Destination Mexico: Playa del Carmen

Oh I know that there is a slight fear factor when it comes to Mexico…but lets just put it out there. Yes, there are certain places in Mexico (and California, Chicago, Idaho… I could go on) that have problems.  What I can tell you is that Playa del Carmen is on the eastern tip of Mexico and is primarily all resorts.  What does this mean for you – a police presence that keeps its visitors safe.

One of my favorite hotel properties in Playa del Carmen is Condo Hotels.  Just as the name implies, the ‘rooms’ are truly complete apartments that have all the amenities of a much larger hotel property. LOVE IT! What makes this property really unique is that there are actually 4 unique properties, all within walking distance of each other.

Porta Playa is Mediterranean style with cascading waterfalls, lush tropical gardens and the penthouse has great ocean views.

Maya Villa, the newest property is already thought of as the ‘jewel of the playa properties’. The Jade colored Gecko mosaic and glass pool truly sparkles next to a 40-foot waterfall.

Villas Sacbe is super sweet and cozy.  Only 12 rooms, why not rent out the entire property?  This intimate boutique hotel offers a tranquil experience yet is only 1 block from the heart of their “5^th Avenue”. Honestly, once you enter, you’ll feel like you entered another world.

El Taj –This is their premier condominium. Between being 50 feet from the ocean, having a mosaic infinity pool and all the comforts of home, you won’t want to leave. If you want a beach wedding without the sand in your veil (and toes), then their penthouse offers sweeping views of the ocean under a giant thatched roof.  There are just so many options.

From a mariachi band, to fire-twirlers for a wedding for two or 300, you can have a package tailored specifically for your needs. There are so many wonderful benefits from having your wedding in Carmen del Playa and even more by staying at one of the Condo Property.  You may like it so much…you might decide to do a time-share to keep the memories alive year after year.

 

 

Destination Mexico: Now Sapphire and Now Jade Rivera Cancun – Shining jewels in Mexico

The Now Sapphire Rivera Cancun is the perfect antidote – a fresh enchanting retreat where your relaxation and luxury comes first.  Located 15 miles from Cancun Airport this spacious all-suite hotel is great for couples, honeymoons get together with family/friends and of course weddings.  According to their info, they have the world’s second largest barrier reef, and offer a wealth of activity and leisure activities with charming villages, shopping, golf, historic and ecological sites nearby.

From Spa sensualities, to suite retreats, you will want for nothing.  Your wedding will truly be a magical day and you have the opportunity to choose from two wedding gazebos, ocean front terraces, elegant ballrooms and best, dedicated wedding coordinators and event planners. For more information about this property, www.nowresorts.com -866-NOW-9953

If something a bit more off the path is in order then Now JADE is for you.  Gourmet restaurants – check, 24-hour concierge – check, Unlimited premium beverages…Double-check! Prepare yourself to be dazzled, be pampered and live live in the NOW…live and enjoy this moment.

This property is just 12 minutes from and a 10-minute walk from the fishing town of Puerto Morelos.  Just another option for the grooms if they want to take a day to go and see what they can ‘catch’. Personally, the barrier reef, provides what can only be described as heaven for snorkelers and divers – – yes you can go for your certification while you are there.

What I adore about both of these properties is the additional amenities they offer – private check in/check-out, Additional living areas, in suite Jacuzzi and complimentary wireless access, just to name a few.  This is truly the idyllic immersion with dining opportunities to rival any four-star restaurant stateside.

SO prepare for a delightful diversion and romance in triplicate.  This is the time for you both…Moments you deserve…yes, NOW. For more information about this property, 877- NOW-9953  www.nowrestorts.com

Destination Mexico: Rivera Maya Mexico will feed your soul

The Rivera Maya is a magical destination where the people are friendly, the food great and the value for the dollar is great. In other words, if you are looking for a destination wedding where your hard-earned money will get you far, this is it.

Chapels, gardens, beaches as well as waterfalls all await your arrival. From traditional Mayan ceremonies to underwater ceremonies, you choose and the people of Mexico will deliver.

Choose to have a traditional Kamnikte or Mayan Ceremony and your family and friends will be mesmerized not only by the tradition, but also their participation in the ceremony.

Hotels: Finding a hotel in Mexico won’t be a problem.  All are dedicated to making your wedding day a time to remember. In addition these hotels I can personally say have a designated wedding coordinator or wedding staff that will handle your needs.

El Dorado Royal, Ritz Carlton Cancun, Barcelo Deluxe (a personal favorite)

Tip: Check to see if your hotel offers rewards (like Starwood) when you book your wedding and use those points for your return trip.

What is a destination without thing to see and do?

Yes, your guests are there for your big day, they may make a long weekend out of it.  So offer some things for them to do.  Spa treatments to off-road bikes, zip-lining, deep-sea fishing or just soaking up the sun, your hotel will be happy to help.

