Top 6 Reasons Why Excellence Resorts are Ideal for Couples and Honeymooners
May 24, 2013
By Tom Varghese
AMT American Express Travel
TI & Excellence Group Luxury Hotels and Resorts Ambassador
All-inclusive resorts can sometimes be hit or miss. Without speaking to a knowledgeable travel agent or someone who has personally visited the properties, it can be very difficult to navigate through the “jungle” of resort options without truly comprehending the key characteristics or differences between them!
I personally have been to more than 100 all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico. There are many “good options” for adults only, all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico. In my opinion, the Excellence Resorts are one of the best chain of resorts for couples and honeymooners.
Here are my reasons why:
1. Resorts
There are three Excellence Resorts to choose from – Excellence Punta Cana, Excellence Riviera Cancun and Excellence Playa Mujeres. If you look on Trip Advisor, all three resorts are one of the top (if not #1) resorts in each of their respective areas with overwhelmingly positive reviews from thousands of critical reviewers. All three are adults-only and are perfect for couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic, high-quality experience.
2. Rooms
All three Excellence Resorts offer a fantastic array of standard amenities in each and every room – king size beds, marble bathrooms, in-room jacuzzis, fully-stocked minibar and liquor cabinets, complimentary wifi and 24-hour room service. At other resorts, you have to get to a “higher” room category to experience some of these amenities, like room service. The Excellence Resorts in Mexico also offer a unique room category which is a two-story villa with your own private pool on the rooftop terrace – at a price point that you can’t touch with other resorts with a similar room category. Now, what couple would not enjoy their own private pool at a reasonable price or a champagne breakfast in bed while they are on their honeymoon or vacation?
3. Restaurants
Each resort offers an amazing range of restaurants that would satisfy any palette. From French, to Italian to Asian Fusion to even a Lobster House with unlimited lobster tails. They even have some “specialty restaurants” like a Spanish Mediterranean restaurant with savory “tapas” (small plates) as well as an Indian restaurant – options you do not usually see at other all-inclusive restaurants. All high quality, all served fresh, all included with no additional surcharges at any of the restaurants. And for couples celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary, they even have a “Romantic Dinner” setup when you arrive at the restaurant to make your trip even more memorable!
4. Activities
Sure most all-inclusive resorts will have pool and beach volleyball, non-motorized watersports, and aqua aerobics. Excellence has them as well. But, they also have an interesting range of activities included at their resorts including archery, air rifle shooting and bicycles on property. The evening shows at the resorts are the best I have ever seen at any all-inclusive resort. On my last trip at the Excellence Playa Mujeres last year, I found out that the reason was because, unlike many other resorts that utilize their daytime activities team to put on their shows, the Excellence Resorts actually outsource that function to a production company. The result is a spectacular show inclusive of singers, dancers, acrobats, smoke machines and great music. A truly enjoyable evening!
5. Service
From the moment you are arrive when you are greeted by the doorman who already knows your name and room number, to the champagne greeting at the front desk, to the impeccable treatment throughout the resort, the service is top notch. The folks that work here really try to get to know you and they seem to really enjoy what they do – which translates to friendly smiles and a higher level of service.
6. Romance and Ambiance
From the day beds scattered throughout the property to the hammocks over the pools and the palapas on the beach, this resort is all about romance, and losing yourself to each other and forgetting life’s worries in paradise. They offer complimentary honeymoon and anniversary packages (that a lot of resorts charge extra for) to really celebrate and make the couple feel extra special.
My wife and I LOVE the Excellence Resorts and I am sure you will as well! Feel free to contact me for more information or to book your next vacation at traveltom@gmail.com or visit me on my Travel Tom Facebook page at www.facebook.com/traveltomusa or on Twitter @traveltomusa.
Top 4 “Girl Getaways” When Visiting Cancun, Mexico
May 24, 2013
By Sherri Miller
Vacationista Travel
TI & Cancun, Mexico Ambassador
Whether you’re looking for adventure or to just kick back and relax with your friends, Cancun is a great destination for a girls getaway! Here are my top 4 suggestions for a trip with “the girls” to Cancun:
1. Visit the Hard Rock Hotel Cancun and pamper yourself at their Cancun Rock Spa. Assorted massages, body treatments and facials will help you relax and unwind. For a tropical escape, try one of the 16 individual treatment rooms at the Rock Spa, featuring a master spa treatment room complete with double jacuzzi!
