Why should Sandals St. Lucia be your next stop?

April 11, 2019 By Susan Robson

Why should Sandals Grande St. Lucia be your next vacation stop? First, consider that guests enjoy the All-Inclusive Luxury Vacation in the most gorgeous tropical & beach settings! Does that get your attention? Add to that: Best Beaches, Unique Gourmet Dining, Premium Spirits, Premium wines, Padi-certified scuba diving included, entertainment, championship golf, unmatched service, and finally, stay at 1 and play at 3 (or more) resorts!

Sandals Grande St. Lucia

St. Lucia is a magical island offering panoramic bay views and the best beaches in the Caribbean. This gives one the feeling of complete island seclusion – you are in a world by yourself. Towering Piton mountains and fern-frilled jungles bring about a complete sense of relaxation. Sandals Grande St. Lucia builds upon that feeling and gives you the ultimate vacation experience. For this reason, it is probably my favorite Sandals Resort on St. Lucia. The beach here is long, the drinks steady, entertainment entertaining, and the soft breeze amazing! The swim-out rooms and romantic Rondoval Suites make it an ideal honeymoon hot spot. The main pool area is very lively and winds around through the room buildings, like a ribbon of water.

Why should Sandals Grande St Lucia be your next vacation spot? The resort offers an endless supply of restaurants with delicious food options, recreation and amenities along with some of the BEST diving available, anywhere in the Caribbean. The best hiking is a trek up to Fort Rodney, on the peak just beyond the resort (club concierge will act as your guide on the hike). And, with the free inter-Sandals shuttle service, there are up to 27 restaurants and numerous beach options available between the three Sandals resorts in St. Lucia. Dinner reservations are required at some restaurants, so be sure to plan ahead and contact the concierge or a butler for dining options soon after arrival.

One note… because of location, getting to this resort can be a bit bumpy and the transfer time is approximately ninety minutes+. If this a concern I recommend a helicopter tour to/from the George F.L Charles Airport. This flight to the north is one that you’ll remember for a lifetime!

Sandals Halcyon up next!

Susan

10 Reasons Why St. Lucia is a Perfect Caribbean Island Destination!

December 17, 2018 By Susan Robson

**St. Lucia, a perfect Caribbean Island!**

Top 10 reasons why St. Lucia is the perfect Caribbean getaway! St. Lucia’s sandy beaches, crystalline waters, and luscious rainforests draw visitors from around the world to experience all that it has to offer. And it offers so many unique and unforgettable inspirations, that it leave visitors with memories that last a lifetime. Being a small Island in the Caribbean, unlike any of its neighbors and unique in its own way, here are several things you need to know before visiting St Lucia.

Food on the island combines Creole with French and West Indian. The restaurants and hotels/resort in the major towns serve many different types of food and international dishes. Fresh seafood is caught and brought in daily, along with locally grown vegetables and fruits. The main agriculture on the island, and exports, is cocoa and banana.

Most Saint Lucians are bilingual, speaking Kwéyo`l, a creole language that is a mixture of French and African languages. English is spoken & instructed in schools, and it’s used in business, government offices, and in most formal settings. The people are happy, friendly, and helpful. Service throughout the island is exceptional – from beachside bars, boutique restaurants, and fine dining. Everyone we met was such a joy to get to know and wanted share their island. St. Lucia is very safe compared to other Caribbean islands, and the locals told us that theft/crime is not very common. Everyone we met never displayed any kind of aggression, in fact the opposite, as they displayed a warm charm and genuine friendliness.

#10 Hike the Pitons

The Pitons are to St Lucia what the Great Wall of China is to China. One of the most photographed landmarks on St. Lucia, they rise straight out of the sea, and offer a majestic scene across the western coast. Gros Piton stands 2,619 feet above sea level, and together with Petit Piton, they present really stunning views of the island once you reach the top, or if they are viewed from below! A hike to Fort Rodney on Pigeon Island is a wonderful way to get a panoramic view of the island without being overly challenging!

#9 Pigeon Island National Park

History & a hike to Fort Rodney on Pigeon Island is a wonderful way to get a panoramic view of the island without being overly challenging, mentally or physically! Don’t let the name fool you, Pigeon Island is a quiet place to stop, swim, and take in the beautiful views. Visitors can also learn about the island’s history and explore the 18th century ruins at Fort Rodney, pictured below.

