After a year like 2020, I have come to realize now more than ever the value of a travel agent’s services. If things like time, experience, and support are important factors to you, you should definitely consider the use of a travel agent’s services for your next vacation.
Travel agents do everything they can to make sure you have the best vacation possible. Our value starts before we even talk to you! We continually do trainings and tours to stay up to date on everything in the travel world. From before we meet you to way after you return from your vacation, we are here to help travelers. So, what specific benefits are there to you for using a travel agent?
Here are the 5 most important reasons to use a travel agent:
1. Use a Travel Agent to Reduce Stress
Travel is complicated these days. Planning a vacation can be very stressful. From worrying about weather, to flight delays, to current travel requirements that change almost daily, to wondering if you’re picking the right hotel for your trip, and so much more, there are a lot of pieces to consider that go into planning a great vacation. Save your sanity and use a travel agent to reduce your stress. My motto is: I am here to help you travel more and stress less!
2. Expert Experience
Did you know that during one of my work trips to Jamaica I toured 18 different resorts in 3 days? Yeah, it’s pretty crazy, but because of this I know the best options to recommend for your vacation because of experience. Travel agents tour resorts to truly get a feel for the experience. We build relationships with hoteliers and tour operators so we know who will go above and beyond for our clients. If you have a question about anything from day one of planning all the way to your return flight home, we probably have an answer because we have seen it all and experienced it first hand.
You use a hairdresser to cut your hair, a financial advisor to help with finances, and a mechanic to fix your car. Why wouldn’t you use an expert, a travel agent, with one of your biggest investments – travel?
3. Use a Travel Agent to Elevate Your Experience
Travel agents are experts in travel, which comes with benefits for our clients. Travel agents build relationships with hotels and travel partners all over the globe to be able to give you exclusive VIP service and insider access. Are you a honeymoon couple? I know the resorts that will elevate your vacation with a room upgrade, champagne, candle-lit dinner on the beach, and more. Are you celebrating a milestone birthday? I know the hotels that will spoil you with decorations and cake throughout the day. You’re on vacation, let’s make sure you have the best experience possible!
4. Personal Support
Travel agents are real people, not websites. If anything goes wrong, I have your back. I care about each and every one of my clients. Especially today when everything seems to be changing in the travel industry daily, it’s important to have a human on your side to help you navigate. Travel agents are there to help answer any and all questions you have. And most importantly, we are there for you if anything goes wrong. There is nothing more reassuring than knowing you have a human on your side to help reduce stress, too!
5. Use a Travel Agent to Save You Time
Travel agents came to be before the wonderful thing called the internet. It was incredibly difficult to book your own travel before the internet. Then the internet came and the act of booking a hotel, air, and car rentals became pretty easy. But now this wonderful tool has become incredibly overwhelming. Did you know that Cancun alone has around 30,000 hotel rooms. And that isn’t counting Riviera Maya. How are you supposed to dig through the numerous resort options to pick the right one for your vacation? And if you do find one you like, how can you guarantee it will actually provide the quality they state on their website? And what about all the new travel regulations in place? How are you supposed to stay up to date with all the new rules for testing, quarantining, and more?!
Planning your vacation shouldn’t take you more time than the actual trip! Since we work every day in the travel world, we can easily cut through the maze of selections online. Based on our expert experience, we can create a customized itinerary ideal for your vacation. All while saving you precious time.
Your travels are one of your most important investments- of time, money, and life experience. Why NOT use a travel agent? Here are the types of vacations you should definitely use a travel agent.
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Where are my wine lovers at? Combining two passions, wine and travel, make for a uniquely memorable vacation. For all the benefits of a wine river cruise, head to my blog post that goes into detail on why you should join a river cruise. If you are on this blog post, you are probably looking for some ideas for a river cruise for wine lovers! Can you pick just one?
Here are my 5 favorite river cruise itineraries for wine lovers:
1. Taste of Bordeaux
If your favorite wine is from France’s wine capital, Bordeaux, this river cruise would be perfect for you. Along the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers, you will stop in Libourne, Blaye, Bourg, Pauillac, and Cadillac to enjoy timeless vineyards and delicious wine tastings. This river cruise itinerary highlights everything wonderful about France, food, wine, and culture.
2. Flavors of Portugal and Spain Wine River Cruise
Do you prefer the sweeter taste of Port Wine? Then float along the Duoro River that winds through Portugal and Spain, the heart of where Port Wine is made. You can also enjoy Northern Portugal’s most famous wines called Vinho Verde, meaning young wine. It is meant to be drunk within a year of bottling.
3. Gems of Southeast Europe
This wine river cruise itinerary takes you to a lesser-traveled part of the Danube River. You get to visit Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Serbia, and Romania. With an enormous amount of history to see and learn about, you will also be able to tour and taste unique wineries. Some of these local wineries include the Calafat region, Cellar Panajotvic with their popular blend of a semi-sweet white known as Seherezada and a Leventa wine tasting. The wine-focused and history-focused excursions are endless on this river cruise.
4. Enchanting Rhine Wine River Cruise
This wine river cruise along the Rhine River brings you back to medieval times with castles and wineries. In Breisach, Germany, taste their famous Alsatian wines. Taste Riesling wines in Rudesheim, Germany while hiking through the vineyards. If you need a break from wine, you can try authentic Kolsch, Cologne’s legendary beer, or try Germany’s famous Rudesheimer coffee.
5. Melodies of the Danube
Along the more popular part of the Danube River, you will visit Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, and Hungry. These destinations are ideal for combining your love for music and wine. In Vienna, enjoy a traditional Viennese wine and music evening. Next in Krems, experience a special wine tasting at Schloss Gobelsburg, formerly a monastery, which is one of the oldest wines in Austria. In Weissenkirchen, take a walking tour of Durnstein and end with a wine tasting by locals along with special apricot treats.
You really can’t go wrong when pairing wine and travel. Will your favorite wine help you pick the perfect wine river cruise for you or will the destinations win you over? Email me at hello@thekesytotravel.com when you’re ready to start planning your next river cruise for wine lovers!
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It seems like Charleston, South Carolina continues to win award after award every year. They win awards like ‘America’s Favorite Small City’, ‘South’s Best City’, ‘Best Place to Propose in America’. This city is a perfect destination for an anniversary weekend with your significant other. Here are some of the more romantic things my husband and I did on our anniversary weekend in Charleston. What would you add to the list?
Here is a guide to a romantic anniversary weekend in Charleston, SC.
What’s more romantic than watching The Notebook together before you leave home and then visiting the film locations around Charleston? I’ve put together a self-guided tour of some of the most famous Notebook film locations around Charleston. Check it out here. Make sure you set aside enough time for the tour. It took me almost a full day to see and explore each spot.
Explore the Hidden Alleyways
One of my favorite parts about my trip to Charleston was just walking around downtown and finding all the hidden alleyways. It is a great way to get a feel for the city along with the history. Here are some of my favorite alleyways:
One way to learn a lot about the history of Charleston is to take a horse drawn carriage tour. It is fun to walk around the city on your own, but taking a carriage ride tour helps you lean the history and stories behind the homes and spots around the city! And if you have been walking for awhile, it’s a nice way to relax.
This was another part of the trip to Charleston that I absolutely loved. We took a ferry with Coastal Expeditions to Bull Island. It’s a half-hour boat ride to the island. You get about 4 hours to explore, and then a half-hour boat ride back. We got to see dolphins, a ton of alligators, and I found a few sand dollars! Make sure you bring bug spray if you come to Bull Island. The mosquitos everywhere but the beach are relentless.
I highly recommend taking a tour with Coastal Expeditions. We were able to explore on our own, but there are other options that are more guided. Pick the one that fits your style!