2. Party`Opolis Nightlife Package: Head out for a night of dancing at three of the hottest clubs in Cancun– Sweet, O’Ultra and Dady’O. Don’t worry about having to wait-this package gets you express entrance to the clubs, cover charge and open domestic bar included.
3. Extreme Canopy Adventure: In the mood for a little adventure? Take ride on one of the longest, highest and fastest zip lines. Hop into an army truck that takes you deep into the jungle where you can swim in the deep green waters of a cenote.
4. Jungle Sunrise Marina Tour: Experience incredible snorkeling at the second largest reef in the world. You can even drive your own watercraft through the mangroves to get there!
Top 11 Tips for Dining Out in Aruba
May 22, 2013
By Patti Pake
Travel Experts
TI & Aruba Ambassador
If you are a “foodie,” Aruba should be at the top of your list of where to spend your vacation! Due to its Dutch and Caribbean heritage the variety of options for trying ethnic foods is endless. There are over a 100 different choices on the island, menus to fit any budget, and the quality of food and level of service is excellent. If you’re like me, part of your vacation planning will be checking out the variety of options you have.
Here are some of my suggestions for dining out in Aruba:
1. Passions on the Beach may be one of the most romantic restaurants that can be found in Aruba. If you are staying on Eagle Beach it’s just a short stroll from your resort. Tables are located just a few steps from the water’s edge and the torch-lit setting mixed with gourmet international cuisine makes for a memorable evening. It’s also a great place to go if you are looking for a late night cocktail or dessert. As this is a popular restaurant reservations are recommended.
2. You’ve spent the morning shopping in Oranjestad and now you’re looking for a quick lunch but something a little different? Try the Dutch Pancake House. They offer both sweet and savory “pancake” options. Holland’s version of the crepe!
3. Looking for a great steak? There are a number of excellent choices (Ruth Chris, LG Smith Steak & Chop House) but one of my favorites is the French Steakhouse located in the Manchebo Resort. They serve South American cuts of beef mixed with local delicacies and international cuisine.
4. Once during your trip you will want to view the sunset from the California Lighthouse. You might want to combine your visit with one of the best Italian restaurants on the island, La Trattoria El Faro Blanco.
5. Some of the freshest seafood on the island can be found at the Aqua Grill. They have daily deliveries of what has just been caught. There are also a number of choices for the non-seafood eaters.
6. One day you may want to go down to Baby Beach (south of St. Nicolas—about a 45 min. ride from the hotel district) for their great snorkeling. If you do, be sure to plan to have lunch at one of the oldest and most famous bars on the island—Charlie’s Bar & Restaurant. This is a “happening” place filled with lots of history, personable wait staff and a fun meal. Be sure you take something with you to pin on the walls. I’ve seen everything from business cards to ladies underwear there. It’s also fun to go back on your next trip and see if you can find what you left!
7. Papiamento is my favorite Aruban restaurant. The restaurant is located in a 100+ year old “cunucu” house filled with Dutch antiques. Its magical setting in a garden, mixed with their eclectic menu combining local ingredients with traditional recipes, makes for a special evening.
8. A wonderful European choice is Chalet Suisse (along Eagle Beach). It offers some of the best meals on the island and even has early bird specials for those looking to save a little money, or get an early start on the nightlife.
9. In addition to some of the restaurants highlighted there are many more ethnic cuisines offered: Japanese, Indian, Brazilian, Belgian, Mexican, Spanish, Vegetarian, Chinese . . . to name just a few. There are also a number of American type fast food options.
10. Don’t miss an opportunity to visit one of the local grocery stores. They are filled with all sorts of European & Caribbean foods. You can find the makings for a great picnic, snacks in your room or gifts for friends at home.
11. My number one suggestion is to consider the “Dine Around” program offered by the Aruba Gastronomic Association. They represent over 20 different Aruba restaurants and offer three-course dining vouchers for approximately $40 pp. One of the best values is a choice of five breakfasts or lunches along with four dinners for $276 pp. This is a great way for you to experience some of the best restaurants on the island at a more economical price. Many options are available but the minimum number that can be ordered are two dinners. Check out www.arubadining.com for more info.
