Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu

Set on the private island of Dhuni Kolhu in the Baa Atoll Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is an intimate hideaway, which is abound with Maldivian charm.

I have visited the island on many occasions, yet everytime I step foot on the island, the calm and tranquility engulf’s me.

The island has lush tropical vegetation and is fringed with white sandy beaches and an idyllic crystal lagoon.

The island is comprised of 98 villa’s with the Beach Villa’s and Deluxe Villa’s being located around the island and the Lagoon Villa’s and Sunset Lagoon Villa’s being located on stilts over the lagoon.

There are 2 relaxed bars and dining options of inside the main restaurant or under Banyan Trees in the Cornus Restaurant.  In villa dining is also available as is private dining on the beach for those special moments alone.

Whilst the Sunset Lagoon Villa’s are the only villa’s to have TV’s do not worry there is plenty to see and do that you will not miss having a TV.

There is an incredible house reef to discover as well as some incredible diving spots in the BAA atoll, the PADI diving centre Dive Ocean will take care of all your diving needs.

There is also a tennis court, fitness centre, Jacuzzi, water sports centre, Coco Spa and a weekly cinema on the beach.

With Uniquely Coco Experiences whether shared or private you are sure to have a memorable experience, be it a night fishing trip or an overnight stay on a desert island.  My ultimate favourite has to be spending a day with a local family in their own home.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is Green Globe certified Silver and is committed to maintaining the island according to Eco Tourism principles.

The resort is perfect for diver’s, honeymooners and couples.

Transfers to and from the hotel are operated by seaplane, which is an incredible way to transfer, do not worry if you see the seaplane pilots flying without shoes.

The resort has many offers including Early Booking Discounts, Free Nights, Room Upgrade Offer and Honeymoon discounts and honeymoon complimentary services.

For more information and prices please contact me on 01327 702717 or 07577362392.

It’s Vegas, baby!

A great place to start a road trip

Here we are on the West Coast trip but where do we start?  At the beginning, of course.  Having just arrived in Vegas by air, you’ll need to get to your hotel and those in the know will agree that the best way is just to get a taxi.

If you want to show up in style, I can arrange a private car or limo at an extra charge but I never include the transfers in Vegas.  If you’re coming in by road from Los Angeles, try to time it so you’re hitting Vegas at sundown and into the twilight. If you plan to drive around or go on a road trip, be sure that your car is good condition. Those who need to replace their old vehicles may consider purchasing used cars in glendale.

As you get closer to the city, every little hill in the road will provide you a closer and brighter view and a thrill that I can’t really describe…it has to be experienced.

Get checked in and then get out there

Having gotten yourself to the hotel, and checked in, it’s time to experience everything that Vegas is about…glitz and excess!  Many go to Vegas for the gambling but the city has changed itself in the last decade or so; this is now a place to take your family and relax or catch some world class entertainment.  The old Las Vegas is still there in spirit and all-night drinking, gambling at the best online casinos in usa and cavorting in ยูฟ่าสล็อต are the attractions for a good portion of visitors but the old images of gangsters and corruption are (at least visibly) a thing of the past. To get a chance of winning big prizes, you may try your luck at these online situs slot gacor games. You may also check out daftar mpo888 if you’re looking for exciting rewards. If you’re looking to win exciting rewards and cash prizes, then you may consider checking out reddice.

There is more to Vegas than just ‘the strip’; if you want to get away from the high rollers and noise, there are some nice bars and restaurants in the suburbs where you’ll find the ‘locals’.  Most residents are relative newcomers and the city continues to grow;  I like the East end as it has a suburban feel to it and lacks the pretence of downtown.  My favourite casino is Sam’s Town on Boulder Highway (easy to get to by taxi or bus); here you can go elbow to elbow with the diehard bingo players (blue hair included) for just a few dollars, or while away the hours at the penny slot machines.  Sam’s, definitely, isn’t the Bellagio or Venetian but it does have an appeal and it won’t break the bank. If you prefer online casinos, you can also try your luck and ลุ้นรางวัลใหญ่กับ UFA.

