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Upscale Luxury Family All Inclusive Resort – Review Of Finest Playa Mujeres All Inclusive Resort In Mexico


I really enjoyed this new resort which is located in a new area just 15-20 minutes north of Cancun.  Finest Playa Mujeres is part of the Excellence Group of Resorts which we have been sending clients to for years (Excellence Playa Mujeres, Excellence Riviera Cancun, Excellence Punta Cana and Excellence El Carmen).  Their “adult only” All Inclusive properties offer a quality adult only vacation experience with a high level of service and overall vacation quality.  So when I had the chance to experience their family friendly resort, I had high expectations.  Let’s just say, Finest excelled!  If you are looking for an upscale family all-inclusive resort, Finest Playa Mujeres will meet or exceed all your expectations.

The location is a big plus since it is just a short cab ride into Cancun, but out of the way of all the craziness of the city.  I find it also nice for those who have already been to Cancun and Playa Del Carmen and want to try a new area or for those with limited vacation time, this Playa Mujeres location is ideal.

     

The minute I stepped on property, I knew that Excellence Group had delivered a solid upscale family friendly all-inclusive experience.  All the details were in place from the stunning grounds to the wide variety of dining choices.  I hadn’t even gotten to see any of the rooms, beach or pool and I was already excited about what I was seeing.  As I walked along the pathways, the oasis of pools and landscaping was beautiful and all fringed by a 2 mile white sand beach.

The accommodations offered on property will fit any family comfortably.  You have your choice of regular junior suites with are nice and spacious and can even come with your own private pool or they have Family Suites which are an excellent choice for families with multiple kids.  This type of suite is hard to find in Mexico or the Caribbean. The family suites at Finest have a bedroom with two individual beds and another room with a King bed, so parents can have their privacy.  Of course the resort also offers luxurious story rooftop suites and an Imperial Suite so you can go as upscale as you like.  They also offer their Finest Club experience which gives you private check in and check out, a private lounge with concierge services, private pool bar, VIP toiletries and upgraded minibar, room service menu and more.

When you are not in your room, your kids can enjoy either the Imagine Kids lounge in the main lobby or the Imagine Kids club conveniently located in a central location where you can drop off your kids while you enjoy some “adult only” time.  The kids club has all kinds of activities and of course a water park where your kids can be supervised while they have a fun time.   In addition to all the kids programs and waterpark, you have 12 swimming pools overall and 4 are heated.  In the center of it all, you have the fun Aqua Bar where you can swim up and sip on a margarita or drink of your choice.

And you won’t be bored at the resort because the list of activities available at Finest goes on and on. They have everything from kayaks, windsurfers and paddle boards, to yoga, cooking lessons, beach volleyball, basketball, bicycles, table tennis and more. Or you can get your daily workout in at the Fitness Center which is equipped with all the latest equipment.   Need I mention the fabulous spa?  They have one and if pampering is what your vacation calls for, no problem!

Another quick mention of the dining options because I really think this is a huge asset for this property.  There are 9 various dining options on property and only one is buffet.  You have everything from Duke’s Lobster & Seafood, a Steakhouse, Italian, French, Mexican and Tapas to the spectacular Shoji which feature oriental flavors from Vietnam, Thailand, Japan and China.  Something for everyone, even the pickiest of appetites and Finest can handle dietary restrictions with ease, for example gluten free.

We work with a wide variety of resorts throughout the Caribbean and Mexico including other upscale family friendly resorts like Beaches Resorts, so please call, request a quote or shoot me an email. We can find the best fit for you and your family and do it at no extra cost!

 

 

 

 

New River Pool & Oceanfront Swim Up Suites at Sandals Montego Bay


The sexy new swim up suites and river pool at Sandals Montego Bay have been completed, newly renovated butler villas command a gorgeous oceanview and secluded location and affordable entry level and Club Level Rooms are steps from one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. So what’s keeping you from Jamaica mon? For years Sandals Montego Bay has had more returning guests than any Sandals Resort but like all well loved treasures it needed some TLC. Now, with a few million dollars of pampering, the resort is glowing with new life.

