Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Isla Mujeres



Isla Mujeres is a small, tranquil island that sits northeast of Cancun. It takes about 20 minutes via ferry from Cancun. Upon arrival you can rent bicycles, mopeds, golf carts, and taxis.

Activities in the water include swimming with the dolphins and sharks, and exploring the amazing underwater sculpture museum. Kayak, snorkel, fish and sail in the crystal clear waters. If you would rather do some exploring on land there is plenty for you to choose from. Check out the Turtle Farm, Punta Sur, Hacienda Mundaca, and Garrafon Park.


When hunger strikes there are plenty of restaurants to choose from that offer a range of all different kinds of food. Don’t forget to do some shopping and take a pit stop at the hip bars.

As far as accommodations there are plenty of different options to choose from if you would like to stay on this quite little island.

Tuesday, February 4, 2014

Cancun






     With over 3.3 million visitors annually Cancun offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. There are 14 miles of soft, white sand beaches and warm, turquoise-blue waters. Cancun offers many things to do for all different kinds of travelers. In fact, there is so much to do that you will run out of vacation days before you run out of things to do. Below you find some different types of groups that visit and activities that Cancun has to offer.

Families: Kids are welcome everywhere. Many resorts offer children’s programs. A couple to check out are the Club Med Ixtapa Pacific (with Baby Club Med) and Club Med Cancun Yucatan. A few things that would be fun to do with the family are to visit the Mayan archaeological sites, exotic animal zoos, bird sanctuaries and swim with the dolphins.

Cuisine Lovers: There are over 200 restaurants to choose from that include traditional Mexican cooking, seafood, Yucatan (combo of Mexican and European ingredients), and cuisine from around the world.

Eco-Adventure Enthusiasts: Explore the caves, forests, “cenote” (sinkhole) ecosystems, biosphere reserve, estuaries, unique islands, bird sanctuaries, spider monkey refuge, turtle sanctuaries, and exotic animal zoos. The dive sites are among the best in the Caribbean.

Couples: Thousands of couples visit each year. There is plenty to do from relaxing on the beaches, fine shopping, dining, dinner cruises, romantic sunset cruises and nightlife.

Weddings: With over 4,500 weddings each year you will find exceptional wedding venues and wedding coordinators to help with that special day. There are plenty of activities to keep your wedding guests entertained.

History Buffs: Mayan archeological sites, nearby colonial sites (including Valladolid), and museums.

Partiers: Bars, discos and nightclubs (some have all-you-can-drink cover charge).

Golfers: A world class golf destination with 5 courses in Cancun and 8 more south of Cancun. Some of the courses offer all inclusive packages which include open bar, meals, and even transportation.

Active Travelers:  With plenty of tours on land and in the water you won’t know where to start. There are also boat excursions and a subsea explorer to check out the beautiful reefs.

Seniors: Affordable lodging, lots of activities and excellent cuisine. If the need arises, the medical facilities are first class and include American and Spanish hospitals.

Shoppers: From indoor malls to outdoor plazas and bargains in El Centro’s open air markets, Cancun offers a complete shopping experience for all shoppers.

Monday, February 3, 2014

Disney Cruise



Not sure where you want to go for your next family trip? Have you ever thought about a Disney Cruise? This could be the perfect family vacation if you are looking to spend time with your family and also have some alone time with your spouse while the kiddos are having fun of their own. Once aboard there is so much to do!
Disney has 4 cruise ships; Magic, Fantasy, Dream, and Wonder. Each ship has youth clubs for ages 3-17 that offer plenty of entertainment and activities. These youth clubs are included in the cost of the cruise. Each cruise ship also has a nursery where Disney trained counselors care for babies 3 months of age up to 3 years; however, there is a small fee for this service. While your kids are off having fun the possibilities are endless for you. You could hit up the Spa or Fitness Center, or you could relax by Quiet Cove Pool where only adults are allowed. If you are looking for a peaceful dinner then you can make reservations at the Palo, an adult only restaurant on all 4 of the ships. The Dream and Fantasy also have another restaurant for adults only called Remy which also require reservations. What about the nightlife? There are plenty of nightclubs and lounges located on all 4 ships.
Okay, so now that you have had some fun and relaxation of your own you want some family fun time. Each ship has family friendly pools and a water play area for the little tikes. The Dream and Fantasy both have a water coaster that pushes you over the side of the ship and back around in a clear tube down 765 feet into a lazy river. You must be 42” or taller to ride this water coaster. The AquaDunk is found on the Magic. Here you will stand while the floor beneath you opens up and sends you soaring down a clear tube, 20 feet over the side of the ship and down 212 feet. This slide requires you to be at least 48” or taller. Each of the 4 cruise ships have a water slide for the smaller kiddos in your group ranging from 38” to 64”. There are daytime deck activities hosted by a Disney cast member at various times in one of the pool areas on each ship. Many dining options are available which include quick service restaurants, rotational dining and 24 hour room service.  Character greetings can be found on all 4 Disney ships and are available throughout the day. If you are lucky you may just run into one of your favorite characters while walking around the ship. There is plenty of shopping for those souvenirs. Or for a special souvenir you can drop off a pillowcase with some permanent markers in a Ziploc bag at guest services on the day of your arrival. The characters will sign the pillowcase and it will be dropped off in your room during your stay. You will want to be sure to watch the beautiful display of fireworks. Once onboard you will need to check the daily newsletter for the show dates. For some fun entertainment check out the Broadway style live shows and musicals starring some of your favorite Disney Characters. You can also watch some first run films during your stay if you choose. Check out the Wide World of Sports aboard the Magic and Wonder where you will find basketball/volleyball courts, ping pong, shuffleboard, and a running track. Goofy’s Sports Deck can be found on the Dream and Fantasy where there is basketball/volleyball courts, virtual sports simulators, miniature golf, a walking track and ping pong/foosball.
Enjoy a hassle free excursion when you reserve a port adventure with Disney Cruise lines. There are many activities for people of all ages. If you need some expert advice you may check in with the Port Adventures staff once onboard for any questions you may have. If you decide to reserve your tickets online they will be waiting for you in your stateroom upon arrival.