The best shows anywhere

Entertainment in Vegas is big business and it is here that you will see the best of the best.  People fly from all over the world to watch a title fight at the MGM Grand or, on the other end of the spectrum, to see the likes of Celine Dion…you haven’t made it until you’ve played the strip!  The shows that are put on by the hotels are fantastical spectacles that cost them millions to produce and some are free…you’ll have to do some research .

There are few ‘Must Do’ things for your time in Vegas :

-See the Grand Canyon (pop me over an e-mail for info on how to do this)

-See the light show on Fremont Street (free)

-The fountains at the Bellagio are amazing

-Buffet, buffet and more buffet (you can get these for free, sometimes) but if you only try one, make it a champagne brunch on the weekend…usually in the range of USD35-40.

-Play golf if you’re a golfer or attend a sporting event, such as baseball

I could go on and on but don’t want to be long-winded so, if you do want more on Vegas, get in touch and we’ll have a chat.

Western fly drive

Many of my friends and clients have experienced the classic West Coast fly drive but most tend to overlook my absolute favourite San Diego. I always recommend taking as much time as possible to see as much as you can and, when possible, include Las Vegas, San Francisco and Los Angeles. I’ll get to more about the individual locations on separate blogs but let’s just get the itinerary for now.

The glitz of Vegas is always worth a look for at least four nights and, also, to allow for a trip out to the Grand Canyon. Die hard gamblers will want to stretch this out a bit but there is always enough to see as not to move on right away. Exotic shows and bright lights are the normal attractions, but golfers will be spoilt for choice, as well.

San Francisco is the next stop, and you can get there either by road or by air…I’d suggest just getting there by plane and picking up your car on the other end as the 9 hour drive may be too much for some or, alternatively, stopping along the way but this is a wasted night. After about 4 nights in ‘Frisco’, it’s down the coast to Los Angeles and this time it is worth a stop in the Pismo Beach area just to enjoy the scenery.

Los Angeles has a love-hate relationship with tourists; it’s big and smoggy, but there’s a ton of stuff to do, as well. It’s important to consider exactly what appeals to you so a decision can be made as to the length of stay.If you want to explore you’ll need a week but if there are just a couple of points of interest then 3 days will be sufficient.

A short drive down I-5 brings you to San Diego and, arguably, one of the best climates in the world. It’s a busy city with a lot to see but, at the same time, San Diego invites you just to relax. I always recommend at least 4 days but would gladly stay for weeks. Your time constraints may limit you to a couple of days, but at least you’ll get a taste.

In between these major centres, there are other popular options for side trips or stays. The coastline itself has many towns and events to visit, and there are more out of the way choices such as Yosemite, Lake Tahoe and the giant redwoods in northern California. The more adventurous could consider travelling into Oregon and Washington to explore the Pacific Northwest, but you will need to allow more time.

There are numerous other considerations to be had; available time, school holidays when travelling as a family, budget and, ultimately, what you want to see. As I mentioned, I’ll put more detail into individual blogs but this will get you thinking about where to start planning.

If you’d like to discuss a fly drive (or any other holiday), or have these details e-mailed to you, please feel free to contact me at any time.

Best All inclusive hotel in Mauritius

Preskil Beach Resort

Is a beautiful resort set on the most picturesque corner of Mauritius. The hotel is situated on a private peninsula on the south east coast of Mauritius.    All around the hotel, you can see unspoilt clear blue sea, white sandy beaches, mountains.   Further afield, there are small pirogues passing by other several inhabited islets among which is also the natural reserve of Ile aux Aigrettes.   Preskil Beach Resort is a magical place to stay at and is one of my favourites on the island.