Where to Eat and Drink in Charleston for Your Anniversary
Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, so I’m including two breakfast spots you have to try. First is the Vicious Biscuit. Technically, this restaurant is located in Mt. Pleasant. It is worth the drive for their amazing biscuit dishes. I don’t know how they do it, but the biscuits taste different here than anywhere else I’ve had them. They are so delicious, and the creative ways they build them into every dish is incredible. I ate my “Ranchero” biscuit way too quickly to take a photo!
Millers All Day is another fantastic breakfast spot. We ate here before our day of exploring the hidden alleyways. It’s a great spot to fuel up. Make sure to start off with a biscuit cinnamon roll. You will regret it if you don’t! Also, I am obsessed with their interior decorating. When we do our kitchen remodel, it will look like the inside of Millers All Day!
If you are a guest staying at Zero George Street, a daily happy hour of wine and cheese is included in your stay. If you’re not staying at Zero George Street, make sure to stop by in-between 5:00 pm-6:00 pm for their daily happy hour before your dinner. There are cozy, romantic spots throughout the property to enjoy your delicious wine and cheese. It’s a great way to start a romantic evening with your significant other!
Another great happy hour spot is Indaco. It’s an Italian food & wine spot on King Street. Happy hour is Tuesday-Tuesday from 5:00pm – 7:00pm at the bar. I had their house rose, which was delicious and not too sweet. Indaco is really close to The Darling Oyster Bar, so weI started off happy hour at Indaco and then walked to dinner at The Darling Oyster Bar.
Splurge a little for your anniversary dinner and eat at The Darling Oyster Bar. I wish I could have eaten here every night. I’m not a big oyster fan, but the mussels and scallops were incredible. Whenever I travel to the coast, I have to have seafood. You will not be disappointed by The Darling Oyster Bar’s seafood selection. Make sure to make a reservation because their tables fill up quickly.
Where to Stay
There are many options to choose from for accommodations in Charleston. To find the perfect accommodation for you and your significant other for your anniversary weekend in Charleston, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com.
Have you visited Charleston? What are your favorite things to see and do?
Let me know when you’re ready for an anniversary weekend trip to charleston and I will put together a customized itinerary for you and your significant other!
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The Notebook – do you love it or hate it? For me, a great love story with Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams is definitely a win. When I started planning our trip to Charleston, South Carolina, seeing some of The Notebook film locations was at the top of my to-do list. There are four main filming locations around Charleston, South Carolina that you can visit (aka not private property). It took me a full day to see them all, so make sure to budget enough time!
Here are The Notebook film locations that can be seen around Charleston:
Allie’s Summer Home
Allie’s summer home was filmed at Boone Hall Plantation. You can take a tour of the inside of the mansion as well as the entire Boone Hall Plantation grounds. There is a lot of historical significance here, so much sure you set aside enough time to look around. The original slave cabins dating back to 1790 are still on-site to tour and learn from. A large garden in front of the mansion is alive and well. The Cotton Gin house built in the 1850s, a brick smokehouse built-in 1750, the beautiful Avenue of Oaks planted in 1743, and more can be seen while visiting the Boone Hall Plantation.
Boone Hall Plantation is about a 30-minute drive from Charleston and costs $26/adult to visit.
Inside Allie’s Summer Home – The Notebook Film Locations
The inside of Allie’s summer home was filmed at Williams Mansion, which used to be known as Calhoun Mansion. Williams Mansion is located at 16 Meeting Street in Charleston. As well as seeing the inside of Allie’s Summer Home, the tour will show you what being part of the wealthiest class in Charleston would have felt like. Admission is $17/person and tours are on the hour and half-hour.
Rowboat Scene with the Swans
The rowboat scene in The Notebook was located at Cypress Gardens. This was my favorite spot to tour, and I would definitely visit again. You have the opportunity to take a self-guided boat tour, which goes through the same area that Noah and Allie explored. Unfortunately, you won’t see the swans.
Fun Fact: Swans are not native to this area. In order to train the swans to follow the boat, they brought them in a month prior to shooting.
Cypress Gardens is a 45-minute drive from Charleston and has a $10/person admission.
Allie and Noah’s First Date – The Notebook Film Locations
Head down King Street in Charleston to see the location of Allie and Noah’s first date, The American Theater. It is located at 446 King Street. The American Theater purpose when it opened in 1942 was as Charleston’s premier movie house. Its main use now is as an event venue.
Are you a big Notebook fan? Which locations do you want to see when you visit Charleston?
Head over to my blog post for tips on things to do and where to eat for an anniversary weekend in Charleston.
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Sandals Grande Antigua is a 5-star, all-inclusive, adults-only resort in the Caribbean. For my 30th birthday, my husband and I had the opportunity to stay at this resort for a few nights. I have been wanting to stay at a Sandals Resort for a long time, and this first visit didn’t disappoint! I had a really great time and am excited to share my thoughts on the resort.
When you’re ready to travel to a Sandals Resort, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for help planning and booking your stress-free vacation!
Here is everything you need to know about staying at Sandals Grande Antigua.
Location of Sandals Grande Antigua
Sandals Grande Antigua is located on the Northwest coast of Antigua on Dickenson Bay. It is a quick 15-minute drive from the airport, which makes for quick and easy transportation.
The Beach at the Resort
For me, a beautiful beach is top priority for a tropical vacation. This Sandals Resort has one of the best beaches in their resort collection. It is located on Dickenson Bay, the top-rated beaches in Antigua. The sand is soft and pure white, looking perfect against the turquoise blue waters. If you are a beach person and are looking for a perfect tropical beach, this is it.
What is Included at Sandals Grande Antigua?
With an all-inclusive resort, you may be wondering what is actually included? Sandals Resorts go above and beyond the traditional inclusions in an all-inclusive property. Here is an overview of everything included in your all-inclusive package at Sandals Grande Antigua:
Transportation to and from the airport
Gourmet unlimited dining, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and anytime snacks, at 11 restaurants
Unlimited premium liquors
7 bars, including swim-up bars
Stocked bars in every room
PADI-Certified scuba diving
Snorkeling
Hobie Cats, paddleboards, and kayaks
Professional instruction for water sports
Beach volleyball, basketball, and pool tables
Fitness center and unlimited land sports
Day and night entertainment
Free WiFi
All tips and gratuities
The Rooms at Sandals Grande Antigua
Sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming with the number of room categories that the Sandals brand offers. At Sandals Grande Antigua, I really liked having the variety. It allows you to truly have the vacation of your dreams. Make sure to talk to your travel agent (me!) to make sure you are getting the perfect room for your vacation.
Here are some insider knowledge when deciding which room category you should go with:
It looks like they are in the process of slowly updating each room at this resort. Just know that your room may not look as updated as the ones pictured online.
There are different room category levels with different inclusions. For example, unless you are a club level or above, you do not have 24/hour room service. If room service is important to you, pick out a club level or higher room category.
I had the opportunity to tour a few different room categories while at Sandals Grande Antigua, including the Caribbean Beachfront Grande Luxe Walkout Club Level, Mediterannean Club Level Suite, and the Mediterranean One Bedroom Butler Villa with Private Pool Sanctuary. Please let me know if you have any questions about the variety of room categories offered at this resort!
Caribbean Beachfront Grande Luxe Walkout Club Level
Mediterranean Club Level Suite
Mediterranean One Bedroom Butler Villa with Private Pool Sanctuary
Dining Options
You could easily spend more than a week at Sandals Grande Antigua because they have so many different dining options. I was there for only a short time, so I didn’t get to try everything (and menus and dining were modified due to COVID), but these were some of my favorites:
Bayside Restaurant for breakfast. Normally it is a buffet, but right now it is al la carte. Really delicious omelets!
Dinner at Barefoot by the Sea. I think this was my favorite meal. Delicious seafood right by the ocean.
Drinks at snacks at the Drunken Duck. At night we enjoyed some snacks and drinks while playing pool at the Drunken Duck.