Some tour options: X-Caret, Xel-Ha, Congo Bongo

I know you want to make your wedding memorable and mixing your surrounding, culture and feel is great. Why not try these:

Tequila tasting, Barbecue buffet, Late night fireworks, margarita bar, live mariachi band, butterfly release, walking through the town in your wedding dress and letting everyone congratulate you.

Destination Mexico: Mexico spices up wedding destinations

Let’s put this out there – ALL of Mexico has been getting a bad rap. That’s like saying ALL of anyplace is bad.  Don’t get me wrong, there are some areas that are really dangerous, but I would never go there, nor would I send you there. I’ve worked with the Mexico Tourism Board as well as Love Mexico to bring you information about some of the hot-spots as well as beautiful places for your wedding, honeymoon or just a long weekend trip to somewhere warm especially now.

Let’s talk about the places that you may know of and a few you may not

Cabo San Lucas: When ever you hear about a celebrity on holiday, they are heading to Cabo.  Let’s face it, it’s beautiful. If you like adventure, diving or an active nightlife, then Cabo is for you.  Charter a boat for a sunset cruise or walk hand in hand under the stars.

Cancun: Ok, known as the place to go for college break, it is truly Mexico’s most popular location.  But did you know that they have excellent snorkeling and an underwater museum? They also have their own 5^th Avenue filled with shops that is perfect for buying gifts for your guests – locally (thereby keeping the price down).

Rivera Maya: Eco-brides will love the white-sand beaches, the barrier reef and of course the Mayan ruins. Recently I participated in a Mayan wedding ceremony and it was truly so beautiful. From the biosphere, to the pristine beauty of Playa del Carmen, you won’t go wrong.

San Miguel: For 16^th century charm, lots of galleries and beautiful mountain scenery, this is the place for you.  Pick a small hacienda for your wedding and party the night away. Did you know this is the home of “Tequila”? Why not have a side-trip to one of the many factories or have a tasting at your reception. Truly it won’t be any fresher or better than here.

There is a lot of country to see, things to do, amazing food to eat and the friendliest people on the planet. Having gone three times I always find something new to do, see and enjoy. The next few weeks, I’m going to share Mexico with you I’ve loved spending time there and I hope you will too.

Destination Mexico: Playa del Carmen

Oh I know that there is a slight fear factor when it comes to Mexico…but lets just put it out there. Yes, there are certain places in Mexico (and California, Chicago, Idaho… I could go on) that have problems.  What I can tell you is that Playa del Carmen is on the eastern tip of Mexico and is primarily all resorts.  What does this mean for you – a police presence that keeps its visitors safe.

One of my favorite hotel properties in Playa del Carmen is Condo Hotels.  Just as the name implies, the ‘rooms’ are truly complete apartments that have all the amenities of a larger hotel property. LOVE IT! What makes this property really unique is that there are actually 4 unique properties, all within walking distance of each other.

Porta Playa is Mediterranean style with cascading waterfalls, lush tropical gardens and the penthouse has great ocean views.

Maya Villa the newest property, is already thought of as the ‘jewel of the playa properties’. The Jade colored Gecko mosaic and glass pool truly sparkles next to a 40-foot waterfall.

Villas Sacbe is super sweet and cozy.  Only 12 rooms, why not rent out the entire property?  This intimate boutique hotel offers a tranquil experience yet is only 1 block from the heart of their “5^th Avenue”. Honestly, once you enter, you’ll feel like you entered another world.

El Taj, is their premier condominium. Between being 50 feet from the ocean, having a mosaic infinity pool and all the comforts of home, you won’t want to leave. If you want a beach wedding without the sand in your veil (and toes), then their penthouse offers sweeping views of the ocean under a giant thatched roof.  There are just so many options.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

From a mariachi band, to fire-twirlers for a wedding for two or 300, you can have a package tailored specifically for your needs. There are so many wonderful benefits from having your wedding in Carmen del Playa and even more by staying at one of the Condo Property.  You may like it so much…you might decide to do a time-share to keep the memories alive year after year.

 

Destination: The Sunset Chapel – Acapulco, Mexico

I really love being able to bring you things that you truly might not see on other blogs.  For example:

Mexican designers Bunker Arquitectura have put the finishing touches on their latest project, the Sunset Chapel. The Sunset Chapel is located in Acapulco, Mexico, an area known for its stunning beaches and sunsets.

The chapel sits along the hills of Acapulco, an area dotted with massive granite boulders. Bunker Arquitectura designed the chapel to look like a massive granite boulder rising out of the ground. I think he was successful I mean it truly looks as if it belongs there and not something that was created.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Now, what makes The Sunset Chapel ‘unique’, it has two floors: the top floor functioning as a chapel and the bottom as a mausoleum. This of course gives new meaning “Until death do us part.”

If there are any couples out there who are going to Acapulco, check it out and let me know what you think.