Secrets Capri, a luxury all-inclusive adults only 5-star resort along the Riviera Maya coast line of Mexico offers a romantic beach vacation that will re-charge your batteries. Christie, a seasoned 7-year travel agent with James TravelPOINTS , specializing in Mexico beach vacations, honeymoons, destination weddings recently stayed at Secrets Capri along with
My husband and I stayed for 6 nights at the wonderful Secrets Capri, located about 30 minutes south of Cancun airport in the Riviera Maya. Secrets Capri is an adult’s only hotel and became a Preferred Club Unlimited Luxury Resorts a couple of years ago. Some added great features include the World Class Pevonia Spa, a really fun large Sports bar with pool tables with comfortable couches an outdoor breakfast and lunch patio in front of the beach where you can order all kinds of delicious food along with a brick oven pizza where they make the best pizzas.
Room service is available 24 hours along with pool and beach service, even when you are laying on the beach you can order all kinds of different snacks, the fried jalapeño poppers are the best!!!
The Mexican and Caribbean Theme nights are so much fun, and the entertainment wonderful, some great singers and a really fun fire show, which was pretty spectacular. The nice thing about the Secrets Capri is that there is Oceanfront Dining, the seafood and steak restaurant are both located in the oceanfront building with a wrapped outside balcony which is a perfect setting for a very romantic evening. But the Japanese restaurant is also very good, I was surprised that even the sushi tasted great. The Italian Restaurant was our favorite just because we like what they had on the menu, but overall every restaurant is very good, and lots of different choices. The house wines are good and we did not feel like we had to pay extra for a more upscale wine. You do not have to make reservations at the restaurants, you just show up and if they do not have a table ready they will give you a beeper, you can even request a table if you with a nice view over the ocean. The longest we had to wait was about 20 minutes which is fine because at the mean time you can just enjoy a nice drink at the bar. Around 4pm in the lobby area they serve Mexican Coffee, and little cakes and cookies, for sure something you need to try.
Most of the rooms have king beds, a nice bathroom with a separate shower, and a small Jacuzzi tub, two sinks and an outdoor terrace with two chairs and a small table. The rooms facing the pool and ocean are nice, but changes are a large palm tree will be blocking part of your view. The ground floor rooms are a bit larger and have a couch, chairs and table to lounge in, the bathrooms are all the same size as the other rooms. Turndown service was great, each evening they leave a flyer for the next day activities which include the weather forecast, activities and entertainment along with the daily Spa specials I always looked forward to read it thru and get excited for the next day.
Every staff member works very hard and there is always a smile that greets you, they will treat you like royalty. One of the benefits of this hotel is that the Capri is that it’s a small hotel so its never a far walk to get from one place to another, but again not too small either, its just in my eyes the perfect size. The pool has a great temperature and the pool bar is fun, especially around 4pm when it gets pretty entertaining.
Secrets Capri is great for couples, honeymooner, anniversaries or friends that would like to have a good time but also have time to relax. The beach is short, so a couple of steps and you are standing with your feet in the ocean, but great for a beach walk specially towards the south. Seaweed has always been a small problem in this area but once a day they rack and clean the beach of debris. Swimming in the ocean was nice, the waves were not too big or overwhelming. The bottom is sandy and easy to walk in without the water depth dropping off to quickly. I thought it was the right depth, which I like. We always found a nice place to sit at the pool or beach, the staff will take away the towels off the lounge chairs if they are vacant for more than 30 minutes.
We had a great vacation and lots of fun and time to relax, Secrets Capri will be a good choice if you are looking for a relaxing fun vacation. If you like to hear more detailed information or you like to see my pictures please give me a call I am more then happy to help you. My hours at James TravelPOINTS are Monday thru Friday from 8am till 5pm, Mountain Time, you can call me at 303-442-2340 ext 232 or email me at christiel@travelpoints.com Thank you for taking the time to read my report, I look forward to hear from you,
Christie
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Cruising the Caribbean – St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and Grand Turks
February snow continues to fall, the temperature continues to hover around 30 degrees, the sky remains gray, the groundhog saw his shadow, and winter continues to linger in Colorado, the perfect time for a warm Caribbean Cruise aboard a Princess Cruise Lines. Ann Griffith Co-owner of Aggie TravelPOINTS and James TravelPOINTS recenly took a group aboard the Emerald Princess in February of 2010.
