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Most Romantic Hotels In Mexico

10/5/2022

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Love is in the air on the sun-dappled beaches of Mexico. Whether you’re horseback riding in the surf or cozying up in a private plunge pool, these top Resorts in Mexico will steal your hearts with their lavish amenities and luxurious accommodations.
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Banyon Tree MayaKoba

A sanctuary for the senses, an all-pool villa ALL five-diamond resort & five stars Forbes, Banyan Tree Mayakoba welcomes you to the essential Banyan Tree experience. A resort that provides a joyful habitat for the spirit, a place where ancient civilizations embrace each other and where the passionate nature of Mexico is soothed by the gentle touch of the Far East. In the ancient Maya language, Mayakoba means village over water. Banyan Tree Mayakoba is located in a private gated community linked by canal waterways, the resort is surrounded by an arcadia of untouched nature in a carefully maintained ecosystem. With a private pool for every villa or plunge pool for every suite, an array of international culinary offerings, a PGA golf course, a signature Banyan Tree Spa and curated experiences for all ages. Through the expansion, Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers villas, beachfront pool suites, including 7 lagoon & sunset rooftop pool villas. Minimum villa size is 3,145 sq ft.
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Grand Velas Riviera Maya

Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an AAA Five Diamond Luxury Ali-Inclusive resort located in the most sought-after region of the Mexican Caribbean, just 35 minutes from the Cancun international Airport and 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen. Visitors can't help but be carried away by the area's breathtaking enchantment, with its lush jungle greenery and turquoise ocean waters. A wide range of attractions, many famous world-wide, are located just a short distance from the resort, making it the perfect option for both adventure and deep relaxation. Clients enjoy the jungle's mystique and endless ocean views at this resort for all ages. A different side of the Mexican Caribbean in the Zen Grand Ambiance surrounded by pristine jungle, or ocean breezes in the Ambassador and Grand Class Ambiances. If they explore the entire resort  will find the  SE Spa and eight restaurants, the Kids' Clubs , Teens' Club, an Eco-tour,  miniature golf and much more, for a vacation that's anything but ordinary.  
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Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort, Los Cabos

Opened September 1, 2018, Solaz is a sanctuary for guests seeking an immersive destination experience. A masterpiece in modern design, the hotel features iconic architecture with a vast private collection of original works of art, and endemic landscaping which paints a beautiful scene full of life and color, cradled by two natural rock beds allowing guests to enjoy the swimmable beach. Designed as a contemporary cascading architectural sculpture, each of the 128 guestrooms offer breathtaking panoramic sea views from your private balcony/terrace and a dedicated Artisan (butler) service. Indulge in gastronomic offerings that satisfy the soul. Al Pairo seafood market prepares local dishes with fresh ingredients from the sea. For contemporary Mexican fare, Cascabel is a vibrant venue. Take in the sounds of lapping waves and breathtaking, unobstructed sunrise and sunset views at Mako. Cap off the day with a glass of wine from La Cava’s selection of more than 2,500 bottles, or enjoy a treat from Dos Penisulas chocolateria. Positioned in the most desirable location with equal proximity to San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, the Art and Soul of Baja awaits you.
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Review: Beaches Turks & Caicos

9/20/2022

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Rating: 5 Stars

If paradise had a name, it would be Turks & Caicos. My husband and I first visited Beaches Turks & Caicos in 2008 for our honeymoon. We’ve been on many vacations since then, but have always talked about the crystal clear waters we experienced on Provo. We were excited to bring our girls, 10 & 12, to the island and found it to be just as beautiful as we remembered. 
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There’s nothing better than the convenience of an all inclusive. With 22 different dining options, there’s something for everyone to love for each meal… and plenty of snack options in between! This resort has five different distinct villages each with a variety of room types. We’d love to help you find the one that’s best for you!