#8 Scuba or snorkel

St. Lucia offers world class diving locations with amazing experiences to offer. No matter what your level or diver or snorkeler, the island has many wonderful diving sites with spectacular coral formations, fascinating shipwrecks and reefs teeming with tropical sea life.

#7 Drive thru Volcano at Sulfur Springs Park & Botanical Garden

A must see is the world’s only Sulfur Springs drive-through volcano in the Caribbean! The 30-minute guided tour will take you to the top of the volcano, and the sulfur mineral bath afterwards will feel like a spa treatment. This location can get crowed! Plan on going early in the day to enjoy it the most.

#6 Fly through the rainforest canopy

For those who want more than a tan from their holiday, St Lucia couldn’t be better. Approximately 77 % is covered in forest. So this is good reason to escape the beach and start exploring. Visit the Rainforest Adventure, about a 20-minute drive from the capital, Castries. A gondola, series of treetop platforms linked by zip lines, takes guests deep into the jungle. The guides are knowledgeable – and all ages are certain to love it.

#5 Castries Market

**Local people & food at Castries Market**

St. Lucia’s capital boasts an open air market that is full of a variety of food & souvenirs. National Geographic has rated it #3 food market in the world. Don’t miss out on the locally caught fish, spices, fresh fruit and fresh coconuts on the streets of Castries. The market is closed on Sundays.

#4 Hurricanes try to stay away from St. Lucia

Because this is such an enjoyable island, with so much to do, most hurricane wrath is felt further north and the very worst of the stormy weather tends to stay away from this more Southern location. (Hurricanes can reach St. Lucia.)

#3. Chocolate lovers heaven on earth

Hotel Chocolat, since 2011, has been home to a 14 room hotel & restaurant. Britain’s famous chocolatier, obtains cocoa from it’s plantation, the Rabot Estate near Soufriere. Dine on a delectable menu featuring chocolate or plan to go on one of its three-hour “bean to bar” tours to learn all about cocoa production, pick and taste fresh pods, graft your own plant, and then smash dried beans to make a chocolate bar.

#2. Best Resorts & locations imaginable

Nestled between St Lucia’s landmark Pitons and the Caribbean waters, find so many luxurious resorts & hotels, making vacations the most memorable spots anywhere in the Caribbean. With impeccable service, incredible menus, eye dropping views, and gorgeous accommodations these luxurious resorts won’t soon be forgotten.

And the #1 reason why St.Lucia is the perfect Caribbean island…St. Lucia has best view in the Caribbean!

There are more gorgeous beaches on St.Lucia than imaginable! Along the west coast – Anse Castanet, further north – Marigot Bay with it’s picturesque harbor, mile-long Reduit Beach, and the largest, most popular, near the town of Rodney Bay, is the biggest, and most popular. St Lucia’s spectacular coastlines and Grand Pitons are among the most photographed.

If you want to find out more about St. Lucia: https://www.stlucia.org. Don’t miss my next posts about the resorts that I visited while on St. Lucia. Call/ email today to find out how to experience St. Lucia’s Top 10! Susan@GoTravelStl.com

Susan

Go Travel Stl named winner by The Knot Best of Weddings 2018!

September 29, 2018 By Susan Robson

GO TRAVEL STL NAMED WINNER IN THE KNOT BEST OF WEDDINGS 2018

Twelfth Annual Best of Weddings Awards Honor the Top Wedding Vendors Across America

Chesterfield, MO, September, 2018—GO TRAVEL STL is pleased to announce they have been selected as a 2018 winner in The Knot Best of Weddings, an award representing the highest-rated wedding professionals as reviewed by real couples, their families and wedding guests on The Knot, the #1 wedding resource. This is the 4th year GO TRAVEL STL has been selected for The Knot Best of Weddings.

Winning The Knot Best of Weddings is a BIG deal! To determine the winners, The Knot assessed almost one million reviews from real couples across the various vendor categories—venues, musicians, florists, photographers, caterers and more. The Knot Best of Weddings 2018 list showcases the highest- and most-rated vendors across all regions and planning categories. Check out this year’s Best of Weddings winners to start your wedding /honeymoon planning and see all the top vendors in your area, including florists, wedding planners and everything (yes, everything) in between.