After 12 hour flight from London, we were pleased to travel only a short distance, approx 15 minutes drive from the airport to the hotel. I have stayed at the four star Preskil Beach Resort on several occasions with the family, children and adults and on every occasion, the service from every member of staff has exceeded our expectations by far. This hotel offers unbelievable 5* service at unbeatable 4* prices.

All rooms are situated on either first or second floors. There are no high rise buildings which is a big bonus. I particularly do not find high rise buildings relaxing at all. On different occasions, we stayed in the Prestige Cottage located on the ground floor of the individual cottages. Each individual cottage has 2 Prestige Cottages  on the ground floor and a Deluxe Penthouse on the 1st floor.  Both room types offer bath and shower with the most amazing seaviews in the quietest area of the property. Lagoon rooms are the lead-in rooms with shower only are spread out harmoniously across the island with sea views.   The rooms are clean, spacious and cosy. For an exceptional vacation on Koh Samui, you should definitely consider staying in one of the luxury villas koh samui.

Food and Drinks

The hotel offers 3 restaurants and bars. The main restaurant “Spices” offers an array of most delicious buffet style foods at breakfast, lunch and dinner. We had the most amazing Mauritian lentil soup and rice made from the best spices on the island and the Chef kindly gave me her recipe which I have tried and treasured for years now. Whilst you are there, you must try “Charka Steakhouse & Bar” which has also been our favourite steak restaurant for years with its fresh meat directly imported from South Africa. You can also enjoy nice Mediterranean cuisine in shades of “Tapas Grill & Beach Bar”  with your feet tucked in the hot sand.  Another must try is the Indigo Bar.   This lively meeting-place offers an international selection of exotic cocktails as well as light meals during the day.   In the evening, the bar is an ideal setting to enjoy a warm, relaxing atmosphere with either live or background music.

All locally bottled drinks are included in your All-inclusive basis together with imported drinks shown by an asterisk on the menu making it really good value for money. In addition, the same is available from your mini-bar menu which makes it so wonderful to be able to sit in your balcony or terrace with a nice cold beer.

What makes this property even better value for money is that your All-inclusive finishes at 3 pm on check-out day rather than at 11 am which applies for most hotels.  If you have an evening flight, this is just a perfect added value to your prefect holidays.

Weddings

I have arranged many many weddings at this hotel in the past and every time, guests have been overwhelmed by the attention and the service that they have received from staff, especially from the wedding co-ordinator. The wedding locations are just breathtaking and you feel so privileged and pampered. For couples dreaming of getting married abroad, you’ll be glad to know that you can Get a Federal Apostille Quickly to make the process even smoother.

I can highly recommend this hotel for honeymooners, couples, families.  They will love this property as much as we adore it.

Bequia Beach hotel

Bequia Beach hotel is situated on the island of Bequia in the Grenadine Islands. I had the pleasure of visiting this island in December 2011. This is a very laid back hotel in my opinion suitable for couples who need minimum entertainment. I would recommend this hotel as a twin centre with St Vincent. Please call or email for more information.

I have been to Buccament Bay

Buccament Bay is a luxury all inclusive on the beautiful island of St Vincent. I visited this fantastic resort in December 2011 and it certainly has the wow factor. I would recommend this property if you would like your holiday to be filled with peace and tranqulity but at the same wanting lots of activities on offer. It would suit couples and families alike. For more information about this exciting resort please do not hesitate to call or email me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Rn6klpbEEs

Wynn Las Vegas

Wow what a hotel….

When we arrived, the lobby area was very busy but the check-in took less than 20 minutes. For me the hotel reception is a little on the gaudy side with lots of bright colours however the facilities at this resort more than make up for that & past the reception area it is much calmer & more relaxed.

Our deluxe room was huge with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the strip. The bathtub was like a mini swimming pool ! Unlike the reception, the rooms are tasteful with muted tones.

