantic getaway to the tropics has never sounded more ideal (even if it’s only for the weekend). Whether you have an anniversary approaching, are recently engaged, or are simply in need of a relaxing retreat with your loved one, check out our list below of the best adults-only and all-inclusive resorts for your next escape!
1. Le Blanc Spa Resort
Photo by Le Blanc Spa Resort
Overview Location: Cancun, Mexico Distance from Cancun International Airport: 25 minutes Number of Rooms: 263
There’s no better way to spend a romantic getaway than being completely pampered at Le Blanc Spa Resort, Trip Advisor’s 2016 Traveler’s Choice winner for Cancun’s #1 All-Inclusive Resort. With a state-of-the-art spa that houses 19 treatment rooms, cold plunge pools, and an herbal steam room, this is the place to completely unwind. Here you’ll find 24-hour room service, butler service, and daily turn-down service. Look no further for a vacation full of rest and relaxation!
2. Sandals South Coast
Photo by Sandals Resorts
Overview Location: Whitehouse, Jamaica Distance from Montego Bay Sangster International Airport: 1 hour and 15 minutes Number of Rooms: 360
Sandals South Coast (formerly known as Sandals Whitehouse) is nestled in 50-acres of Jamaica’s dreamy southwest coast. This resort boasts a 2-mile crescent moon shaped beach, perfect for long strolls or watching the sun set. You’ll likely want to spend the majority of your time at the property’s brand new over-the-water bar, Latitudes, which offers hammocks and a floating, ocean-based swim-up bar. The best part? Every room category has an ocean view.
3. UNICO 20◦N 87◦W
Photo by UNICO 20◦N 87◦W
Overview Location: Kantena Bay, Mexico Distance from Cancun International Airport: 60 minutes Number of Rooms: 448
With their grand opening just last week, UNICO 20◦N 87◦W has set the bar high for a new style of resort. With a goal to redefine what we know about the term “all-inclusive”, guests are immersed in an authentic and cultural experience the minute they arrive. Here it’s all about embracing the local, from farm-to-table cuisine and cocktails, luxury spa treatments with natural ingredients, to unique decor with handmade materials sourced from the area. We can’t imagine a more romantic setting than that!
4. Excellence El Carmen
Photo by Excellence Resorts
Overview Location: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Distance from Punta Cana International Airport: 30 minutes Number of Rooms: 452
Just built in 2016, Excellence El Carmen combines modern with tropical luxury for an unforgettable vacation for two. This brand new adults-only property offers little to be desired, with 11 specialty restaurants and 17 bars. In addition, you’ll find 20 pools. Think it can’t get much better? Every room comes with an oversized whirlpool private balcony or terrace. For the ultimate romantic experience, opt for the Excellence Club level with extra perks, like private pool, lounge, and beach areas, along with fresh flowers and champagne upon arrival.
5. The Valentin Imperial Maya
Photo by Valentin Imperial Maya
Overview Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico Distance from Cancun International Airport: 25 minutes Number of Rooms: 540
Set on a gorgeous half-mile stretch of white-sand beach in Playa del Secreto, The Valentin offers the perfect blend of seclusion and variety for a romantic escape. Spend the day strolling the lush gardens or relaxing under one of the shady palapas set right on the beach. In addition, you can take your pick between 7 restaurants, 11 bars, and 24-hour room service, and one of the largest pools in the Rivera Maya!
Which resort is your favorite for a romantic getaway? Comment below in order to let us know. In addition, leave us a Facebook review so we know how we’re doing!
With so many resorts to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by pictures, online reviews, and overall information overload. You can also reach us by phone at 402-281-3022.
Between the shopping trips, seasonal events, and last minute errands that always seem to arise during the busy holiday season, it’s easy to put off being fully prepared for your holiday travel plans. Keep the stress and racing around to a minimum with our list of helpful tips for holiday travel. After all, it’s the most wonderful time of the year!
1. Fly on The Holiday
While flying on Christmas or New Year’s Day may not sound like the most appealing thing to do, it may save you a few headaches. As many people tend to avoid traveling the day of a holiday, the traffic and crowds can be a little less overwhelming than the couple days prior or after.
