On behalf of Weddings By Oceans, I would like to thank you for stopping by our booth at the National Bridal Show this past weekend.

A very special thanks to each future Bride and Groom who took the time to speak to us and complete a Client Quote Request & Application Form. It was great to meet you and discuss your destination wedding plans. We’re excited to begin working with each of you and assisting you in any way possible with your destination wedding planning and travel arrangements.

For those of you who provided firm dates of departure and hotels of interest; we sent off your individual requests for quotes to the tour operators this morning. Please allow 7 to 10 days for a quote.

Brides and grooms who we spoke to that we require further information from prior to sending off your request will be contacted this week by one of the coordinators from our office to discuss your group needs in more detail.

As a show special, one of our tour operator partners Sunquest Vacations has offered Weddings By Oceans brides and grooms the following EXCLUSIVE offer:

Deposit your group by September 30, 2011 with Weddings By Oceans and the Bride and Groom will receive a $200.00 off their room total, and each of your deposited adult guests will receive $50.00 off  their booking.

Group minimum requirement 10 adult passengers. Only passengers who have paid deposit by the due date will receive the discount. Exclusive to Sunquest Vacations SUN destinations only.

Check out our Sunquest Wedding Show Offer Flyer (pdf) for specific details. To learn more about Sunquests product line up, visit: http://www.sunquestvacations.ca/

In the meantime, if you have any questions or require further information please feel free to contact us!

Thanks again. It was a pleasure meeting you!

Related posts:

1. September Bridal Show Destination Wedding Offers
2. Bridal Show Take Aways
3. Great Rates for Canadian Brides-To-Be

El Dorado Maroma

We arrived in the Mayan Riviera on April 28th and stayed at the luxurious yet unpretentious El Dorado Maroma for the first three nights. Before we get into the review, we’d like to remind you that the El Dorado hotels are part of Karisma properties that offer a patented Gourmet Inclusive® service. Here’s a post explaining why Karisma weddings are so special and Why Plan Your Destination Wedding with a G.I. Consultant.

El Dorado Maroma

Secluded, enchanting and intimate, this beachfront, adults-only resort will be sure to wow your wedding group! It’s upscale with a casual elegance and while it’s reflected in the price, in my opinion, the service is bar none. Expect genuine interaction with staff as they always smile, offer greetings and quickly refer to you by name shortly after you arrive.

Maroma Beach

Maroma Beach

As much as we get around the Caribbean, this is by far the best beach I’ve had the pleasure to enjoy! Actually, it was rated one of the top 10 beaches in the world by Travel Channel in 2002, 2003 and 2004.

Besides being along the second largest barrier reef in the world, it’s soft white, powdery sand with a layer of pink coral and turquoise waters is what makes this beach so renowned and romantic. Located in Playa Del Carmen about 30 miles from Cancun, it’s conveniently located yet remains an exclusive, uncrowded beach.

Activities

Maroma Beach draws guests of all types. Those who love to lounge will be happy to know these white sands are cool so your feet won’t burn. For those who love the active beach life, the adjacent marina (just a few steps from the hotel) offers excursions for sport fishing, snorkeling, diving, kayaking and sailing.

El Dorado Maroma also has amazing weekly events, including an authentic fish market where guests select their own fish and have it grilled right there on the beach!

Accommodations

El Dorado suite plunge pool, courtesy of Emily Wiley on Flickr.

With only 74 suites, we’re not kidding when we say the El Dorado Maroma is exclusive and intimate. Almost every suite has its own private jacuzzi and is mere steps away from Maroma Beach.

The contemporary Caribbean decor is chic yet comfortable, and almost all of the suites include Karisma’s signature roofless shower. Of course, as part of their Gourmet Inclusive service, these accommodations also include:

• gourmet food and drink
• beach butler service
• daily stocked mini-bar

Image source: Flickr

Entertainment

Rick’s bar was a hoot! It has a small dance floor and the best Michael Jackson tribute show ever. When the show ended, a small wedding group of 15 people took over the bar with their ipod and speakers.

Nobody minded, the drinks were flowing and it was a good time for all, whether you were part of the wedding group or not.

Weddings

Can you imagine taking over an entire hotel for your wedding? With only 72 suites, a couple with a large group of 50-80 people could easily enjoy their own private destination wedding hotel!

Karisma takes weddings seriously. They are happy to customize your wedding, offer value-added wedding packages and offer various sites for ceremonies and receptions. Check out more on their weddings page.

While we were there, we had the fortune to see two weddings. Each were decorated differently and tailored to each couples’ wishes. They were equally lovely.

As you can see, Karisma weddings are superior, so contact us if you want a truly remarkable experience for you and your guests. And for those of you who don’t have the budget for the El Dorado Maroma, you may wish to consider the El Dorado Seaside. Review coming soon!

Have you had a chance to experience El Dorado Maroma or any of the Karisma Resorts? Tell us about it in the comments and if you’d like a hotel review on El Dorado Seaside, let us know and we’ll blog about it!

Related posts:

1. Mayan Riviera Destination Weddings: AMResorts’ Dreams
2. Mayan Riviera Weddings: Tiffany & John
3. Mayan Riviera & Cancun Destination Weddings

The secret is out: I love Secrets Wild Orchid!