The shopping is superb although bring the plastic as the outlets here are all designer. Dining was an absolute delight. Our fave dining experience was at the Lakeside seafood restaurant. We were lucky enough to be seated right by the lake so had a great view of the funny light show that took place every hour complete with it’s dancing frog! Make sure you try some of the hotels restaurants & bars. I have a long list of restaurants that we tried – if you want some recommendations just let me know.

You can walk from the Wynn straight into the sister hotel the Encore. You are also just a 5 minute walk from the Palazzo & Venetian.

Of course a holiday to Las Vegas in not complete without a side trip to the Grand Canyon. We have some great special offers for day excursions by plane, helicopter or bus – just ask for details.

Don’t delay booking for Las Vegas…the earlier you book, the better deal you will get.

Las Vegas is my number selling destination & I have negotiated some superb rates.

Maldives My Second Home

I first visited the Maldives back in 1999 flying on Emirates with a stopover in Dubai, before the airport was renovated, on route to Male for a year’s work placement for my university course on Makunudu Island, a quaint Maldivian resort set on a small island of 6 acres.  I did not know what to expect, the Maldives was relatively unheard of in the UK at the time.

I was met at the airport and taken on a speedboat and whisked away speeding through the ocean with the sea whooshing past with the wind in my hair and the sun shining down with the warmth engulfing me.  An incredibly awe inspiring transfer where a smile was stuck on my face the whole way through, I was not thinking of what was awaiting me on the island I was too busy looking around at the islands that we kept passing and the incredible view.

Upon arrival to the island I was greeted with the warmth of the people, who cannot do enough for you, whether you are a member of staff or a guest, this was to be my home for a year after which I had to return to the UK to finish my studies.  Although studying in Newcastle where the temperature reached minus 13 one day, I sat looking at a Maldives poster which was on my wall and pledged that after I finished my course I would return.

And so I did and I never looked back, I returned to Makunudu Island where my then boyfriend was working, now my husband.  I spent a further 1 and half years on Makunudu Island until I moved on to Male working from the Head Office as a Reservations Manager and then a Sales Manager for Sunland Hotels – Makunudu Island and Biyadoo Island and Coco Collection – Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu and Coco Palm Bodu Hithi. Connecting me to a global network of tour operators and clients and giving me the opportunity to travel to destinations such as Cannes, Singapore and London.

Throughout my time in the Maldives I enjoyed some wonderful experiences of….

Desert island picnic’s / sunset cocktails / beach parties / night fishing / sand bank picnic’s and snorkeling / full moon picnic’s on the beach / parasailing / morning fishing / afternoon fishing / scenic photo flights via seaplane / snorkelling / sailing on a safari boat / luxury spa treatments / butler services and surfing in the maldives.

I had the opportunity to visit a number of other resort islands – Thulaghari, Kanahura, Soneva Fushi and Soneva Gili, Biyadoo Island, Makunudu Island, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Coco Palm Bodu Hithi, Cocoa, Herathra, Kurumba, Banyan Tree, Taj Exotica, Baros, Anantara Dhigu, Summer Island, Fihalhoahi, Four Seasons Kuda Huraa to name but a few.

I also visited many local islands to experience and understand the Maldivian way of life stay in great apartments like the flats for sale Limehouse you can find online.  The basic needs of the people and the way in which they live is very different from what you expect, but there is one thing that shines through their smile, their happiness and the lack of materialism.

I even managed to venture over the equator to visit Addhu Atoll where my in laws live, it was a great visit to see a different area of the Maldives and to see where my husband had been brought up.

I also arranged and took part in guests Wedding Ceremonies, an experience which I was honoured to be part of every time.  Whilst the Wedding Ceremony in the Maldives is not legally binding it is a truly romantic and beautiful way of vowing your Love for that someone special.  Not to mention being an amazing backdrop for wedding photos.