My husband and I returned from seven glorious days of warm winter sun and gentle Caribbean breezes while we sailed on the Emerald Princess. We took a group and glided through the Eastern Caribbean on water that would take your breath away.
Choosing a cruise can be overwhelming. What size of ship do you want to sail on, how long do you want to sail, what is your price range, and where do you want to cruise. The Emerald Princess is considered a bigger ship. Her capacity is 3600 passengers. Her itinerary consisted of Princess Cay, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Grand Turks and 2 days at sea. 83% of Americans have never taken a cruise. If you have enjoyed a cruise vacation, or if you are one of those 83% who have never cruised, let me share some sights, sounds, tastes and smells that are vivid in my memory.
Excitement always greets me when I board the ship. I find myself in a giant treasure hunt searching for our room, the deck where you can walk daily, the “any time” dining room, the gym for the pilates and spin class, the location of the movie under the stars, the pizzeria, the coffee bar, and the best nook for afternoon tea. A balcony was our cabin choice, and I would highly recommend such a luxury. A balcony cabin is a magnificent way to enhance your cruise experience. Daily I found myself with my book in hand sitting on my balcony, sipping my tea, and looking out into the vast blue horizon and letting my cares soar away. Mornings began with a brisk walk on the promenade deck seven. Three loops around the ship equals one mile. Walking around a ship and experiencing the sea and scenery from various directions is thrilling. The wind rushes through your hair, the sun shines on your back, the gentle sway of the ship makes your walk hilariously crooked, the wave’s crashing against the front of the ship are loud, and the voluminous clouds, birds and flying fish are fantastic scenery for this landlocked lady. One evening we booked our dinner at one of the two specialty dining rooms. For a small surcharge you can eat at the specialty steak house or the specialty Italian Restaurant. Our choice was the walnut-leather-brass accented steak house. The meal was one of the most memorable meals of my life. Our waiter from Argentina recommended the French Onion Soup, Maine Lobster or fillet, sautéed mushrooms and scalloped potatoes, and the molten chocolate cake. I can still taste the chocolate molten cake. It was hot and melty and better eaten with a spoon than a fork. The favorite shore excursion was on Grand Turks. My husband really wanted to snorkel. We joined a small group, took a catamaran and snorkeled around the wall that plunges 7,000 feet into the sea. If that was not thrilling enough, we were sitting on the softest, pearly white sandy beach as the mandarin orange sun sank into the sea, with whale’s flukes in the horizon.
This trip was a perfect respite from our cold Colorado winter. The Caribbean winter sun warmed us body and soul. We were as busy as we wanted to be but took several quiet moments to relax and replenish ourselves too. We attended an art history class that was superb. The evenings had dancing opportunities, theatres of comedians and live music. This cruise had several pleasant surprises for me, and I encourage you to cruise and treat yourself with some surprises too.
Ann Griffith is Co-owner of Aggie TravelPOINTS and James TravelPOINTS. She has been working in the travel business for the past 25 years specializing Euorpean Vacatons, Cruise Vacations, Mexico Vacations, Hawaiian Vacations, Central & South American Vacations, and group travel vacations.
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The Big Island of Hawaii, A Vacation Paradise
The Big Island of Hawaii, a Vacation Paradise
If you are looking for a lush tropical Hawaiian vacation, consider the Big Island of Hawaii, one of the newest islands in the Hawaiian chain of Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Lanai, or even Molokai…
Jan Geiser of James TravelPOINTS recently visited the Big Island of Hawaii with her husband to re-visit and experience island paradise.
The Big Island of Hawaii, also known as the Orchid Isle, is the youngest and largest of the Hawaiian islands. Its land mass is twice as large as all the other main Hawaiian islands combined.
Here, there are always many new adventures to be had, with its diverse geological areas covering huge tracts of land. From fresh lava flows on the south end, to fertile fern forests on the Hilo side, and from cool upland northern side of the Kilauea Volcano area, the lush valleys on the Hamakua Coast, to the cool rolling ranch lands of Waimea and Hawaii and even to the snow-capped, winter mountain peaks and everything in between; the Big Island can’t be beat for its size and diversity.