Top 7 Watersports to Keep your Tween Happy at Beaches Negril
May 17, 2013
By Mary Jane Leininger
Gold Key Travel
TI & Sandals Resorts & Beaches Resorts Ambassador
What’s a tween to do? For families that have a tween, vacations can be hard to plan. It may seem that there are never enough activities to keep them from getting bored…unless you go to Beaches Resorts! With land activities such as Xbox 360 Play Lounges, Reggae Jam Sessions and bonfire parties, your tweens will run out of day before they run out of activities.
Recently, my clients Brett, Kerri and their 10-year-old son, Colin, returned from Beaches Negril. I asked what they liked best about this trip and they unanimously said “watersports.” In, on and below the water, the possibilities are endless and at Beaches they are all-included.
Here are Colin’s top 7 watersports at Beaches Negril:
1. On the water, paddle boarding is the new trend in water sports. Beaches is always keeping up with or ahead of the current trends, but they don’t stop there. You can also ride the wind on a Hobie Cat or jump the waves on a hyperlite wakeboard or tube. And yes, instructions are included.
2. Next on Colin’s list of favorite water sports was water skiing. Behind a MasterCraft ski boat, he enjoyed the thrill of skimming across the calm waters of the Caribbean.
3. Ever wanted to try scuba diving? Beaches offers programs for all ages. A few years ago, Colin took part in the Bubblemakers program, introducing him to scuba under close supervision and with top-of-the-line equipment in the dive pool. The following year, he moved up to the Seal Team program. Here he performed a two hour Aqua Missions in the pool to become a PADI Seal. This year, Colin reached the ultimate–taking lessons* and actually scuba diving… in the ocean! How exciting for any young person to be able to explore all the wonders of the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean. What did you find Colin…a parrotfish, seahorse or maybe even a sea turtle?
* Nominal fee
4. Beaches Resorts are located on some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. In Negril, Jamaica, Colin built sand castles in clean, powdery white sand. This picture was taken on the famous 7 Mile Beach in Negril, Jamaica. Other activities on the beach include beach Olympics, beach science and beach volleyball.
5. Floating down the lazy river on a Sunday afternoon, or any afternoon. This is just one of many attractions at Beaches Pirates Island Waterpark. Colin dares you to spiral down a 3-story tube, jump on the non-stop action of the Body Glove Waves surf simulator*, or go for an island “out of body” experience on the body slide.
* Only at Beaches Turks & Caicos
6. Jump in, the water is perfect! With up to 7 pools at Beaches, finding a place to jump in is easy.
7. At the end of the day, you can relax around any of the pools and just chill and read a book. Colin, shouldn’t you be doing your homework?
So Colin…how did you like your family vacation at Beaches Resort?
Top 9 Features of Playacar Palace in Riviera Maya
May 15, 2013
By Nannette Hoyt
Vacations By Crown
TI & Palace Resorts & Le Blanc Spa Resorts Ambassador
The Palace Resorts are one of the best choices for an incredible All-Inclusive experience in the Mexican Rivera. ALL rooms are beautiful and luxurious, featuring huge double jacuzzis with lights around them at night time. ALL resorts have swim-up pool bars, and exciting nightly entertainment! The resorts are beautiful and romantic, and each one is a little different from the other.
Every luxurious room has 24-hour room service and unlimited calls to the U.S. from your room! This is an awesome savings! You get huge resort credits* (up to $1,500 per room) to use on tours, spa, golf, private beach dinners, and upgrading your room!
Here are the top 9 features of Playacar Palace in Riviera Maya, Mexico:
1. Playacar Palace Resort is located 45 minutes from the airport.
2. It has powder white sand and clear turquoise waters.
3. There are three restaurants including Mexican, Italian, and Asian cuisines, along with three bars on the property.
4. The swim-up bar is tons of fun!
5. All rooms include turn-down service and an in-room minibar and fridge stocked with sodas, bottled water, and juices, replenished daily. Service is outstanding!
6. One of the really cool things about Playacar Palace is the location! You are within walking distance from the resort to Carlos & Charlie’s (famous bar & grill), so you can actually crawl back to your room.
7. Playacar Palace is less than a block from 5th Avenue, which is the heart of shopping in Playa Car! This is so convenient!
8. Also, you are less than a block from the ferry that takes you to Cozumel for the day.
9. Once there, you are allowed shared privileges with the Cozumel Palace, to go for cocktails and lunch or dinner, ALL INCLUDED! (transportation to the resort is, however, on your own)
I HIGHLY recommend this property for honeymooners, or weddings, as it has so much to offer!
*Click here for full terms and conditions on the resort credit.
Top 7 Things to do with Teenagers at Atlantis, Paradise Island
May 6, 2013
By Alma Lee
Fox Travel
TI & Atlantis, Paradise Island Ambassador
1. Sign them up for Crush immediately. The dance floor with lighting effects and digital displays will electrify any teenager. The internet lounge and gaming stadium will keep teens “communicating” for hours. The Crush Café is the place to meet other teens and enjoy just hanging out.
2. Challenge them to a climbing race on Climber’s Rush – an option field with 12 climbing surfaces.
3. Book a Deep Water Swim on a handheld water scooter with your teen’s “personal” dolphin.
4. Take a trip through the 14 lagoons featuring the world’s largest open-air marine habitat.
5. Spend the day at the Mayan Temple, a 6-story structure with 5 water slides and the Power Tower – a 5 story structure with 50 foot drops that sends you into the Abyss – an underground lair of darkness and mystery . Show your teen “what you’re made of.” They think you are only capable of spending the day on the Lazy River.
6. Sign up to become a Trainer for a Day with sea lions and dolphins. Your teen can spend 7 hours working with gentle stingrays and other exotic wildlife while they learn the basics of animal care and feeding.
7. Catch a day of sun and fun and then spend the evening at the Atlantis Movie Theatre, which shows complimentary recent-release movies. You can also design, build and race your own RC race car at Atlantis Speedway.
5 Tips For Your Destination Wedding at an AMResort
April 30, 2013
By Shay Harrington
Tzell Travel Group
TI & AMResorts Ambassador
Begin with beauty. Every bride and groom has their own unique love story. Their wedding is the moment a new life together unfolds; a stage to present their story and celebrate with loved ones. A destination wedding offers not only an opportunity for an extended celebration, but a surrounding of beauty. AMResorts helps provide this beautiful beginning.
I met Katie & PJ at a bridal show. We had a few minutes to chat about traditional vs. destination weddings, and they truly desired a wedding to speak their story: fun, relaxed, beautiful. They also wanted a resort that would become a part of their lifetime journey together. A place they could return to year after year.
AMResorts offered the incredible “3G” promotion offering the 6th room complimentary (with up to three complimentary rooms), a VIP upgrade, resort coupons, excellent prices, romantic wedding packages and free anniversary nights! Their wedding was a complete success at Dreams Riviera Cancun and afterwards, they honeymooned at Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun. They were delighted to stay within the family of resorts for a complete experience.
Katie and PJ offered the following tips and thoughts for a destination wedding at an AMResort:
1. Consider an indoor reception! The ceremony on the beach was incredible but it started to rain soon after and the reception was moved indoors. It was not the plan but the resort made the experience so amazing and it exceeded expectations… it was beautiful, comfortable (air conditioning!), and such a pretty setup. We highly recommend it.
2. Ladies: bring examples or pictures for hairstyling! Spa by Pevonia is truly wonderful. They aim to please. Keep in mind however, AMResorts operate in countries where English is a secondary language, so it can prove challenging to explain exactly what you want. Pictures help!
3. Sip, Savor, & See! Our guests loved the privileges of Unlimited Luxury® and visited various AMResorts to experience different dining and entertainment! This offered all of us a vacation within a vacation.
4. Enjoy the Preferred Club! The additional amenities and upgrades just made us feel extra special.
5. Go on a honeymoon! Having a family-friendly resort for the wedding was perfect but after it was all over, we had more to look forward to. The opportunity to stay at another AMResort was such a beautiful ending to our beautiful beginning!