The scenery above the water is amazing, although the scenery under the water is another spectacular world to be discovered.  The highlight for me so far was swimming with the Dolphin’s, swimming with the Manta Ray’s and swimming with a Whale Shark, to say incredible is an understatement.  With some of the most amazing reefs, fauna and flora it is no wonder that it is a diver’s paradise.  I too took the plunge and passed my PADI diving course (beats doing it in a quarry in the UK).

The Maldives is a true paradise where many ‘magical’ moments and experiences await all guests.  The islands and the people embrace you with their incredible hospitality, service and genuine passion for sharing their country with you.

The Maldives prides itself on Personal Service Excellence and experiences, holidays are no longer about the room, board basis, transfers and facilities, it is now about the experiences that can be had whether staying in a 3 Star resort, a Luxury resort or to one of those Maldives family resorts.

So to discover the experiences that await you book your holiday now.

For EXPERT advise on the Maldives call 01327 702717 or 07577362392 or email angeleenn@travel-pa.com

It will be my pleasure to assist you in booking your holiday and to sharing the Sunny Side of Life with you.

Now Jade Riviera Resort & Spa

I’ve booked my family to go here next summer.

We have some superb early booking offers with massive savings. They are booking fast. This resort offers everything that a family could wish for: 2 large pools, a children’s pool, children’s club, spa, tennis, gym, cycling, entertainment, 7 restaurants, 6 bars, a fabulous beach……..I could go on & on.

I can’t wait….

Tongsai Bay

From the moment we landed in Koh Samui, we knew that we were in for a treat. The airport at Samui is delightful & feels very exotic.

After we had collected our bags & passed through passport control, we met our driver for the short 10 minute taxi ride to the Tongsai Bay.

We arrived at the hotel around 6pm so it was dark & the weather balmy. The check-in was speedy & friendly. We were then transported by golf buggy to our cottage suite. We could easily have walked but the buggy was much more fun!

In my opinion the Tongsai Bay has got it right, it’s a wonderful relaxed, rustic 5* property offering exceptional service. Our room was wonderful, split over two levels with a large private terrace with two sun loungers and an outside bath. It was incredibly romantic to have a bath on your terrace whilst enjoying a glass of bubbly. The views during daylight were fabulous. The rooms are nestled amongst tropical gardens and coconut trees so the terraces are very private.

For me, a holiday revolves around the food. It was the dining that made the Tongsai Bay so special. The menus were superb & everything that we eat was fabulous. After dinner each evening we would walk down to the Po-Lad beach bar for a cocktail and listen to the waves. I would highly recommend venturing out for a few nights, there are a lot of very good restaurants nearby & of course are much cheaper than eating at the hotel.

Mark & I both did a Thai cookery course which was great. You get to visit the hotel gardens to pick ingredients first. Afterwards you all sit down to eat what you have made with the chef.

Koh Samui is easy to get around & the hotel will book a car for you.

If you are looking for a swanky 5* resort with marble everywhere & tv’s in every room then the Tongsai Bay is not for you however if you appreciate great service, lovely views & more natural surroundings then consider this wonderful hotel. We are planning to return & will try a pool villa next time.

Dreams Riviera Resort & Spa

The 5* Dreams Riviera Resort boasts a beautiful white sandy beach plus luxurious accommodation & is just 30 minutes from Cancun in Puerto Morelos. This luxury resort is perfect for families. The kids have access to the Explorers kids club so the grown up’s can relax.

9 International restaurants
6 Bars
Swimming pools
Dreams Spa by Pevonia
Fitness centre
Water Sports including snorkelling, kayaking , euro-bungee, ocean trampoline, aqua-aerobics
Yoga
Cooking, cocktail, dance and Spanish lessons
Golf nearby
Live shows
Movies on the beach
Explorer’s Club for Kids
Dolphin experience at Dreams Cancun

All Inclusive – What’s included

FOOD: Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks daily as well as 24 hour room service. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style with a variety of international options. Dinner is either buffet or à la carte including French, Italian, Mexican and Asian cuisine. No reservations required for à la carte dining, dress codes apply.