Minutes from the airport, Sandals Montego Bay is perfect for sun seekers that want to hit the beach soon after landing. The contemporary, light filled lobby is newly open to the turquoise sea so the moment you arrive you’re tantalized by glimpses of sparking water and beckoned to shed your winter clothes and embrace a barefoot lifestyle. Add a warm Sandals greeting with cool scented towels and tropical drink and you’re off to a great start to a romantic all inclusive honeymoon or vacation.

Beyond the lobby you’ll find a new Islands Routes desk ready book exciting adventures like ziplining or swimming with dolpins, spacious entertainment area and oceanfront bar. Old wood decks have been replaced with tile and incorporate cozy seating areas and romantic firepits overlooking the ocean. Restaurants have also been given a facelift but the big news is the brand new oceanfront river pool with swim out suites, beautiful new butler villas (previously called cottages) and luxurious Millionaire’s Suite. All are stunning and take full advantage of Sandals Montego Bay’s magnificent beach location.

    

On the left below is the view from the gorgeous new Romeo and Juliet Butler Villas at Sandals Montego Bay and on the right, the view from the all new Beachfront Walkout Club Level Room with Tranquility Soaking Tub. With all the enhancements MoBay is looking like a new resort but some things never change so here’s to the beautiful beach you’ve always loved at Sandals Montego Bay, the warm Jamaica sunshine and adult only all inclusive Sandals Resort service. Woohoo!

    

Need help choosing the best island or all inclusive resort for you? Have questions about Sandals pricing, specials and deals? We’ve been to all of the Sandals Resorts, guarantee the lowest price and will gladly help you compare Sandals vs Secrets, Excellence and other top quality adult only all inclusive resorts. Our service is free so call or email a honeymoon and all inclusive specialist and allow us to help you find the perfect spot for your next vacation.

 

Ireland in one week – Dublin, Kerry and Clare


If you crave an in depth Irish experience you’ll need weeks on the Emerald Isle but it’s possible to enjoy a great one week vacation in Ireland as long as you think about priorities and make choices before committing to flights and accommodations.

Rick Steves, Frommers and Fodors suggest different itineraries for a one week vacation in Ireland but we all agree that Dublin is the #1 priority and ideal place to begin your Irish vacation. The very diverse sightseeing choices include Trinity College and The Book of Kells, fascinating and sobering Kilmainham Gaol, fun but not so sober Guinness Storehouse and St Patrick’s Cathedral. You can do all four in one full day (start with jail and end at church) but more time will allow you to enjoy an excellent historic walking tour, National Gallery, St Stephens Green and the nightlife in Temple Bar. Most visitors should plan 2-3 nights in Dublin.

    

My #2 recommendation for first time visitors to Ireland would be County Kerry where you’ll find some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. Killarney is an ideal home base to explore the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, Killarney National Park, Skellig Michael, Muckross House and Ross Castle. A 3 night stay will allow you to see most of these sights and stop at the Rock of Cashel or Cork en route from Dublin.

#3 on my list is County Clare with the impressive Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle and other worldly Burren.  Then, if time permits, add Galway before returning home after your one week Irish vacation. But a word of caution! Some of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in Ireland weren’t at a tourist attraction. They were listening to live Irish music and sharing tall tales with the locals. So make sure your itinerary includes time for a local pub or two and consider a whiskey tasting tour.  You won’t regret it!

   

If you’d like help planning your trip to Ireland or next European vacation please call or email linda@totemtravel.com. I’m Totem Travel’s Europe specialist and happy to help.

Sandals Overwater Bungalows open in St Lucia May 2017


Hot off the press! Sandals Resorts long promised overwater bungalows will open in St Lucia May 2017.

Jamaica’s first overwater bungalows opened at Sandals Royal Caribbean last fall and I was fortunate enough to see them inside and out shortly after opening. They are gorgeous and, for the moment, the only overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, but in my well traveled opinion Rodney Bay’s calm turquoise water is a far better setting for an idyllic overwater bungalow experience so I am thrilled to see overwater bungalows opening at Sandals Grande St Lucian this year.