Destination

Turks & Caicos - Providenciales

Resort

Beaches Turks & Caicos-Seaside One Bedroom Concierge Suite

Best FOR

Families & Couples looking for perfect turquoise water

Not to be missed

Chocolate Party

Favorite Culinary Experience

The Jerk Shack (Adults Vote)
Mr. Mac N Cheese Truck (Kids Vote)

Favorite Resort Activity

Paddle boards on the ocean

Favorite Detail/ Amenity

Fantastic Water Park with Bobby D’s restaurant nearby serving kid friendly food

Favorite Excursion

Full Day Boat Excursion to see Shell Island, Iguana Island, and more!

Travel Pro Tip

Grab some snorkel gear and walk down the beach until you see the ring of red buoys. There is a beautiful reef there that is perfect for those new to snorkeling, yet still impressive for advanced snorkelers as well.

-Katie Udstuen
All-Inclusive, Disney Parks, and Cruise specialist
Kudstuen@mdvtrips.com​

MICKEY'S DREAM VACATIONS OFFERS EXPERT CUSTOM VACATION PLANNING SERVICES TO HELP TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF YOUR NEXT VACATION.

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Review: Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas

9/5/2022

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Rating: 4.5 Stars

We loved our vacation on Royal Caribbean and would definitely do it again. As an avid Disney cruiser, there were some things we missed but the entertainment and activities for our 12 year old was everything we wanted and more. We also enjoyed the Casino every night, that was a lot of fun!

Cruiseline

Royal Caribbean

Ship & Stateroom

Wonder of the Seas-Junior Suite

Best For

Active Families, Couples, Groups

Not to be Missed

inTENse Aqua Show-this was incredible!! 

Favorite Culinary Experience

Mason Jar-Order the ribs!

Favorite Ship Activity

Rising Tide Bar-this was such a cool experience. You have a drink while the bar is rising. 

Favorite Detail or Amenity

The non-stop fun. At every turn there was something to do. We needed another week to do everything on the ship. 

Favorite Excursion

Perfect Day at Coco Cay of course. This is a tween and teens paradise and my 12 year old was in heaven. Waterslides for days, beach volleyball, snorkeling, and everything in between. It was a blast!

Travel Pro Tip

Book a suite category to have access to the suite pool and lounge.  The pool was so serene and relaxing, the lounge had delicious snacks and drinks, the service was impeccable. 

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Cruise Review: Virgin Voyages The Scarlet Lady

6/29/2022

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Destination

Virgin Voyages cruise on The Scarlet Lady ship to Nassau and Bimini Bahamas.

Room Category

Sea Terrace- balcony room equipped with a hammock! I lived in that hammock every morning!

Best For

Adults, couples, singles

Not to be missed

Everything on board! Virgin Voyages also has their own private beach area on Bimini Island that is fabulous! Cabana rentals are offered. 

Culinary Experiences

There is something for everyone! This cruise line also kept vegetarians and vegans in mind. They offer Beyond burgers, vegan gelato, salad bars, and other delicious eats that cater to all pallets and dietary needs. There are 9 restaurants on board that have a variety of options. My personal favorite restaurant was Gunbae. It is a Korean BBQ restaurant featuring fameless grills in the center of the table. Enjoy playing a Sake drinking game with other guests before dining on delicious food. 

onboard Activities

There are so many fun shows, a casino, pool parties, lounges, bars, and lots of delicious restaurants on board. There are also fitness classes and a fully equipped gym offered. This ship even has a tattoo parlor!

Spa/Wellness

A hydrotherapy pool, mud room, salt room, and several spa treatment rooms are available.

Favorite detail/Amenity

All bedroom lighting, curtains, and room service is all controlled by ipads in the room. These ships are up to date on technology and convenience for guests. Buttons next to the doors let your serving teams know if you need anything, wish to not be disturbed, or are open for them to come in and take care of your room. 

Travel Pro Tip:

The Scarlet Lady has a "Scarlet Party Night" so make sure you pack something red to wear!

Rating: 5 Stars

This cruise line with its new technology, delicious food options, and adults only cruising was phenomenal! I am looking forward to sailing again very soon!
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Resort REview: The Guest House at Graceland

6/22/2022

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Destination

Memphis, Tennessee

Resort

The Guest House at Graceland

Best For

Fans of Elvis Presley. Anyone visiting Graceland or stopping in Memphis for a quick trip.