2. Utilize Online Check-in
While the obvious benefit of checking in online prior to your arrival at the airport is to save time, there are several other benefits, too. When you check-in online 24-hours prior to your flight, it allows you to view the most updated flight itinerary. For example, if your flight time got bumped up 30 minutes earlier, you’ll find out ahead of time instead of when you show up to the airport to your plane taking off.
3. Arrive Extra Early
Between unexpected winter weather, road conditions, and traffic, there are many variables that can come into play at the last minute. During peak travel season, the lines and waiting times are generally longer than when traveling in the off-season. Arriving early for your flight is a must, especially when traveling with little ones or those who may take longer to get through security.
4. Ship Gifts Ahead of Time
When planning to spend the holidays away from home, one of the biggest items to check off of the to-do list is shipping any gifts to the destination in advance. Not only do wrapped presents take up a lot of space in your checked bags or carry-ons, but it also increases their chances of getting lost, broken, or stolen.
5. Pack Layers
Whether you’re going from frigid cold temperatures to warm Caribbean breezes or even just a couple of states away, be sure to pack comfortable layers in your carry-on. The quick transition from heated airports to snowy runways is always something to be prepared for!
6. Prepare Your Home for Holiday Travel
Keep your holiday travels from becoming a Home Alone sequel and prep your home beforehand. Make arrangements with a neighbor to collect your mail. In addition, keep light timers on, or have a friend check on things periodically throughout f your trip.
7. Read up on Your Destination
Be sure to do some research on your destination for your dates of travel. Be aware of things such as the nightly average temperatures. This can be extremely helpful for packing and planning out your ideal itinerary. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your travel agent for suggestions from first-hand experience!
Have any tips for holiday travel that we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Call 402-281-3022 today to speak with an Enchanted Honeymoons travel agent about your next getaway! All images are licensed under the Creative Commons.
Between working around a variety of schedules and preparing for the time you’ll be spending away from home, family vacations can certainly feel complicated sometimes. However, by implementing a few of these helpful tricks before your next family vacation, much of the stress that comes with family travel will be a thing of the past. Check out our list of tips below to help turn the organized chaos into a relaxing getaway for all!
1. Try Cross-Packing
In theory, each family member hauling around their own luggage makes the most sense. However, this method can fall short when lost baggages comes into play. To avoid the chances of someone being stuck without their clothes or other personal items, pack a few items for each family member in every bag. This will ensure that everyone is covered (for at least a day or two) regardless of which piece of luggage took a detour.
2. Overpack Anything Mandatory
Kids always seem to have a way of going through much more than the typical supply of things when home is hundreds or thousands of miles away. There’s really no such thing as too many snacks, diapers, or really anything that you wouldn’t have immediate access to on plane, in the hotel room, and on the beach. The magic number of whatever these essentials are for your family can be hard to hit right on the head without prior travel experience. A good rule of thumb is to bring a little more than you think you need, since having extra is a much better alternative than running out in nearly every scenario.
3.Let The Kids Weigh In on the Trip
Many families have found it extremely helpful (and fun) to get the kids involved in the vacation during the planning process. Not only does it build up the anticipation and excitement for everyone, but is also a perfect way to make everyone feel more involved and willing to cooperate once the day finally arrives. By giving each family member some type of “responsibility”, everyone is able to feel like they contributed in some way (this could be something as simple as picking out an activity or excursion).
4. Opt for Non-Stop Air
Depending on your preferred departure city, this can be a tough one for those who do not live near international airports. On the other hand, if non-stop is an option to you between your departure and destination city, it is almost always worth any uptick in price. Lengthy connection times, pressure changes during take-off and landing, and dealing with carry-on luggage in multiple airports can really take a toll on the family morale!
5. Keep A Similar Routine
Vacation is for sleeping in, relaxing, and endless hours of fun. Though sometimes, deterring too far from the daily schedules and routines that everyone is used to can make transitioning back to reality a total nightmare. If possible, try to keep mealtimes and bedtimes similar to what the kids are used to at home. Your future self will thank you! 🙂
Do you have any family-friendly travel tips that work every time? Share them with us in the comments!
All images have either been provided by the travel agent or are licensed under the Creative Commons.