Sushi dinner at Soy. It wasn’t the best sushi in the whole world, but there were a lot of options and it was fun to be able to try so many thanks to the all-inclusive feature.
Nighttime Entertainment at the Resort
Each night offers different entertainment options throughout the resort. There is live music, live shows, different theme parties, and quieter options like playing pool at the Drunken Duck or sitting by the fire pits next to the ocean. I’m not a big night party person (I enjoy going to bed early) but there was definitely enough entertainment in my opinion.
Insider Tips when Visiting Sandals Grande Antigua
One of the best views can be found on the top floor of the Cypress Tower. Head here at sunset for incredible views of the entire resort and ocean.
Sandals Grande Antigua is continually rated as the “World’s Most Romantic Resort” year after year for a reason. I feel like this resort is pretty spread out with a lot of small tucked away romantic spots. There are fire pits spread throughout the resort, swings to hideaway and cuddle on and plenty of private room options to pick from. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or honeymoon option with your significant other, I highly recommend Sandals Grande Antigua.
What questions do you have about staying at Sandals Grande Antigua? Are you ready to book your romantic getaway to Antigua? Email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com today!
For more information on things to do in Antigua for a couples vacation, click here!
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Mexico is a great vacation destination for many reasons. It is a quick flight from the United States. There are plenty of resort options to choose from. There are different activities to fit every traveler’s preference. And the beaches and weather are perfect. With so many destinations to pick from, how do you find the right one for you?
Below, I’ve broken down Mexico’s four main vacation destinations from the west coast to the east coast. I share a little about each of the locations as well as what type of traveler and vacation this destination would be great for. Which one will you pick?
Below you will find the perfect Mexico vacation destination for you:
Los Cabos
Where is Los Cabos? Los Cabos is located on the far west coast of Mexico on the Southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula.
Good to Know Most of the beaches in Los Cabos are not swimmable. This is because the tides are pretty rough. The main swimmable beach in Los Cabos is Medano Beach. If swimming in the ocean is a priority during your vacation, make sure to stay at a resort on Medano Beach, like Breathless Cabo San Lucas.
Who is Los Cabos perfect for? Los Cabos is a great destination for travelers who love to stay active. There is so much to do from water activities to land activities, to golfing, to nightlife and shopping. However, if you absolutely love to lounge on the beach and swim in the ocean, this isn’t the destination for you due to the strong currents and lack of swimmable beaches.
Los Cabos is a great Mexico vacation destination for:
Vacationers who love outdoor adventures, like ziplining, ATV rides, and days full of adrenaline
Golfers
Travelers who love the nightlife
Foodies
Whale watchers
Travelers looking for unique experiences, like swimming with the whale sharks
Luxury travelers looking for unique, high-quality resort options
Friends traveling together, like bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, or girl’s trips
Mexico Vacation Destination: Puerto Vallarta
Where is Puerto Vallarta? Puerto Vallarta is located on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Good to Know Although Puerto Vallarta is relatively close to Los Cabos on a map, the weather and climate are very different making these destinations unique vacation spots. Los Cabos has a desert climate and does not get very humid. Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate and can get very humid. Land activities in Los Cabos will have a dry, desert feel whereas land activities in Puerto Vallarta will have a jungle vibe.
Who is Puerto Vallarta perfect for? Puerto Vallarta is still one of the least visited Mexico destinations for my clients. Most people think of Cancun or Cabo when thinking of a vacation in Mexico. This leaves Puerto Vallarta with an almost still-to-be-discovered feel.
Puerto Vallarta is a great Mexico vacation destination for:
Families
Beach lovers
Couples
Cancun or Riviera Maya
Where is Cancun and Riviera Maya? Cancun and the Riviera Maya area is located on Mexico’s Caribbean coastline on the northeastern Yucatan Peninsula. This area makes up everything from Tulum to Playa del Carmen to Cancun and Playa Mujeres.
Good to Know With such a vast amount of options within this zone, pretty much any traveler can find a spot they will love in Cancun or the Riviera Maya. There are amazing beaches, Mayan ruins to explore, eco-parks, snorkeling, scuba diving, romance, luxury and affordable options, and nightlife.
Some of the best-rated beaches in Mexico, like Maroma Beach, are located in this region. However, this area has been fighting the Sargassum seaweed issue the past few years. The resorts work hard daily to clean it up but some days are better than others and most of the time the summer months are the worst. Take this into consideration if you are looking for a perfect beach destination for your next vacation.
Who is Cancun and Riviera Maya perfect for? Like I said before, Cancun and Riviera Maya are a great vacation destination for pretty much every type of traveler. With so many options, though, it can get overwhelming to find the right spot for you. That’s where I come in. Email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for help planning the perfect Mexico vacation for you.
Cancun and Riviera Maya is a great Mexico vacation destination for:
Honeymooners and couples
Groups, like destination weddings, celebrations, corporate retreats, and wellness retreats
Families
Beach lovers
Mexico Vacation Destination: Cozumel
Where is Cozumel? Cozumel is a small island in the Caribbean off the East coast of Mexico, just south of Cancun.
Good to Know My tip is to fly into Cozumel. It is a whole lot easier than taking a ferry from Playa del Carmen.
The beaches are not incredible here. If you’re vacationing here, you will be spending more time in the water or by the pool.
For a vacation with a lot of activities, I suggest staying at the Explorean Cozumel. They include daily excursions in their all-inclusive price. Read about my review here.
Who is Cozumel perfect For? Cozumel is the perfect travel destination for active travelers, specifically scuba divers.
Cozumel is a great Mexico vacation destination for:
Scuba divers
Nature and adventure lovers
Travelers looking for a lot of activities but with fewer people around
Which one of these Mexico vacation destinations sounds perfect for you? When you’re ready to plan your Mexico vacation, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for help making the planning, booking, and traveling process a lot easier!
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River cruising is a convenient way to travel as a group. Everyone is in one location with transportation provided. Travelers only have to unpack once, while getting to experience multiple countries and cities together. Whether you are looking to coordinate a friends, family, or women’s getaway group trip, a river cruise can be the ideal vacation option.
With so many river cruise itineraries out there, it is hard to narrow down to the perfect one for you and your friends. That’s what I’m here for! Below I break down five very unique river cruise itineraries that would be great for a trip with your friends. Once you get your ideas flowing, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com and I can help you plan, coordinate, and book your river cruise with friends.
Go on a river cruise with friends with one of these five unique cruise itineraries:
1- Wine River Cruise with Friends
Do you and your friends love wine? There are some incredible European River Cruise itineraries that take you through the best wine regions in the world. You will be joined by a special wine host and treated to a menu of exclusive wine and culinary experience on this cruise. Here are some more reasons why you should definitely try a wine-themed river cruise.
2- European Christmas Market River Cruises
Cruise down the Danube River or the Rhine River in Europe and stop at all the famous European Christmas Markets on this cruise. IT is a magical time of year to experience Europe with your family or friends.
If you’d like to join us on our group Christmas Market River Cruise in December 2021, click here for more information.
3- African Safari Cruise
I bet when you think African safari, you don’t think cruise. Well, combining a river cruise and safari into one adventure helps you discover more and experience Africa in a unique and exciting way. Normally on a safari, you see the animal’s behinds when they gather at the watering hole. But on an African Safari cruise, you will be enjoying their front side right from their watering hole! This is definitely a trip you will not forget. And what better way to experience it than with your friends or family?
4- Egypt and The Nile River Cruise
Again, I bet you don’t think of cruising when you think of visiting Egypt. Taking a cruise down the Nile River is definitely a unique way to experience the history of Egypt. A river cruise with friends like this will give you the opportunity to experience Egypt from both the land and water point of view.