Not to be missed

All of it! Walk the grounds and take in the detail and beauty of it all. 

Favorite Culinary Experience

EP's Bar and Grill

Favorite Resort Activity

There is a movie theatre located at the hotel. A different Elvis Presley movie or concert is shown each evening.

​Travel Pro Tip

Take advantage of the shuttle going from The Guest House to Elvis Presley's Graceland. The best time to visit is in the late spring into summer months when everything is colorful. But, if you are willing to deal with some cold weather, Christmas is a great time to visit and see everything all decorated for the holiday!

​Rating: 4 Stars

The details are stunning. From the chairs and sofas in the lobby to all of the pictures and decorations in the hallways. If you are a fan of Elvis Presley, this is a great place for you to stay.
-Kaydee Emperley
Disney Parks, Cruise, & All-Inclusive Specialist
Kaydee@mickeysdreamvacations.com​

    MICKEY'S DREAM VACATIONS OFFERS EXPERT CUSTOM VACATION PLANNING SERVICES TO HELP TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF YOUR NEXT VACATION.
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Resort REview: Disney's Pop Century Resort

6/21/2022

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Destination

Walt Disney World, Orlando Florida.

Resort

Disney's Pop Century Resort

Best For

Families on a budget and families that spend more time at the parks than the resort. 

NOt to be Missed


Favorite Culinary Experience

Tie Dye Cheesecake at the Everything Pop Food Court 

Favorite Resort Activity

Tie-dying t-shirts and Movies Under the Stars.

Favorite Detail or Amenity

Theming around the resort featuring different decades from the 50's through the 2000's. 

Favorite Excursion

The Skyliner-It's so convenient to go to Hollywood Studios and Epcot on it. Plus, the kids think it's another ride!

Travel Pro Tip

Book a preferred category room. Preferred rooms will put you closer to the main pool, lobby and bus stop. 

Rating: 3 Stars

POP Century is a great resort for families who are on a budget. While this is one of the more basic resorts at Walt Disney World, it offers fun theming, comfortable rooms, 3 pools, and fun activities during the day. 

There is only one dining option at POP Century, which does offer some variety, but the quality is not comparable to the moderate and deluxe resorts. My family usually prefers to grab a quick breakfast and the rest of our meals will be eaten at another resort or in the parks. (The Mickey waffles are the same no matter where you go!)
-Kaydee Emperley
Disney Parks, Cruise, & All-Inclusive Specialist
Kaydee@mickeysdreamvacations.com​

MICKEY'S DREAM VACATIONS OFFERS EXPERT CUSTOM VACATION PLANNING SERVICES TO HELP TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF YOUR NEXT VACATION.

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Resort Review: Dayna's Take on Disney's All Star Sports Resort

6/21/2022

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Destination

Disney World

Resort

Disney's All Star Sports Resort-Standard Room

Best For

Families on a Budget

FAVORITE DETAIL/AMENITY

The fun theming. My kids love all the larger than life sports icons.

Favorite Culinary Experience

Create-Your-Own-Burger-Bar located at the End Zone Food Court

Favorite Resort Activity

Bingo by the pool

Travel Pro Tip

Book a preferred category room. Preferred rooms will put you closer to the main pool, lobby and bus stop, otherwise it's a hike to get anywhere.

Rating: 3 Stars

There are limited reasons to stay at All-Star Sports. If the other All-Star Resorts are full and you really can’t work Pop Century or Art of Animation into your budget, stay at Sports. 

Sports has everything we love about the value resorts—cheap food, fun theming, and big energy. It’s simply easily beat by the other value options.

Since it doesn’t have refurbished rooms, has the least “Disney” theming of the All-Star resorts, and frequently plays host to large groups of unsupervised teenagers, we try to skip this resort when possible.

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Excursion Review: Xplor Park

6/21/2022

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Destination

Riviera Maya Mexico​

Excursion

Xplor Park, 1 of 7 Xcaret Eco Parks ​

Best For

Active Families with children 8yrs or older 
Adventurous Couples ​

What's Included:

All 6 attractions 
Locker Rental 
Huge Buffet and Beverage Station 

Activities

Ziplines-There are two different routes
The full red tower tour took about 45min. After each zipline you have to walk to the next line and climb a good number of stairs. The red route is very physically demanding.  
You are allowed to double ride on the zip lines if your total weight is less than 300lb. I saw a lot of parents double riding with their kids. 
The other zip line route is the green towers this one only has 3 towers and is more suitable for kids (Still must meet height requirement). 


Amphibious Vehicles-Drive a 4-seater UTV on jungle trails through caves and over bridges. 


Rafts-Adventure paddling with your own hand paddles through two different routes in the underground river. 

River Swim-Swim through the underground river through caves and surrounded by stalacites. 

Hammock Splash-
Walk through the caves and finish with a hammock ride into a waterfall.  


Cave Walks-Explore all the trails going through caves and jungle trails. 


Favorite Activity

Surprisingly, I would say the UTVs were our favorite! While you have to follow the trail, you have a lot of flexibility to do your own thing. You can drive as crazy and fast as you want! 

Schedule

9am arrived (took some time to check in and put your stuff away in lockers) 
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9:30-10:15am did red tower zip lines first (10 routes, finishing in water fall) 

10:30-11 did the hand paddle rafts through underwater caves.  

11:15-11:45 ate lunch at the buffet. The buffet was SUPER big. The food was pretty much your average all-inclusive buffet, maybe a little step up.  

12-1 Drove the UTV vehicles. We loved this and did it twice. We did the first route (20ish min) and then did the second route (30ish min). You have to follow the trail but they allow you to do your thing.  

1:30 pick up and headed back to our resort! 

We felt like the timing was perfect. We were ready to go back at 1:30, however you could easily make a full day of this park! 

Travel Pro Tip

Water Shoes are needed. I bought ours on Amazon before the trip for $10. They were selling ones there for $35. 
​Sunscreen: Make sure to put sunscreen on before arriving, they will confiscate your sunscreen if it’s not environmentally friendly. 

Rating: 5 Stars

My husband and I went to Xplor Park during our trip to Mexico. The park is full of trails/caves to explore on your own, but it also has 6 different extreme activities to participate in as well. The grounds are very well maintained, the staff is kind and friendly, and the buffet lunch is quite yummy! 
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We went for a half day, but you could easily spend an entire day there. Our favorite activities were the ziplines and the UTV trails. I would highly recommend visiting this park if you are an active and adventurous couple! 
-Kerilyn Gatto
All-Inclusive & Disney Vacation Specialist
630-341-3058
keri@mdvtrips.com

    ​MICKEY'S DREAM VACATIONS OFFERS EXPERT CUSTOM VACATION PLANNING SERVICES TO HELP TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF YOUR NEXT VACATION. 
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10 Hotel Hacks from a pro

6/3/2022

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Staying in a hotel room can sometimes be inconvenient, but necessary. You might forget to pack something, or you might need a particular fix for something that is bothering you.

​Next time you're set to stay in a hotel for an overnight stay or a long vacation, be sure to remember these 10 hotel room hacks! 
  
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Just about every hotel room has blackout curtains, but sometimes they just won’t shut all the way. You could be left waking up with the sun because it's peeking through your window! If that is the case, grab a hanger with clips out of the closet and clip those curtains closed to fully block out the sun!  
Most hotel rooms are now equipped with updated TV’s that have HDMI connections on the back. This is great for bringing our own streaming or casting device to plug in and watch exactly what you want during your stay. While there is usually an updated TV, the channels can be lacking. With your own device, it is easy to watch things like Netflix, Disney+, or YouTube!
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Did you forget a toothbrush holder, but don’t really want to put your toothbrush on the counter? Grab one of the hotel paper or Styrofoam cups and poke a hole in the bottom for your own DIY toothbrush holder! Usually there are cups on the counter already, but you can also check beside the coffee maker!  
Sometimes hotel rooms can have an odor and that’s no fun! Cranking up the air conditioner can help alleviate some of the stench, but even better is to bring in your car air vent clips to attach to the fan of the air conditioner! This will allow your room to smell fresher without having to spray or freeze your family out!  ​
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There is usually a lot of traffic in hotel rooms, so the floor tends to be kind of dirty. Carpeted rooms are more prone to hold on to dirt and grime, so be sure to pack a pair of room shoes to wear while you are just hanging around! Slippers, Crocs, flip flops, etc. come to mind! These will keep you from walking barefoot in any hotel room!  
If your hotel offers a free breakfast option, you can usually count on tiny cups beside the drink stations. Grab a coffee cup for your juice or milk to save you extra trips to the machine! Coffee cups tend to be bigger than the cups provided for other drinks.
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All hotel rooms usually have a mini fridge available. It is a good idea to pack your own water that can be stored in the fridge for your convenience. Sometimes hotels offer water in the room, but if they are used you can be charged an extra fee. In a pinch, you can use the hotel provided water and then run to the store or gas station to replace it! It will be cheaper than what the hotel charges for their water.  
 
When packing your things in a suitcase, your clothes tend to get very wrinkled. It is a good idea to invest in a small portable steamer if you travel several times throughout the year! If you don’t have room in your suitcase, you can utilize the shower steam to help un-wrinkle your clothes!  
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If you have forgotten to pack an extra bag or pop-up hamper for your dirty clothes, you can always find a plastic laundry bag in the closet. These are available for dry cleaning or laundry services provided by the hotel. It is the perfect size to throw your dirty clothes in to keep them separate in your luggage.
Our favorite hack for hotel rooms to make you feel more at home is to bring your own pillowcase! You can put it right over the hotel pillows and it doesn’t take up much room in your suitcase. A fresh clean pillowcase that feels and smells like home will surely get you a good night of rest in a hotel room! 
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-Kailee Stephens

Disney Parks, Cruise, & All-Inclusive Specialist
Text: 
(731) 607-5367
​Email: kailee@mdvtrips.com
​


    MICKEY'S DREAM VACATIONS OFFERS EXPERT CUSTOM VACATION PLANNING SERVICES TO HELP TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF YOUR NEXT VACATION.

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Resort Review: Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

6/3/2022

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Destination

The Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando Florida

Resort

Disney's Polynesian Village-Pool View

Best For

Convenient Transportation (Magic Kingdom Boat Ferry & Monorail Resort)

Not to be Missed

Pineapple Lanai Dole Whip while taking in the view of Cinderella's Castle

Favorite Culinary Experience

Kona Cafe Tonga Toast

Favorite Resort Activity

Splash into the Lava Pool from the volcano slide or enjoy the quiet of the Oasis Pool- something for everyone! Head down to the dock to rent a boat or catch a movie under the stars. 

Favorite Detail or Amenity

​The grounds, scents and room décor take you to the tropics all while maintaining the Disney theming. Newly refurbished Moana rooms are certain to be appreciated by all!

Favorite Excursion

​Resort hopping on the monorail- shop or have a drink at each resort!

Travel Pro Tip

​Enjoy live music at Trader Sam's Tiki Terrace and then make your way to the Tambu Lounge and be sure to order the "secret kitchen dessert"-it's not on the menu and simply delicious!

Rating: 5 Stars

Disney's Polynesian Resort never disappoints. We fell in love with this resort at our first stay in 2015 and stay here whenever we can.  The recent refurbishments have maintained the original character from it's 1971 opening as one of the first Disney resorts.  The moment you step on to the property with a lei greeting, you are transformed to the islands. From character dining at O'Hana to pineapple drinks at Trader Sam's this resort can be thoroughly enjoyed by all ages!

​What can be better than beautiful grounds, fresh room décor, one of a kind views, tasty food and drink--watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the beach and ending the night with the Electrical Water Pageant simply cannot be replicated! There's something about catching your first glimpse of the castle from across the Seven Seas Lagoon that says, "Aloha"!
​
-Katy Thompson
Disney Parks, Cruise, & All-Inclusive Specialist
Katy@mdvtrips.com
​

    MICKEY'S DREAM VACATIONS OFFERS EXPERT CUSTOM VACATION PLANNING SERVICES TO HELP TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF YOUR NEXT VACATION.

    ​Contact us today:

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  • Favorite Destinations
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