After just a five night stay this past summer, we’re convinced that it doesn’t get much better than Costa Rica for exploring the great outdoors! The Guanacaste area of Costa Rica in particular truly gives you the best of both worlds. Here you can spend your mornings exploring the rainforest and your afternoons soaking up the sun on one of the many golden beaches!
Whether you’re into hiking, surfing, or simply taking in the tropical scenery, you’ll find it all and more in this exotic country. Check out our list below of the top five things that make Costa Rica an absolute paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
1. Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park
Nestled between the Tilaran and Guanacaste mountain ranges, touring the Arenal Volcano National Park was probably the most memorable experience of our trip. Arenal Volcano itself is surrounded by lush rainforest, which means you’ll have to do some hiking to get a good glimpse. We felt that the hiking difficulty was intermediate, but it could be intimidating to beginner hikers. Often times, the very top of the volcano is hidden by clouds, but fortunately we were able to get an unobstructed view of the entire peak.
For our tour, we went with Central American Toursand we would highly recommend them! Our tour guides were extremely informative, fun, and always completely in-tune with the surroundings.
2. Village Hopping
Another perk of Costa Rica? It is the perfect destination for exploring with a car! Since the Guanacaste area is surrounded by small villages, it is really easy to arrange mini-trips during your stay to get the full experience. On our way to Arenal Volcano National Park, we pit-stopped in several villages that were along the route. Each village has its own unique personality, and all of them we visited felt very safe and clean. This is your chance to try some authentic specialities at the local cafes and restaurants!
For the true adventurist, a road trip to the capital city of San Jose is around a 3.5 hour drive from the Guanacste area. The atmosphere in this city is unlike any other in the country, with an endless selection of nightlife, restaurants, cafes, markets, and museums.
3. Surfing
If you’re an avid surfer or have always wanted to learn the sport, Costa Rica is the place to do it! With both options for beginner’s surf school and waves for the experts, be sure to check out Playa Grande, Malpais, and Playa Naranjo (otherwise known as Witches Rock).
4. Resort Variety
Costa Rica holds a wide variety of accommodations, from all-inclusive resorts, to standard hotels, and even bed and breakfasts. If you’re hoping to get in a good amount of beach time during your trip, an all-inclusive beachfront resort will definitely be the way to go! For independent travelers who aren’t set on staying by the beach, a European-plan hotel in the mountains might be right up your alley.
Costa Rica will give you plenty of chances to catch glimpses of all sorts of wildlife. Don’t miss the Mounteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, which houses more than 500 species of birds (including the vibrant Quetzal). In this reserve, you’ll also find over 3000 species of plants, many of which are orchid varieties. If you’re really lucky, you may even spot a white-faced monkey!
Ready to explore this tropical country for yourself? Here are a few of the things we wouldn’t visit Costa Rica without:
Bug spray
Sunscreen
Tennis Shoes
Hiking Shoes
Layerable Clothing
Call 402-281-3022 today to speak with an Enchanted Honeymoons travel agent about our all-inclusive packages in Costa Rica!
All images have either been provided by the travel agent or are licensed under the Creative Commons.
True to our name, we at Enchanted Honeymoons Travel take pride in our expertise in planning honeymoons and romantic getaways. We want you to enjoy every second you spend with your honey in tropical paradise. With hundreds of resorts catering to couples and honeymooner, how do you choose the right one? Below we’ve highlighted ten of our favorite all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean for couples. We trust these resorts to deliver on romance, luxury, and service, so you don’t have to worry about a thing!
1. Jade Mountain Resort, St. Lucia
Our number one spot for romantic all-inclusives belongs to Jade Mountain Resort. This breathtaking property consists of 24 suites in a private section inside the Anse Chastanet Resort. Every suite features a unique feature: one “wall” is completely open to the mountains. Nothing separates you from the outside world, but even so you will be pleasantly surprised to find that your room still feels private and romantic. In addition, the open wall allows unobstructed views of the Pitons, which are the two mountains (otherwise known as volcanic plugs) pictured above. What is not included in your room? A television or telephone. Pure relaxation awaits!