Last month you read about our inspections of Secrets Resorts in Mexico when we conducted our site inspections in December. Once again, AMResorts have impressed us, this time in Jamaica and I am delighted to be able to offer this recommendation to future brides and grooms looking for a wonderful adult-only property in the English Caribbean.

Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay

Located on the northwest coast of Jamaica, only 15 minutes/8 km away from Sangsters International Airport in Montego Bay.

The design of the Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay is reflective of the cultural roots and tropical beauty of Jamaica taking inspiration from the island surroundings with its warm neutral tones and unique indigenous art.

Guests will discover a vibrant, hip locale with the exclusive amenities of Unlimited-Luxury®, beginning with 24-hour room service, nine gourmet restaurants, nine bars and lounges, Secrets Spa by Pevonia, theater and championship-caliber golf nearby.

ACCOMMODATIONS

The resort features 350 modern island inspired suites with in-room amenities that include oversized four-poster beds, full entertainment systems complete with LCD flat-screen televisions and CD/DVD players, a Jacuzzi for two, private furnished balconies, luxurious bath amenities, and Secrets’ signature discreet 24-hour room service. Several suites offer direct swim-out access to pools that flow up to each private patio

ALL SUITES INCLUDE:

One king or two queen size beds • scale• Whirlpool tub • Separate Water Closet • Gilchrist & Soames bath amenities • Bathrobes and bedroom slippers • Hair dryer • Vanity mirror • Separate shower • Dual vanities • TV speakers in bathroom • 37” Cable TV • Alarm clock with MP3 docking station • Mini-bar refreshed daily with beer, soft drinks and water • Iron and ironing board • 24-hour room service • Electronic in-room safe • Armoire • Secrets Box for room service delivery • CD/DVD player • Desk with telephone and internet* connection • Sofa • Ceiling fan • Furnished balcony • Do not disturb light system.

Preferred Club Suites additionally include: Private Preferred Club Lounge • Preferred Status and Amenities • Private check-in and check out • Sun beds and soaking tub on terrace • Private pool • Complimentary internet access in suite • Complimentary computer access in Preferred Club • Concierge service • Daily continental breakfast service in the lounge • Afternoon hot and cold hors d’oeuvres • Exquisite desserts & fine liquors in the lounge • Complimentary newspaper in room every day (English or Spanish) • Upgraded mini bar service • Upgraded bath amenities.

Guests of Secrets Wild Orchid can enjoy:

• Eight international gourmet á la carte dining options.
• Seven chic bars and lounges including swim-up.
• Large free-form swimming pools and beach-front Jacuzzi.
• 15,000 square foot world-class spa featuring indoor and outdoor spa facilities and hydrotherapy circuit.
• The Promenade, a main plaza shared by the two resorts offering a host of exciting activities, boutiques, entertainment and dining options.
• Seawind Beach Club complete with couples cabanas, palapas and a gourmet restaurant.
• On-site sports including tennis, beach volleyball, basketball, soccer and non-motorized water sports, daily yoga, aerobic and introductory scuba classes.
• Over 16,000 square-feet of meeting space for weddings and business conventions.

If a guest wants to escape to a quieter atmosphere, there’s Secrets St. James next door, with its Victorian-esque sophistication. The best of two worlds. In addition to luxurious and spacious accommodations, the guests of Secrets Wild Orchid are able to enjoy many of the benefits and offerings of the Secrets St. James resort and vice versa. These benefits include access to restaurants, lounges, spas, open-air theater and more.

Within minutes of the resort, guests can also take pleasure in a plethora of scenic wonders such as Montego Bay’s famous Rose Hall Great House, The Hip Strip and The Doctor’s Cave Beach Club; and five renowned championship golf courses including the White Witch, Half Moon, Tryall, Three Palms Ocean Course at Wyndham Rose Hall and Cinnamon Hill.

Weddings at Secrets Wild Orchid

The resort features 3 Wedding Gazebos, 2 of which are on the piers overlooking the serene Jamaican waters.

Weddings at Secrets St. James are complimentary when booking a Preferred Club Junior Suite Ocean View category or higher (a minimum of 7 nights stay is required for this package), or if 5 rooms are reserved for a minimum of 3 nights at any room category.

The complimentary package includes:

• Service of justice of the peace or minister*
• Wedding Organization and personalization of our Wedding coordinator
• Preferential location of the room in the category reserved
• Preparation and ironing of the wedding dress and grooms tuxedo/suit
• Complimentary room for the groom the night before the wedding (based on availability)
• Bride’s Bouquet
• Special turn-down service at night
• Boutonniere for the groom
• Wedding cake and sparkling wine for 10 guests
• 15% discount on all Spa treatments (product purchases not included)
• Honeymoon Package
• Late check-out for Bride and Groom (based on availability)
• Use of the wedding gazebo or beach front casita
• Complimentary Anniversary Nights

*Due to Jamaican regulations a $300 USD fee will be added to cover the cost of the minister service.

Click this link for more information on wedding packages.

I will definitely go back to this property for my own personal vacation. Brides and grooms (and their guests) who will appreciate this property most are those with a child-free guest list and those with a medium-sized budget.

