all inclusive resorts

5 Amazing All-Inclusive Resorts for Your Destination Wedding

August 14, 2020 by Kavonda Rogers Leave a Comment

5 Amazing All-Inclusive Resorts for Your Destination Wedding

Most of us want to achieve that solemn and intimate destination wedding, just like what we see in the movies, free from interruption and any nuisances. Children can indeed be the life of the party. However, when tantrums start to kick in, they are sometimes uncontrollable. Adults-only resorts will help you achieve the destination wedding you have dreamed of.

Blue Bay Villas Doradas- Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Billowy blue curtains, tall ceilings, and copper-colored hanging lanterns will greet you the moment you enter the resort. The cold towels and free welcome drinks make an excellent first impression to guests.

However, the best thing about this resort is its proximity to the Gregorio Luperon International Airport (POP) and public facilities. From their spa to the fitness center, tennis courts, beach bar, and sauna, Blue Bay has complete facilities that will surely cater to your needs.

Check Out Sandals Weddings

Sandals Royal Caribbean- Montego Bay, Jamaica

Imagining your dream wedding will take you to cloud nine. However, you can not avoid thinking about the unknowns and unforeseen events. Sandals Royal’s signature is their professionalism in planning and organizing destination weddings.

They take over in almost everything from pre to post-wedding. You will also get to enjoy the water activities and zip line adventure. Enjoy continental breakfast in bed and afternoon tea as you surround yourself by the Montego bay and tropical gardens.

Riu Palace- Baja California, Mexico

Riu Palace Baja California sits in front of the stunning El Medano beach on the south of the Baja California peninsula. Upon entering the lobby, you will notice the greyish earth-tone and wood finish of walls and furniture which go well with the yellow lights.

Enjoy the view of the sun, sand, and the whales enjoying the Pacific ocean from your room terrace. Also, you will get to enjoy their four-themed restaurant, which includes Indian, Japanese, Italian, and Steakhouse cuisine.

Related: How to Choose a Destination Wedding Planner

Secrets Papagayo-Costa Rica

This all-inclusive customizable adult-only resort stands in the heart of the Gulf of Papagayo. Spend the best days of your life in the glittering beach of Papagayo Peninsula with your loved one. The sea breeze blows through your hair, and the gulf shines as you walk down the aisle, feels like a dream come true. However, you can also opt for an intimate garden wedding if you want to!

Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana-Montego Bay, Jamaica

Your stay in a resort couldn’t get better without palm trees, a captivating white sand beach, luxurious rooms and a sunset viewing infinity pool. If you’re opting for a luxurious experience and peaceful surroundings, then Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana perfectly suits your needs. Admittedly, this is a place that would efficiently cater to your dream destination wedding.

It is also ideal for couples who desire a grand wedding ceremony free from children. Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana sits adjacent to Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana on the alluring shores of Juanillo beach. They

The resort only accepts three weddings per day to give their valued guests a more private ceremony. They also warmly welcome LGBT and same-sex marriages.

What’s excellent about Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana is that you’re free to choose any day of the week to spend your wedding. And they share and provide great customizable wedding packages as well as comfortable accommodations for you and your guests.

Which resort would you like to make your adult-only destination wedding to happen? Have you made up your mind already? Feel free to plan your dream destination wedding with Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda.

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El Dorado Seaside Suites

October 4, 2019 by Kavonda Rogers Leave a Comment

El Dorado Seaside Suites

I had the pleasure of spending a week at the El Dorado Seaside Suites in Cancun, Mexico. I will start off by saying I am a resort snob. Since, I have been to many resorts across Mexico and the Caribbean during my time as a Destination Wedding Planner my standards are high. Yes, everything needs to be on point before I send my clients there. I will let you know before we dive into the Pros and Cons that I have sent a lot of couples to the El Dorado Seaside Suites and I will be sending many more. Let’s get started.

The El Dorado Seaside Suites is a adults only resort located in the Riveria Maya section of Mexico. Be aware that you will have about an hour and twenty-minute ride via shuttle from the Cancun airport to the resort. That will be the worst part of your trip. Once you arrive things definitely take an up-turn.

Check-in

When you arrive, you will be greeted at your car by a hotel employee dressed in brown and orange carrying a tray of lavender scented cool towels. Take one! You will need it. When I arrived, it was a scorching 90 degrees and that towel was heaven. Once your bags are taken and tagged to be delivered to your room you walk up the steps into the main lobby. Once inside you will receive a welcome glass of white wine while you check in. The check in process was relatively quick and took about 10-12 minutes. Once I was all checked in, I went outside to be taken to my room.

The El Dorado Seaside Suites is not a walking resort. The resort is huge and actually has two portions: The Seaside and The Palms. To help you navigate the resort there are golf carts that run continuously around the resort from 7am-11pm.

Related: 5 Best Mexico Resorts

My Room

I stayed in an Infinity Swim Up room and if you stay at this resort this is the room you want. The room has its own lounge area that leads into an infinity swim up pool right outside of your door. Luckily the excitement doesn’t stop there. You also have a rainfall shower and a jacuzzi bathtub. I didn’t get a chance to enjoy the jacuzzi tub, but I did love the rainfall shower. The room was amazing and has all the basics such as a circular chaise lounger a table for two and a king size bed.

The Food

I have eaten a lot of food during my travel days and the food at this resort is amazing. Not only is it very well presented but it tastes good too. I have been to Mexico a lot of times and every time I avoided guacamole. Why? I’m not an avocado fan. Yet, after tasting the guacamole here at the El Dorado Seaside Suites I am a fan. I still think I will only eat it in Mexico; just to be safe.

I also tried the breakfast buffet and found it to be very diverse. It included pastries, freshly made to order omelets, and fruits. Of course, there are several types of juices and even a mimosa bar for those who need a morning pick me up. The buffet which is at the Marketplace gets crowded later in the morning so go early. If you want to skip eating in one of the several restaurants on site, you can order room service with has a great menu and a decent delivery time. Not to mention the food is good.

Related: Mexico Travel Guide

Activities

The El Dorado Seaside Suites has some great activities. You can take a Pilates class, enjoy some Rock n Roll trivia and even my favorite activity which is the Mexican Fiesta held in the center of the resort on Wednesdays. It is a party held outside with all the décor and a Mariachi band. They serve all the Mexican faves such as tacos, burritos and empanadas. I loved it! Don’t miss this party.

Final Thoughts

Overall, this is a great resort for a romantic getaway or a honeymoon. It is also a great destination wedding location as well. If you are looking for a touch of romance this resort is a great option. I tried to find some negatives about this resort, but I just couldn’t. Forbe’s was right in awarding it with one of the Most Romantic Resorts in the World. I can’t wait for my next visit.

Are you considering a visit to Riveria Maya, Mexico? Is the El Dorado Seaside Suites now on your list? Let me know in the comments.

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

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Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Caribbean

September 27, 2019 by Kavonda Rogers Leave a Comment

Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Caribbean

Beautiful beaches, amazing turquoise waters and great sunsets are a few of the reasons the word loves the Caribbean. Another reason is the all inclusive resort was created here and continues to flourish. Everyone loves to get some bang for their buck and the all-inclusive resort does just that. Let’s explore some of the best in all-inclusive resorts that the Caribbean has to offer.

Coconut Bay Beach Resort and Spa, St. Lucia

The “split personality” of St. Lucia’s Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa, as you might call it, makes it as much a draw for privacy-seeking singles and twosomes as it does for social friends and families. For the former, the adults-only Harmony wing has its own pool, hammocks for lounging, and an oceanfront spa called Kai Mer. The latter will want to book themselves into the Splash wing, which offers a water park and paintball court among other rowdier amenities. The beautiful mile-long white-sand beach out the door is open to all and is a particular favorite with St. Lucia’s kite-surfing crowd.

Hard Rock Hotel, Punta Cana

If you like your resorts huge and never ending well this is the resort for you. The Hard Rock Punta Cana has over 1000 rooms. It also has a 45,000 sq foot casino so if you like to gamble this is the place. This family friendly resort has an adult only side and a family friendly side. So, if you are traveling with a group it is perfect. It is a true all-inclusive resort with it’s limitless all inclusive program. This resort has it all: shopping, games, water sports, arcades, a bowling alley and night clubs. There is no end to the activities.

Related: Best Travel Destinations for Vegans

Sandals Halycon Beach, St. Lucia

Sandals Halcyon Beach St. Lucia is located in Choc Bay, just outside the capital city of Castries, five minutes from George F.L. Charles Airport. Sandals is known for its luxury and it’s all inclusive plan. Sandals Halcyon Beach is made for lovers. Hidden inside the naturally beautiful landscape of Saint Lucia lies a secret garden filled with effervescent flowers, luscious palms and serene waters, where couples come to escape and fall in love all over again. This resort is a true beachfront resort with only 169 guestrooms. This gives the resort a boutique feel with the perks of the Caribbean but the quietness of a deserted island. This is perfect for those who like to unplug and recharge during their vacation.

Breathless Montego Bay, Jamaica

If you like a little spice in your vacation, then this resort is the perfect destination. Breathless Montego Bay is a quick 15-minute ride from the airport and 10 minutes from the Hip Strip district of Montego Bay. If you didn’t know this is where the parties happen. Breathless also has the only rooftop pool bar in Montego Bay. Each suite has its own balcony or terrace with whirlpool. Oh, and I shouldn’t fail to mention that Breathless is topless optional. Plus, you can also visit it’s sister resort Secrets St. James which is right next door.

Breezes Resort & Spa, Nassau, Bahamas

Right on Nassau’s Cable Beach, Breezes Resort & Spa makes for a far more affordable stay than flashy Baha Mar next door. Guest rooms are right on the sand and the all-inclusive rate applies to all five on-site restaurants as well as non-motorized water sports. (Heading out to explore the water with a paddle boat or kayak is a must during your stay.) The extra daily fee for renting one of the resort’s palapa-style beach cabanas is a bit of a bummer, but with the money you save staying here, you can probably afford some extra splurges.

Related: Best Resorts in Mexico

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

Technically Jade Mountain isn’t an all-inclusive resort, but they od have the option of adding an all inclusive plan to your stay. It’s worth it! Why because the design and views from Jade Mountain are amazing! Jade Mountain is owned by architect Nick Troubetzkoy and it is obvious he put his heart and soul into the design. Not to mention that Jade Mountain is the only resort in St. Lucia that has a direct view of the Pitons Mountains. So, if luxury, amazing views, and unforgettable pampering are on your list of must haves then Jade Mountain is for you.

Divi Resort & Hotel ,Aruba

Divi Aruba is a south Caribbean family friendly resort. If relaxation is your ideal vacation style, then this resort is for you. It has lots of activities and entertainment, but it also has a great beach and other areas for relaxation. The best part of Divi Aruba is that Aruba is below the Hurricane belt. So, if you need to travel during the latter part of the year this is the perfect place.

Now Larimar- Punta Cana, Dominican republic

The Now Larimar is not only a budget friendly but family friendly resort in Punta Cana. The now Larimar is located on the beautiful Bavaro Beach and is only 30 minutes from the airport. This is a large resort with lots of activities for the family. Now Larimar has a bowling alley on site. It also has a botanical garden that you will defiantly want to explore while you are there. Also, don’t miss the chance to go out and explore the nearby towns of Santa Domingo and other Dominican villages.

Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton, Montego Bay, Jamaica

Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa is nestled between Montego Bay and Negril, Jamaica. It is a family friendly resort, but it has an adult only area. It also has Villa Suites which are for adults only as well. Villa Suites have their own private entrance, jacuzzi tubs, and an outdoor shower. The resort is filled with activities from tennis and volleyball to a water park for the kids. At night you can enjoy one of the shows or get your groove n at the Boogie Woogie Disco (yes that’s the actual name).

Couples Swept Away, Negril Jamaica

If you want a bit of romance and a chance to be active Couples Swept Away is the perfect option. This resort is set on 19 acres on world-famous Seven Mile Beach. Couples is said to be the creator of the all- inclusive resort model. With their small resort feel on a large property Couples Swept Away is the perfect way to enjoy Negril, Jamaica. With 312 suites and a 10-acre sports and fitness complex (yes, 10 acres) it is a perfect destination for those who want to get away but not lose track of their fitness goals.

Hopefully, if you are planning a trip to the Caribbean I hope this list of some of the Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Caribbean was helpful. If you are planning a trip to the Caribbean let me know where you are going in the comments below.

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

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How to Apply for a Passport and Get Approved on the First Try

July 30, 2019 by Kavonda Rogers Leave a Comment

How to Apply for a Passport and Get Approved on the First Try

The key to the lock known as travel is a passport. If you want to travel outside of your home country it is pretty much a requirement. If you travel domestically especially by airplane, then if expedites an already tedious process. Yet, many people find the passport process overwhelming and down right confusing. As usual I am here to help you clear the hurdles and open the door to the world of travel. I am going to teach you how to apply for a passport and make sure you get approved on the first try.

How to apply for a passport?

You have some options when it comes to applying for a passport. The most traditional way is to fill out the form on the State Department’s Website. For ease I have linked it here. Once you fill out the form you then will take it to an Acceptance Center near your home. You can find a list of acceptance centers here.

You will need some items before you go to the intake center.

Birth Certificate– This is where a lot of people get scared. The intake center will take possession of your birth certificate in order for the State Department to validate it. In other words, it will get sent to the State Department with your other items.
You state issued identification. No worries in this case they will just make a copy.
The form from the State Department’s website. It needs to be filled out completely and honestly.
Payment. The cost to apply for a new passport (you’ve never had one before) is $110. If your nearest intake center is a Post Office, you will need an additional $35 for their processing fee. Both of these items need to be in the form of a money order or cashier’s check. They do not accept cash or personal checks. So be prepared.
Passport photo. You can get a passport photo at your local CVS, Walgreen’s and if you are a AAA member you can get one at the local AAA center for a reduced cost. Pro tip: Skip the wally world passport photos as they are often rejected by the State Department.

Passport Services

If you want to go the easy route you can pay for a passport service to handle your application process. These services charge an additional fee on top of your passport application fee. This is a good option if you just don’t have time to do the process yourself.

Related: Top 10 Honeymoon Planning Tips

Some Common Hurdles to Getting a Passport

Many times, when passports are rejected it often has to do with paperwork. So, make sure your paperwork is in order. Other times there are other things that make applying for a passport a special circumstance so let’s touch on some of the more common reasons passport applications are rejected.

You have a felony drug conviction. Ouch I came out with the big guns, but this is a big reason why a passport application can be rejected. The reasons why this is important are pretty obvious, so I won’t go any deeper.
You owe back child support. If this is an issue you will be rejected. Even if it is just one payment you will not be approved.
Your passport photo is incorrect. If you don’t have the perfect passport photo (and don’t forget no smiling) your passport application can be rejected. Making sure the background is correct, the photo dimensions are correct are very important.
You have had a major life change. If you changed your name (whether by request or marriage) make sure to include a copy of your marriage license or court documents. If you do not include these documents your application can be rejected.

Related: 10 Things to Do in Bali

Once you have done all the items above you just sit back and wait. Usually passport applications are processed within 6-8 weeks. Sometimes you can get your passport even sooner. So, jump in with both feet and get that passport!

I hope I have helped with your travel journey and everything you need to know about how to apply for your passport.

When did you get your first passport? Do you plan on applying for one? If so let me know in the comments below.

Also, if you want more tips and info about all things travel sign up for my newsletter below.

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean.

all inclusive resorts

5 Amazing All-Inclusive Resorts for Your Destination Wedding

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Blue Bay Villas Doradas- Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Sandals Royal Caribbean- Montego Bay, Jamaica

Riu Palace- Baja California, Mexico

Secrets Papagayo-Costa Rica

Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana-Montego Bay, Jamaica

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El Dorado Seaside Suites

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Check-in

My Room

The Food

Activities

Final Thoughts

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

Join the Travel Tips by Vonda Club!

Lists*

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Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Caribbean

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Coconut Bay Beach Resort and Spa, St. Lucia

Hard Rock Hotel, Punta Cana

Sandals Halycon Beach, St. Lucia

Breathless Montego Bay, Jamaica

Breezes Resort & Spa, Nassau, Bahamas

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

Divi Resort & Hotel ,Aruba

Now Larimar- Punta Cana, Dominican republic

Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton, Montego Bay, Jamaica

Couples Swept Away, Negril Jamaica

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

Join the Travel Tips by Vonda Club!

Lists*

Spread the Word!

How to Apply for a Passport and Get Approved on the First Try

By Kavonda L. Rogers

How to apply for a passport?

Passport Services

Some Common Hurdles to Getting a Passport

Join the Travel Tips by Vonda Club!

Lists*

Spread the Word!