2. Royal Hideaway Playacar, Playa del Carmen
The name of this resort could not be more accurate! If you are looking to truly “hide away” with your S.O., look no further than the Royal Hideaway Playacar. This ultra-private escape has only 11 villas and a maximum occupancy of 200 guests. You will feel like you are staying in your own fully-staffed vacation home rather than an all-inclusive resort. Each of the 11 rooms comes with a private concierge to ensure that all of your needs are met.
3. Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita, Riviera Maya
This romantic property truly delivers the zen-factor. The decor throughout this 90-suite boutique resort blends Mayan tradition with modern luxury. We love this resort because of its impressive perks. Enjoy a bottle of champagne delivered to your suite daily, private round-trip airport transfers, and a 1-hour sunset catamaran cruise that takes off right from your resort beach!
4. Palafitos at El Dorado Maroma, Playa del Carmen
The Palafitos (or overwater bungalows), extensions of the El Dorado Maroma Resort, were completed in Fall 2016. These are the only overwater bungalows you will find in Mexico! The 30 new palafitos boast glass bottom floors, private plunge pools, a personal sundeck, and an outdoor shower. In addition, guests staying at the palafitos have exclusive access to an overwater restaurant and an overwater spa, as well as a private beach area. Of course, each palafito also comes with your own personal butler!
5. Le Blanc Spa Resort, Cancun
We would describe Le Blanc as sexy, modern, tropical, and romantic. French-inspired details, such as Juliette balconies, are a perfect balance to the modern decor. You won’t soon forget the stunning infinity pool, which is even more breathtaking set against the clean white structure of the property itself. The luxurious spa-vibe throughout the resort has even drawn celebrity guests (such as Julia Roberts)! During your stay, enjoy 24-hour butler service and don’t leave without getting a treatment or two at the BlancSpa. The 7-course meal at french-fusion eatery, Lumiere, is another thing that cannot be missed!
6. Sandals Grande Antigua
We love sending our honeymoon clients to Sandals Resorts because of their emphasis on couples and romance. Sandals Grande Antigua was recognized as the #1 Caribbeans Honeymoon Resort by the World Travel Awards in five out of the last eight years, and the Caribbean’s #1 Romantic Resort for the past two years. In addition to incredible service and luxurious accommodations, this property sits on Dickinson Bay, which is one of the largest and most beautiful beaches in Antigua. This resort has two distinct sides. The Caribbean Grove, which is nestled into the palm-filled gardens down by the beach, and the Mediterranean Village, which is built into the cliffs towering above the sea.
7. Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort, Cabo San Lucas
Pueblo Bonit0 Pacifica is the romantic escape in Cabo. The Mediterranean-inspired property stuns its guests with the Sea of Cortez as the backdrop. You’ll fall in love with the casually elegant vibe at this resort. Pueblo Bonito is a great choice for couples that enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle. Our perfect day at Pueblo Bonit0 Pacifica would begin with a sunrise stroll along the 2.5 mile stretch of private beach attached to the resort. The 154-suite resort is expanding and will open 54 additional suites in Fall 2017. Furthermore, six of these new suites will have their own private plunge pool with an ocean view.
8. Secrets Maroma, Playa del Carmen
Located on the incredible Maroma Beach, Secrets Maroma is home to 400 suites. Every single one of these suites includes a private plunge pool. In addition, guests can take advantage of 6 huge pools, and a wide variety of activities (think dance lessons and windsurfing). In order to wind down, consider booking an appointment for a couples massage. The 13,000 square-foot Secrets Spa by Pevonia is the ideal spot for ultimate relaxation with the one you love.
9. Excellence Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Excellence Punta Cana has 464 suites yet feels peaceful and boutique-y due to its expansive property size. Even in peak season, you will not feel crowded by other guests at this resort. For added privacy and luxury, ask your travel agent for details on the Excellence Club level rooms. Club benefits include express check-in and check-out service, a private VIP lounge with snacks and bar service, and private beach area. This is a must for honeymooners!
10. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico
Finally, we have Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. With a sexy name like “Grand Velas”, it’s no surprise that this resort caters to the romantic. Grand Velas boasts three fine-dining options, unbeatable service, and a stunning, tiered pool with a view of Banderas Bay. In addition, Grand Velas offers unique spa treatments at the Balinese-inspired Grand Velas spa. Most noteworthy, the Pearl and Moon treatment in which therapists use real crushed pearls to leave you with a radiant shimmer. For golfers, ask your travel agent about the Unlimited Golf Package in order to get access to two 18-hole courses at nearby Vista Vallarta Golf Club.
With so many resorts to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Get in touch with an Enchanted Honeymoons travel agent today to book your next romantic getaway! You can also reach us by phone at 402-281-3022.
Stunning turquoise water, vibrant sea life, and calm Caribbean waves—what’s not to love about Turks and Caicos? Whether it’s next up on your bucket list or you’re still in the early stages of research, check out travel agent Rachel Henne’s recap of her recent vacation spent on this beautiful island!
1. Which resort did you stay at in Turks and Caicos?
I visited Turks and Caicos and stayed at Beaches Turks and Caicos! Turks has approximately 40 islands total, but only a few are inhabited. The Beaches property sits on Providenciales or “Provo” per the locals. The island isn’t very big, but has great eateries, a shopping district, and excellent snorkeling. I toured three other properties while on the island: Blue Haven, Alexandra and Beach House. These three resorts are currently European Plan style properties (not all inclusive), but are making the switch to all-inclusive beginning in January 2018.
2. Describe the beaches, pools, rooms, and amenities at your resort.
Beaches Turks and Caicos – I can’t say enough positive things about this property. From the attentive service to excellent dining we enjoyed every minute of our stay. Rooms are located in one of four villages which are all strikingly different.
The Key West Village was very quiet and catered to more of an adult atmosphere. There were three restaurants in this section and I would recommend it to anyone who loves personalized service. All rooms offer club service amenities which include an in-room mini bar and concierge assistance for booking reservations or excursions.
The Italian Village was the most family friendly and upgraded section of the property. The main pool with a large swim up bar is located here and all of the restaurants are modeled after a European theme. This section is for families with a large budget as it is very expensive.
Next was the French Village which was great for families as well; however, a bit more modest in price. This section is near the waterpark and most removed from the beach. I liked the balance of activity and relaxation offered in this section.
Finally, the Caribbean section is the most basic when it comes to appeal and is great for the budget conscience traveler. I don’t want to be mistaken: Turks is highly expensive; however, if you are wanting to go and do it in the most cost effective way then the Caribbean Village is for you.
All guests staying at Beaches have full access to the entire property. This is definitely a beach destination! The water and beaches are some of the best I’ve seen in all my travels. I loved that you could see everything in the water and that the waves were calm which make it easy to swim in the ocean. If I had to choose a drawback it would be that Turks is a destination that does not offer adult only properties. I prefer the adult only atmosphere when I travel and will be sure to point this out to clients so that I can set their expectations appropriately.
3. Which other properties did you tour?
Blue Haven – The property sits right next to the marina and has a very secluded beach area. I noticed that the resort was very quiet as there are only 40 rooms total. This would be a great fit for the traveler that wants to completely disconnect from it all. Those seeking activity and interaction will not get that here. Since the resort is not all-inclusive I checked out a few of the menus. Although the food looks amazing, it is highly expensive everywhere on the island. Most meals were $30-$40 for lunch per person. There is a little market across the street from the resort; however, goods are priced pretty high in there too. I found the island to be expensive all the way around.
Alexandra Resort – The resort sits on Grace Bay and is located directly next to Beaches Turks and Caicos. This resort was more lively than Blue Haven and Beach House, which I liked. The others were a bit quiet for me. The rooms were really nice offering full kitchens and some have multiple bedrooms. For clients that don’t enjoy all-inclusive style resorts this would be a great option due to the location and amount of activity offered.
Beach House – This is a resort for the boutique style traveler. There are only 20 rooms at the property and a high level of personalized service. With only two restaurants the property caters to the quaint and quiet traveler. All of the staff that I met with couldn’t have been more friendly. The resort sits on Grace Bay and has a stunning beach.
3. How long were you there? Would you recommend more or less time to future travelers?
I was on the island for six nights and I felt that it was the perfect amount of time. I think I would have been fine with five nights just the same, but I wouldn’t go any shorter or longer than those two. There isn’t much to do on the island besides shop at the Salt Mills. This is more of relaxing destination with great beaches and watersports.
