Category

Honeymoons and Weddings

Nov 16
0

St Regis Resort in Bora Bora, French Polynesia – a Review

By | Honeymoons and Weddings, Luxury, Romance, South Pacific | No Comments

St Regis – The Name Says it All

There are few brand names in the world that evoke images of  quality, elegance and opulence the way that St Regis does. For over 100 years and since it was opened by one of America’s wealthiest men, John Jacob Astor IV, The St Regis Hotel in New York has been one of the most luxurious hotels in the world.

St Regis became a Sheraton in 1966, then Sheraton was acquired by Starwood in 1998 and it wasn’t long before Starwood began expanding the brand worldwide. One St Regis brand resort – the St Regis Bora Bora in French Polynesia, has an entrance and view that may be familiar – ever see the mediocre flick “Couples Retreat”?

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Truly one of the most impressive views in the world as the sun sets over the Island of Bora Bora….

This was the view that Vince Vaughn & company took in as they first arrived at their resort renamed “Eden” in the film.

You may remember some of the other shots in this post since various locations were used in the filming, so if staying in a resort that was used as the backdrop is a bonus for you, this place may be for you.

 

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This private “plunge” pool is a part of the villa where a little known couple recently Honeymooned- I think they said their names were Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman if I remember correctly – perhaps you’ve heard of them?

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The private patio pictured above and below are also part of this luxury villa that is available if your pockets are very, very deep….

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The St Regis in Bora Bora is one of over a dozen St Regis properties worldwide that stretch from New York to Aspen to Bora Bora to Abu Dhabi and beyond.

After visiting several luxury resorts throughout French Polynesia I have had time to reflect on my thoughts regarding St Regis Bora Bora. Actually my feelings are mixed.

I suppose I think that St Regis Bora Bora has one of the most impressive views in the world, but equally impressive are the Four Seasons and Le Meridien located in close proximity

I also think that the St Regis sported the largest and most luxurious overwater bungalows that I visited (pictured below)

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I also am confident that the bathrooms in the overwater bungalows (pictured below) were the most luxurious and offered a view of Mt Otemanu from the tub and shower-

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I know that the buffet offered on the night of their Polynesian Show was impressive

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I may never again drink from a prettier coconut…

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Overall is is difficult to poke holes in a tried and true luxury experience- From the Jean-Georges restaurant on site named Lagoon – to the view – to the grounds – to the bungalows, St Regis exudes luxury and status – yet, I was left a little cold.

Our small group of travel agents were treated like Kings at every other resort we visited throughout French Polynesia. We were wined and dined by the managers at nearly every resort we visited… world-class resorts, some with equally world-class reputations, but not at St Regis. Although we enjoyed the completely engaging company of a lovely associate, upper management was curiously absent. Although we enjoyed a wonderful Polynesian buffet, the Polynesian show was substandard compared to other shows we enjoyed elsewhere.

So is St Regis somewhere I would recommend to a client? Probably

Would St Regis Bora Bora be a good choice for a Destination Wedding? Of course, and they are kid friendly

Would St Regis Bora Bora be a good choice for a Honeymoon or Romantic celebration? Absolutely – the price will keep most families away and it is a completely lovely destination with world-class services and amenities

So my humble advice is this- If value is your motive there are better choices in French Polynesia.

If you want to stay away from the Riff-Raff (as if there were any riff-raff in French Polynesia) then this might be a good choice….until Octomom or The Kardashians decide they need a vacation…..then all bets are OFF

In any case just remember that EZTravelPad is here to help you sort it all out

Nov 04
0

Karisma’s El Dorado Royale Resort & Spa – a Review

By | All-Inclusive Resorts, Caribbean, Honeymoons and Weddings, Mexico, Romance | No Comments

El Dorado Royale- Reviewing an Adults-only All-Inclusive Resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico

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Recently I had occasion to spend a few days with my wife at El Dorado Royale, an adults only all inclusive resort south of Cancun, Mexico along the Mayan Riviera – or Riviera Maya. The verdict? Very good – read on for more of the review……..