Have you been to Secrets Wild Orchid? How did you like it?

Related posts:

1. Customizable Wedding Packages in Jamaica
2. Destination Weddings in the Maya Riviera: AMResorts’ Secrets Capri
3. Couples in Jamaica: Destination Wedding Resort Review

From its lush hills to white sand beaches, Jamaica is a land of breathtaking landscapes and warmth. It is a kaleidoscope of beauty that makes this island one of the most precious jewels in the Caribbean.

Negril, Jamaica

I-ney, Sistren! Wa’ppun? (That’s Jamaican for: “Hi, Ladies! What’s happening?)

This was not my first time to Jamaica but it was my first time back in 8 years and I was excited to be able to see all of her beauty with fresh optimism. As I travelled the north coast from Negril to Ocho Rios, I was easily reminded how no other place on earth offers such a variety of attractions, accommodation and natural diversity as this beautiful, friendly island.

Although I’ve been to Jamaica 28 times previously, I knew only a handful of properties (I used to represent a particular chain of Jamaican hotels here in Canada) and now realize how limited my knowledge was! For instance, I had no idea of the variety of options or the real differences between the 3 resort areas on the north coast.

I would like to thank Racquel Queensborough from the Jamaica Tourist Board for inviting me along on this Fam Trip. I feel like I have just come back from Jamaica for the first time. I am totally up-to-date and excited to share my experiences with our readers and future brides and grooms.

Stay tuned for posts in the coming weeks as I tell you about a few of my favourite properties including:

• Secrets Wild Orchid
• Riu Ocho Rios
• Round Hill (where Stella got her Groove back!)
• Rock House (perched upon the cliffs in Negril)
• Half Moon (where the Royal family have vacationed)

I will also to tell you about a couple of attractions we visited that you should consider visiting, too! For now, here is a bit of history:

Jamaica

Jamaica was discovered in 1494 by, you guessed it – Christopher Columbus. In his log he described Jamaica as:

“the fairest island that eyes have beheld; mountains and the land seem to touch the sky…all full of valleys and fields and plains.”

By 1509 the Spaniards established a capital, New Seville, near Ocho Rios. In 1655 the English captured Jamaica and turned it into a vast sugar plantation. To grow the sugar cane, they brought in Africans from the west coast of the continent and present day Nigeria to work as slaves.

Soon, those pesky swash-bucking Buccaneers were on the scene (never a good time), attacking the treasure ships of Spain and France heading out of Port Royal once known as “the richesest and wickedest city in Christendom.”

Fast forward, many rebellions later… we have a culturally diverse and naturally breathtaking Jamaica that is home to 2.5 million people.

• Tourism is the major industry in Jamaica these days with the bulk of tourists flocking to the north coast of the island.
• Negril is known as “The Capitol of Casual,” with carefree days and fun-filled nights. Tucked away in the most western point, Negril is Jamaica’s water sports centre where you can dive, snorkel, waterski, windsurf or do nothing at all but work on your tan.
• Montego Bay is “The Complete Resort,” offering a variety of accommodation, first class shopping, golf and a wide range of other attractions and activities.
• Ocho Rios, “The Centrepiece of Jamaica,” and my personal favourite area is the garden of Jamaica. With lush tropical hills, small sandy coves a wonderful mix of serenity and excitement.

Once you go, you know… well, you’ll find out more about this wonderful island in future posts!

Have you been to Jamaica? What did you think?

Related posts:

1. Couples in Jamaica: Destination Wedding Resort Review
2. Secrets Wild Orchid for Destination Weddings in Jamaica
3. Customizable Wedding Packages in Jamaica

Paradisus Varadero

For all of you new to the Beachside Brides Blog, we’d like to welcome you and introduce you to our Testimonial Tuesdays. This is where Weddings By Oceans showcases destinations and hotels in the Caribbean and Mexico that Megan and her team of Destination Wedding Specialists (DWSs) have personally visited and recently inspected.

The industry calls these `familiarization (or FAM) trips’ and it’s one way Weddings By Oceans fulfills their commitment to helping couples create dream weddings. While our DWSs always inspect a slew of properties during these trips, we like to reserve the best for the blog.

(We’ve blogged about destination weddings in cuba before, check out our past posts: Amy & Chad’s Story and 4 Varadero Resorts for Destination Weddings in Cuba.)

In today’s post, Megan blogs about 3 Sol Melia resorts in Varadero that stood out from the 11 site inspections she conducted on her latest FAM trip to Cuba:

Princesa del Mar Gazebo

• Paradisus Varadero
• Ibertostar Varadero
• Sandals Jicacos
• Barcelo Sol y Mar
• Barcelo Marina Palace
• Paradisus Princesa del Mar
• Iberostar Playa Alameda
• Iberostar Laguna Azul
• Riu Varadero (*brand new)
• Sirenas La Salina
• Melia Las Americas

Sol Melia

Sol Melia began over 20 years ago in Cuba. They have 25 hotels in this beautiful, friendly country with a total of 10, 444 rooms. The Sol Melia Cuba group of Sol Meliá includes 4 brands:

1. Sol Hoteles
2. Melia Hotels and Resorts
3. Paradisus Resorts
4. Tryp Hotels – Cuba

Some Sol Melia facts:

Sol Meliá sells 21% of Cuba’s hotel rooms, 31% of the country’s accommodation capacity in Four and Five Star hotels and receives 30% of all visitors traveling to the island!!!