4. What was your favorite part of the trip?
My favorite part of the trip was that I could actually get in the ocean without fear! The water was so incredibly clear that I felt comfortable enough to wade into the ocean. I’m usually more of a pool person because the ocean scares me—not in Turks! The water is so calm and you can swim out really far while still seeing the bottom clearly. It’s truly breathtaking!
5. Did you learn anything new about the area?
Even as a travel agent I honestly didn’t realize how expensive goods and services were on the island. Usually you can find local eateries for decent prices, but everything I came across was extremely expensive. The most valuable lesson I can share with my clients is that they should not go to Turks on a budget. The extras do not come cheap especially if you opt out of the all-inclusive resort.
With so many resorts to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by pictures, online reviews, and overall information overload. Get in touch with an Enchanted Honeymoons travel agent today about all-inclusive packages in Turks and Caicos!
All images have either been provided by the travel agent or are licensed under the Creative Commons.
Call us today at 402-281-3022.
Why leave the pool when you can saddle up to a swim-up bar to get your drink on? Below we highlight our top Mexico and Caribbean resorts with a swim-up bar to keep you cool while you work on that buzz.
Grab a cold one from Catalonia Bavaro Beach‘s swim-up bar. You will want to stay put because of the entertaining bartenders and delicious fruity drinks. This relaxed property includes a gorgeous beach, a golf course, and room balconies with private hammocks.
2. Le Blanc Spa Resort—Cancun, Mexico
Le Blanc Spa Resort is the Palace Resorts brand’s most upscale property and one of the most luxurious all-inclusive resorts in Cancun. The swim-up bar is situated near the infinity pool’s edge, so you won’t have to leave the cool water or scenic view to grab a cocktail.
3. Live Aqua Beach Resort—Cancun, Mexico
The peaceful pool area at Live Aqua Beach Resort has interconnecting pools and a beachfront infinity pool with a swim-up bar. Besides the beautiful pool, guests will love this resort for it’s design and layout. The lobby and rooms are full of Mexican pop culture and traditional Yucatan tiles. Between the building and the beach sits a lush mangrove area with pathways leading to hidden-away restaurants.
4. The Royal Playa del Carmen—Riviera MayaC, Mexico
The pool area at the Royal Playa del Carmen snakes through the middle of the resort and boasts two swim-up bars. Guests return to this luxurious resort for its downtown location steps away from Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue. In addition, the service and the food at this Playa Resorts property is top-notch.
5. Sandals South Coast—Whitehouse, Jamaica
Formerly known as Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa, Sandals South Coast re-launched in late 2016. Most Notably, this resort is now home to Sandals’ first over-the-water bar, Latitudes. Here you can enjoy your drinks suspended above the Caribbean sea in a hammock. Sandals South Coast also introduces “Bar-Tender”, a floating swim-up bar to deliver your cocktails to you in the ocean.
6. Club Hotel Riu Negril—Negril, Jamaica
An excellent value resort, ClubHotel Riu Negril offers a low-key beach, fully-stocked minibars, and a solid buffet,.The swim-up bar is likewise more low-key than other resorts’. It is perfect for couples looking for an affordable getaway.
7. Dreams La Romana—Dominican Republic
Dreams La Romana is part of the Dreams Moremaculate megaresort. The resort features a large kids’ club, award-winning restaurants, and a great cocktail menu with premium liquor.
Planning a destination wedding? You may be overwhelmed with all of the new all-inclusive resorts popping up all over Mexico and Jamaica.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Two of our agents were lucky enough to stay at the new all-inclusive Moon Palace Jamaica Grande Resort and Spa in October for the Palace PRO Awards Gala. Everything from the staff to the food and even the quality of the beds in the guest rooms were nothing short of superb. Along with its close proximity to downtown Ocho Rios, the Moon Palace Jamaica can organize a dolphin swim, a sunset cruise, a snorkel excursion and tours to Negril Beach, Sun Valley Plantation or Dunn’s River Falls. Back at the resort, guests can unwind on the property’s white sand beach, lounge around one of the four pools or grab a drink at one of the seven bars on property. This place is family-friendly so children of all ages can stay. Plus your wedding party will never get bored with the swim-up bar and nightclub open late!
Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos
Le Blanc Los Cabos, part of the Palace Resorts brand, is known for its luxurious, spa-like amenities. This beachfront all-inclusive resort offer a variety of restaurants and bars, including seafood, French, Italian and international-themed restaurants. You’ll also find four relaxing swimming pools, indoor hot tubs and both daily and nightly activities. All of the guestrooms at this Los Cabos hotel have modern and spa-like decor and furnished balconies that offer stunning views. Le Blanc Los Cabos also features a spa with a wide range of services such as massages and hydrotherapy. When booking three or more nights here, guests can use their entire resort credit for spa services. Ask your travel agent for more information about this!
Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort and Spa
The all-inclusive Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort and Spa, opened in late-2017, features spacious suites, penthouses and villas to suit families of any size. A kids’ club and teen lounge, restaurants, premium alcohol, non-motorized sports, swimming pools, a fitness center, Wi-Fi, beach and pool concierge service, and airport transfers are all covered in rates. The resort also features a gorgeous spa.
Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa
Palladium Hotel Group has announced plans to open the Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa in Cancun. Expected to debut in 2018, the all-inclusive resort will feature nine restaurants, four swimming pools and a spa. Bonus: TRS Coral Hotel, an adults-only, all-inclusive resort, will open on the same property. The above photo is a rendering of the entrance to this luxurious, family-friendly resort.
Sandals La Source St. Lucia
Located along Pigeon Island Beach and next to Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals LaSource St. Lucia will be the fourth Sandals Resorts property in Saint Lucia. The property will include the island’s first roof top infinity edge sky pool. In addition, this will also be the first Sandals Resorts property to have continuous winding river pools surrounding every room block, all with unobstructed access to the main pool. Furthermore, the resort will feature 330 suites including 20 over-the-water bungalows, ten restaurants, and a brand new entertainment facility complete with a four lane bowling alley, games room and bar. The above photo is a rendering of the plans for the layout of Sandal’s Resorts’ newest all-inclusive, adults-only resort.
Call us today at 402-281-3022 to start planning your dream destination wedding!
Have you ever found yourself hoping to trade the frostbite and blizzards for Christmas in the Caribbean? We don’t blame you. Below we’ve listed some of our favorite holiday traditions and celebrations that are completely unique to the Caribbean islands!
1. Junkanoo, Bahamas
Junkanoo is a spectacular street carnival that the Bahamians begin preparing for months in advance. This celebration entails locals donned in brightly decorated costumes, dancing and singing to Caribbean rhythms to honor legendary West African Prince, John Canoe. You get two chances to catch the festival, which takes place on both December 26th and January 1st in the island’s capital of Nassau.
2. Festival of Lights, St. Lucia
Make your way to the island’s capital city of Castries in December 13th to discover the Parade of Lanterns, dancing, and a grand finale of fireworks. Just as it sounds, this Festival of Lights is a celebration of light conquering dark, honoring the Saint Lucia or “Saint Lucy” (the patron saint of light). The most recent addition to the festival, the Lantern Ritual, takes place at the harbor where lanterns are placed in the water to symbolize the prayers and wishes of the year to come.
3. Sand Yards, Cayman Islands
A white Christmas is just something the Caribbean has learned to live without, so we thought. When Christmas-ing in the Caymans, don’t miss the locals’ imitations of snow-covered lawns by covering them in powdery, white sand. Sounds like a pretty great alternative to us!
A tradition that has been taking place for 25 years and counting, Antiguans head to Nelson’s Dockyard on Christmas morning for their annual Champagne Party. About 500 bottles of bubbly are popped for this extravaganza, with all proceeds given to charity.
5. Harbour Fest, Jamaica
There’s no better way to ring in the New Year than with a dazzling firework display. Jamaica’s Harbour Fest is just that, live reggae performances and a wide array of craft vendors leading up to the main event.
Looking to plan holiday travel and not sure where to begin? Get in touch today to book your dream getaway to the Caribbean!
Call us today at 402-281-3022 to book your own Christmas in the Caribbean.