“This is an honor to be recognized by our clients, for 4 years in a row, as the winner of this prestigious award – Go Travel Stl.”

For more information about The Knot Best of Weddings and a complete list of winners, please visit www.TheKnot.com/BestofWeddings

GO TRAVEL STL

Meet The Owner – Susan Robson…Most of my life career was spent teaching children. After I retired, I combined my love of teaching, with another love…TRAVEL! Working with couples who are soon going to be married, is so exciting and invigorating. It is wonderful to be able to share their enthusiasm and the joy of a new life together. My role is to make their first Dream together come true!

If you would like to get started now, go to www.GoTravelStl.com, to complete the much talked about

“Perfect Honeymoon Finder”, a Go Travel Stl exclusive! Thank you!

Susan

Luxury At It’s Finest – Hyatt Zilara Cancun

September 13, 2018 By Susan Robson

Hyatt Zilara foam party

Hyatt Zilara Beach Wedding

Luxury at it’s finest, again! Another WOW factor! Situated on the widest stretch of beach in the Cancun Hotel Zone, Hyatt Zilara Cancun is an adults-only, Luxury all-inclusive resort where guests find themselves experience Mexican warmth that truly makes them feel special. On our site visit, we found the resort expansive, modern and impeccably clean. Breathtaking views of the Caribbean spacious suites, fine dining, and above and beyond service from an attentive staff, make a stay here not hard to take! Add to that, luxurious amenities, and meticulously maintained grounds and facilities. To compliment all of this are six gourmet restaurants, spa treatments and services in Cancun’s only ocean view spa. Wine and spirits tastings, and enhanced pool and beach butler service top all this off.

Hyatt Zilara Beach

Hyatt Zilara Beach

The “Luxury at it’s finest” Hyatt’s weekly pool parties with live DJs, keep everyone active. The days and nights are filled with interactive dining events, Caribbean jazz dinners, and exciting circus events. There are Mexican cultural dinners, a Venetian carnival show, theme parties, guacamole and cocktail classes, and more. Daily morning yoga classes, followed by water aerobics or volleyball, a variety of games, arts, crafts, culinary lessons, and wine and spirit tastings keep everyone busy. Fee-based scuba and water sports also available. There is so much to do here, you may just not want to leave. But just across the street is shopping, shopping, shopping! The ideal location of Hyatt Zilara Cancun is definitely a plus! If you would like to stay at a this fabulous, adult-only property, located right on the popular Cancun Hotel Zone, be sure to contact Susan@GoTravelStl.com.

Susan

Destination Weddings & Honeymoons at Ocean Riviera Paradise

August 17, 2018 By Susan Robson

Are you planning a Destination Wedding or Honeymoon? Take notice of this resort and incredible event at the Ocean Riviera Paradise in Riviera Maya, Cancun for everyone…no matter what your travel requires.

Ocean Riviera Paradise Fest

This will be the 1st Edition of this event to include: Renowned Chefs and Celeb Pit Masters Fire Up The Kicthens During the 1st Edition the Paradise Food & Drink Fest.
More than 15 renowned chefs
11 demos performed by international cuisiners
Original BBQ Series
More than 10 kitchen talks featuring seminars, chats and workshops
Gastronomic authorities who combine their talents in 6 pairing dinners

Paradise Food and Drink Fest at Ocean Riviera Paradise Resort in Riviera Maya is a culinary event planned for all guests to experience excitement and passion of an all-inclusive festival – never seen! If this were your Destination Wedding or Honeymoon – can you imagine?

Gastronomic Experiences

This will be an event of talented chefs shaking pans with travelers who are passionate about world class cuisine, wine, cocktails, and much much more!

This premier lineup says it all. “The talent is second to none and will absolutely enhance the guests’ all inclusive experience.” stated Juan Carlos Dominguez, Vice President of Marketing, Ocean by H10 Hotels. “The festival will offer a variety of activities to feed upon from the first cracked eggs at breakfast to the last bites of chocolate at dessert, into four categories throughout the day”

Click here to see a full list of chefs, events, and experiences. www.paradisefoodanddrinkfest.com

If you would like more information to be a part of this epicurean experience, contact Susan@GoTravelStl.com, or to start planning your Destination Wedding, Honeymoon, Anniversary, or Family travel! Thank you! Susan

Luxury at it’s finest – Hyatt Ziva Cancun – A Must see!