On this last FAM trip, we had the chance to visit:

Paradisus Varadero

Paradisus Varadero Gazebo

This hotel is located beach-front in Rincon Francés, part of the Varadero ecological reserve. It’s a Five-Star Ultra All Inclusive Eco-Resort with 510 rooms. Find charm, elegance, refinement and privacy here, especially with Royal Service. We recommend it for families, weddings, honeymoons, incentives and wellness/spa.

Guest Rooms

510 rooms: 344 Junior Suite, 72 Junior Suite Ocean View, 6 Family Junior Suite Ocean View, 6 Suite Deluxe Ocean View, 48 Master Junior Suite Royal Service, 26 Master Junior Suite Ocean View Royal Service, 6 Master Junior Suite Romance Royal Service, 2 Garden Villa Royal Service

Dining

7 Restaurants (A la Carta, Buffet, Barbeque, Gourmet), 6 Bars

Paradisus Princesa del Mar

Located in one of the best areas on Varadero Beach, this Five-Star Ultra All Inclusive Resort with 434 rooms is conceived only for adults aged 18 years or more. A fabulous world of mythical landscapes and romantic ambiences. This Sol Melia resort offers maximum comfort in its private Royal Service for an unparalleled experience. Recommended for weddings, honeymoons, incentives and wellness/spa.

Guest Rooms

434 rooms: 218 Junior Suite, 115 Junior Suite Superior, 27 Junior Suite Ocean View, 8 Suite Deluxe, 16 Suite Deluxe Romance, 8 Suite Royal Service, 16 Suite Ocean View Royal Service, 8 Luxury Suite Royal Service, 16 Luxury Suite Ocean View Royal Service, 2 Presidential Suite Royal Service

Dining

8 Restaurants (Continental, A la Carte, Casual a la Carte, Buffet), 1 Cafeterias, 5 Bars

Melia Las Americas

This Sol Melia hotel is located beach-front on Varadero Beach, near the the Plaza America Convention Center. It’s another Five-Star All Inclusive (not Ultra) Resort with 340 rooms. Conceived only for adults aged 18 years or more. The only hotel with direct access to the Varadero Golf Club and recommended by the European Association of Professional Golfers. Ideal for couples, golf, weddings, honeymoons and incentive trips.

Guest Rooms

Las Americas Wedding Location

340 rooms: 141 Standard, 79 Standard Ocean View, 15 Junior Suite, 1 Suite Deluxe Romance, 10 Suite Deluxe Ocean View, 2 Master Suite Deluxe Golf, 2 Presidential Suite Deluxe, 70 Bungalow Junior Suite, 12 Suite Bungalow, 8 Bungalow Master Suite Two Bedrooms

Dining

5 Restaurants (A la Carta, Buffet, Gourmet), 4 Bars

This is just a quick overview of these hotels to start you thinking about your options for a destination wedding in Varadero. Over the next couple of weeks we’ll share more about these resorts and provide you our feedback.

Stay tuned for individual blog posts covering these 3 Varadero resorts as well as some of the other 8 properties we visited on our Testimonial Tuesdays.

Related posts:

1. Melia Las Dunas: Destination Weddings in Cuba Resort Review
2. 4 Varadero Resorts for Destination Weddings in Cuba
3. Destination Weddings in Cuba: Amy & Chad

To recap and for new readers, here are Megan’s top 3 favourite AMResorts destination wedding hotels in the Mayan Riviera, Mexico:

1. Now Jade (find out about the AMResorts hotel chain in this post)
2. Dreams Riviera Cancun
3. Secrets Capri

And now let’s learn about the delights Dreams Tulum offers to beachside couples and their guests.

Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa

Dreams Tulum sits on two miles of powdery white sand with activities to make the whole family happy. It’s located on one of the most unique beaches in the Riviera Maya surrounded by lush tropical acres, sugary white sand and magnificent colonial architecture.

Just five minutes from Tulum and 30 minutes from Playa del Carmen, Dreams Tulum offers Unlimited‐Luxury® with upscale surroundings and combines fun and relaxation with the ancient world of the Maya. And you’re right on the ocean for snorkeling, catamarans, windsurfing, kayaking and jumping on our ocean trampoline.

Choose from magnificent dining options featuring eight gourmet, à la carte and one buffet‐style restaurant. Dine at the Seaside Grill, an à la carte steak house, enjoy French cuisine in a romantic setting at Bordeaux or visit El Patio for Mexican fare.

Six bars, including pool and beachside, are perfect places to make new friends, or just catch up with each other. Set on a secluded beach and stretching for miles, here are the overall highlights for Dreams Tulum:

• 431 rooms
• Close to historic ruins of Tulum and Xel-Ha
• Traditional Spanish wedding chapel

From their website:

Tulum held a mystical power over the ancient Mayan civilization which built its world famous pyramids here. Today, this remarkable area on the Mayan Riviera continues to be revered, not only for its history, but its extraordinary beauty and hospitality.