The Big Island offers plenty of adventures and activities that will give you guaranteed thrills and lasting memories. It’s the only island where you can fly over an active volcano or watch lava flow into the sea from the land, sea or air (volcano permitting). At Kealakekua Bay you can kayak and snorkel in some of the island’s most pristine waters. There are many adventure options as well, such as waterfall hikes, a heap of ocean activities, one of the most popular is whale watch boat trips (in the winter). While enjoying a SNUBA or snorkel above reefs filled with colorful fish, you may spot the docile Honu (green sea turtles).
Try an ATV ride or horseback through tropical rain forests to hidden waterfalls.
The Kona Coast is known for its Technicolor sunsets, which when combined create the magical world of
“Manta Heaven”. Night time manta ray snorkel and dive excursions will give you an out-of-this-world experience, you’ll never forget. Kona is also known for its big game fishing and has acquired a well-deserved reputation as “blue marlin capital” of the world.
The Big Island is also home to the world’s most active volcanoes. A visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the biggest visitor destinations in the State and a must see destination. It is an extraordinary geological wonderland. You will experience an extraordinary showcase of Hawaii’s forces of creation and destruction from fresh barren lava flows to thick and earthy fern forests. You can even walk through the
Thurston Lava Tube. You can feel the heat and smell the sulphur emitting from steam vents bordering the Kilauea Crater. As a result of the current lava flows, the newest Hawaiian island, Loihi, is under construction 22 miles offshore to the southeast.
Resorts for every travel budget can be found on the island of Hawaii.
One resort recently completed its multi-million dollar repair and renovation.
Here, your deluxe ocean view accommodations offer beautiful furnishings and amenities including a rain shower with private views of the ocean. Exceptional cuisine is offered in its numerous dining venues.
This resort fronts a Kauna’oa Beach recognized by readers of Conde Nast as one of the best beaches in the world. Golf is available at reduced rates for its guests on its 18-hole, par 72 championship course.
Another premier resort in the Hualalai area has also just completed its renovations.
Deluxe accommodations with private lanais include an outdoor tropical shower complete with bamboo, orchids and ferns. Excellent dining is available ocean side.
This resort offers something for everyone — tennis, sports club and spa with lap pool, numerous pools including King’s Pond. Here you can actually swim with the fish and resident manta ray.
For adventure seekers there is even a rock climbing wall. For golfers, another world class course.
In fact, the island of Hawaii has a total of 25 golf courses.
Hawaii offers culture and history not found on the other islands. Hawaii was the birthplace of the great King Kamehameha I. Numerous heiaus (ancient Hawaiian shrines) dot the island. You can also view petroglyphs and wood carvings of gods. A week would be just an introduction to just some of the 101 Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii. To learn more about this island and other Hawaiian vacations, contact Jan at 303-442-2340 at James TravelPOINTS.
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Colombia South America – Not What You Think
My Recent Trip to Colombia
Andy James with James TravelPOINTS recently visited Colombia South America, visiting Bogota, Cartagena and the islands off the coast.
This past February I had the opportunity to travel to Colombia South America as a possible destination our company may want to promote and recommend. At first I considered why any American would want to travel to Colombia with its history of drug cartels and problems. I can tell that after I returned from Colombia, I would go back because the country is progressive and very welcoming. (Click here to read more)
Colombia South America has a perception problem, the drug cartels and media have created an image of a country that is hostile, dangerous and unsafe for tourist to visit. On the contrary, I found the country to be hospitable and friendly. Everywhere I traveled I did not feel my personal safety was at risk. Most Americans tend to shy away from travel into Colombia because of media attention and perception that has existed over the past years. Colombia is a beautiful South American country that has a vibrant economy and progressive society. The President of Colombia Alvaro URIBE Velez has taken a strong stance against the drug cartels during his term and has done a good job of eliminating their presents in the country. But like any area of the world, you still need to be alert and be aware of your surroundings, whether traveling in South America, Europe or New York City. Smart travelers don’t put themselves at risk or in situations that would put their safety at risk. Smart travelers don’t go into parts of a city that are not safe or recommended. They don’t flash a lot of cash and jewelry or wander around the city late in the evening. When travelers use common sense and remember they are not in the United States anymore, that the landscape and culture is very different than where they come from, they usually don’t have any issues anywhere they go.
My travel into Colombia started in Bogotá, a large city of 8 million people situated at 9,000 feet above sea level. The city is typical of a lot of South American cities, large and sprawling, lots of traffic, people and clusters of buildings. The old city of Bogotá is worth visiting for a day of sightseeing.