August 11, 2018 By Susan Robson

This is a resort that I’d been wanting to see for some time, so on this trip to Cancun, it was a must! And, WOW…what a WOW factor! The resort is expansive, modern & impeccably clean, 17 bars and restaurants, breathtaking oceanfront views, and exceptional service provided by every staff member.

Entering the property and walking through the lobby, your eyes are immediately drawn to the beautiful azure & turquoise blue waters of Punta Cancun’s peninsula. The water is warm & calm, and the sand is soft and kid-friendly! Because of the resort’s position on this peninsula, guests see spectacular beach Everywhere! The beach area right in front of the resort is smaller, but the “Club” Tower section has it’s own “private beach”, which is way more expansive with plenty of chairs, umbrellas & cabanas in both areas. 3 infinity pools, private piers for romantic dinners, unlimited room service, and 11 ala carte & international dining/buffets are all available on this property.

Between the standard rooms and the “Club” suites at this resort, the “Club” rooms definitely have more space and come with more amenities and well-appointed features. The rooms come with 5 full bottles of liquor- sparkling wine, scotch, tequila, vodka, and rum, along with various other snacks and candies. The views were amazing! I can’t stress that enough! These were spectacular! Since they are so high up, there a total view of our

surroundings. However, most rooms have awesome views of the ocean, but maybe not as superior a view depending on how high up the room is located. It didn’t matter if you were looking out from the balcony (which included a hot tub), from the room, or fromthe bathroom, all provided picturesque views of the resort and the peninsula.

The main pool/quad area is accessible right off the lobby, and boasts several levels of pools, with some areas covered by awnings. There is also a poolside bar that provides drinks and refreshments. Music, performances or cookouts took place at different times of the day. Directly in front of the Club Tower, is another pool area with tiered levels of pools, with consistent water depth throughout each tiered level. A poolside bar available in the patio area of the Club Tower. There is also adults only rooftop pool and bar, which has some totally captivating views, and a kids club, that has a kiddie waterpark along with slides and other activities, for children ages 4-12 only.

The service and dining at the Hyatt Ziva Cancun definitely went above and beyond a normal hotel/resort stay. The resort has 7 ala carte – actual sit-down dining restaurants serving different themed cuisines. Totally 11-12 “food options” available to guests. There is also 24-hour room service, so your “food options” are truly unlimited. La Bastille – French restaurant, El Mercado – buffet, Moongate – contemporary Asian, Tradewinds – grill & steakhouse, 24 Hours – snacks & finger foods, Lorenzo’s – Italian, Habeneros – beach/pool grill, Chevy’s – Classic diner, Pasteles – ice cream fountain, Casa Del Café – coffee shop, Tres Cervezas – sports bar, Club Tower Lounge – snacks/finger foods, Room Service – the best!

The service and dining at the Hyatt Ziva Cancun definitely went above and beyond a normal hotel/resort stay. Truly truly, this resort would provide an amazing and enjoyable time! Guests can FULLY relax here, as almost all of the small details are taken care of. All you have to do is be there… and enjoy! I can’t wait to visit and enjoy the wonderful Hyatt Ziva Cancun again someday! If you or your family would like to check this out, be sure to contact me…Susan@GoTravelStl.com Coming next…Hyatt Zilara! Thanks! Susan

It’s that time again…for New Resort in Akumal, Mexico.

November 7, 2016 By Susan Robson

It’s that time again…for New Resorts in Riviera Maya, Mexico! Last month, I traveled to visit new resort openings in Riviera Maya & Cancun. Even tho I had already previewed Secrets Akumal, I decided to return for a 2nd visit to this awesome resort (and repost this). It is well worth a 2nd, 3rd, 4th, ++++++ more looks!