Kate & PJ had the wedding of their “dreams!” And because they were able to experience several AMResorts, they knew their wish had come true. AMResorts would provide everything they needed for their future together. They vowed to return to a romantic adults-only Secrets Resort for their anniversaries; to visit a relaxing wellness-oriented Zoetry Resort for a potential babymoon; and someday take their children to a Dreams, Now, or Sunscape resort and tell them stories of their dream wedding!
4 Activities for a Rainy Day at an All-Inclusive Hard Rock Hotel in Cancun or Riviera Maya
April 30, 2013
Christen Perry
Classic Travel Connection
TI & All-Inclusive Hard Rock Hotels Ambassador
You’ve planned the perfect vacation, at the perfect time of the year, at the perfect All-Inclusive Hard Rock Hotel. You get there. Things are going great. Then you wake up one morning, and to your surprise and dismay… it’s pouring down rain. What to do? It’s not supposed to rain on vacation! Doesn’t the sun shine 24/7, 365 days a year on “vacation?” Well, unfortunately not. But don’t worry, be happy… all hope is not lost! There is still so much to do and see!
1. Swim with the dolphins! On our last family vacation to Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, we had a “Swim with the Dolphins Excursion” planned, and it rained, all day, on the day of our excursion. We didn’t let it stop us and grabbed extra towels and headed to the marina. Why not? You’re going to be wet anyway. The dolphins don’t care if it’s raining, they still jump, play, and kiss you on the cheek, rain or shine!
2. Use that spa credit! All-Inclusive Hard Rock Hotels are “Numero Uno” when it comes to the spa and the spa credit! There’s nothing better than spending a lazy, rainy day at a state-of-the-art spa. Grab a book, your swimsuit, and enjoy that awesome hydro-therapy treatment room before your massage!
3. Who doesn’t love a good storm at the beach? It’s great for at least one day while you’re on vacation, and even more so when you’re staying at an All-Inclusive Hard Rock Hotel! Huge balconies, awesome room service, in-room mini bar, and a huge jacuzzi in your room… who could ask for more? A rain storm gives you the perfect excuse to take a break from the sunshine, enjoy your gorgeous accommodations and incredible amenities!
4. Take a hike through the rain forest! Yes, you’ll get a little wet, and your shoes might get a little muddy, but I guarantee you that it will be a memory that won’t soon be forgotten! Some of my most fun (and funniest) travel memories are from a recent trip when we were stuck in a down pour in the rain forest! Most of the resorts in the Riviera Maya sit at the edge of the rain forest and have trails to follow! Get out there, get wet, and make some memories!
Top 5 Reasons Aruba will Keep you Coming Back Again and Again
April 19, 2013
By Jennifer Quimby
Time Off Travel
TI & Aruba Ambassador
Aruba is truly ONE HAPPY ISLAND!! There are hundreds of reasons to visit Aruba ANY TIME of the year! It is THE Caribbean destination with some of the most beautiful beaches, a chance to meet the people of Aruba, dine at fabulous restaurants, explore outdoor activities, and most importantly – have FUN! Aruba boasts one of the highest repeat visitor rates in all of the Caribbean with good reason! Here are just a few of those reasons:
1.The weather is amazing year-round. Temperatures are consistently mild with an average temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit with cooling trade winds. Aruba is outside the hurricane belt so if you’re planning a honeymoon (or wedding) in Aruba in September, no worries about the weather and having to cancel your honeymoon. FYI: Hurricane season is June 1st to November 30th.
2. The people of Aruba are very cordial and welcoming to all their guests. They will go out of their way to ensure you are happy and well taken care of.
3. There are two main gorgeous white sandy beaches where the resorts are located. Eagle Beach, quieter area – where all the low rise (smaller) resorts are and Palm Beach, the busier area where the high rise hotels (and shopping) are located. With such a vast array of different resort options, guests can choose the beach and resort that best meets their needs for that perfect vacation. There is a resort for everyone.
4. Aruba is also a culinary dream with hundreds of incredible restaurants to choose from.
5. NO BUGS! Just iguanas, goats, birds – harmless creatures. When I go to any other island, I have to deal with little red ants in my room or in my coffee maker and also worry about mosquitos at night so this is just another personal reason why I love Aruba. The constant trade winds keep bugs and mosquitos away!!! Call it a silly reason but for me, that’s paradise. No worries!!!
