Sunday, December 22, 2019

Best Honeymoon All Inclusive Resorts 2019


Best Honeymoon Resorts 2019
best honeymoon
 

Each year, I visit a minimum of 52 all inclusive resorts.  I do this to help my clients make the best choice for their vacation.

Travelers who book their vacation with me benefit from my personal experience visiting these resorts. I narrow down the hundreds of resorts to two or three that meet their ideal criteria.  Then, we discuss the pros and cons of various resorts based on what’s important to them.

In this post, I want to share what I consider to be the best all inclusive resorts for a honeymoon. These resorts would also be great for anytime of couples trip.  

 If you'd like a larger list of my favorite resorts, you can request it by clicking here.
 

 Unico 20’87 is one of the best honeymoon resorts because of the great dining and great choices for activities.


If you worry about having enough to do, Unico 20’87 is perfect.

·       Select excursions and spa treatments are included. You only pay a 25% service charge.

·       Excellent Dining

·       Spacious rooms

·       Great pools
 
 


Best Family All Inclusive Resorts 2019


Best Family All Inclusive Resort 2019

best family resorts


Each year I visit a minimum of 52 all inclusive resorts.  I do this to help my clients make the best choice for their vacation. Travelers who book their vacation with me benefit from my personal experience visiting these resorts as we discuss the pros and cons of various resorts based on what’s important to them.
In this post, I want to share what I consider to be the best all inclusive family resorts.   You can also request a list of my favorite resorts by clicking here.

Hard Rock Riviera Maya is one of the best all inclusive resorts because it has so much to do.

This resort really sets itself apart with Rockaway Bay Water Park, small cove beaches with calm waters for smaller swimmers, and Woodward Academy – A 29,000 square foot indoor space dedicate to extreme sports: skateboarding, ninja obstacle course, indoor skiing and snowboarding, cheerleading,  tumbling, and foam pits.  Plus, select excursions and spa treatments are included. You only pay a 25% service charge.

Friday, December 20, 2019

Holiday Flight Tips

 
 

 
Weigh your bags at home if you are checking a bag. Overweight bags are very expensive. You can find baggage weight limits on your airline's website.

TSA does not like wrapped presents especially in carry-ons. I packed gift bags and tissue paper.

Check your flight status at least 2 days prior. Look at the airline's website to see if there are "notifications". If a storm is coming, the airline may let you change your flight at no cost to avoid the storm.


 
If delays do start, head to the gate of any earlier flights to see if you can be out on the stand by list. They usually only let you do this if you have carry on bags. In the case of major weather delays, they can be more accommodating.

If a delay means you will miss your connection, tell the gate agent. They may be able to route you on a different flight. If you will end up having to spend the night somewhere, ask if they can route you through a city where you know someone or if they can get you to a city where you could drive home.

And my best tip - Tell the agent your problem and then shut your mouth. 🤐 Give them a minute to think about how to solve it. If you are still having trouble, ask "What would you do in my situation?" This may trigger a different way of thinking about the problem.

It's a stressful time of year. Everyone is working long hours to help get you to where you want to go. All these employees are away from their families and their holiday to do list. Be kind. Safe travels.

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

Adults Only All Inclusive Secrets Vallarta Bay



Secrets Vallarta Bay is an adults only all inclusive resort in downtown Puerto Vallarta. It's right next door to Now Amber.  The pool area is active and fun with a swimmable beach. It's a great resort for couples, but groups of friends may not like the open concept bathrooms in the rooms with two double beds.

Secrets guests have access to now Amber. One unique feature is that Now Amber is the only all inclusive resort with a casino inside. It's only open hotel guests and includes a sports bar.

Take a peek:

Does this look like the resort for you? Click here to email me.