El Dorado Royale is conveniently located only about 25 minutes from the international airport in Cancun and is comprised of 2 sections – El Dorado Royale and El Dorado Casitas. The 171 Casita suites are larger and feature private plunge pools and swim-up pools as well as mostly being located in closer proximity to the beach. Interested in experiencing a luxury suite with an outdoor shower? This may be right for you!

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Casita Suite at El Dorado

El Dorado Royale features 476 suites that all include 2 person in room jacuzzi tubs. There is no separation between the two resorts in one, all guests are welcome to use the facilities, bars and restaurants in either section.

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Jacuzzi Jr Suite at El Dorado

El Dorado is the adults-only brand of Karisma resorts, a resort chain that also includes the family friendly brand – Azul.

The adults only nature of this all inclusive resort makes it a perfect destination for Honeymoon couples and a great place for a Destination Wedding if there will be no children involved

Since I specialize in Honeymoons and Destination Weddings this was much more a business trip than a vacation (although I did celebrate a significant birthday while there). We spent alot of time checking out the wide variety of restaurants, bars and entertainment options. The highlight? Cuisine

Gourmet Inclusive

Karisma Resorts market themselves as “Gourmet Inclusive” meaning that they pay particular attention to the details of both food and beverages offered. With 10 restaurants and 13 bars (10 of them are swim-up bars) you certainly don’t need to go far to satisfy whatever appetite you have – and the quality of the offerings is quite good. In fact, many of the vegetables and herbs served are grown right on the property in a series of greenhouses that offer a plentiful wealth of organic food choices. Locally grown just doesn’t get any more local than this! BTW- I recommend checking out the tequila tastings – I never even knew that there was a tequila that was almost like Bailey’s Irish Cream!

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See more of El Dorado in this short video tour from our trip

Pools and Entertainment

With a wide variety of water sports, tennis courts, complimentary bicycles and 13 swimming pools you are certain to find plenty to do – and that doesn’t even mention the activities that are abundant – from water volleyball to water polo and plenty of other diversions, boredom is not an option- but relaxing sure is (had a couple of mid-afternoon naps and loved it).

In considering the service, quality, amenities and price I would have to rate this as one of my favorite resort stays. Sure, there were a few hiccups, there always are – but the attention to detail and willingness of the staff to go the extra mile was evident on a daily basis. A couple of the meals and dining experiences were only above average, others were very, very good.

So what does it mean to go the extra mile? Like I mentioned, I did celebrate a birthday while there, and that afternoon not only did I return to a drawn bubble bath with rose petals floating – but I also found this on the bed…

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So is this the right resort for everyone? Of course not. So how do you know if it’s the right resort for you? Ask your travel professional. If you don’t have one then give EZTravelPad a call – we would love to hear from you and we would love to help!

Oct 20
0

Reviewing Secrets Capri Resort

By | All-Inclusive Resorts, Blog, Caribbean, Honeymoons and Weddings, Mexico, Romance | No Comments

Reviewing & Touring Secrets Capri Resort – Riviera Maya near Playa del Carmen

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The smallest of the Secrets brand resorts along the scenic stretch of beach south from Cancun, Mexico known as the Riviera Maya may just be the best. Unless you are looking for more, bigger, mas, grande then Capri really is a great option.

With a scant 290 suites (by comparison some other resorts in the neighborhood are 10x larger or more!) Secrets Capri offers a great balance of choice and convenience. It’s not over-the-top fancy like some resorts. There are not 20 choices of room categories. What there is though makes up for it. With 6 restaurants and 5 bars the small property offers much.

This is a good resort for a romantic getaway, an anniversary celebration, a Honeymoon or a Destination Wedding as well. At a resort like this with less than 600 guests even a small wedding party of a dozen or so will not feel lost – in fact the entire staff will likely know who is getting married and who the guests are! You can choose from a beach wedding in the sand, or something a little more stately like in this awesome gazebo

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Check out this short video tour to get a better sense of rooms, beach and overall feel

Restaurant choices include a la carte such as

  • Himatsu – Asian
  • Oceana – Seafood
  • Portofino – Mediterranean
  • La Riviera – Mexican
  • Seaside Grill – as the name implies
  • Cactus Club – Taco & Ceviche Bar

Secrets (along with their new Breathless brand resorts) is an adults-only brand from AMResorts which also offers additional family friendly brands such as Dreams, Now and Sunscape as well as the Wellness & Spa boutique resorts named Zoetry

There are Secrets Resorts located all across Mexico as well as in Dominican Republic and Jamaica. You can see the Secrets Capri brochure at this link

So how do you know which resort is the best fit for you? What is the best way to research your next vacation?