5 – Tulip River Cruise with Friends
The Netherlands is famous for its tulips. Go on a river cruise through the countryside in spring to see and explore the breathtaking tulip blossoms. Bookend your cruise with a few days exploring the canals and windmills of Amsterdam.
Which river cruise itinerary do you want to experience with your friends or family? When you are ready to look into options, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com. I will help you find the perfect itinerary and help you create unique lifelong memories with your friends.
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With so many all-inclusive resort options in Mexico, it can be hard to decide which one is perfect for your group vacation. I’ve made a list below to make the decision process easier for you! When you’re ready to book your group vacation to Mexico, let me know and I can get you special pricing and extra benefits!
Here are the best all-inclusive resort choices in Mexico for your next group trip:
If your group loves to stay active on vacation, head to Explorean Cozumel. Unlike normal all-inclusive resorts, Explorean Cozumel includes daily excursions around Cozumel in their all-inclusive price. Some excursion options that are offered include:
Snorkeling
Paddleboard adventure
Sunset kayak tour
Visit to Punta Sur
Explore the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins
Stay active with your group while enjoying the all-inclusive amenities at Explorean Cozumel.
This resort is my favorite for groups that have a mix of families with kids and couples or adult-only travelers. Why? Because Hard Rock Riviera Maya is two resorts in one! There is an adults-only side of the property and a family-friendly side of the property. Adults can go between both sides, but kids have to stay on the family-friendly side.
Hard Rock Riviera Maya also has an enormous amount of entertainment options for both kids and adults.
Waterpark
Kids Club
Kidz Bop Experience
Natural Sea Cove
Night Club
Spa with treatments included at a 25% service fee
It doesn’t get much better than this if you need a resort for a group with a variety of needs and wants out of their Mexico vacation!
Best All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico for a Couples Group
Secrets Maroma Beach is a great all-inclusive resort for a group of couples. It is a resort often noted for honeymoon vacations, so it has a romantic vibe. But there is plenty of entertainment and fun throughout the resort to be able to enjoy with a group. Oh, and it’s located on Maroma Beach, one of the top-rated beaches in the world! The beach is expansive with such soft, white sand. Enjoy a day at the beach with your friends and then get a round of mini-golf in before your theme party night.
Secrets Maroma Beach won two awards with Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best, including Best All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico and Best Romance in Mexico. What a great all-inclusive resort option for a couples group vacation!
I can’t think of a better resort for a girl’s weekend than UNICO 20*87.
Spa treatments and excursions are included in your all-inclusive price for just a 25% service fee.
The 24-hour room service is actually really delicious
Every room has a hydro spa tub on the balcony or patio or a swim-up pool.
Every room has incredible views of the ocean.
Daily fitness activities.
There are enough photo spots around the resort to fill your Instagram for days.
I love this resort so much, that I put together a Women’s Treat Yourself Weekend in November 2021! Click here for details. I hope you will join us. You deserve a weekend of pampering. :)
Which resort do you want to go to with your friends or family? Email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com when you’re ready to start planning!
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I’ve already shared wine-inspired vacations around the world (read here). Now I want to dive specifically into pairing wine and river cruising. Did you know there are specific wine-themed river cruise itineraries throughout Europe? Well now you know… and now we need to get you on one!
Here are some of the main benefits of going on a wine river cruise:
1. Transportation is provided for you on a wine river cruise.
On a wine river cruise you get to enjoy as much wine as you’d like because you don’t have to worry about transportation! The river cruise takes you from one destination to the next. An added bonus is that you only have to unpack your suitcase once while seeing multiple European cities and countries in one trip.
2. Wine Hosts
One really unique benefit to a wine cruise is the inclusion of a wine host. Each cruise includes a wine host, who may be a winemaker, winery owner, regional wine expert, or certified sommelier. The wine host shares their passion through discussions and wine tastings on board. On shore, the wine hosts will accompany you to local wineries and vineyards where you’ll learn first-hand from regional European experts.
3. Try your favorite wine in the region it’s made.
Wine river cruises travel through famous wine regions throughout Europe. You can try sparkling Champagne in France, dessert wines like Port in Portugal, and dry Rieslings in Germany and Austria. Which region would you like to try? You can find me with a glass of Champagne in France or a Riesling in Germany!
4. Join special interest tours.
Included in your vacation on a river cruise are complimentary special interest tours with local guides. Take a visit to vineyards with excursions to nearby landmarks, like Amsterdam canals, Prague’s Old Town, and Budapest’s Parliament. You will have the opportunity to tour premier cellars and so much more. And depending on which itinerary you choose, you could visit one of the oldest wine vats in a wine cellar in Strasbourg. The white wine is originally from 1472!
5. Local wines for lunch and dinner included on a wine river cruise.
You can’t go on a wine cruise without enjoying the local wines! Included in your river cruise is local wine for lunch and dinner on board the ship. The chefs will perfectly pair your wine and meal for a truly unique experience each day.
Would you be interested in joining a wine river cruise? Email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com to learn about the variety of itinerary options to see which one would be perfect for your vacation.
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Antigua is the perfect island in the Caribbean for couples. With 366 white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s no surprise that Antigua has been voted the “Most Romantic Destination” in the Caribbean by the World Travel Awards 4 years in a row. I visited Antigua with my hubby and I agree 100%! Whether you are looking for a destination for your wedding, honeymoon, or just getaway together as a couple, Antigua has romantic options for you.
When you visit with your significant other, make sure to try these 8 things in Antigua for couples:
1. Antigua for Couples: Swim with the Stingrays
Have you swum with the stingrays? Don’t worry, these stingrays are gentle and friendly. Head to Stingray City on the north-east coast of Antigua to interact and swim with the rays in their natural environment. Have your photo taken or bring your Go-Pro so you and your significant other have a keepsake of this unique experience.
2. Day Trip to Barbuda
The island of Barbuda is a 90-minute ferry ride or a short flight from Antigua. Spend the day exploring caves, like Darby’s Cave, snorkel the crystal clear blue waters, and sunbathing on gorgeous pink sandy beaches.
3. Antigua for Couples: Go on a Sunset Cruise
One of my favorite excursions to go on with my hubby while on a tropical vacation is a sunset cruise. They are so relaxing, fun, and romantic, especially in a place with incredible sunsets like Antigua. You also may make a few friends! I would recommend enjoying a sunset cruise on the Caribbean side of the island since the waters are calmer than the Atlantic Ocean side.
4. Take a Local Cooking Class Together
Try to learn a new skill by taking a local cooking class together! Companies like Nicole’s Table teach you how to prepare a delicious home-cooked meal inspired by the flavors of the Caribbean. The classes are taught in a local eco-friendly Antiguan home. While cooking, you will use locally sourced ingredients to create a dish that will have you remembering the delicious dishes of Antigua.
5. Antigua for Couples: Enjoy a Private Moonlit Dinner on the Beach
Many resorts, like Hammock Cove and Sandals Grande Antigua, offer the option to have a private dinner on the beach. Some Caribbean Islands can be buggy and very windy at night, but I didn’t find this to be the case while in Antigua. This would be an ideal place to have a private dinner on the beach with your significant other!
5. Relax Together with a Couples Massage
Nothing is more relaxing and connecting than taking a day at the spa together. Stay at a resort, like Sandals Grande Antigua or Hammock Cove, with a high-quality spa with treatments for couples. Some spas even have massage classes that will teach you how to give great massages to your partner.
6. Antigua for Couples: Kayak through the Mangroves
Most visitors spend their time on the beach when in Antigua. Take a break from the beach and head inward. Go on a kayak trip through the mangrove lagoon! Tours like Lagoon Adventure Tour will guide you through the mangroves to a secluded beach for a private picnic lunch.