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

Royal Hideaway Playacar Adults Only All Inclusive Resort Tour


Royal Hideaway Playacar is an adults only all inclusive resort on a wide stretch of beach in the Playacar complex close to Playa del Carmen. It's has a calm, upscale vibe. The popular spot is the infinity pool overlooking the beach. Be sure to try the guacamole made to order and the calamari at The Deck. One note - it does not have a swim up bar and the spa is modest. 
 
Take a peek:
 
 



What do you think? Is this the resort for you? Click here to email me.

Friday, December 6, 2019

Travel Gifts Part 3 - Safety

A few people asked for gift ideas for the traveler in their life so I pulled together this list of products that I use and love.  The pictures are affiliate links to Amazon.

 If you click on  the picture, you'll be able to add the product right to your Amazon cart.

These products worked well for me, but I am making no claim about them.

This is Part 3. Click here for Part 2. Click here for Part 1.

RFID Blocking Sleeves and Passport Holders
RFID readers can skim your credit card and personal information. These sleeves and passport holder block that signal.


Carbon Monoxide Detector
If your traveler frequently rents homes, I think this is a must have. A family visiting Mexico died from carbon monoxide poisoning in a home rental.


Cross Body Purse
I love this purse. It has great organization. You can't cut the strap. The main pockets lock. It makes me feel more confident walking around a new city.

Travel Gifts Part 2

A few people asked for gift ideas for the traveler in their life so I pulled together this list of products that I use and love.  The pictures are affiliate links to Amazon.

 If you click on  the picture, you'll be able to add the product right to your Amazon cart.

These products worked well for me, but I am making no claim about them.

This is Part 2. Click here for Part 1.

Cord Organizer
I need to keep all my cords together or when I open my bag it looks like snacks are jumping out. Both my husband and I use this cute bag. 



3 oz containers
If you want to carry your bags onto the flight, you'll need to switch some of your favorite products to a 3 oz container. I use these.


Travel Adapter and Converter
If you headed across the ocean, this is great to pack. It's an adapter and a converter. An adapter will allow you to plug your device into a different type of plug. A converter protects your device if the electricity runs on a different voltage.

Travel Gifts Part 1

A few people asked for gift ideas for the traveler in their life so I pulled together this list of products that I use and love.  The pictures are affiliate links to Amazon.

 If you click on  the picture, you'll be able to add the product right to your Amazon cart.

These products worked well for me, but I am making no claim about them.

Click here for Part 2. Click here for Part 3.

Cruise Captain T-Shirt

The gift that gets the most comments whenever he wears it is the Cruise Captain's shirt I bought my husband:



Jenni Chan Computer Tote
I have an older version of this bag that is my go-to as my personal item. I like all the pockets and the middle padded area for the laptop.



Portable Luggage Scale
This has saved us from standing in front of the check in counter trying to repack our bags.


Travel Blanket
This blanket is super soft and cozy. I often lay it over the hotel pillows if the sheets are a little scratchy. I like that you can attach it to the outside of your bag. The "Upgrade Me" is a little obnoxious so i turn that side toward the bag.



Packing Cubes
I am a packing cube convert. It keeps me so organized during travel - especially if we have two or three hotels. These offer a little bit of compression to squish down your clothes.

Tuesday, December 3, 2019

Best Honeymoon Destination: Saffire Freycinet


Saffire Freycinet is a unique all inclusive resort in Tasmania, Australia. Forty-one luxury pavilions dot the shoreline offering pampering and privacy for your vacation. Your stay includes your meals, cocktails, wine and beer, and activities like an in-water oyster tasting, beekeeping experience, or visiting the onsite Tasmanian devil sanctuary. If you are looking for the honeymoon or trip of a lifetime, this is a terrific choice.
 
Take a peek:



I post new videos every Tuesday.  If you sign up to have them delivered to your inbox, I'll also send you my top 10 tips for all inclusive resorts and how to choose a family or adults only all inclusive resort. Click here to sign up.

Overwhelmed planning a trip? I am here to help. You'll get the same prices you find online plus my expert help choosing the best resort for you. Email me to get started.

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Playacar Palace All Inclusive Resort Tour



Playacar Palace is a family all inclusive resort near 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. It's a great headquarters for exploring Playa del Carmen or hopping the ferry to Cozumel.
 
It's located on one of the better beaches in the area. It's compact with large rooms and suites that include jacuzzis. Be sure to try the sushi and use your resort credits to explore the Spa. The hydrotherapy area is gorgeous. 
 
Take a peek:
 
 




I post new videos every Tuesday. If you sign up to have them delivered to your inbox, I'll also send you my top 10 tips for all inclusive resorts and how to choose a family or adults only all inclusive resort. Click here to sign up.

Overwhelmed planning a trip? I am here to help. You'll get the same prices you find online plus my expert help choosing the best resort for you. Email me to get started.


Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Grand Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta Adults Only All Inclusive Resort Tour

 
 
Grand Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta is an adults only all inclusive resort with a fun, active vibe.  On the beach, rocks have formed a calm lagoon for swimming. I love that you can order food to your chair in addition to drinks.
 
If you love sun, be sure to head up to the Sky Deck in the mornings since the pool and beach areas don't get sun until the afternoon. The sky deck turns into a disco at night. Party suites are the suites surrounding the sky deck since loud music will be heard at night.
 
Take a peek:
 




I post new videos every Tuesday. Be sure to subscribe. If you sign up to have them delivered to your inbox, I'll also send you my top 10 tips for all inclusive resorts and how to choose a family or adults only all inclusive resort. Click here to sign up.

Overwhelmed planning a trip? I am here to help. You'll get the same prices you find online plus my expert help choosing the best resort for you. It's just a $99 deposit to get started. Click here to email me.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Hard Rock Cabo Family All Inclusive Resort Resort Tour



If you love infinity pools with a stunning view, Hard Rock Los Cabos is for you.
 
Hard Rock Los Cabos is a family all inclusive resort located about thirty minutes from Cabo San Lucas in the private development Diamante.
 
Kids will like the three water slides. Teens will like the bowling alley and game room. Adults will like the swim up bars, excellent dining and spa services.
 
Hard Rock offers limitless inclusions so you only pay a 25% service charge for more spa services. 
 
Take a peek:
 
 



I post new videos every Tuesday. Be sure to subscribe. If you sign up to have them delivered to your inbox, I'll also send you my top 10 tips for all inclusive resorts and how to choose a family or adults only all inclusive resort. Click here to sign up.

Overwhelmed planning a trip? I am here to help. You'll get the same prices you find online plus my expert help choosing the best resort for you. It's just a $99 deposit to get started. Click here to email me.

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

Live Aqua Boutique Hotel Playa del Carmen All Inclusive Resort Tour



Live Aqua Boutique Hotel Playa del Carmen is a gem of an all inclusive hotel in the heart of Playa del Carmen. It's right on 5th Ave with large rooms and a gorgeous rooftop pool.
The hotel includes a la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner plus room service.
It's perfect for group trips, bachelorette parties, and travelers who love being in the heart of the action, but hate that end of stay bill.

I post new videos every Tuesday. Be sure to subscribe. If you sign up to have them delivered to your inbox, I'll also send you my top 10 tips for all inclusive resorts and how to choose a family or adults only all inclusive resort: https://lp.constantcontact.com/su/cfhyywk/ALLINC

Overwhelmed planning a trip? I am here to help. Click here to email me to get started.

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Grand Fiesta Americana Cabo All Inclusive Golf and Spa Resort Tour

Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos is a family all inclusive resort located about 45 minutes from the Cabo airport. It has several pools including an adults only pool with swim up bar. The beach is rocky, but swimmable. The dining is great! The Sushi terrace is a must try. I loved the landscaping and views. You feel like you are in the desert. The resort also has an air-conditioned nightclub. Everyone was so friendly and service was great! 


If you are overwhelmed planning your all inclusive resort vacation - I can help. Email me to get started.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Xcaret Hotel Mexico


Hotel Xcaret is a one of a kind resort. It's a huge, family, all inclusive resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

Friday, October 18, 2019

Client Review: Salem, Massachusetts Road Trip

Amy took a road trip from Michigan to Salem, Massachusetts with her teenage daughter. She shares her experience:


First stop on our New England Tour was Seneca Falls, NY, home of the women’s rights movement and the inspiration for the town in the Christmas movie classic, It’s a Wonderful Life. The Hall of Fame museum is in the process of moving into the old Seneca Falls Knitting factory where they plan to expand on their exhibits and make it more interactive. Currently, it is mostly half-poster sized placards with a photo of the woman being honored and a biography of who she is/was and what accomplishments earned her the induction into the Hall of Fame. There were a few display cabinets with various items, newspaper clippings or photos. There were some cut outs of the women that were done to their actual size/height. There was a short walking trail along the river with a few busts and statues; I’m not sure if this was under construction or in a completed stage – there weren’t very many and it was not clear how long the trail was supposed to be or how far we should walk.


Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Breathless Punta Cana All Inclusive Resort Dominican Republic Tour



A huge thank you to Apple Vacations for sponsoring my visit.

Breathless Punta Cana is an adults only all inclusive resort about 45 minutes from the Punta Cana airport. This resort has a fun party vibe. It's great for groups of friends and family because the restaurants have larger tables and it's easy to get groups of chairs by the pool or beach. The resort is filled with music - especially club music. One morning even breakfast had a DJ. The food was good for the Dominican Republic.  Staff was friendly. Rooms were comfortable. Take a peek:





Every Tuesday, you could get these resort tours delivered to your inbox. I'll also send you my top 10 tips for all inclusive resorts and how to choose a family or adults only all inclusive resort. Click here to sign up.
 
Overwhelmed planning a trip? I am here to help. You'll get the same prices you find online plus my expert help choosing the best resort for you. It's just a $99 deposit to get started. Click here to email me.

Tuesday, October 8, 2019

Unico 20'87 Riviera Maya Adults Only All Inclusive Resort Tour

Adults only all inclusive resort, resort that includes spa

Unico 2087 is an adults only all inclusive resort about 90 minutes from the Cancun, Mexico airport. The three things that set Unico apart are:
Dining - One consistent source of chatter around the pool was how much everyone loved the food. The a la carte dining and room service are delicious. You can order tacos and pizza to your lounge chair.
Limitless Inclusions - Select spa treatments and excursions are included. You only pay a 25% service charge. This is a great value.
Cocktail program - If you love trying new cocktails, you'll love it here. Each restaurant has a special cocktail or a special cocktail menu. The resident mixology creates great offerings at the lobby bar.
Take a peek:

Overwhelmed planning a trip? I am here to help. You'll get the same prices you find online plus my expert help choosing the best resort for you. It's just a $99 deposit to get started. Click here to email me.

Tuesday, October 1, 2019

Couples Swept Away


Couples Swept Away is an adults only all inclusive resort on a beautiful beach in Negril about 90 minutes from the Montego Bay airport. This resort is huge and full of activities: tennis, basketball, racquetball, squash, plus many included water sports - both motorized and non-motorized. The beach has natural shade from large trees. The rooms are simple with Jamaica charm. Not all of the rooms have TVs. The resort has a very active nightlife - so active one of the grills is open from 10 pm - 5 am.

Take a peek:




I post new videos every Tuesday. Be sure to subscribe. If you sign up to have them delivered to your inbox, I'll also send you my top 10 tips for all inclusive resorts and how to choose a family or adults only all inclusive resort: Click here to sign up and receive these great bonuses.

Overwhelmed planning a trip? I am here to help. You'll get the same prices you find online plus my expert help choosing the best resort for you. It's just a $99 deposit to get started. Click here to email me.
 

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Sunset at the Palms Adults Only All Inclusive Resort Negril, Jamaica Tour



Sunset at the Palms is the place to live your treehouse dreams. This is the perfect location if you love a tropical garden setting and value privacy. 83 treehouse rooms are spread across lush gardens. The resort has three restaurants including the unique Chef's Showcase. Each day the chef designs and executes a special menu based on what's available. You head across the street - aided by a crossing guard - to the private beach. It's long and wide and has enough chairs for every person at the resort. No more getting up early to save a chair. There's a grill and beach bar available.

Take a peek:



I post new videos every Tuesday. Be sure to subscribe. If you sign up to have them delivered to your inbox, I'll also send you my top 10 tips for all inclusive resorts and how to choose a family or adults only all inclusive resort: Click here to sign up and receive these great bonuses.

Overwhelmed planning a trip? I am here to help. You'll get the same prices you find online plus my expert help choosing the best resort for you. It's just a $99 deposit to get started. Click here to email me.



Tuesday, September 17, 2019

RIU Palace Tropical Bay Family All Inclusive Resort Negril, Jamaica Tour

 
 
RIU Palace Tropical Bay is a family all inclusive resort near Negril, Jamaica. It was the first RIU resort in Jamaica and had major renovations last year. The resort does not have elevators. The resort has a beautiful beach and the same resorts you'll find at other Palace resorts. The resort looks huge from the road, but doesn't feel that big once inside. The rooms stretch along the beach so you aren't too far from the beach in any of the buildings. This is a great choice for a moderate resort. 
 
Take a peek:
 
 

 

I post new videos every Tuesday. Be sure to subscribe. If you sign up to have them delivered to your inbox, I'll also send you my top 10 tips for all inclusive resorts and how to choose a family or adults only all inclusive resort: Click here to sign up and receive these great bonuses.

Overwhelmed planning a trip? I am here to help. You'll get the same prices you find online plus my expert help choosing the best resort for you. It's just a $99 deposit to get started. Click here to email me.
 
 

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

Couples Negril Adults Only All Inclusive Resort Negril, Jamaica Tour


Couples Negril has a Jamaica feel.  The resort has a laid back vibe and operates on island time. It sits on Bloody Bay Beach. This resort boasts a lot of inclusions: diving resort course, shopping tours, glass bottom boat, personal trainer, and snorkeling trips. The spa is simple with a great tree house location for massages and candlelight dinners.  A nude beach surrounded by shrubs is available for those who don't like tan lines.

Take a peek:




I post new videos every Tuesday. Be sure to subscribe. If you sign up to have them delivered to your inbox, I'll also send you my top 10 tips for all inclusive resorts and how to choose a family or adults only all inclusive resort: Click here to sign up and receive these great bonuses.

Overwhelmed planning a trip? I am here to help. You'll get the same prices you find online plus my expert help choosing the best resort for you. It's just a $99 deposit to get started. Click here to email me.

Sunday, September 8, 2019

Things to Do in San Francisco


 
San Fran, San Francisco

 
 
The city of San Francisco boasts 182 playground, 82 recreation centers, and more than 300 coffee shops, not to mention numerous museums, historical and cultural centers. There is something for everyone in this  beautiful city by the bay.

 

Things to Do in Seattle


 
 
Seattle is Washington State’s largest city and home to two of the largest tech giants in Amazon and Microsoft. You and your family will find plenty to see and do in this beautiful city in the Northwest. Its most iconic landmark, the Space Needle was built in the Seattle Center for the 1962 World’s Fair.

 

Disney Cruise Review June 2019 - Transatlantic Disney Cruise and Mediterranean Europe Disney Cruise

In June 2019, Katy, the beloved Travel Concierge at Trips with Angie, took a cruise on the Disney Magic. She left Miami on the Transatlantic and connected to the round trip Mediterranean Sailing from Barcelona.