Simple – OUTSOURCE it to your travel consultant (travel agent).

A travel agency should be able to insure that you receive the best value (value = price + service), but more importantly your travel consultant should work hard to make sure they understand what it is specifically that most interests you. Your travel consultant should act like your personal shopping concierge understanding what you want to achieve then presenting the best options to save you incredible amounts of time and frustration!

Don’t have a travel consultant that you work with? Then contact EZTravelPad and see why we consider ourselves “Your friends….in the travel business”

 

Oct 01
0

Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort in Nassau, Bahamas – a Review

By | All-Inclusive Resorts, Caribbean, Honeymoons and Weddings, Luxury, Romance | No Comments

A Review of Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort in Nassau, Bahamas

 

The storied history of the Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort is enough reason to put it on the radar of any vacation seeking couple looking for a couples only resort in the tropics

In its heyday, the Balmoral Club on Nassau in the Bahamas, hosted luminaries, Hollywood stars, and entertainers. The Duke and Duchess of Windsor, President Nixon, and the Beatles, are all said to have frequented the popular hotspot. This chic, high society club that was once part of the resort’s property, inspired the new Balmoral Tower at Sandals Royal Bahamian.

Having recently toured the Balmoral Tower shortly after it’s Grand Re-Opening I can tell you that is is in fine shape – gorgeous and stately.

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The Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort is an all inclusive resort that serves adult couples exclusively. It is for that reason that many Honeymoon and Anniversary celebrating couples are drawn to the classy resort just a few miles from downtown Nassau

Check out this video tour to get a good feel for the property-

 

 

The recent remodeling of the Balmoral Tower and other upgrades totaling $17 Million was prompted after a bit of storm damage occurred. The refurbishment though, was much more than just cosmetics – there were large balconies added to many of the rooms which now make this one of the most desired properties in the Bahamas

Another much smaller aspect of the remodel were the additions of some beachside firepits that add greatly to the romance of the evening

Newly added Firepits along the beach pictured below

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But it’s not all about the Balmoral Tower – this resort consists of several buildings and many private villas for a total of 402 rooms and suites spread across 15 acres of beautiful Bahamian landscape located only 10 minutes from the airport

With numerous buildings there are many, many different room category choices with views ranging from good to awesome and service ranging from luxury to concierge to butler level!

Sandals offers it’s butler level guests a special perk, complimentary private transportation from the airport in one of their Mercedes or Rolls Royce Sedans

 

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Butler level guests are also afforded some of the most amazing rooms and suites in the Bahamas-

Often I hear people say that “the room doesn’t matter – we won’t be spending that much time in it anyway”, but as you can see from this photo….Location matters!!

I mean, can’t you just picture yourself reclining until late into the night on your lounge – sipping a fine wine – listening to the surf just a few meters away….

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Beyond the history and the accommodations and the inclusions-

10 Restaurants including French, Italian, Asian and Seafood a la carte options are featured so you will never get bored with the selection of cuisine-

Looking for something to do?Try the Red Lane Spa or Nightly Themes Parties and Entertainment –

Plus on land

  • Table Tennis
  • Shuffleboards
  • Bocce Ball
  • Pool
  • Day/Night Tennis
  • Fitness Center
  • Board Games
  • Basketball
  • Beach Volleyball
  • Billiards

and involving water….

  • Canoes/Kayaks
  • Windsurfing
  • 7 Pools, 6 Whirlpools
  • Water Trikes
  • Sailboats
  • Hydrobikes
  • 2 Swim-up Pool Bars
  • Hobie Cats
  • Snorkeling
  • Scuba Diving
  • Misting Pool

 

One of the nice aspects of this resort is the ability to use the Sandals “Private Island” known as Sandals Cay. This island takes getting away from it all to a wholes new level.