Bora Bora still has my vote for the best overwater bungalows anywhere but there are no adult only resorts or truly all inclusive resorts in Bora Bora so that fabulous combination of features has been brought together along with Sandals butler service for those seeking a romantic couples only vacation, luxurious honeymoon or special anniversary.

And speaking of anniversaries… Sandals offers one free night in addition to all the other great deals for couples traveling within 30 days of their anniversary. Restrictions do apply but they are not onerous so call or email if we can help you plan a special getaway. Perhaps an overwater vow renewal ceremony is in order? Check prices and specials or call or email us with questions. We’ll make it happen for you!

Best All Inclusive Resorts for 2017


Caribbean Journal’s article on the Best All Inclusive Resorts for 2017 included many Totem Travel favorites and while their top 25 list includes a mix of adult only and family friendly properties small and large it was dominated by resorts in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Mexico. This is great news for clients seeking an all inclusive vacation or honeymoon from Seattle as these destinations have good air service from the west coast as well as other U.S. gateways. Score!

With that in mind here are 10 of our favorites that also made the Journal’s list for best all inclusive resorts in 2017

  • Grand Velas – the service and food at Grand Velas Riviera Maya is at the highest level anywhere and yes, the resort is drop dead gorgeous.
  • Zoetry Agua Punta Cana – an intimate resort with sexy rooms and health conscious gourmet dining
  • Galley Bay Antigua – as Billy Crystal would say the beach is mahvelous!
  • Sandals Royal Caribbean – brand new and stunning overwater villas and bungalows
  • Le Blanc – an upscale choice in Cancun perfect for foodies and nightlife
  • Sandals Barbados – getting to Barbados is a little more difficult but the weather is awesome in the fall when other areas worry about hurricanes
  • Secrets Maroma – great beach, great service, nearby snorkeling, adult only
  • Hyatt Ziva and Zilara Rose Hall Jamaica – one is for families the other for adults and both at Hyatt standards
  • Beaches Turks and Caicos – the Disney standard for family all inclusive. It simply doesn’t get better.
  • Couples Tower Isle – new spa villas include treatments along with all other inclusions.

Still not sure which resort is best for your all inclusive getaway? We have been to them all and go back every year. Our service is free and we always guarantee the lowest price available so please call or email and let an all inclusive resort specialist help you plan the perfect vacation.

 

 

 

Totem Travel Seattle is Named Best of Best Sandals Agency for 2016


For more than a decade Sandals Resorts has named Totem Travel in Seattle a top travel agency. In 2016 Totem Travel was again honored as Best of the Best and the agency continues as the Pacific Northwest’s only member of Sandals’ prestigious Chairman’s Royal Club. Owner Linda Martindell was awarded a Sandals lifetime achievement award and both Linda and Patty are Platinum Level Preferred Sandals Specialists.  In 2016 Linda also became a Sandals Wedding Specialist.

So what does this mean to guests planning a Sandals honeymoon, destination wedding or adult only all inclusive vacation? You can get expert advice, personal service and Sandals’ lowest price from a travel agent that has been to every one of the Sandals and Beaches Resorts. If you are planning an all inclusive vacation, need help deciding which Sandals Resort is best, have questions about a destination wedding or family reunion group, are not sure if butler service is worth the extra cost or what activities can be found on each of the 8 Caribbean islands we hope you’ll call, request a quote or email and allow a Sandals Specialist to help. We offer all the specials and deals you see online and provide personal service at no extra cost.

 

Has anyone seen the overwater bungalows in Jamaica and Mexico?


We’ve seen the overwater bungalows in Jamaica and Mexico and with competitors like St Regis and Four Seasons Bora Bora would be hard pressed to choose THE most luxurious overwater accommodation but the new overwater villas at Sandals Royal Caribbean are definitely in the running. They are stunning and with 1800 square feet of luxurious appointments, private infinity pool, indoor and outdoor living areas, two glass viewing windows, fully stocked premium bar and butler at your beck and call it’s hard to imagine leaving once you’ve checked in. This level of pampering compares with 5 star resorts in Bora Bora but the setting, resort and island experience is very different so the Caribbean will appeal to some while Tahiti to others.