Here's her review that she wrote just after returning:
 
 

Thursday, September 5, 2019

Things to do in Philadelphia


Philadelphia is known for its rich history with such historic sites as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall (where the declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed), as well as other American Revolutionary sites. Other popular attractions include the steps of the Philadelphia Museum immortalized by Sylvester Stallone in the movie “Rocky”, the Please Touch Museum and the Philadelphia Zoo.

 


Independence Hall- See the room where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both signed. The Hall is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Tickets are required at certain times of the year and are free. There is no charge for same day distribution (non-reserved) tickets obtained at the Independence Visitor Center on the day of your visit. There is a handling fee of $1.00 per ticket for advance reservations. For advance reservations you can  make your reservation online or call 1-877-444-6777.

 

Wednesday, September 4, 2019

Guest Review: Azul Riviera Cancun


Donnis and her family were looking for a family all inclusive resort for 5 adults and 5 kids aged 5, 8, 10, 11, and 12.
 
I curated a list of options for and they picked Azul Riviera Cancun. The large guaranteed connecting suites, kids' program, great dining, and evening entertainment were a good fit.
 
As a reminder, here's my resort tour followed by Donnis' review.
 

 
 
 
The trip was wonderful. This was the first trip our entire family had taken together since 2007. Thank you for making this trip so special. Your recommendation of Azul Cancun was perfect!

Tuesday, September 3, 2019

Nickelodeon Punta Cana Hotel and Suites Punta Cana

Nickelodean hotel, Sponge Bob Hotel

Nickelodeon Hotel and Suites Punta Cana is a family friendly all inclusive resort about 45 minutes from the Punta Cana airport. Nickelodeon Punta Cana is one of the best family all inclusive resorts because it offers an upscale experience with lots of kids’ activities. Nickelodeon Punta Cana separates the water park from the rest of resort – it’s across the street. This means your time on the beach and by the main pool feel more like an upscale resort than a crazy family resort. You can join in activities on the beach, by the pool or at the water park so families will have lots of choices if they want to keep busy. I love the Nickelodeon Punta Cana restaurant plaza that offer evening entertainment. 

 A huge thank you to Karisma Resorts for sponsoring my 3 night stay so I could share this experience with you.

Let's take a resort tour:


Things I appreciated:
  • Cleanliness - This is one of the cleanest resorts I've visited. It's the first swim up bar that did not have bees swarming.
  • Premium Liquors - When we saw Tanqueray 10 at the swim up bar, we were impressed.
  • Accessible Characters - Every hour, a new character was available for photos and meet and greets. The evening shows and character breakfast (extra charge) provide even more opportunities.
  • Upscale Dining options - The Italian restaurant offered one of the best meals we've had. K 2/3 offers 8 course or 16 course tasting menus for an extra charge. Brgrs PH had terrific gourmet burgers cooked to your preferred temperature.
  • Attentive pool service - Orlando, the pool butler, was excellent. He delivered drinks to the pool. Once, as we were getting out to dry off for lunch, he asked if we wanted a pizza and delivered one a short time later.
  • Live music in the plaza - We loved sitting outside in the plaza listening to the guitar players.
  • Suite size - The rooms are family sized. I like how the Flat Suite has the ability to enclose the king size bed. 
Take a look:


Some things to know:
  • The Character Place, Water Park, and Sports Hub are across the street. You'll take a golf cart shuttle under the road. This is where the kids' evening show takes place.
  • Pay attention to the schedule. You may get a printed schedule at check in. The resort is also working to bring an App online. 
  • Dinner reservations are required for most of the restaurants. 
I post new resort tours every Tuesday. If you sign up to have them delivered to your inbox, I'll also send you my top 10 tips for all inclusive resorts and how to choose a family or adults only all inclusive resort: https://lp.constantcontact.com/su/cfhyywk/ALLINC

Overwhelmed planning a trip? I am here to help. You'll get the same prices you find online plus my expert help choosing the best resort for you. It's just a $99 deposit to get started. Email me to get started.