As part of my Aruba Ambassadorship through Travel Impressions, I have included tips below specifically for the Hyatt Regency who so kindly hosted me March 28-April 2, 2013.
THE HYATT REGENCY ARUBA:
1. The Hyatt Regency in Aruba is one of the most beautiful, more upscale resorts in the Palm Beach area. It truly is a 4-star resort great for families of all ages.
2. The resort is only 20 minutes from the airport.
3. The Hyatt’s location is absolutely perfect for shopping and dining – right in the middle of all the stores/malls and fabulous restaurants to choose from all within walking distance.
4. My room category was in a great location – a Grand King on the 6th floor (room 633) with a pool/ocean view. Although most of the rooms at the Hyatt have a French balcony, it was still large enough to step out and enjoy the scenery.
5. There is an ATM at the Hyatt with a fee of $3.00 per transaction.
6. No bracelets!
7. The Casino is spacious and the band played high up on a small stage behind the wall.
DINING:
1. The Hyatt does not offer all-inclusive pricing (but then again, you don’t want that in Aruba with 100’s of restaurants to choose from) but you may want to add-on the daily breakfast buffet when booking as the cost for the buffet is currently $22.00 per person plus tax and 15% gratuity added on. If you are looking to save some money, there are numerous restaurants within a short walking distance that offer a full breakfast starting at $9.95.
2. The Salt and Pepper Restaurant (walking distance from Hyatt) offers a full American breakfast for $12.50pp. It’s a somewhat eclectic establishment with a large collection of salt and pepper shakers adorning the walls. If you bring a salt and pepper shaker set to them, you will receive a free glass of sangria and your set is added to their collection.
3. For Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks aficionados, there is a Starbucks in the Hyatt and Dunkin’ Donuts is right next door at Playa Linda. There is also a Dunkin’ Donuts across the street from the Hyatt.
4. If you’re looking to save money and purchase alcohol or other drink/food items, there is a grocery store directly across the Hyatt’s parking lot.
5. Sunset in Aruba is at 6:30 PM. I recommend making reservations at the Hyatt’s restaurant on the beach – Footprints Beach Grill for $72.00 per person. I also recommend making reservations at the Pelican Pier (which is to the right of the Hyatt along the beach on the pier in front of Playa Linda Beach Resort) for a sunset dinner for 6:30 PM, which I did. I took a chance and ordered grouper and it was incredible!! You must also order an Aruba Arriba (the official “drink” of Aruba). When in Rome……
BEACH:
1. You may have read that in order to secure a palapa or cabana, you have to sign up at the towel hut at 6:30 AM and wait in line, which is true. You select your palapa and leave your towels on the chairs. If you do not return by 11:00 AM, then your palapa is offered to another guest. It is first come, first served. For those who do not wish to get up that early, you can pre-reserve a palapa or cabana starting at $35.00 per day (depends on size) OR you can get there at your leisure and hope for the best. I was able to get a palapa at 11:30am. Even if you arrive at noon, it’s no problem finding a shady area as they have a large palapa that all can share. You can also reserve a palapa rental online with Hyatt’s concierge department before you go.
2. Coolers for the beach are available for free (based on availability). There are stocked refrigerators in the rooms as well.
TOURS:
1. Pre-book your tours before you go. I highly recommend the “Discover Aruba Tour.” You get to see the whole island from the California Lighthouse (where the famous “La Trattoria” restaurant is located), to the “Natural Bridge” to Baby Beach with lunch along the way. If you choose not to pre-book tours, the DePalm Tour desk is located right next door (along the walkway) at Occidental, just a one minute walk.
2. Other tours that are a “must do”:
a. Antilla: A sunken German Freighter is a must see while snorkeling
b. Island tour by Jeep. They call it the shake and bake tour!
c. Catamaran Sail & Snorkeling and a Sunset Cruise along Palm Beach. You can book Catamaran tours through DePalm Tours which depart at the RIU pier. It’s only a short 5-10 minute walk along the walkway on the beach to the RIU (Hyatt is next to Occidental, Radisson, then RIU).
d. Kuku Kunuku party bus! Let the bus take you for a ride to some local favorites! Lots of Fun!
e. Submarine tour (Atlantis or Sea World).
f. Wave runner.