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The overwater bungalows at adult only El Dorado Maroma in Playa del Carmen Mexico are also lovely but Patty, our Mexico specialist, feels some guests may be happier in another room category. The same can be said of Likuliku Resort in Fiji where I often recommend deluxe beachfront bures rather than overwater.

So what should you consider when choosing an overwater bungalow for your vacation or honeymoon? In addition to room features and amenities our list would include travel time, weather, planned interaction with the water, preference for all-inclusive or independent pricing, nightlife, activities, off resort tours, language, food and culture. Let’s begin with French Polynesia and its crown jewel, Bora Bora.

Much of what makes Bora Bora exceptional is the physical setting with Mt Otemanu surrounded by a ring of low lying islets called motus. These tiny islands form a barrier to waves and tides creating a calm inland lagoon with shimmering turquoise water.  The lagoon is bathtub warm, almost that clear and home to vibrant coral reefs that feed thousands of brightly colored tropical fish. So a big part of the overwater experience in Bora Bora and the Maldives cannot be replicated in Mexico or the Caribbean because the physical setting is different and if you’re a diver, snorkeler or want to watch tropical fish through a glass viewing window nicknamed “Tahitian TV”, that’s important and you may only be happy in Bora Bora or another South Pacific island. Bora Bora fans also rave about the quiet setting, fabulous French chefs and spectacular sunsets.

But if you value a short flight, prefer an adult only all-inclusive format and plan to cool off in your private pool not ocean you may be happier in an overwater villa at Sandals Royal Caribbean. Your all-inclusive villa comes with butler service, fully stocked bar with premium liquors and espresso machine, choice of 8 restaurants and bars plus dine around privileges at two other resorts. Jamaica is closer, English is the primary language and weddings are easily arranged and free at Sandals Resorts. Nightlife and sports bars are available and there are more activities and off property excursions in the Caribbean than Tahiti. Many dates for the overwater villas with private pool and overwater bungalows at Sandals are sold out but there are pockets with space available in 2017 so please ask if you’d like help with a luxury included honeymoon or vacation.

Think about what’s most important to you then call or email your wish list and questions. Patty and I will be happy to help you choose the best resort for your overwater vacation or honeymoon whether in Mexico, the Caribbean or South Pacific. We’ve seen them all, our service is free and we guarantee the lowest price on everything we sell.

My new favorite adult only all inclusive resort in Mexico


I just can’t keep it a secret!  Secrets Akumal “Adult Only” All Inclusive Resort on the Caribbean side coastline of Mexico is one of my new favorite resorts for couples looking for a vacation sans kids or honeymoon couples looking for a tropical and romantic ambiance.  There are so many things I really like about this special property and  the resort not only compares nicely with other strong resort chains like Excellence, El Dorado’s and even Sandals Resorts in the Caribbean islands, but the location offers some unique and hard to find attributes.

Secrets Akumal opened last year and if you check out the reviews, the secret is starting to get out and everyone is in love with this beautiful resort.   Every detail has been thought of from the infusion of natural elements with modern amenities to the oceanfront infinity pool with the Caribbean as the backdrop, to the serene grounds with walkways and koi ponds throughout the property.  If you want to get away to paradise, look no further.  The charming fishing village of Akumal is just a ten minute walk down the beach if you want to access deep sea fishing or just take in the culture of the area.  Also only 15 minutes away are the Tulum ruins where you can explore and be marveled by the ancient Mayan people and how they lived.

     

Have ever noticed how most All Inclusive resorts in Mexico will say that non-motorized water sports like snorkeling are included, only to find out that means the will lend you a mask and fins so you can snorkel from the beach.  White sand and blue water is pretty, but without a reef system, that is about all you will see.  Secrets Akumal is located on a beautiful white sand protected beach with a large reef system just offshore.  You can actually check out a mask and fins or a glass bottomed kayak and see all kinds of colorful fish and even sea turtles which are known to frequent the reef.   So while you don’t have a snorkel boat that goes out to a reef daily like at the Sandals “couples only” All Inclusive Resorts in the Caribbean, you can still enjoy snorkeling just a few flips of your fins away from your beach chair.

And like their other Secrets properties in Cancun, Riviera Maya, Dominican Republic, Puerto Vallarta and Costa Rica, Secrets Akumal excels at offering a high level of service, and a nice variety of gourmet dining options.     The resort even comes with a unique beach bar where you can sip on your margarita sitting on your chair swing!  They thought of everything!

I have seen hundreds of resorts in Mexico and throughout the Caribbean and Secrets Akumal is on my top 5 list without question.  Linda and I love it when we find a new favorite or rediscover an old favorite that is back on top again like Sandals South Coast, so call or email us and we will share our knowledge and help you plan your next getaway at no extra cost!

A new Sandals Resort & contender for best adult only all inclusive


Sandals Whitehouse was a favorite all-inclusive resort for years, but things change and I’d heard some complaints so last week I flew to Jamaica to check out 10 resorts including all the Sandals Resorts. The verdict? Sandals Whitehouse, recently reopened as Sandals South Coast, is better than ever and gets my vote for best adult only all-inclusive and best Sandals Resort in Jamaica. But best is in the eye of the beholder and there are great Couples and Secrets Resorts in Jamaica as well, so what makes Sandals South Coast #1?

Here are 5 reasons I choose Sandals South Coast as the best adult only all inclusive resort in Jamaica –

1. The main pool at Sandals South Coast is stunning. It’s the size of a small lake, has a large swim up pool bar, underwater lounges, oversized jacuzzi and beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea. At night this pool becomes a shimmering centerpiece for the romantic Italian inspired piazza and glows with underwater lights and tiki torches. There’s a second oceanfront pool with swim up pool bar and jacuzzi and in between lies one of the largest heated jacuzzis in the Caribbean, Bottom line? Pool people have lots of choices all steps from the beach and ocean. That’s the best of both worlds and the best you’ll find at an adult only all-inclusive resort in Jamaica!

2. Beach beach beach. Did I mention the beach? The beach at Sandals South Coast is back and better than ever. The generous expanse of sand provides room to spread out and plenty of lounge chairs for sun worshippers and shade lovers alike. Walkers and joggers have more than a mile to stretch their legs and though the beach is not technically private, no one else has access so your barefoot strolls remain undisturbed. Negril has 7 mile beach but you’ll share it with dozens of resorts, kids, security guards and vendors so in my beach lovin’ opinion Sandals South Coast newly reclaimed beach takes best prize.

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3. Tropical weather and bathtub warm water calls for lots of watersports and Sandals South Coast offers complimentary snorkel trips, a glass bottom boat, waterskiing, wakeboarding, stand up paddle boards, windsurfing, kayaks, sailing and scuba diving. Land sports also abound including tennis, squash, basketball, shuffleboard, ping pong, billiards and well equipped fitness center. All land and water sports are free and activities another “best in class” for Sandals South Coast.

4. But what about rooms? Sandals Whitehouse was known for 100% beachfront rooms and every room at the new Sandals South Coast is steps from the beach. So every guest can enjoy an ocean view and soothing sound of gentle waves from their private balcony or patio. The new resort adds beautifully remodeled club level rooms and butler suites where the decor is light and airy and feature walk in showers, soaking tubs, fully stocked in room bar, room service and other luxury amenities.

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5. Dining is very important at any all-inclusive resort and Sandals South Coast has 9 restaurants. Whether you crave steak, sushi, seafood, Caribbean specialties, Italian, French, Asian or wood fired pizza you’ll find it and you always have the option to dine indoors in air conditioned comfort or outside in the balmy breeze. Only one restaurant at Sandals South Coast has a dress code and only one requires reservations so you can relax and enjoy an elegant or casual dining experience whenever you’d like. Dining at Sandals South Coast is truly dining your way.

Those are 5 reasons for choosing Sandals South Coast as the #1 adult only all-inclusive resort in Jamaica but there’s more!

  • The service is excellent and every employee from gardener to front desk was unfailingly friendly on my recent visit. Chefs came out to greet us, servers burst into song over dessert and bartenders entertained with their usual flare. There is no shortage of fun at this resort.
  • Sandals South Coast has amazing venues for destination weddings and groups. Weddings are free, the group program starts with as few as 5 rooms and with a brand new overwater bar and overwater chapel, acres of gardens, more than a mile of beach and indoor capacity to seat 350 this resort is one of the best choices anywhere for a destination wedding.
  • The spa is fabulous and the sauna, steam, hot/cold plunge pools are free. Extra special treatments include a one hour couples massage followed by ½ hour soak in a flower filled tub for two. If you’re looking for the perfect honeymoon surprise or wedding gift check it out and don’t forget spa treatments and private candlelight dinners can be part of your honeymoon gift registry.
  • Lush gardens overflow with exotic tropical flowers and walkways meander through greenery and along the sparkling sea so strolling the grounds at South Coast is a sensual pleasure. You’ll find couples hand in hand, lingering in a hammock and photographing peacocks and hummingbirds. Sandals South Coast is a place to relax, unwind and reconnect.

I’ve seen hundreds of all-inclusive resorts and in Jamaica like Couples Swept Away, Iberostar Grand Rose Hall and Secrets Wild Orchid, so what makes Sandals South Coast the best adult only all inclusive resort? Beach, pool, food, activities, service and more. Sandals South Coast hits on all cylinders, checks all the boxes and is the best overall choice for many of my clients.

So what do you need to know before booking a vacation or honeymoon at Sandals South Coast? If you have questions about prices and specials, weather, flights, room choices, off resort tours, scuba diving etc. please call or email and allow Totem Travel’s Sandals Specialists to assist. We’ve been to all the Sandals Resorts on all the islands, always guarantee the lowest price and are happy to help!

 

Best places to vacation in Jamaica


Jamaica is a fun destination full of white sand beaches, turquoise water, lively music, tasty jerk chicken and friendly smiles that welcome tourists every year.  The island is full of dozens of all-inclusive resorts which can make choosing the best place to stay over your next vacation very difficult.

If you are a couple looking for a romantic “adult only” or “couples only” all-inclusive ambiance to celebrate a special anniversary with butler service or honeymoon sans kids, we highly recommend starting with looking at one of the seven Sandals Resorts on the island. Sandals has been adding sexy new suites to many of their properties that would make any getaway feel special and they have been including activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing and other water sports for years.

Other good choices for this type of ambiance are Secrets Wild Orchid, Hyatt Zilara , Jewel Dunns River or one of the four Couples Resorts on the island. Each resort has something different to offer honeymoon couples and adults seeking an great all inclusive vacation.  For those couples who are looking for a more unique, smaller, upscale feel and quiet atmosphere, The Caves and Jamaica Inn are excellent choices.  If you want activities nearby like golf, swimming with dolphins, ziplines or unique activities to Jamaica like Appleton Rum Estate Tour, Floyd’s Pelican Bar or Rick’s Café, let us know and we will help you select a resort that allows you to easily escape off property and check them off your bucket list.jamaica-kids

For families looking for fun in the sun and Jamaican smiles, it really depends on your budget.  You can have two and three bedroom butler service accommodations and your water activities included at the super all-inclusive Beaches Negril Resort or you can stay close to Montego Bay for a quick family vacation at either the Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall or Iberostar properties which are all within 20 minutes of Montego Bay Airport.

Singles who want to have fun and spend time at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, might want to look at two new “adult only” resorts that have recently opened.  Close to Montego Bay and the famous hip strip, Breathless Montego Bay is lively, upscale and modern and Riu Reggae Resort is only one quarter mile from shopping and nightlife.

Wherever you decide to stay, be prepared to come back with a whole new attitude, hooked on Jamaican patties and humming Bob Marley.  Remember in Jamaica, there are “no problems, just situations”.  If you want us to help with your next Jamaica vacation, feel free to call (800) 321-7907 and ask for either Patty or Linda.  We will help make this your best vacation yet….no problem mon!

 

 

 

 

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