Within our “Dreamscape” are a wealth of luxury accommodations, sensuous spa services, exquisite dining and lounges and other leisure opportunities — more than enough to fill your days, nights and memories. Our impeccable quality and services have earned us the elite recognition awarded by Preferred Hotel & Resorts Worldwide. But the honored approval we seek most is yours.

What you can expect

All guest rooms and suites offer a private and furnished patio or balcony with a hammock, marble bathrooms, daily refreshed mini‐bar and 24‐hour room service.

Dreams Spa by Pevonia offers a full range of natural curative massage therapies and facial treatments, each designed to soothe your body, mind and spirit. And to really help you unwind, the Explorer’s Club keeps your kids happy and busy with their own kind of supervised fun.

Highlights for the Couple

• Honeymoon Suite with Ocean View Terrace
• Brand New Ballroom for an Elegant Reception
• Traditional Spanish Wedding Chapel

Highlights for Guests

• Variety of connecting rooms and family suites ideal for families and small groups
• Babysitting Service
• Dreams Spa by Pevonia full-service spa – with 10 treatment rooms
• Environmental Tours

Wedding Ceremony & Reception Set-up Options

If you’re looking to host your destination wedding at Dreams Tulum, the total capacity is up to 340 guests for the ceremony and the reception.

Choose from 5 different location options:

1. Chapel
2. Relaxation Pool Terrace
3. Beach
4. Ballroom
5. Dolphin Pool Terrace

This covers Megan’s 4 most favourite AMResorts for destination weddings in the Mayan Riviera, Mexico. Stay tuned for more Testimonial Tuesday posts to find the perfect destination and hotel for your dream wedding.

Have you been to Dreams Tulum or visited the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum? If you’ve been anywhere in Mexico, what’s been your favourite spot so far?

Related posts:

1. Mayan Riviera Destination Weddings: AMResorts’ Dreams
2. Mayan Riviera Weddings: Tiffany & John
3. Bound for the Mayan Riviera

Since 2004 I’ve been working as a Destination Wedding Specialist. My travel industry experience, however, has spanned 24 years and held various roles throughout that time.

My journey began while working with Club Med as a G.O. at the hotels/villages, and later for the Canadian sales office in Toronto. I then moved into a Destination Representative role, which enabled me to live in Mexico, Bahamas, and various places in the Caribbean working for Conquest Vacations and Trans National Travel (from Boston).

As my travel career progressed, my next role was that of National Inside Sales Coordinator/Assistant to the Canadian Director for a large chain of resorts in the Caribbean called SuperClubs, which has properties in Jamaica, Bahamas, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Brazil and Curacao. Among my many duties, I was responsible for costing/contracting groups to the tour operators and providing support to travel agents.

Prior to joining Oceans Travel in 2004, I was employed as Manager of Destination Services for Air Canada Vacations, managing 22 Caribbean destinations and 87 destination representatives.

In 2004, I decided to fully utilize my extensive travel industry experience to help my clients, and moved on to an independent role with Oceans Travel. By 2008 my volume of sales had increased to the point where I decided it would be more beneficial to open my own company focusing solely on destination weddings, and Weddings By Oceans was established. I am 100% positive that the right decision was made, and that I now have a terrific team working with me!

Why Book With Us?

We offer group rates from the major Canadian tour operators, arrange travel insurance, and provide advice without charging fees (as most agents do). But what really sets us apart from other agencies?

• While others may claim to be ‘specialists’, no-one brings to you 24 years of such diverse experience in the travel industry as I have outlined above.
• I have established an endless list of contacts that I have developed throughout the years among tour operators and hotels in your chosen destination. Trust me, you will find this invaluable (as you’ve read in my Testimonials section).
• I speak Spanish and French to assist you with any communication difficulties you may encounter along the way when dealing with your chosen hotel.

Would you buy a car from someone who has never driven?

Why, then, would you book your destination wedding group with someone who doesn’t travel? I have visited or lived in:

BAHAMAS

• Eleuthera (6 months)
• Nassau (6 months) and revisited several times

MEXICO (too many times to count!)

• Ixtapa (6 months)
• Cancun (5 years) and revisited several times
• Manzanillo (6 months)
• Acapulco (4 months)
• Puerto Vallarta
• Huatulco

CUBA (50+ times)

• Cayo Coco
• Varadero
• Holguin
• Camaguay
• Havana

JAMAICA (28 times)

• Negril
• Montego Bay
• Ocho Rios

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC (22 times)

• Punta Cana
• Puerto Plata

OTHER LOCATIONS VISITED

• St. Vincent
• Grenada
• St. Lucia
• Barbados
• Bequia
• Mustique
• Martinique
• St. Marteen
• Anguilla
• St. Kitts
• Nevis
• Antigua
• London
• Paris
• Glasgow
• Edinburgh
• Wales
• Northern Ireland
• The Republic of Ireland
• Panama
• Cartegna, Columbia
• Brazil
• Greece

So, enough about me. Contact us with your request and let us get to know you, learn about your dream destination wedding and help you with your travel needs.

Have you been to any of these destinations I listed above or any places I didn’t list? I’d love to hear where you’ve been, your favourite spot in the world so far and where you’d like to go!