“Akumal”, or home of the tortugas (turtles) is located on Akumal Bay, an area between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, is yet another reason to Love Mexico. Secrets Akumal, the latest AMResorts resort opening, is located in an area of white sand beaches and in the calm, clear waters of Akumal. This stunning new resort offers Adults (only) a charming, picturesque and exceptional Unlimited-Luxury experience. The resort offers 434 luxurious guest suites, each featuring a king, or two double beds, private balcony or terrace, in suite jacuzzi for two, complimentary mini-bar & WiFi, unlimited connectivity, 24 hour room service (fabulous, by the way), and concierge services. Guests can choose from six gourmet, ala carte restaurants, a grill, 1 buffet, and a cafe – all of which do not require reservations. The resort offers so many fun activities, you’ll never have time for them all: 1. soak in the sun at one of the 3 amazing pools or beach 2. workout in a state of the art fitness center 3. kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, and windsurfing 4. live shows nightly 5. outdoor jacuzzi’s 6. ping pong 7. basketball & volleyball 8. beach & pool volleyball 9. Euro bungee 10. dance lessons 11. water aerobics 12. Hobie cats 13. paddle boards 14. water polo 15. water bicycles 16. golf, deep sea fishing, scuba and sportfishing *extra fee. This resort’s personality is social, active, fun-loving, and vibrant. There is a constant presence of snorkelers, kayakers and paddle boarders in the ocean (because it is just so good). Even tho there are also quiet pool areas, the main pool is busy with volleyball, basketball and drink matting (social drinking around a swim mat). The employees and staff at Secrets Akumal are very welcoming, helpful and friendly. They go out of their way to do their best and provide outstanding service to their guests!

The best part of this resort, is it’s fabulous beach for walk-in snorkeling and scuba. I had so much fun swimming around, looking at the turtles, fish, coral, and everything under the sea. The water is so calm and inviting, you shouldn’t miss this!

If you would like more information or pricing about any of the resorts that I saw on this trip, or others, please contact me – Susan@GoTravelStl.com. Or, if you would like me to complete an analysis for your Dream Honeymoon, just go to my website, www.GoTravelStl.com to complete my well-known “Perfect Honeymoon finder”. It’s easy and fun!

The Do’s of Packing for a Honeymoon?

August 22, 2016 By Susan Robson

The Do’s of Packing for a Honeymoon?

Don’t make the mistake of leaving packing for your Dream Honeymoon to the last minute. Do – create a packing list that is planned and has some wonderful surprises! There is no reason to believe that a suitcase has to be full of brand new clothing and apparel items. But, after saying that, you will want to bring some new and very special things to make your trip even more memorable.

Do #1 – pack special outfits for your first and last night dinners – make the last evening as exciting and new as the first night!

Do #2 – pack bathing suits and beachwear (if this is a beach Honeymoon), find one hot new bathing suit to surprise him.

Do #3 – pack destination appropriate (Europe or cold climates) clothing and items (snowsuits, walking shorts, jackets, etc.)

Do #4 – pack special lingerie for the 1st and last nights, and everything in between!

Do #5 – pack a special outfit to wear home.

Do #6 – pack a First Aid Kit, medicine & birth control

Do #7 – pack cameras, phone & iPad chargers – all the electronics that will keep you both happy.

Do #8 – pack comfortable and sexy shoes.

Do #9 – pack reading material for him & you, pick up a new book that you think he might enjoy

Do #10 – pack his favorite perfume & maybe even download music on your iPad that you will enjoy together

To get started with your packing list, just email me and ask for a copy of my “pre-travel packing and planning”list. Then, add to it with your special ideas! Be sure to pack plenty of fun!

Susan

Top 5 Mountains to Beach Dream Honeymoons

May 14, 2016 By Susan Robson

Top 5 Mountains to Beach Dream Honeymoons

1. St. Lucia – my #1 – Top 5 Mountains to Beach Dream Honeymoons because of the all-inclusive and adults-only options available!
Saint Lucia is the perfect beach to rainforest to mountain destination, whatever you are seeking…it is in St. Lucia! Adventure, romance, natural experiences for the young at heart, St. Lucia is the answer! The island is a natural landscape of beautiful palm-trimmed beaches, endless unspoiled rainforest, and a land of volcanic surprises – the majestic Piton Mountains.

