Expert Family Travel

Hotel Review: Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraiso (Riviera Maya Mexico)

I recently returned from a relaxing 3 night stay at the luxury, adults only all-inclusive resort Iberostar Gran Hotel Paraiso, which is located in the Riviera Maya area, just north of downtown Playa del Carmen. The Iberostar Paraiso complex is a series of 5 resorts that share a shopping center, golf course, and conference facility (all located on the side[…]

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In search of the overwater bungalow

So, maybe you are wondering — where in the world can you find overwater bungalow accommodations? The “True” Overwater Bungalow French Polynesia (Tahiti) is perhaps the most famous destination offering overwater bungalows, and of these islands Bora Bora tops the list.  Here you’ll find pontoons with multiple thatched-roof bungalows sitting on crystal clear, super-calm lagoon waters.  The Tahitian islands offering[…]

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Iberostar Grand Bavaro, Punta Cana – Can I stay a bit longer?

For my clients who love the convenience of an all-inclusive and the indulgence of a luxury resort, I’ve got great news.  The Iberostar Grand Bavaro, located in Dominican Republic’s Punta Cana, just may exceed your expectations. Built in 2008, this luxury adults only resort is set on a beautiful beach within the Iberostar Bavaro complex of resorts. This is an[…]

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Resort Review: Secrets Maroma Beach

Elegant.  Adults only.  Exceptional beach.  Oversized rooms.  Fantastic food.  No wonder everyone looks happy at Secrets Maroma Beach, a luxury resort situated on the beautiful Maroma Beach near Playa del Carmen, Mexico. This resort evokes images of Morocco-meets-Mexico.  And did I mention everyone here is happy?  The guests on the beach, in the pool, in the lobby — the joy[…]

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“I Do” redux – renewing your vows

I hear it a lot: “If I had it to do over again, I’d have a destination wedding on a gorgeous beach.”  And for those who’ve been married for 10 – 15 years or more, they remember that the destination wedding concept hadn’t caught on “back in the day.” Destination weddings have become an acceptable and popular option for nuptuals,[…]

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Why you should use a travel agent to book Sandals Resorts

I was recently marveling — to myself — at how much variation there is among the Sandals and Beaches Resorts, located in the Caribbean.  I can count 8 of the Sandals/Beaches Resorts I’ve personally stayed at or inspected, and I can certainly remember each one distinctly. Each one also has its own uniqueness…the energy level, the menus (though I never[…]

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