DRINK: Unlimited premium and local brand alcoholic and soft drinks including house wine by the bottle, cocktails and bottled water.

ACTIVTIES: Non motorised water sports include kayaking, Hobie-cat sailing and snorkelling. Land activities include yoga, golf green fees at a nearby course (one round per person per day, mandatory cart and caddy hire payable locally) euro bungee, scheduled activity programme including dance classes, Spanish classes and tequila tasting. Use of kids club (3-12 years). Evening entertainment consists of live bands, professional shows and evening movies.

Delicious Mauritius!

What can I say about Mauritius that hasn’t been said before? Every time I visit Mauritius (I am very fortunate to have visited numerous times) It never fails to take my breath away . Having had my own wedding there at the fabulous Residence Hotel , located near a small coastal town of Belle Mare on the East Coast.

Mauritius obviously has a very special place in my heart. Even at my very first visit I knew it was a very special place. Mauritius is best known for its romantic beautiful beaches and stunning hotels with it famous hospitality for me it’s all of this but so much more. The beaches and the glorious Indian Ocean are breath takingly beautiful that is true but there is so much more to it than this.  If you can bear to drag yourself away from your stunning hotel you will find a different world  from lush mountainous forests , beautiful nature parks with endemic flora and fauna , to multi-coloured volcanic sands.

There is a huge variety of cultures here which combines and results in the most amazing mouth-watering food. From amazing local street vendors where they make the most delicious fresh gajaks ( mauritian snack/delicacy) to award winning fine dining restaurants.

There are most stunning settings for outdoor dining such as Domaine Anna where you can have a fantastic meal and then walk through their beautiful gardens with waterfalls and water lily covered, coi rich pools with of course giant land tortoises! If that wasn’t enough there is beautiful flora and fauna through out their beautiful gardens! We were lucky enough to have our Hindu wedding ceremony there and it was absolutely perfect!

Of course the majority of visitors are arriving for a luxurious break and Mauritius certainly doesnt disappoint on that score! The  5 star hotels are out of this world and the thing that sets them apart for me from other comparable destinations is the service of their staff. I can honestly say that the service is second to none, they go above and beyond the call of duty and know exactly how to make their guests feel like Royalty!

5* plus Resorts with added Wow factor!!

The Residence – Understated elegance and luxury from a bygone era. From the moment you step into the grand entrance of The Residence you are transported back in time to a luxurious colonial hideaway. Guests are greeted by a symbolic gong on arrival this is the start of a fabulous relaxing luxury holiday. Staff greet you with a warm smile and a traditional greeting which continues throughout your stay. The hotel prides itself on its wonderful food experiences and themed evenings.  The elegance and serenity of this wonderful resort and the staff set this apart from the crowd.

One & Only Le St Geran – was the first luxury hotel in Mauritius. The One & Only group of hotels are notorious for the incredible service and stunning resorts – Le St Geran certainly doesn’t disappoint on either! it is quite simply stunning which sees guests return time and time again.

Le Touessrok –  Part of The Leading Hotels of the World Is a romantic secluded hideaway where guests can be pampered in the fabulous Givency Spa or play Golf on one of the most stunning golf courses in Mauritius set on the gorgeous island of Ille aux Cerfs.

Le Prince Maurice – Part of the renowned group of Constance Hotels. This beautiful resort is very romantic, with its ‘floating’ restaurant Le Barachois….. The accommodation is stunning , comprising of Junior Suites and Villas, some are situated perched overlooking the natural fish reserve on the edge of the Lagoon. For even more luxury choose one of the stunning Villas the beachfront come with your very own heated pool!. The service is superb the staff cannot do enough for you!!

There are so many luxury resorts in Mauritius the ones listed above or just a little taster to whet your appetite, if you would like a quote on any other resort in Mauritius be it another 5 * luxury one, a more affordable option,  contact me for a quote.