Around every bend, travelers can refresh under natural waterfalls, stroll through a rainforest to find breathe-taking views, climb Gros Piton Mountains, zip a line, ride above a rain-forest canopy, soak in mineral baths, visit the world’s only drive in volcano, or just bask in the fabulous Caribbean sun on one of St. Lucia’s many secluded beaches. All of this is not even considering the most important and loved part of the island: sea and sand! Most resorts provide opportunities for waterskiing, sunfishing, kayaking, snorkeling and windsurfing. Experiences that serious adventure seekers might want to include such as: fishing, scuba diving, snuba, jetovator, sea trekking, flyboarding and kitesurfing. Whale and dolphin watching, sport fishing, and boating are available for even more fun with nature! http://stlucianow.com

Honeymoon Accommodations: Adults only All-inclusive properties
Sandals offers 3 properties in St. Lucia:
*Sandals Regency La Toc – a glamorous resort with a cove beach and cliff-side suites
Sandals Grande St. Lucian – a vibrant, exciting resort with views that stir the soul from a unique peninsula. Sandals Halcyon Beach – a true “garden of Eden”, with luxuriant gardens providing the quintessential Caribbean resort.* (*Sandals description of properties)

2. Costa Rica – a fabulous destination to choose a tropical beach, to rainforest, and to an Arenal Volcano mountain area for a Dream Honeymoon. Start out a travel experience with 3 nights in the Arenal Volcano area. Visit Arenal National Park & Volcano, hanging bridges of the tropical rainforest, Tabacon Hot Springs and pools, and travel the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge aboard a Rio Frio Boat Safari.
Then, for the next 4 days, travel to the Guanacaste region for a beach experience like no other! Choose from a family friendly, all-inclusive resort, or an adults-only, like Secrets Papagayo. This trip will awaken your advenurous spirit!

If you choose not to take the escorted tours, there is plenty to keep you occupied and challenged!
Adventures – canopy ziplining and Tarzan swing, rafting, surfing, hanging bridges, wildlife safaris by raft, fishing packages, horseback riding, rain forest experiences, jungle treks, and so much more can be found, with a tour guide for safety and security, if you choose.

Honeymoon Accommodations: All-inclusive properties
Dreams Las Mareas – Family friendly
RIU Palace Costa Rica – Family friendly
Secrets Papagayo – Adults only
http://www.visitcostarica.com

3. Maui, Hawaii – Known as the “Valley Isle”. Maui is another perfect Mountains to Beach destination for Dream Honeymoons. One of Maui’s most memorable experiences is to view the Haleakala sunrise/sunset from the summit at 10,000 ft above sea level. After the view, don’t go home! The park offers 30,000 acres of public land for hiking, horseback riding and exploring nature to find many endangered species, seen nowhere else. Maui’s white, black, and red sand beaches cover over 30 miles of it’s 120 mile coastline. Some of the best surfing, windsurfing, swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing beaches are found here. Public and private beaches abound, as well as undeveloped “secrets spots” that can be found off the beaten path. http://www.gohawaii.com for more about Maui, Kauai, Oahu.
Experiences visitors don’t want to miss:
Scenic Road to Hana
Coastal whale watching
Historic Lahaina Town
Haleakala National Park

Honeymoon Accommodations: No All-inclusives
*Sheraton Maui * Hyatt Regency Maui * Maui Grand Wailea * Ritz Carlton *
*Four Seasons * Royal Lahaina Resort

4. Kauai, Hawaii – Known as the “Island of Discovery”. This island is the tropical focal point of Hawaii, full of so much to do outdoors, with attractions and culture everywhere. On Kauai’s stunningly beautiful beaches, you can sunbathe, snorkel, learn to surf, and Dream! Waimea Canyon has been nicknamed the “Grand Canyon” of the Pacific. It is truly a geological wonder stretching 14 miles long, 1 mile wide, and 3600 ft deep. As you can imagine, there is plenty to explore, hike and just take in the panoramic views. The main road to Waimea Canyon, Waimea Canyon Drive, takes visitors into the mountains and ends at Kokee State Park. Other adventures on Kauai include, but not limited to: ziplining, boating – sailing – catamaran – fishing, kayaking, mountain tubing, scuba and snorkeling, surfing, whale watching, air tours by plane or helicopter (fantastic, by the way), and hiking.