Out on the private island you will find

  • Restaurant
  • Pool
  • Swim up bar
  • Whirlpool
  • 2 beaches
  • Snorkeling
  • Secluded spots
  • Beachside cabanas
  • Zen garden

So there is no getting bored no matter how long you decide to stay

Another piece of trivia – The Beatles filmed “Another Girl” from the movie “Help” on this same private island!

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Even if you want nothing more than to get away from it all there are options- like this hammock………..

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All in all Sandals Royal Bahamian is a fantastic option for an adults only couples getaway – be it a Honeymoon, Destination Wedding, Anniversary celebration, best friends getaway or just a much needed escape from bad weather…

For more info on this and many other resorts in the Caribbean and beyond get in touch with EZTravelPad.

Experience the EZTravelPad difference and see why we like to think of ourselves as “Your friends….in the travel business”

 

Sep 26
0

How to Arrange a FREE Wedding in Paradise

By | All-Inclusive Resorts, Caribbean, Honeymoons and Weddings | No Comments

A Free Wedding in Paradise is Possible…Find Out How

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Everyone knows that Sandals Resorts are the top pick for Honeymoons and Destination Weddings throughout the Caribbean – here’s another reason why…. FREE WEDDINGS!!

A Destination Wedding is certainly not for everyone, but it is definitely a great choice for a growing number of people, and why not? Think of it like this-

  • Toes in the sand
  • Gorgeous scenery
  • Casual
  • Easy
  • Affordable

So how is it possible that all this is free? – Good question…and good DEAL!

It really is a bonus… when you book 6 nights in any room category at any Sandals resort you are entitled to not only the free Beautiful Beginnings wedding package but also an additional $500 in credits to enhance the experience

Use credits (some restrictions apply) for things such as

  • Room upgrade
  • Honeymoon Highlights video
  • Beach cabana
  • Catamaran cruise
  • & more

If you are going to have a Honeymoon in the Caribbean consider combining it into a Destination Wedding with friends and family – see more about all of the possibilities at this link

**Sandals Resorts are reserved exclusively for adult couples – but if your wedding will include children or singles then the family-friendly Beaches Resorts are another great option…location possibilities include-

  • Jamaica
  • Bahamas
  • St Lucia
  • Turks & Caicos
  • Grenada
  • Antigua
  • Barbados

Whichever option is the best fit for you, rest assured that “your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad are here to help make your occasion as excellent as possible and save you some money along the way

 

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Sep 26
0

Reviewing Sandals Barbados

By | All-Inclusive Resorts, Caribbean, Honeymoons and Weddings, Romance, Uncategorized | No Comments

Sandals Barbados – a Review

Like all Sandals resorts, this property appeals most to adults couples looking for a stress-free luxury Caribbean vacation. Excellent for Anniversary celebrations, Vow Renewals, Destination Weddings and Honeymoons

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If you haven’t been to one of the NEW Sandals resorts – or one of the the resorts that they have recently upgraded then you might not understand how much they have stepped up their game. Simply put, this resort is fantastic. From the grounds and layout to the rooms to the general decor to the staff to the cuisine I am having trouble finding fault.

(Note- the photos contained in this post are all my own, so photo quality and staging are not professional but for a fantastic pictorial look professionally put together then check out Sandals Barbados “Flipbook” at this link )

As a Certified Sandals Specialist I feel it is critical to my business and credibility to visit and completely understand not only Sandals resorts – but all resorts that complete in the adults-only all-inclusive genre throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. I have been to, experienced and come to understand each of their great resorts throughout the Caribbean and I can say without hesitation that this is certainly one of, if not THE best in class.

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The grounds and layout – are terrific. It feels great to walk the gardens between the lobby, bars, spa, various room blocks, restaurants & beach.

 

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The quiet pool has a chic and luxurious feel with red & white striped cabanas.