Mexico

If your ideal holiday is one where you get to see it all and do it all, Mexico is the place for you. Whether its historical monuments you’re looking for or intensely beautiful countryside, or magnificent beaches, or a totally new cultural experience, you’ll find it here. This North American country is bordered by not one but two water masses: the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

It ranks as the 13^th largest independent nation in the world and is the most populous among nations that have Spanish as their national language. Occupation of this area began thousands of years ago and it was home to both the Mayan and Aztec civilisations before Spain laid claim to it. Being bisected by the Tropic of Cancer, you will find that the weather in one part of Mexico can differ greatly from another part.

Sightseeing and activities

Cancun is one of Mexico’s most celebrated resorts and contains a diverse assortment of attractions. One of the most interesting is the Coba Ruins that are evidence of the country’s Mayan heritage. These ruins have been carefully preserved for the benefit of visitors and the fact that they lie miles away from civilisation make them all the more enchanting. Explorers will be thrilled that they are allowed to climb all the way to the top and view this breathtaking spectacle and its surroundings from above.

The cenotes near this site are not only beautiful, they provide a unique swimming experience. The El Meco and El Rey ruins are also worth a visit. Apart from a poignant history lesson, Cancun will also supply you with the perfect setting for utter R&R. We’re talking miles of white sands bordered by crystalline blue waters and unlimited sunshine. We’re also talking of well equipped spas offering a number of treatments designed to fully relax your body and mind. Did we mention that while in Cancun you can also get a chance to swim with dolphins? Well you can.

If you’ve seen the pyramid-like structures of Mexico on TV and wondered where they are, they are tucked away in San Juan Teotihuacan, Mexico City.

While taking your tour there you might want to go with a guide who will elaborate on the significance of each feature of these magnificent structures. Or you could pay a visit to the National Museum of Anthropology, one of Mexico City’s many museums and get the knowledge in advance.

But even without this the aura of the place is overwhelming and you are guaranteed to spend hours wandering from temple to temple. The visit to the National Museum of Anthropology, by the way, is quite an experience itself. It is one of the largest of its kind in the world and you will be lost in a maze of artefacts depicting life in several ancient cultures.

But perhaps Mexico’s most visited attraction is the Chichen Itza temple. This structure is revered for its age and historical significance, as well as unique astronomical design.

Events

Every February Mexico goes wild as the annual carnival that precedes Lent is celebrated. This week long festival features plenty of live music and dancing and games.

Jamaica Holidays

The home of reggae music is the fourth largest island of the Greater Antillles whose unique identity is only just emerging after gaining its independence from Britain in 1962. It was originally inhabited by the Arawak Indians who had christened it Xyamaca before Christopher Columbus came across it towards the end of the 15^th century. It is a land of immense natural beauty boasting stunning beaches and a wealth of flora and fauna that is the envy of many. Consider Jamaica holidays for unforgettable time of life.

Small wonder it has provided the picturesque backdrop for a number of novels and Hollywood productions, including the popular James Bond series. The island is also the perfect setting for a number of outdoor activities and the production of some of the tastiest rum in the world. The open, friendly nature of the Jamaican people is legendary.

Jamaica Holidays – Sightseeing and activities

You need to plan your Jamaica itinerary carefully as there is plenty to see and do, and you don’t want to call it a vacation before you’ve savoured this island to the last drop. Among the magnificent natural features here is the Blue Lagoon.

Resisting the turquoise charm of the waters of this natural pool is futile especially as you notice the changing emerald hues as the sun traverses the sky. Scuba diving here is a particularly thrilling experience. Another stunningly beautiful water body awaits visitors in the south coast of the country; the Black River.