Related posts:

1. Meet Ashley D’Ascencio: Destination Wedding Specialist
2. Meet our Honeymoon Specialist: Allie
3. Not Your Typical Destination Wedding Specialist

Back in November, I took a holiday (yes, we travel professionals do take vacations!) and spent 10 days at the Gran Bahia Principe Coba in Mexico. It was fabulous!

Resort Overview

The Gran Bahia Principe is a large resort consisting of 3 hotels: the Coba, Tulum and the Akumal. But it’s easy to get around as the trolley shuttle system transports you where ever you want to go. It may take a few days to get your bearings and find the shortest routes, but walking the paths throughout the resort is beautiful, too.

It’s well laid out and surrounded by the Mayan jungle with loads of wildlife. There are iguanas, lizards and butterflies everywhere, as well as capybara, coati and other species milling around the resort. Not to mention a beach full of tropical fish.

The food is wonderful, both at the buffet and the a la carte restaurants, and there really is something for everyone. The staff are very friendly and accommodating, and most speak excellent English.

The hacienda at the front of the resort provides great shopping, and there’s entertainment there every evening, as well as the shows in the theatres at the individual hotels. (The Michael Jackson tribute show is AMAZING!! Don’t miss it!)

The Coba

All guests have access to the premier club music bar complex and the facilities at the other two hotels: 25 bars, 18 restaurants, 10 pools, 3 spas, 3 gyms, 3 kids clubs, sports, bar, nightclub, shops, etc.

Coba has bigger rooms and probably the best buffet restaurant on the resort, but it’s the only hotel of the 3 that is not beach front. The beach is a 15 minute stroll or quicker by trolley. It has 2 lovely big pools (1 quiet, 1 active) and 2 separate multi-Jacuzzi cocktail bars.

The best thing about the resort is the sheer choice – the number of pools bars and eateries is staggering! We recommend the Coba Buffet, Mikado, Le Gourmet, and La Dolce Vita but there are so many more.

Accommodations

The 1080 rooms of the Gran Bahía Príncipe Coba are located in beautiful 3-storey villas, with 36 rooms each, each with a hydro massage tub, 3 or 4 dinners included in the price, and much more. Come and find your place in the paradise of the Mayan Riviera, you won’t be sorry!

Junior Suite Club Golden

Includes:

• 2 full-size beds (1.35 m x 2 m)
• or 1 king-size bed (2 m x 2 m)
• Air conditioning
• Bathtub with hydro massage
• 24-hour room service
• 4 à la carte dinners in specialty restaurants
• Internet in the Casa Club

Coba is the newest of the three hotels and has the junior suites. The rooms are smaller in Tulum but if you like it lively, then Tulum is the best choice for you. By the way, Akumal has a nice mix of peace and action.

Food

At the Gran Bahía Príncipe Coba in the Riviera Maya, expert chefs delight guests with dishes of various cuisines in the specialty restaurants and the resort’s main buffet:

• International cuisine in the Kukulcan buffet
• Gourmet cuisine in Le Gourmet restaurant
• Italian cuisine in the Portofino restaurant
• Seafood in the Pescador restaurant
• Japanese cuisine in the Mikado restaurant
• Mediterranean cuisine in the Mediterráneo restaurant

The a-la-carts are very good and we found Le Gourmet to be the best, Mikado with a show table being very good, while Portofino (Italian), also in Coba was good. If you want to book these go to the customer relations desks in your hotel, but book early for a show table in Mikado as it is very popular.

The buffet restaurants are very good and the choice of food is good and varied. We mostly focused on the “Mexican Corner”, which was excellent. The buffet restaurants offer fresh food at all meal times with omelettes and pancakes at breakfast and then pasta, meat, oriental, pizza and Mexican at lunch/evening meals, while you can also order fresh food at the snack bars, which are open 24 hours a day and also serve drinks.

Entertainment

The Hacienda is a shopping centre, which forms part of the overall resort and includes a Music Bar (open 10pm to 12pm) and an American Sports Bar (open 6pm to 12pm), with live music outside in the square every night from 11pm, except on a Thursday when the hotel put on a Mexican Fiesta show (additional cost).

There is also a nightclub, which is open from midnight until 2:30am, playing English/American type dance music and also Spanish/Latino music. This is also included within the all-inclusive and is very good, with a great sound system and decent DJ. As for alcohol, they serve international brands.

There is way too much to say about this place and we’ve probably missed a few interesting aspects of this resort. But we’ll be back soon – we’re already missing it!

Have you been to the Gran Bahia Principe? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!

Related posts:

1. Destination Wedding in Mexico: Holly & Daryl
2. A Dream Destination Wedding in Punta Cana
3. Destination Wedding in Mexico: Nikki & Mark

While Megan and her husband stayed at the Gran Bahia Principe Coba in Mexico (review to come), they made the most of their vacation and toured around. Here are two sizzling finds they had to share:

Jungle Spa Plant

Jungle Spa Review

The Spa is located on the outskirts of the fishing town of Puerto Morelos and is a little tricky to find, but well worth the effort. The ride to the spa is remote and is the “real” Mexico, and how real Mexicans live.

When we arrived we found Sandra and she told us her story. Sandra is an American and she started the Jungle Spa as a social outreach project for the local women. She’s a neat lady- very likeable, kind of eccentric but incredibly interesting!

She offered us a shot of D’Aristi’s Xtabentun before we got our massages. Similar to Sambuca, but I digress. While sipping on this Mayan liqueur she asked questions about any medical issues, the type of massage you wanted, etc. We emailed her and set the appointments in advance, they also have a market on the weekends during high season.

You get your massage in different areas separated by sheets. Nothing fancy…you are in the jungle! This is massage at its best. Don’t expect fluffy luxury, but expect good, clean, rustic, natural surroundings.

The Mayan women really get in tune with your body and work it through and find all your knots, even the navel heartbeat and position it correctly. There are many different types of massage, with additional services also such as the aloe wrap, chocolate massage, etc.

With wild jungle birds in the background, fresh air breezing over you, soothing music playing in the background, and hands, feet and knees that know what they are doing is simply remarkable. Just like you go to a restaurant for its food, not really for its decor or what glass they serve the wine in, etc., this Jungle Spa is a place for true to the word massages.

Visit this spa and you will not be disappointed. Both massages were awesome. This was an unforgettable experience, but definitely not a once in a lifetime because we will be back!

Here is an excerpt from the website:

The women’s hands are blessed with the gift from Gods. They have been given the “DON” or “HEALING HANDS” and they will work magic on your body. The Jungle Spa is operated by the non-profit organization, Lu’um K’aa Nab, directed by Sandra A. Dayton. The Spa was created so that the local women could benefit from the tourists coming to the area and make money for their families. We want visitors to experience a fabulous, unforgettable Mayan massage for less than half of what they could pay at a 5 star resort. A win, win situation for everyone and where cross cultural friendships are made. We are waiting for you!

TEEXOB (you are me and I am you)

The Jungle Place (Kuxi Ka’ax)

For a surreal interaction with rescued spider monkeys, Joel and Heidi, who run this centre are fabulous hosts.

Be sure to use Heidi’s directions to The Jungle Place as even the local taxi drivers do not seem to know where this place is – it seems to be a closely guarded secret but well worth the effort to find. Heidi and Joel’s passion for their work is clear to see, a true labour of love. Click here for their story.

Jo-anne, Ian, James & Cole Ferguson

Initially you sit around a table with your fellow group members and are given some snacks for the monkeys. You then enter the enclosure 2/3 at a time until the entire group 8/9 is in and seated on the floor. We spent nearly 2 hours interacting, feeding and holding the monkeys.

Of course, as with any place, there are rules for when you go in with the monkeys:

• No mosquito repellent
• No suntan lotion
• No cold sores or infections
• No loose jewellery
• Nothing in your pockets

One lady in our group had to turn her top inside out because of the decorative beads. Please be careful if you go and respect the rules.

Visitor numbers are limited as not to exploit the monkeys and not overwhelm them and also to allow all the “guests” to interact with the monkeys. This interaction allows you to get close to these animals, and feel so privileged. It is really an experience which will last a lifetime.

Luna is an independent monkey and does her own thing and you are warned every time she comes near. She quickly empties most of the snacks from hands of the visitors! When I went to leave Luna grabbed me by the leg and didn’t want me to leave! It was pretty funny and so much fun.

Joel and Heidi really have dedicated their lives to rescuing these monkeys and have a great natural environment for these feisty, adorable creatures. Of course the whole experience is fun, but the well-being and protection of the monkeys are really the most important part of this experience.

We strongly recommend going to Kuxi Ka’ax, but do yourself a favor and do a little research on this rescue, spider monkey poaching, and what to expect from your visit. The monkeys can become very comfortable with you, and may even let you hug them and rock them like a baby!

Please Note

We had such a great time at the monkey sanctuary that we told all our friends and family about it. This accompanying image is of my cousins and their kids who enjoyed a vacation in Mexico two weeks ago. If Mexico was such a scary place, would I send my family there?

Monkeys, dolphins, sun, palm trees, tequila, upgrade to a suite. One amazing family vacation. Jo-Anne Ferguson.

If you’re considering a destination wedding in the Mayan Riviera, Mexico, both the Jungle Spa and Jungle Place are worth mentioning to your guests!

Have you had a chance to experience either the Mayan Riviera or these two Mexico destination spots?

Related posts:

1. Gran Bahia Principe Coba in Mexico
2. Destination Wedding in Mexico: Holly & Daryl
3. Destination Wedding in Mexico: Ashley & Martin’s Story

Mexico continues to be one of our favourite destination wedding spots, and last week’s FAM trip to AMResorts simply blew my mind! It’s reinforced my confidence in Mexico to provide a memorable, gorgeous and fun wedding destination for couples and their guests.

In today’s post, we give an overview of this resort chain and review Now Resorts & Spas in Cancun.

About AMResorts

Opened in 2001 with a mission to launch a higher luxury option that provides outstanding guest experiences, AMResorts specializes in leisure. It offers five distinct and very different resort brands for destination weddings, each with its own appeal.

Here are the three I had the pleasure of visiting during my recent FAM trip:

Secrets Resorts & Spas

Offering adults an extra measure of romance and sensuality in exquisite luxury settings. Immerse yourself in “Unlimited Luxury” where everything is included in spectacular settings:

• Elegantly appointed rooms and suites with 24-hour concierge and room services.
• Multiple gourmet restaurants and lounges serving premium beverages.
• Endless day and evening activities.

Dreams Resorts & Spas

Providing a high level of luxury and ambiance for couples and couples with children in unparalleled tropical settings. Surround yourself with “Unlimited Luxury” where everything is included:

• Sumptuous suites with stunning views, 24‐hour room service and daily refreshed mini‐bars.
• Countless daytime activities and nighttime entertainment to amuse you.
• An array of gourmet dining options and exquisite bars serving premium brands.

Now Resorts & Spas

Live in the Moment. Guests enjoy a setting where style and sophistication meet relaxation and comfort:

• Amazing spacious suites, impressive amenities, 24 hour room service and the finest in “Unlimited Luxury”.
• A vast array of daytime activities and nighttime entertainment will amuse guests of all ages.
• Numerous gourmet dining options and exquisite bars serving premium brand beverages.
• Play alongside sparkling seas and bask on warm sun‐drenched beaches in a wondrous place where play and party is just steps from peace and quiet.

Now Resorts & Spas

From their website:

“Now is the Time. To savour every moment. To reconnect with each other. And yourself. To escape. Far from life’s demands. And back to the simple pleasures.

Now is the time to be conscious. Of earth’s beauty. And nature’s gifts. Step inside Now Jade Riviera Cancun, a hip destination where sophistication meets understated. Amazing suites, impressive amenities and exhilarating pursuits alongside the sparkling sea and sun-drenched beach. A wondrous place where play and party is just steps from peace and quiet.”

Now Jade Riviera Cancun

Now Jade Riviera Cancun was our home base during the FAM trip and it is now a new favourite mine! Here are just a few reasons why:

• Located along the world’s 2nd largest coral reef with a vast amount of white sand beach, creating a tranquil swimming spot throughout the year.
• All new spacious contemporary Junior Suites and Suites with Jacuzzi for two.
• Catering to families with excellent children and teen activities and programs.
• Preferred Club Suites feature a Jacuzzi for two on the balcony overlooking the ocean.

Now Jade Riviera Cancun Destination Weddings

This magnificent property offers several location choices for weddings including beach, garden and fountain. However, my favourite location is the Pergola, located near the main buffet restaurant and the beach grill. This stunning area is one floor above the beach offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. A gorgeous backdrop and quite private in the afternoon.

Wedding Coordinators, Pilar and Ana are lovely to deal with. While there, I had the pleasure of seeing 5 weddings, and spoke to several happy guests of these groups.

Hotel Features

Conveniently located just 12 miles from Cancun International Airport and minutes from the quaint fishing town of Puerto Morelos, this fabulous resort provides guests with 2,640 feet of pure crystal white sand and refreshing azure waters. Another notable feature is that it’s set within a Mexico-designated national park!

Suites

Each suite is truly exquisite, featuring beautiful views of flourishing gardens or crystal clear ocean. I stayed in the preferred section and highly recommend this room category.

This unique property features 550 luxurious suites each complete with private furnished balcony or terrace and Jacuzzi for two. All finely appointed suites offer king size or two double beds, marble floors, air‐conditioning with in‐room climate control, daily refreshed mini bars and 24‐hour room and concierge services.

Restaurants

Seven gourmet à la carte restaurants plus an international buffet offer intriguing fare to even the most discerning palate. Savor Mediterranean cuisine at Zest, Pan‐Asian delicacies at Spice, authentic Mexican cuisine at Tamarindo, delectable French specialties at Fork and fresh Italian favorites at Capers. For a lighter meal option, visit Castaways for delicious sandwiches and snacks or CoCo Café for premium coffee and savory pastries.

Activities

Snorkel, kayak, windsurf or deep sea dive in the vast blue waters or simply relax under the warmth of the sun on the white sandy beach. Perfect your golf swing on one of the famous courses located nearby or indulge a vast set of treatments offered at the world‐class spa.

Little ones will have the opportunity to partake in many day and night-time activities provided by the Explorer’s Club for Kids. When the sun sets come enjoy live themed shows in our large indoor theatre or sip on a cocktail as you relax at Eclipse Night Club.

Highlights for Couples

• Relaxing Moon & Stars Massage (Couples)
• Wedding set-up facing the ocean
• Romantic hammocks for two

Highlights for Guests

• Spa with 8 treatment rooms (one is an ocean front palapa!)
• Hobie cats, Kayaks, Snorkeling
• Three oversized swimming pools
• Rooftop tennis and basketball courts

This was the first stop on this intensive AMResorts FAM trip. Stay tuned for the next 2 testimonial Tuesday posts where Megan covers Dreams and Secrets in the AMResorts hotel chain.

Have you been to Now Jade Riviera Cancun or any of the AMResorts in Mexico? Share with us your experience in a comment!

Related posts:

1. Destination Weddings in the Maya Riviera: AMResorts’ Secrets Capri
2. Mayan Riviera Destination Weddings: Dreams Tulum
3. Mayan Riviera Destination Weddings: AMResorts’ Dreams