Honeymoon Accommodations: No All-inclusives
Grand Hyatt Kauai
Kauai Marriott
Sheraton Kauai
St. Regis Princeville Resort
Aqua Kaui Beach Resort

5. Oahu, Hawaii – Nicknamed the “Heart of Hawaii”. Oahu is the commercial center for the islands, and is sometimes called “the gathering place”. Honolulu brings metropolitan cityscapes to view against the beautiful blue water of Waikiki Beach. The Pearl Harbor Memorial is here, as well as Iolani Palace, with it’s historic architecture.
Tip – The Waikiki Trolley or “TheBus” are both affordable and convenient ways to travel in Honolulu and Waikiki Beach. It is suggested that visitors do not rent cars for city stays. Oahu has 112 miles of shoreline, that creates endless possibilities for water, water, and water activities. Every possible water activity can be found here: boating and fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, parasailing & submarines, whale & dolphin watching, and… hiking & biking & Trikke, skydiving, all terrain vehicles, horseback riding and more…

Surfing was born in Waikiki, so be sure to learn to ride the waves here, before spending any time just basking in the Hawaiian sun. Some of the best beaches: Waikiki Beach, Duke Kahanamoku Beach, Kailu Beach, and, so many more! For the most incredible mountain experience, don’t miss the very popular – hike to the top of Leahi, Diamond Head, and take in panoramic views of Waikiki and Honolulu.

Honeymoon Accommodations – There are only 7 oceanfront properties on Waikiki Beach (these are my recommendations): Outrigger Reef on the Beach * Halekulani Hotel * Moana Loa * Royal Hawaiian Hotel Pink Palace” * Turtle Bay Resort (North shore – not on Waikiki).

With any of these Top 5 Mountains to Beach Dream Honeymoon locations, couples don’t have to choose between mountains or beach, because they get the experience of both! If you would like to find out more about any of these destinations, just fill out my renowned “Perfect Honeymoon Finder”. As soon as I receive your information, I’ll begin your Honeymoon analysis to find the perfect Dream Honeymoon for you and your fiance’!

Susan

Love Mexico is all about it!

April 3, 2016 By Susan Robson

Love Mexico is all about it! It is a unique educational and networking event, held yearly, developed through a partnership with the Mexico Tourism Board. Love Mexico’s purpose is to showcase Mexico as a premier destination for weddings, honeymoons and romance. The event was packed with seminars, meetings with resorts, appointments with special suppliers, photographers, resort site visits and real experiences of Mexico. I’m proud of my new “Love Mexico Specialist” recognition and designation, that I earned by attending the events and seminars.

Several resorts were part of the Love Mexico experience for me: Royalton Riviera Maya, Royal Hideaway, Playacar Palace, Grand Velas, and Secrets Akumal. We spent a day doing site visits and learning about each property’s wedding offerings.

Playacar Palace, a family friendly property, is a part of the Palace family of resorts…and what an aawesome destination resort experience it offers! Location, location, location is an understatement here. Situated on a great stretch of beach with plenty of walking and swimming possibilities, makes it one of the best choices in Playa del Carmen. And, speaking of Play del Carmen, Playacar Palace is just steps away from the vibrant shopping experience travelers seek in Playa del Carmen – the renowned Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue and the Cozumel Ferry Dock. So, consider Playacar Palace a little”Palace” unto it’s own. “It is a trendy beachfront resort situated in the heart of Playa del Carmen, and it’s easy to see why we “Love Mexico”.

With 201 fabulous rooms, 3 restaurants, and 4 bars, this resort is considered the perfect spot to relax during the day and enjoy the nightlife and charms of “Playa” at night. It is perfect for families, couples, weddings, Honeymoons, and group Getaways. Add to all of this, guest can get up to $1500 in resort credits for excursions, spa, romantic dinners, and even the jewelry store. There is a max. that can be spent at any one time, like $300 in the jewelry store. Guests using resort credits must also pay a tax of 15% for any resort credits used, at check-out. Example: if $1000 is spent in resort credits, there would be a tax due of $150 – still a really good deal! Playacar Palace is due for a mega-renovation, to begin very soon. Once this is complete, the resort will be showing it’s best!

Susan