Archive for the ‘Honeymoon Vacations’ Category
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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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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Iberostar Grand Paraiso-Adults Only All-Inclusive Resort-Riviera Maya Mexico
Andy James, co- owner of James TravelPOINTS, an American Express Representative office established in 1957, recently visited the Iberostar Paraiso Grand All-Inclusive Adults Only Luxury Resort located south of Cancun Mexico along the Riviera Maya.
The Iberostar Grand Paraiso, is a unique contrast among its other branded peer properties situated on the same complex. As you enter the gates and drive past the other Iberostar resort properties (Paraiso Beach, Paraiso Del Mar, Paraiso Lindo, Paraiso Maya) you will notice this beautiful large complex. The Paraiso Beach & Del Mar are aimed for the budget minded all-inclusive guest. Both properties provide standard dining amenities.
The Lindo claims to be a 5 star property, but it’s my opinion to be more of a nice 3 ½ – 4 star family friendly hotel. It appears to be a party atmosphere with over sized pools and beautifully landscaped gardens. The main pool, the wave pool, the lazy river pool all connect to a large swim up bar. Music and entertainment is always “on-tap” with many activities available all day. The pools are large and great to swim in, but it can be noisy and alive.
The Mayan, a nice intimate property. I would consider this property to be a 4 star property. The Mayan has its own unique features and is very family friendly but seems to be quieter than the Lindo. Both the Lindo and Mayan have a good selection of restaurants and bars from buffets to ala-carte dining. The hotel staff is friendly, helpful and ready to serve you.
The Grand Paraiso, the “Parthenon” of the Iberostar complex, is a true 5 star adult’s only exclusive property, geared toward sophisticated quiet adult relaxation. Guests staying at the Grand have multiple dining options and privileges at the other four properties as well. Guests staying at any of the other three properties DO NOT have privileges at the Grand Paraiso it’s exclusive to Grand guest only.
The Grand Paraiso is luxurious. As you enter the lobby you will notice a large indoor terrarium in the center. Surrounding the terrarium, is a nice lobby lounge bar. This bar plays soft music during the evening hours, and is a nice quiet intimate evening get-away. Other guest amenities include a computer room, billiards/game room and a cigar bar. As you pass through the lobby you’ll experience modern spacious hallways en-route to your private room. Each floor has its own concierge, who is ready to set up your dining reservations, excursions or activities. The Grand Paraiso rooms are spacious and contemporary with a separate sitting room and outdoor patio. In your luxury room, you’ll find a comfortable bed with beautiful linens, a fully stocked mini bar with snacks which are included and stocked daily and a nice flat screen T.V. with all cable channels you need. To accommodate your clothing attire, there are 2 large separate closets and plenty of drawer space. The bathrooms are large with a walk in shower, large whirlpool tub, toilet and two separate vanity sinks.
The Grand Parasio has all the modern conveniences and exclusive privacy the resort touts. It’s luxury and it is quite. You’ll find a large Spa which includes a 20 meter indoor pool and exercise room. Other pools on the property include a large “quite pool” where lounge chairs and guests are spaced for intimate conversation and relaxations in a manicure landscaped setting. The largest pool approximately 100 meters in length is a “salt water” pool with a refreshing swim up bar. This pool has great views of the ocean with plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas. The ocean is only a short walk away on a beautiful stretch of beach. From your lounge chair under a palapa, on the beach you’ll find staff members ready to take your drink or snack order. The ocean is a beautiful turquoise color and is a mild temperature. Swimming is a must and quite refreshing. The ocean surf is mild and the bottom is sandy. Snorkeling is not great in this area, you’ll need to go to Akumal for some this.
For all Iberostar guests who want more than sitting on the beach or lounging around sipping a tropical drink, there is a 18-hole golf course, 8 tennis courts, miles of walking paths and a shopping complex on site. Most guests are content spending their vacation absorbing the sun and relaxing.
The Grand Paraiso has 6 restaurants on the property and all are very good. The service is top notch and dining reservations are recommended. There are 5 ala carte restaurants and 1 international buffet. A nice house wine selection is included with the meals in all the restaurants.
How would I rate the Grand Paraiso.
It’s exceptional, a true 5 Star property with originality over conformity. This luxury all-inclusive resort has a refreshing array of character and ambience and it is big. The Grand Paraiso brings the highest standards without being standard. They have a nice variety of dining and guest service amenities which are unique and distinctive. This is the kind of hotel you can lavish and pamper yourself and guest with, if you can afford it.
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Secrets Maroma Riviera Maya Mexico- A Slice of Heaven!
Secrets Maroma, Riviera Maya, Mexico is truly a slice of heaven on Earth. Everything about this resort is there to spoil, pamper, and awe you. All of the rooms are beautiful suites. Each one equipped with canopy beds, Jacuzzi tubs, balconies, and privacy boxes (this is where your 24hr room service will be delivered if you are too “busy” to open the door). Do not forget to tell your concierge which pillow you desire from the pillow menu. Since this is an adults only resort, you never need to worry about your pool time being interrupted by splashing children. On the contrary, you will be lulled into a state of calm by the tranquil spa music that you hear throughout the resort. As you lay by the pool, gazing at the turquoise color of the ocean, don’t be surprised if you are interrupted by a man with a platter of sushi, asking if you care to try some. While you are busy working on your tan, the staff is busy bringing you food and drink. The food is as good as any gourmet restaurant and the drinks are made with top shelf liquor. Last but not least, the beach! It is a beautiful white sand beach that seems to stretch forever. My husband and I were in disbelief of the quality of service, ambiance, food, and drink, from the time we arrived and well into the time we left (we are still in disbelief). It was truly a romantic retreat, our second honeymoon.
Call James TravelPOINTS to book your escape 1-800-274-0436/303 442-2340, www.travelpoints.com
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