Gently gliding along the tranquil waters surrounded by dense greenery is just what the doctor ordered to chase away the effects of stress. Making this trip with a tour guide is a good idea as they will furnish you with plenty of information on the flora and fauna. And oh, you might see the odd crocodile creeping onto the banks. While here you will get to see the beautiful YS Falls which provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic picnic. Before you leave St. Elizabeth be sure to pass by the Appleton Estate for a taste of Jamaican rum.

From there you can head north to Ochios Rios where Christopher Columbus and his crew allegedly first set foot in Jamaica. This picturesque town provided the canvas on which some scenes of the very first James Bond movie were painted. Fancy descending into Jamaica’s lush rainforests on a zip wire or a bob sled? Then don’t hesitate to make the Mystic Mountain a part of your Jamaica itinerary.

From a commanding height of over 700 feet you will have an excellent view of not only the lush rainforest but the town and shoreline as well. Dunn’s River Falls are another must-see in Ochios Rios. Apart from providing the battlefield for an Anglo-Spanish confrontation centuries ago, it offers lovers the ideal setting for a fun day together with plenty of photo ops. The White River, also in the same locale, promises a bit of adventure with white water rafting on top of stunning views.

The Seven Mile Beach in Negril is the place to be for those looking to lounge and sunbathe. Its lengthy stretch of golden sand is however best enjoyed in the off season when there are less crowds to contend with. While there you can also engage in a bit of swimming, snorkelling or kayaking.

Dominican Republic Holidays

Beautiful year round sunshine, magnificent coastal views and an explosion of colourful culture are what tourists to the Dominican Republic can expect. This Caribbean nation that shares the island of Hispaniola of the Greater Antilles region with Haiti is one of the hottest destinations and any traveller worth their salt will be delighted to add this particular feather to their cap. Consider Dominican Republic holidays for unforgettable time of life.

Apart from offering visitors plenty to see, this country has the full range of activities expected of a seaside location. There is also a lush green landscape waiting to be explored on exciting hikes and challenging mountain heights waiting to be conquered by the more daring. It truly is the ultimate all-in-one resort.

Dominican Republic Holidays – Sightseeing and activities

The country is quite sizeable with a number of cities, towns, beaches and national parks within its borders.

It is therefore perhaps a good idea to rent a car (reputable firms like Avis, Hertz and Budget have offices here) to get around the Dominican Republic’s many attractions at your own pace. If this is out of reach for you in terms of budget, take a taxi, or use the public buses or the gua-gua minivans, if you can bear the discomfort.

Once you get your transport sorted out one of the first places you should make a point of visiting is the Dolphin Island in the city of Punta Cana. Here you will get a chance to interact with these friendly sea creatures up close and even swim side by side with them.

While still in this coastal part of the country you can go deep sea fishing and chance your arm at catching something exotic like a giant marlin. You could otherwise engage in some water sports such as surfing, kite surfing, boogie boarding or wind surfing. If you’ve never attempted these activities you can get your first lessons at a modest fee from nearby clubs. You can also get up close with the marine life by diving at the North Coast.

For a secluded beach experience, it is recommended that you pay a visit to Playa Bonita or Playa Limon. The latter offers a special treat to nature lovers with its lagoon and waterfalls. Speaking of waterfalls, you won’t want to leave without seeing the Damajagua or Ciguapa Falls. Spectacular, tranquil, scenic are the words that best describe what you’ll see there.

These two babies are off the beaten track and for more unspoilt beauty you will also want to head out to the secluded paradise of Bonao. With the abundance of views in this place, you won’t be able to stop snapping away with your camera. One of the ways to view the vast scenery is by gliding down a zip line. The thrill of plunging down a cable into the dense greenery is hard to put into words and really must be experienced firsthand.

Interested in a bit of history? Visit the Tainopark in the Samana province, the biggest of its kind in the Caribbean. By the exhibits here you will learn of how the Tainos fought against the Spanish and other such historical anecdotes.

Our Dominican Republic Holidays will definitely etch themselves on your memory.