3. For the KIDS!!! Adventure Golf: BBQ Bash, Miniature Golf, Fun Racing, Arcade games, Paddle Boats, Flow Rider, bumper boats for little kids up at Paseo Herencia.
Also check out….
http://www.arubaonline.com/adventure/
- Butterfly Farm: www.thebutterflyfarm.com
- Aruba Ostrich Farm: www.arubaostrichfarm.com
- Donkey Sanctuary Aruba: www.arubandonkey.org
4. Red Sail Sports is located in the main lobby of the Hyatt. There is a new watersport ride they offer. It’s called “JETLEV,” a water propelled Jetpack which looks like a lot of fun and very “futuristic.” It is currently priced at $179.00.
5. Snorkeling: The underwater world is best seen by boat trips. As Aruba’s beaches are so beautiful and don’t have much coral, the fish do not have much to feed on, so you need to go out to them! DePalm Tours arranges many great trips. Baby Beach is also great for snorkeling. DePalm Island is fun–you can do the Sea Trek there, which is great fun! With the Sea Trek, you can walk on the bottom of the ocean floor and DePalm Island also has a waterpark for younger kids.
PALM BEACH AREA INFO:
- The stores in the Palm Beach area open around 10:00 AM and stay open until about 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM depending on how busy it is. If you’re going for breakfast, most restaurants are open at 8:00 AM. Only a few stores are open on Sunday.
- The cost of a cab ride to downtown is $11.00 one-way from the Hyatt. The cost of the bus is $2.30 pp. You do not need exact change for the bus.
- The cost of a cab ride on holiday’s and Sunday’s is $3.00 more.
- The cost of a cab ride from the Hyatt to La Trattoria restaurant is approximately $12.00 one-way. You must make reservations beforehand and will want to arrive before 6:30 PM to dine in the beautiful outdoor dining area and catch the sunset.
**All prices mentioned are pricing as of April 2013
5 Signature Dishes to Taste at Le Blanc Spa Resort in Cancun
April 16, 2013
By Wendy Hicks
Wright Travel
TI & Palace Resorts & Le Blanc Spa Resort Ambassador
Guests who visit Le Blanc Spa Resort in Cancun, Mexico, will experience many culinary delights during their stay. Le Blanc Spa Resort has a wide selection of bars and restaurants that are sure to please, no matter what your culinary mood!
Here are a few dining experiences at Le Blanc Spa Resort in Cancun that should not be missed:
1. For a casual lunch or snack, be sure to visit the BlancTerrace, located on the third-level, to enjoy wonderful pizza creations and brick-oven specialties. Pictured is a wonderful apple, gorgonzola and basil pizza accompanied by prosciutto-wrapped melon.
2. In the mood for an Italian Experience? BlancItalia provides a tour of Italian/Mediterranean cuisine that will delight your palate! Be sure to try the shrimp risotto and garlic flakes parlsley, and/or the special of the day, which included beef tenderloin, chicken and two types of fish, pictured.
3. Asian food sound good? Try BlancOriental where the cuisine features Chinese, Japanese and Thai culinary dishes. Don’t miss the sushi cart with a wonderful selection of sushi to choose from. Pictured are the pad thai noodles served with chicken, egg, peanuts and bean sprouts and a sweet-spicy tomato sauce with a touch of sake. Wonderful!
4. Not to be missed is the wonderful Lumiere BlancInternational restaurant. The seven course tasting menu includes a series of small dishes, all featuring wonderful tastes to surprise and delight you. Courses may include smoked duck, foie gras, lobster capucchino or escargot. Very elegant, and a dining experience that will leave you in awe!
Pictured is escargot cognac flambéed, passion fruit gel and Padano cheese nibbles…divine!!!
5. Of course, what is a tropical vacation without a tropical drink? Try the drink of the day at the pool bar, in this case a Bob Marley… Ahhhh!
All told, each restaurant throughout the resort provides a wonderful culinary experience, not to be missed, but keep in mind that should the mood strike, you can also order from room service 24/7 and satisfy any craving you may have!
Bon Appetite!!
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