7. Hire a Private Driver to Show You Around Antigua
Hiring a local private driver to take you around the island for a day is the best way to experience Antigua, in my opinion. You can customize the stops you make. The driver will happily share the history of Antigua and take you to some hidden gems. You get to do it all on your own time at your own pace. And you have someone to take photos of you and your significant other.
Email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for help planning and booking your romantic vacation to Antigua!
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The 5 Most Important Reasons to Use a Travel Agent
/in Travel TipsAfter a year like 2020, I have come to realize now more than ever the value of a travel agent’s services. If things like time, experience, and support are important factors to you, you should definitely consider the use of a travel agent’s services for your next vacation.
Travel agents do everything they can to make sure you have the best vacation possible. Our value starts before we even talk to you! We continually do trainings and tours to stay up to date on everything in the travel world. From before we meet you to way after you return from your vacation, we are here to help travelers. So, what specific benefits are there to you for using a travel agent?
Here are the 5 most important reasons to use a travel agent:
1. Use a Travel Agent to Reduce Stress
Travel is complicated these days. Planning a vacation can be very stressful. From worrying about weather, to flight delays, to current travel requirements that change almost daily, to wondering if you’re picking the right hotel for your trip, and so much more, there are a lot of pieces to consider that go into planning a great vacation. Save your sanity and use a travel agent to reduce your stress. My motto is: I am here to help you travel more and stress less!
2. Expert Experience
Did you know that during one of my work trips to Jamaica I toured 18 different resorts in 3 days? Yeah, it’s pretty crazy, but because of this I know the best options to recommend for your vacation because of experience. Travel agents tour resorts to truly get a feel for the experience. We build relationships with hoteliers and tour operators so we know who will go above and beyond for our clients. If you have a question about anything from day one of planning all the way to your return flight home, we probably have an answer because we have seen it all and experienced it first hand.
You use a hairdresser to cut your hair, a financial advisor to help with finances, and a mechanic to fix your car. Why wouldn’t you use an expert, a travel agent, with one of your biggest investments – travel?
3. Use a Travel Agent to Elevate Your Experience
Travel agents are experts in travel, which comes with benefits for our clients. Travel agents build relationships with hotels and travel partners all over the globe to be able to give you exclusive VIP service and insider access. Are you a honeymoon couple? I know the resorts that will elevate your vacation with a room upgrade, champagne, candle-lit dinner on the beach, and more. Are you celebrating a milestone birthday? I know the hotels that will spoil you with decorations and cake throughout the day. You’re on vacation, let’s make sure you have the best experience possible!
4. Personal Support
Travel agents are real people, not websites. If anything goes wrong, I have your back. I care about each and every one of my clients. Especially today when everything seems to be changing in the travel industry daily, it’s important to have a human on your side to help you navigate. Travel agents are there to help answer any and all questions you have. And most importantly, we are there for you if anything goes wrong. There is nothing more reassuring than knowing you have a human on your side to help reduce stress, too!
5. Use a Travel Agent to Save You Time
Travel agents came to be before the wonderful thing called the internet. It was incredibly difficult to book your own travel before the internet. Then the internet came and the act of booking a hotel, air, and car rentals became pretty easy. But now this wonderful tool has become incredibly overwhelming. Did you know that Cancun alone has around 30,000 hotel rooms. And that isn’t counting Riviera Maya. How are you supposed to dig through the numerous resort options to pick the right one for your vacation? And if you do find one you like, how can you guarantee it will actually provide the quality they state on their website? And what about all the new travel regulations in place? How are you supposed to stay up to date with all the new rules for testing, quarantining, and more?!
Planning your vacation shouldn’t take you more time than the actual trip! Since we work every day in the travel world, we can easily cut through the maze of selections online. Based on our expert experience, we can create a customized itinerary ideal for your vacation. All while saving you precious time.
Your travels are one of your most important investments- of time, money, and life experience. Why NOT use a travel agent? Here are the types of vacations you should definitely use a travel agent.
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Best Vacations on a River Cruise for Wine Lovers
/in River CruiseWhere are my wine lovers at? Combining two passions, wine and travel, make for a uniquely memorable vacation. For all the benefits of a wine river cruise, head to my blog post that goes into detail on why you should join a river cruise. If you are on this blog post, you are probably looking for some ideas for a river cruise for wine lovers! Can you pick just one?
Here are my 5 favorite river cruise itineraries for wine lovers:
1. Taste of Bordeaux
If your favorite wine is from France’s wine capital, Bordeaux, this river cruise would be perfect for you. Along the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers, you will stop in Libourne, Blaye, Bourg, Pauillac, and Cadillac to enjoy timeless vineyards and delicious wine tastings. This river cruise itinerary highlights everything wonderful about France, food, wine, and culture.
2. Flavors of Portugal and Spain Wine River Cruise
Do you prefer the sweeter taste of Port Wine? Then float along the Duoro River that winds through Portugal and Spain, the heart of where Port Wine is made. You can also enjoy Northern Portugal’s most famous wines called Vinho Verde, meaning young wine. It is meant to be drunk within a year of bottling.
3. Gems of Southeast Europe
This wine river cruise itinerary takes you to a lesser-traveled part of the Danube River. You get to visit Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Serbia, and Romania. With an enormous amount of history to see and learn about, you will also be able to tour and taste unique wineries. Some of these local wineries include the Calafat region, Cellar Panajotvic with their popular blend of a semi-sweet white known as Seherezada and a Leventa wine tasting. The wine-focused and history-focused excursions are endless on this river cruise.
4. Enchanting Rhine Wine River Cruise
This wine river cruise along the Rhine River brings you back to medieval times with castles and wineries. In Breisach, Germany, taste their famous Alsatian wines. Taste Riesling wines in Rudesheim, Germany while hiking through the vineyards. If you need a break from wine, you can try authentic Kolsch, Cologne’s legendary beer, or try Germany’s famous Rudesheimer coffee.
5. Melodies of the Danube
Along the more popular part of the Danube River, you will visit Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, and Hungry. These destinations are ideal for combining your love for music and wine. In Vienna, enjoy a traditional Viennese wine and music evening. Next in Krems, experience a special wine tasting at Schloss Gobelsburg, formerly a monastery, which is one of the oldest wines in Austria. In Weissenkirchen, take a walking tour of Durnstein and end with a wine tasting by locals along with special apricot treats.
You really can’t go wrong when pairing wine and travel. Will your favorite wine help you pick the perfect wine river cruise for you or will the destinations win you over? Email me at hello@thekesytotravel.com when you’re ready to start planning your next river cruise for wine lovers!
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How to Spend an Anniversary Weekend in Charleston SC
/in United StatesIt seems like Charleston, South Carolina continues to win award after award every year. They win awards like ‘America’s Favorite Small City’, ‘South’s Best City’, ‘Best Place to Propose in America’. This city is a perfect destination for an anniversary weekend with your significant other. Here are some of the more romantic things my husband and I did on our anniversary weekend in Charleston. What would you add to the list?
Here is a guide to a romantic anniversary weekend in Charleston, SC.
Things To Do in Charleston for Your Anniversary
Visit The Notebook Film Locations
What’s more romantic than watching The Notebook together before you leave home and then visiting the film locations around Charleston? I’ve put together a self-guided tour of some of the most famous Notebook film locations around Charleston. Check it out here. Make sure you set aside enough time for the tour. It took me almost a full day to see and explore each spot.
Explore the Hidden Alleyways
One of my favorite parts about my trip to Charleston was just walking around downtown and finding all the hidden alleyways. It is a great way to get a feel for the city along with the history. Here are some of my favorite alleyways:
Take a Horse Drawn Carriage Tour with Old South Carriage Co
One way to learn a lot about the history of Charleston is to take a horse drawn carriage tour. It is fun to walk around the city on your own, but taking a carriage ride tour helps you lean the history and stories behind the homes and spots around the city! And if you have been walking for awhile, it’s a nice way to relax.
Visit Bull Island with Coastal Expeditions
This was another part of the trip to Charleston that I absolutely loved. We took a ferry with Coastal Expeditions to Bull Island. It’s a half-hour boat ride to the island. You get about 4 hours to explore, and then a half-hour boat ride back. We got to see dolphins, a ton of alligators, and I found a few sand dollars! Make sure you bring bug spray if you come to Bull Island. The mosquitos everywhere but the beach are relentless.
I highly recommend taking a tour with Coastal Expeditions. We were able to explore on our own, but there are other options that are more guided. Pick the one that fits your style!
Where to Eat and Drink in Charleston for Your Anniversary
Breakfast at Vicious Biscuit
Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, so I’m including two breakfast spots you have to try. First is the Vicious Biscuit. Technically, this restaurant is located in Mt. Pleasant. It is worth the drive for their amazing biscuit dishes. I don’t know how they do it, but the biscuits taste different here than anywhere else I’ve had them. They are so delicious, and the creative ways they build them into every dish is incredible. I ate my “Ranchero” biscuit way too quickly to take a photo!
Breakfast at Millers All Day
Millers All Day is another fantastic breakfast spot. We ate here before our day of exploring the hidden alleyways. It’s a great spot to fuel up. Make sure to start off with a biscuit cinnamon roll. You will regret it if you don’t! Also, I am obsessed with their interior decorating. When we do our kitchen remodel, it will look like the inside of Millers All Day!
Enjoy a Wine and Cheese Happy Hour at Zero George Street
If you are a guest staying at Zero George Street, a daily happy hour of wine and cheese is included in your stay. If you’re not staying at Zero George Street, make sure to stop by in-between 5:00 pm-6:00 pm for their daily happy hour before your dinner. There are cozy, romantic spots throughout the property to enjoy your delicious wine and cheese. It’s a great way to start a romantic evening with your significant other!
Happy Hour at Indaco
Another great happy hour spot is Indaco. It’s an Italian food & wine spot on King Street. Happy hour is Tuesday-Tuesday from 5:00pm – 7:00pm at the bar. I had their house rose, which was delicious and not too sweet. Indaco is really close to The Darling Oyster Bar, so weI started off happy hour at Indaco and then walked to dinner at The Darling Oyster Bar.
Romantic Anniversary Dinner at The Darling Oyster Bar
Splurge a little for your anniversary dinner and eat at The Darling Oyster Bar. I wish I could have eaten here every night. I’m not a big oyster fan, but the mussels and scallops were incredible. Whenever I travel to the coast, I have to have seafood. You will not be disappointed by The Darling Oyster Bar’s seafood selection. Make sure to make a reservation because their tables fill up quickly.
Where to Stay
There are many options to choose from for accommodations in Charleston. To find the perfect accommodation for you and your significant other for your anniversary weekend in Charleston, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com.
Have you visited Charleston? What are your favorite things to see and do?
Let me know when you’re ready for an anniversary weekend trip to charleston and I will put together a customized itinerary for you and your significant other!
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Self-Guided Tour of The Notebook Film Locations in Charleston
/in United StatesThe Notebook – do you love it or hate it? For me, a great love story with Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams is definitely a win. When I started planning our trip to Charleston, South Carolina, seeing some of The Notebook film locations was at the top of my to-do list. There are four main filming locations around Charleston, South Carolina that you can visit (aka not private property). It took me a full day to see them all, so make sure to budget enough time!
Here are The Notebook film locations that can be seen around Charleston:
Allie’s Summer Home
Allie’s summer home was filmed at Boone Hall Plantation. You can take a tour of the inside of the mansion as well as the entire Boone Hall Plantation grounds. There is a lot of historical significance here, so much sure you set aside enough time to look around. The original slave cabins dating back to 1790 are still on-site to tour and learn from. A large garden in front of the mansion is alive and well. The Cotton Gin house built in the 1850s, a brick smokehouse built-in 1750, the beautiful Avenue of Oaks planted in 1743, and more can be seen while visiting the Boone Hall Plantation.
Boone Hall Plantation is about a 30-minute drive from Charleston and costs $26/adult to visit.
Inside Allie’s Summer Home – The Notebook Film Locations
The inside of Allie’s summer home was filmed at Williams Mansion, which used to be known as Calhoun Mansion. Williams Mansion is located at 16 Meeting Street in Charleston. As well as seeing the inside of Allie’s Summer Home, the tour will show you what being part of the wealthiest class in Charleston would have felt like. Admission is $17/person and tours are on the hour and half-hour.
Rowboat Scene with the Swans
The rowboat scene in The Notebook was located at Cypress Gardens. This was my favorite spot to tour, and I would definitely visit again. You have the opportunity to take a self-guided boat tour, which goes through the same area that Noah and Allie explored. Unfortunately, you won’t see the swans.
Fun Fact: Swans are not native to this area. In order to train the swans to follow the boat, they brought them in a month prior to shooting.
Cypress Gardens is a 45-minute drive from Charleston and has a $10/person admission.
Allie and Noah’s First Date – The Notebook Film Locations
Head down King Street in Charleston to see the location of Allie and Noah’s first date, The American Theater. It is located at 446 King Street. The American Theater purpose when it opened in 1942 was as Charleston’s premier movie house. Its main use now is as an event venue.
Are you a big Notebook fan? Which locations do you want to see when you visit Charleston?
Head over to my blog post for tips on things to do and where to eat for an anniversary weekend in Charleston.
For help planning your trip to Charleston, South Carolina, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com.
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Everything You Need to Know About Staying at Sandals Grande Antigua
/in Hotels, The CaribbeanSandals Grande Antigua is a 5-star, all-inclusive, adults-only resort in the Caribbean. For my 30th birthday, my husband and I had the opportunity to stay at this resort for a few nights. I have been wanting to stay at a Sandals Resort for a long time, and this first visit didn’t disappoint! I had a really great time and am excited to share my thoughts on the resort.
When you’re ready to travel to a Sandals Resort, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for help planning and booking your stress-free vacation!
Here is everything you need to know about staying at Sandals Grande Antigua.
Location of Sandals Grande Antigua
Sandals Grande Antigua is located on the Northwest coast of Antigua on Dickenson Bay. It is a quick 15-minute drive from the airport, which makes for quick and easy transportation.
The Beach at the Resort
For me, a beautiful beach is top priority for a tropical vacation. This Sandals Resort has one of the best beaches in their resort collection. It is located on Dickenson Bay, the top-rated beaches in Antigua. The sand is soft and pure white, looking perfect against the turquoise blue waters. If you are a beach person and are looking for a perfect tropical beach, this is it.
What is Included at Sandals Grande Antigua?
With an all-inclusive resort, you may be wondering what is actually included? Sandals Resorts go above and beyond the traditional inclusions in an all-inclusive property. Here is an overview of everything included in your all-inclusive package at Sandals Grande Antigua:
The Rooms at Sandals Grande Antigua
Sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming with the number of room categories that the Sandals brand offers. At Sandals Grande Antigua, I really liked having the variety. It allows you to truly have the vacation of your dreams. Make sure to talk to your travel agent (me!) to make sure you are getting the perfect room for your vacation.
Here are some insider knowledge when deciding which room category you should go with:
I had the opportunity to tour a few different room categories while at Sandals Grande Antigua, including the Caribbean Beachfront Grande Luxe Walkout Club Level, Mediterannean Club Level Suite, and the Mediterranean One Bedroom Butler Villa with Private Pool Sanctuary. Please let me know if you have any questions about the variety of room categories offered at this resort!
Caribbean Beachfront Grande Luxe Walkout Club Level
Mediterranean Club Level Suite
Mediterranean One Bedroom Butler Villa with Private Pool Sanctuary
Dining Options
You could easily spend more than a week at Sandals Grande Antigua because they have so many different dining options. I was there for only a short time, so I didn’t get to try everything (and menus and dining were modified due to COVID), but these were some of my favorites:
Nighttime Entertainment at the Resort
Each night offers different entertainment options throughout the resort. There is live music, live shows, different theme parties, and quieter options like playing pool at the Drunken Duck or sitting by the fire pits next to the ocean. I’m not a big night party person (I enjoy going to bed early) but there was definitely enough entertainment in my opinion.
Insider Tips when Visiting Sandals Grande Antigua
One of the best views can be found on the top floor of the Cypress Tower. Head here at sunset for incredible views of the entire resort and ocean.
Sandals Grande Antigua is continually rated as the “World’s Most Romantic Resort” year after year for a reason. I feel like this resort is pretty spread out with a lot of small tucked away romantic spots. There are fire pits spread throughout the resort, swings to hideaway and cuddle on and plenty of private room options to pick from. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or honeymoon option with your significant other, I highly recommend Sandals Grande Antigua.
What questions do you have about staying at Sandals Grande Antigua? Are you ready to book your romantic getaway to Antigua? Email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com today!
For more information on things to do in Antigua for a couples vacation, click here!
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How To Pick the Right Mexico Vacation Destination for You
/in MexicoMexico is a great vacation destination for many reasons. It is a quick flight from the United States. There are plenty of resort options to choose from. There are different activities to fit every traveler’s preference. And the beaches and weather are perfect. With so many destinations to pick from, how do you find the right one for you?
Below, I’ve broken down Mexico’s four main vacation destinations from the west coast to the east coast. I share a little about each of the locations as well as what type of traveler and vacation this destination would be great for. Which one will you pick?
For even more help planning the perfect Mexicion vacation, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com.
Below you will find the perfect Mexico vacation destination for you:
Los Cabos
Where is Los Cabos?
Los Cabos is located on the far west coast of Mexico on the Southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula.
Good to Know
Most of the beaches in Los Cabos are not swimmable. This is because the tides are pretty rough. The main swimmable beach in Los Cabos is Medano Beach. If swimming in the ocean is a priority during your vacation, make sure to stay at a resort on Medano Beach, like Breathless Cabo San Lucas.
Who is Los Cabos perfect for?
Los Cabos is a great destination for travelers who love to stay active. There is so much to do from water activities to land activities, to golfing, to nightlife and shopping. However, if you absolutely love to lounge on the beach and swim in the ocean, this isn’t the destination for you due to the strong currents and lack of swimmable beaches.
Los Cabos is a great Mexico vacation destination for:
Mexico Vacation Destination: Puerto Vallarta
Where is Puerto Vallarta?
Puerto Vallarta is located on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Good to Know
Although Puerto Vallarta is relatively close to Los Cabos on a map, the weather and climate are very different making these destinations unique vacation spots. Los Cabos has a desert climate and does not get very humid. Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate and can get very humid. Land activities in Los Cabos will have a dry, desert feel whereas land activities in Puerto Vallarta will have a jungle vibe.
Who is Puerto Vallarta perfect for?
Puerto Vallarta is still one of the least visited Mexico destinations for my clients. Most people think of Cancun or Cabo when thinking of a vacation in Mexico. This leaves Puerto Vallarta with an almost still-to-be-discovered feel.
Puerto Vallarta is a great Mexico vacation destination for:
Cancun or Riviera Maya
Where is Cancun and Riviera Maya?
Cancun and the Riviera Maya area is located on Mexico’s Caribbean coastline on the northeastern Yucatan Peninsula. This area makes up everything from Tulum to Playa del Carmen to Cancun and Playa Mujeres.
Good to Know
With such a vast amount of options within this zone, pretty much any traveler can find a spot they will love in Cancun or the Riviera Maya. There are amazing beaches, Mayan ruins to explore, eco-parks, snorkeling, scuba diving, romance, luxury and affordable options, and nightlife.
Some of the best-rated beaches in Mexico, like Maroma Beach, are located in this region. However, this area has been fighting the Sargassum seaweed issue the past few years. The resorts work hard daily to clean it up but some days are better than others and most of the time the summer months are the worst. Take this into consideration if you are looking for a perfect beach destination for your next vacation.
Who is Cancun and Riviera Maya perfect for?
Like I said before, Cancun and Riviera Maya are a great vacation destination for pretty much every type of traveler. With so many options, though, it can get overwhelming to find the right spot for you. That’s where I come in. Email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for help planning the perfect Mexico vacation for you.
Cancun and Riviera Maya is a great Mexico vacation destination for:
Mexico Vacation Destination: Cozumel
Where is Cozumel?
Cozumel is a small island in the Caribbean off the East coast of Mexico, just south of Cancun.
Good to Know
My tip is to fly into Cozumel. It is a whole lot easier than taking a ferry from Playa del Carmen.
The beaches are not incredible here. If you’re vacationing here, you will be spending more time in the water or by the pool.
For a vacation with a lot of activities, I suggest staying at the Explorean Cozumel. They include daily excursions in their all-inclusive price. Read about my review here.
Who is Cozumel perfect For?
Cozumel is the perfect travel destination for active travelers, specifically scuba divers.
Cozumel is a great Mexico vacation destination for:
Which one of these Mexico vacation destinations sounds perfect for you? When you’re ready to plan your Mexico vacation, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for help making the planning, booking, and traveling process a lot easier!
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River Cruise with Friends: Unique cruise itineraries to try
/in Group Vacation, River CruiseRiver cruising is a convenient way to travel as a group. Everyone is in one location with transportation provided. Travelers only have to unpack once, while getting to experience multiple countries and cities together. Whether you are looking to coordinate a friends, family, or women’s getaway group trip, a river cruise can be the ideal vacation option.
With so many river cruise itineraries out there, it is hard to narrow down to the perfect one for you and your friends. That’s what I’m here for! Below I break down five very unique river cruise itineraries that would be great for a trip with your friends. Once you get your ideas flowing, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com and I can help you plan, coordinate, and book your river cruise with friends.
Go on a river cruise with friends with one of these five unique cruise itineraries:
1- Wine River Cruise with Friends
Do you and your friends love wine? There are some incredible European River Cruise itineraries that take you through the best wine regions in the world. You will be joined by a special wine host and treated to a menu of exclusive wine and culinary experience on this cruise. Here are some more reasons why you should definitely try a wine-themed river cruise.
2- European Christmas Market River Cruises
Cruise down the Danube River or the Rhine River in Europe and stop at all the famous European Christmas Markets on this cruise. IT is a magical time of year to experience Europe with your family or friends.
If you’d like to join us on our group Christmas Market River Cruise in December 2021, click here for more information.
3- African Safari Cruise
I bet when you think African safari, you don’t think cruise. Well, combining a river cruise and safari into one adventure helps you discover more and experience Africa in a unique and exciting way. Normally on a safari, you see the animal’s behinds when they gather at the watering hole. But on an African Safari cruise, you will be enjoying their front side right from their watering hole! This is definitely a trip you will not forget. And what better way to experience it than with your friends or family?
4- Egypt and The Nile River Cruise
Again, I bet you don’t think of cruising when you think of visiting Egypt. Taking a cruise down the Nile River is definitely a unique way to experience the history of Egypt. A river cruise with friends like this will give you the opportunity to experience Egypt from both the land and water point of view.
5 – Tulip River Cruise with Friends
The Netherlands is famous for its tulips. Go on a river cruise through the countryside in spring to see and explore the breathtaking tulip blossoms. Bookend your cruise with a few days exploring the canals and windmills of Amsterdam.
Which river cruise itinerary do you want to experience with your friends or family? When you are ready to look into options, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com. I will help you find the perfect itinerary and help you create unique lifelong memories with your friends.
The Best All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico for Your Group Vacation
/in Group Vacation, Hotels, MexicoWith so many all-inclusive resort options in Mexico, it can be hard to decide which one is perfect for your group vacation. I’ve made a list below to make the decision process easier for you! When you’re ready to book your group vacation to Mexico, let me know and I can get you special pricing and extra benefits!
Here are the best all-inclusive resort choices in Mexico for your next group trip:
Bachelorette Party or Bachelor Party
Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort & Spa
Breathless Cabo is the ideal resort for bachelorette and bachelor parties. Here’s why:
If you want an unforgettable last party before you tie the knot, Breathless Cabo San Lucas is where you need to go!
Best All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico for an Active Adventurous Group
Explorean Cozumel
If your group loves to stay active on vacation, head to Explorean Cozumel. Unlike normal all-inclusive resorts, Explorean Cozumel includes daily excursions around Cozumel in their all-inclusive price. Some excursion options that are offered include:
Stay active with your group while enjoying the all-inclusive amenities at Explorean Cozumel.
Families/Multi-Generational Group Vacation
Hard Rock Riviera Maya
This resort is my favorite for groups that have a mix of families with kids and couples or adult-only travelers. Why? Because Hard Rock Riviera Maya is two resorts in one! There is an adults-only side of the property and a family-friendly side of the property. Adults can go between both sides, but kids have to stay on the family-friendly side.
Hard Rock Riviera Maya also has an enormous amount of entertainment options for both kids and adults.
It doesn’t get much better than this if you need a resort for a group with a variety of needs and wants out of their Mexico vacation!
Best All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico for a Couples Group
Secrets Maroma Beach
Secrets Maroma Beach is a great all-inclusive resort for a group of couples. It is a resort often noted for honeymoon vacations, so it has a romantic vibe. But there is plenty of entertainment and fun throughout the resort to be able to enjoy with a group. Oh, and it’s located on Maroma Beach, one of the top-rated beaches in the world! The beach is expansive with such soft, white sand. Enjoy a day at the beach with your friends and then get a round of mini-golf in before your theme party night.
Secrets Maroma Beach won two awards with Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best, including Best All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico and Best Romance in Mexico. What a great all-inclusive resort option for a couples group vacation!
Women’s Weekend
UNICO 20*87
I can’t think of a better resort for a girl’s weekend than UNICO 20*87.
I love this resort so much, that I put together a Women’s Treat Yourself Weekend in November 2021! Click here for details. I hope you will join us. You deserve a weekend of pampering. :)
Which resort do you want to go to with your friends or family? Email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com when you’re ready to start planning!
Why You Should Join a Wine River Cruise
/in River CruiseI’ve already shared wine-inspired vacations around the world (read here). Now I want to dive specifically into pairing wine and river cruising. Did you know there are specific wine-themed river cruise itineraries throughout Europe? Well now you know… and now we need to get you on one!
Here are some of the main benefits of going on a wine river cruise:
1. Transportation is provided for you on a wine river cruise.
On a wine river cruise you get to enjoy as much wine as you’d like because you don’t have to worry about transportation! The river cruise takes you from one destination to the next. An added bonus is that you only have to unpack your suitcase once while seeing multiple European cities and countries in one trip.
2. Wine Hosts
One really unique benefit to a wine cruise is the inclusion of a wine host. Each cruise includes a wine host, who may be a winemaker, winery owner, regional wine expert, or certified sommelier. The wine host shares their passion through discussions and wine tastings on board. On shore, the wine hosts will accompany you to local wineries and vineyards where you’ll learn first-hand from regional European experts.
3. Try your favorite wine in the region it’s made.
Wine river cruises travel through famous wine regions throughout Europe. You can try sparkling Champagne in France, dessert wines like Port in Portugal, and dry Rieslings in Germany and Austria. Which region would you like to try? You can find me with a glass of Champagne in France or a Riesling in Germany!
4. Join special interest tours.
Included in your vacation on a river cruise are complimentary special interest tours with local guides. Take a visit to vineyards with excursions to nearby landmarks, like Amsterdam canals, Prague’s Old Town, and Budapest’s Parliament. You will have the opportunity to tour premier cellars and so much more. And depending on which itinerary you choose, you could visit one of the oldest wine vats in a wine cellar in Strasbourg. The white wine is originally from 1472!
5. Local wines for lunch and dinner included on a wine river cruise.
You can’t go on a wine cruise without enjoying the local wines! Included in your river cruise is local wine for lunch and dinner on board the ship. The chefs will perfectly pair your wine and meal for a truly unique experience each day.
Would you be interested in joining a wine river cruise? Email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com to learn about the variety of itinerary options to see which one would be perfect for your vacation.
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8 Things To Do In Antigua For Couples
/in Honeymoon, The CaribbeanAntigua is the perfect island in the Caribbean for couples. With 366 white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s no surprise that Antigua has been voted the “Most Romantic Destination” in the Caribbean by the World Travel Awards 4 years in a row. I visited Antigua with my hubby and I agree 100%! Whether you are looking for a destination for your wedding, honeymoon, or just getaway together as a couple, Antigua has romantic options for you.
When you visit with your significant other, make sure to try these 8 things in Antigua for couples:
1. Antigua for Couples: Swim with the Stingrays
Have you swum with the stingrays? Don’t worry, these stingrays are gentle and friendly. Head to Stingray City on the north-east coast of Antigua to interact and swim with the rays in their natural environment. Have your photo taken or bring your Go-Pro so you and your significant other have a keepsake of this unique experience.
2. Day Trip to Barbuda
The island of Barbuda is a 90-minute ferry ride or a short flight from Antigua. Spend the day exploring caves, like Darby’s Cave, snorkel the crystal clear blue waters, and sunbathing on gorgeous pink sandy beaches.
3. Antigua for Couples: Go on a Sunset Cruise
One of my favorite excursions to go on with my hubby while on a tropical vacation is a sunset cruise. They are so relaxing, fun, and romantic, especially in a place with incredible sunsets like Antigua. You also may make a few friends! I would recommend enjoying a sunset cruise on the Caribbean side of the island since the waters are calmer than the Atlantic Ocean side.
4. Take a Local Cooking Class Together
Try to learn a new skill by taking a local cooking class together! Companies like Nicole’s Table teach you how to prepare a delicious home-cooked meal inspired by the flavors of the Caribbean. The classes are taught in a local eco-friendly Antiguan home. While cooking, you will use locally sourced ingredients to create a dish that will have you remembering the delicious dishes of Antigua.
5. Antigua for Couples: Enjoy a Private Moonlit Dinner on the Beach
Many resorts, like Hammock Cove and Sandals Grande Antigua, offer the option to have a private dinner on the beach. Some Caribbean Islands can be buggy and very windy at night, but I didn’t find this to be the case while in Antigua. This would be an ideal place to have a private dinner on the beach with your significant other!
5. Relax Together with a Couples Massage
Nothing is more relaxing and connecting than taking a day at the spa together. Stay at a resort, like Sandals Grande Antigua or Hammock Cove, with a high-quality spa with treatments for couples. Some spas even have massage classes that will teach you how to give great massages to your partner.
6. Antigua for Couples: Kayak through the Mangroves
Most visitors spend their time on the beach when in Antigua. Take a break from the beach and head inward. Go on a kayak trip through the mangrove lagoon! Tours like Lagoon Adventure Tour will guide you through the mangroves to a secluded beach for a private picnic lunch.
7. Hire a Private Driver to Show You Around Antigua
Hiring a local private driver to take you around the island for a day is the best way to experience Antigua, in my opinion. You can customize the stops you make. The driver will happily share the history of Antigua and take you to some hidden gems. You get to do it all on your own time at your own pace. And you have someone to take photos of you and your significant other.
Email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for help planning and booking your romantic vacation to Antigua!
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