Our journey continued north to Cartagena where we spent the next 2 nights sightseeing and exploring many of the fine boutique hotels in the old city and many of the large properties located along the beach in Boca Grande, a separate area off to the southwest of Cartagena. The weather is nice, warm and humid with temperatures around 80 – 85 degrees, very tropical. Cartagena, an old walled Fortress that the Spanish colonized and built in the 1600 century, now a thriving tourist destination. Most of the major cruise ships stop in Cartagena during there voyage through the Panama Canal. The old city was built within the fortress walls, the streets are narrow the buildings 2-3 stories tall with many small boutique hotels, shops, restaurants, plazas, parks, churches and residents all incorporated within the city. The wall provided safety to the citizens during the patriot days of the 1600 and now provides a historical haven for tourist to see and experience. The city has a very heavy Spanish architectural influence. We spent the first couple of days walking around and visiting many hotels in the Cartagena area. During the evening our small group sampled many of the fine local restaurants and took advantage of a horse-drawn carriage ride of the old city during the evening.
On our 3rd day we boarded a 25 passenger speed boat and took off to the “out” islands located 30 or so miles off the coast of Cartagena. We visited 4 or 5 different Islands that cater to day trippers seeking an island experience for the day. Each island has its own unique traits for travelers who wish to spend a day or a couple of days relaxing on these islands. Some of the islands and accommodations vary in comfort and services. A few of the islands were a step above “beach camping”, similar to Gilligan’s Island and others were quant, romantic islands with gorgeous beaches and ocean views, similar to the Corona Beer commercials. At the end of the day we ended up staying on an island called Punta Faro, an island located about 60 miles off the coast of Cartagena. The owner of the island showed us around and told us about the property. The island has 3 large generators to power the electricity and a desalination water treatment facility to provide the fresh water. The island can accommodate approximately 40 – 50 guests per night and the rooms are quaint and very nice. Everything on the island has to be brought in by boat on a weekly basis, food, fresh vegetables, fruits etc. This particular island has one unique feature, a clay tennis court. Later in the afternoon I was talking with the owner and asked him why a tennis court on an island that is 60 miles from no-where in the middle of the ocean. Colombia is not a “tennis” destination. It turns out the owner is a tennis player and he likes to play tennis. I told him I was an avid tennis player and he invited me to play tennis with him the next morning. He provided me with tennis shoes, my own ball boy and tennis racquet. We played a couple of hours and had a marvelous time, the owner was a very good tennis player.
Later in day we left the island and toured a couple more islands before we visited our last island resort on Baru. This resort was the nicest and largest of all the island properties visited. An all-inclusive property similar to resorts located along the Riviera Maya in Mexico. Just recently opened in February 2010, the rooms are designed in a Caribbean Spanish theme, the public pools are large and inviting and the beach is long and cozy. Tennis is available on site and golf is nearby. We returned back to Cartagena for our last night while staying in a boutique hotel within the old city, very charming. The food and seafood was great in Cartagena, lots of fresh juice, fruit and great coffee.
An area we did not see but heard a lot about was the Coffee Triangle area. The land of the coffee is located in the mountainous region and offers ecotourism and a glimpse of the rural traditions of coffee plantations along with the natural conservations parks, ecological attractions, hot springs and bird watching. One of the luring aspects about this area is the historic haciendas and boutique hotels that have cropped up over the years, reminiscent of the early settlers. The local haciendas are the starting point for most day tours that include a blend of culture, cuisine and tradition. This is an ideal get-away for 2 – 4 days in conjunction with Cartagena.
While I was down there, I was able to meet with many different local tour providers, ground operators and hotel vendors to line up contracts and relationships for future travel requests. These companies we choose to work with have been working with the American traveler for years, providing quality knowledgeable travel service and expertise. These companies are local, they know the market and they know what the American Traveler expects. I had first hand experience traveling with many of these operators and I know the quality of their people and services provided. These reputable companies allow us the flexibility to customized packages into Colombia for individuals and small groups. Our direct relationship with these tour providers allows us the ability to give you a unique experience at a great price.
Colombia is a destination with culture and relaxation. I would highly recommend anyone with a sense of adventure to visit and explore Colombia. Give us a call and we can help you arrange a customized trip with very reputable local tour companies that will take care to make you and give you a great experience with many memories. For information you can contact us at 1-800-626-3483 and speak with Turner or Andy James.
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