 

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The active pool at the beachfront includes a swim-up bar, ample and comfortable lounge chairs and plenty of floats to chill in the pool as you move to the groove of the music and vibe – or have fun and get some exercise playing pool volleyball

 

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The lagoon pool is totally chill and open to all guests but mostly for the use of the Club Level and Butler Level guests with swim-up suites surrounding the meandering pool

As I sit at the poolside bar writing this review I am struck by the gorgeous view past the pool and beach to the blue ocean just beyond

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steak lovers will appreciate this supper club with classic decor and a great vibe

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at night the pub is one of the centers for socializing

Dining options are plentiful with reservations required at both Kimonos Teppanyaki Grill and  the widely acclaimed Butch’s Chophouse but other good specialty dining options which do not require reservations include

  • Portofinos’ (Italian)
  • Bombay (Indian)
  • Schooner’s (Seafood)
  • Soy (Sushi)
  • Bayside (International)
  • Merry Monkey (British Pub)
  • Mariner’s Grill (Seaside Grill)
  • Dino’s (Pizzeria)
  • Cafe du Paris (Pastries, Coffee and Ice Cream)

Oh yes – and there are several bars serving top shelf international liquors and wines

Rooms-

a glass window between the shower and main room space can be closed off by the sliding photo - a great feature!

a glass window between the shower and main room space can be closed off by the sliding photo – a great feature!

This is where the real improvements are taking place. Even the entry level rooms all feature comfortable 4 poster king sized beds, coffee maker featuring Blue Mountain coffee, patios or balconies and all the normal equipment but the decor and styling are a huge cut above both the competition and many of their own sister resorts. Features like no-slip showers and very comfortable lounging space – super-quiet and efficient A/C, Smart TV, Complimentary WiFi (that works pretty well) and many more subtle styling features

  • Upgraded suites feature a wide range of enhancements such as
  • Beachside & Oceanviews
  • Swim-up Suites
  • Tranquility Soaking Tubs on Balconies & Patios
  • 1 Bedroom Suites
  • and of course many of the rooms & suites come standard with the legendary Sandals Butler Service
butlers prepare your cabanas with towels and coolers with your favorite beverages

butlers prepare your cabanas with towels and coolers with your favorite beverages

Butler level guests will often reserve space in the terrific cabanas which are first-come first-served

The Playmakers entertainment staff keeps everybody engaged if they want to be, but are not in your face over loudspeakers every 10 minutes so everyone can enjoy the fun…or not, depending on their inclination

Location –

The location is terrific as well with a prime location  on the Maxwell coast only about 15 minutes from the airport and easy and safe walking distance (about 10-15 minutes) to several of the local restaurants, bars & clubs in St Lawrence Gap or a short taxi ride to Oistin’s Fish Fry (a must visit on Fridays) or Bridgetown for shopping & more. Streets are lively at night but as clean and safe as anywhere

Clientele tends to be slightly more British and skews a bit older than many other lower priced options but plenty of young Americans are still actively enjoying their

Keeping it real….at the time of my recent visit the beach was undergoing some reconstruction – a breakwater was being installed in an effort to improve water conditions and will be completed in late October. The beach would have been a weak spot for many but every other aspect of the resort was fantastic!

For much more info reach out to Scott or one of the other EZTravelPad consultants who are especially skilled at making sure that your vacation is as AWESOME as you dream for it to be (and maybe even a little more)

Aug 26
0

Plan Your Honeymoon Early!

By | Honeymoons and Weddings, Romance | No Comments
For Best Results Plan Early!

 

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I often see articles suggesting that you should plan to book your Honeymoon 4 to 6 months in advance and often that is fine, but frequently it is far too late!

Depending on the destination you have in mind, and the type of experience you desire, reservations should be confirmed more like 10-11 months in advance

If you are headed to Orlando, FL or Las Vegas, NV for example there are dozens of flights that can get you from where you are to where you want to be at decent rates even 30-60 days in advance, but if you are interested in  something a bit more off the beaten path such as St Lucia or Grenada or Bora Bora then you had better reserve your spots several months previous or be prepared for overnight layovers and significantly higher prices

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The Pitons in St Lucia- view from an open wall suite with in-room infinity pool at Jade Mountain

 

Additionally, if you are thinking you would like to enjoy something really special such as a swim-up suite or a private plunge pool or even an overwater bungalow then you need to remember that those are the first to be reserved, often more than a year in advance so plan accordingly!
Your best advice is to get with a travel planning specialist at your earliest convenience, as soon as you have your wedding date established,  so that you and your Honeymoon specialist can work through your best alternatives

 

EZTravelPad is a travel agency specializing in Honeymoon and Destination Wedding planning. If you are not currently working with a travel consultant then get in touch with “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad