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Expectations vs. Reality: How to choose the right hotel room for your vacation

Expectations vs. Reality: How to choose the right hotel room for your vacation

Have you ever made a hotel reservation and when you got to your room it wasn’t what you expected? Do you know the difference between hotel room cateogoreis? Read more about how travel advisors make sure you get into the right room with the right view and check out this handy room category comparison chart.

Why You Should Plan Your 2022 Spring Break Early!

“When is the perfect time to plan my spring break trip with the kids?”

This is a question that I get asked a LOT. My answer is always “as SOON as you know you will be taking a spring break and have the school calendar.”

Was your last Spring Break trip not exactly what you planned?

I’ve got a tip for you on how to make it better…... PLAN EARLY! Do not wait to plan your 2022 spring break trip. I know it feels like the kids JUST got out of school and you are finally finding your summer groove. TRUST ME, you do NOT want to wait until the kids get back into school to plan your spring break trip in 2022. 

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There is so much pent up demand for travel

I’m seeing resorts fill up faster than ever before. If you want your pick of the best room and the best-priced options, planning early is key! The best way to save money on your spring break trip for 2022 is to get it planned early….like NOW.

Theme parks can make a great destination for spring break trips. There is something for everyone of every age at the Florida theme parks. Disney and Universal are packed full of rides. They also have GREAT amazing water parks to splash and play in. There is NOTHING wrong with hanging at the resort for a day or two. The resorts can often be a destination in themselves with their awesome pools, hourly activities, evening outdoor movies and even roasting smores around the campfire.

Are you ready to explore outside of the main Theme Parks in Orlando? Looking to connect with nature? Have you heard about Discovery Cove? This theme park is all about getting you closer to aquatic life. This all-inclusive park gives you opportunities to swim with dolphins, snorkel with fish and rays, hand-feed exotic birds and unwind on beautiful beaches. This experience is really all-inclusive as your breakfast, lunch, snacks, and beverages are included with your admission. They even provide your snorkel gear, towels, and wetsuits. It is a great way to have a more relaxed approach to a theme park and still feel like you are doing, seeing, and learning. 

There is always something new and exciting in Central Florida

Both Universal and Disney World have recently opened or have scheduled to open new attractions so there will be so much more to explore this spring. From the Velocicoaster at Islands of Adventure to Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and all of the glittery 50th-anniversary decorations at Disney, you are sure to find new experiences around every corner of the parks in 2022. 

The beach makes a great spring break trip

Spring break can also be a great time to take the family on a beach vacation. There are so many resorts to choose from in Mexico, Jamaica, Dominican Republic and all of the Caribbean Islands. I know we can find the right spot for you. Yes, I know it has been HOT around the US lately, but don’t forget, it WILL be cooler, gloomier, and darker in early 2022. Planning your getaway now will help you fight off the winter blues in 2022.  

all-inclusive resort myths

If when I say Spring Break your mind goes to the wild parties we used to watch on MTV and you think no WAY that would be family-friendly, think again! Yes, there are some resorts that offer a high-energy college spring break experience. BUT did you know that many resorts actually have policies about spring break parties? And many of them won’t allow groups of college kids at the resort during the prime Spring Break season?

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There are also lots of resorts now that are VERY family-focused and would not appeal to the college spring break crowd. I would be so happy to talk with you more about the spring break experience at All-Inclusive Resorts throughout Mexico and the Caribbean. 

I really want you to know that if you are thinking about taking a spring break trip at all, DO NOT DELAY in getting your plans made. With my Travel Concierge Services, I’m here to help you have the easiest time planning your trip and will do my best to make sure your Spring Break trip meets or exceeds your expectations.

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If you use my services or not, please heed my warning to plan early! I can guarantee you that prices will increase, resorts will fill up, and airlines will sell out of their seats. We are not going to see huge sales, discounts or specials on spring break trips this year. The demand is just too high that the resorts don’t have to offer discounts as their rooms are filling up already.

Plan early for a happy, fun-filled Spring Break experience

Best Adult Only All Inclusive Resorts in Mexico for International Bath Day

Happy International Bath Day!
Let’s find the best Adult Only All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico to celebrate!

2020 was a year like nothing we expected. The best way to wash away the “2020-ness” is by plunging in to a warm bubble bath. Sink into a cozy, bubbly, blissful jacuzzi and wash away all of your worries and stress

A rose with any other name would smell just as sweet… and there are lots of names that resorts call bathtubs!

  • Bath Tub

  • Jacuzzi

  • Hydro Spa Tub

  • Soaking Tub

Knowing which one you are getting you your room can make all the difference, especially if you want jets! Here is a great read on Tub terminology!


Benefits of a prepared bath

Looking for a little help with getting your bath prepared? Let’s make sure the resort you visit offers a Butler or Bath preparation services. Pamper yourself!

Upsides of having a prepared bath:

  • no waiting around- big tubs take a long time to fil!

  • Butlers know exactly how many bubbles to add, no worry about over or under filling or creating a bubbly mess

  •  It’s ready right after dinner/nighttime stroll on the beach/whenever you request it 

You can find prepared baths at Unico 2087 and El Dorado Palifitos

Unico 2087 Balcony Soaking Tub

El Dorado Palifitos Bathtub

Baths Built for two

  • Do you like a solo bath? Or do you want room for two?

  • Some bathtubs are only large enough for one person others offer double sized options

Tubs for Two can be found at El Dorado Casitas Royale and Secrets Maroma Beach

El Dorado Casitas Royale

Secrets Maroma Beach

Best Bath Options

This is a HARD one to find as there are so many bath options in Mexico! I’ve got to give it up to Grand Velas Riveria Maya. They offer bubble baths inspired by your favorite cocktails…COMPLETE with a cocktail to sip and savor while you soak away your stress.

Choose from the following:

  • Pink Grapefruit Margarita

  • Apricot Freesia Martini,

  • Cucumber mint Gin

  • Pina Colada

  • Cabernet Neroli

There are so many tub options when thinking of your next Mexican Adult Only All-Inclusive getaway! Use the above categories can really help you narrow down what you are looking for and make sure you get the best Bubble Bath of 2021 during your next trip!

Can’t remember them all?

Have a different Bath Request?

Just let us know.

We are here to help!

Dream Now Travel Later

So much has changed in the travel world (thanks COVID), that my travel dreams for 2021 look pretty different now. While the pandemic meant some plans had to be cancelled, there have been some positive changes, like the more organized boarding process that I hope stays in place long term. Also, temperature checks and extra cleaning measures that are now in place gives me assurance that everyone around has been declared healthy enough to travel. 

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Back to my travel dreams for 2021. The midwest has its charms, but it’s a little hard to remember that right now. I look outside my window and see white snow. What I’m really dreaming of is the white sands of a Maui beach. To tell you the truth, I never really understood the draw of Hawaii until I went myself. Now that I have, I can honestly say that a piece of my heart permanently resides on Maui. 

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My first trip to Hawaii was to Oahu with my mom. We made two key mistakes: only staying four nights and not renting a car ahead of time. It takes 15 hours to fly from the midwest to Hawaii. Now add to that the six-hour time change and by the time we were acclimated to the time difference, it was time to leave! Something I know is NOT on most people’s dream travel list is a too-short trip to Hawaii. Don’t worry, I travel and make all the mistakes on my own trip because I don’t want you to have any issues on yours.  

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My travel dreams for 2021 don’t stop with Hawaii! Mexico holds a spot in my dreams as well. One of my favorite trips is the trip my husband and I took to Mexico with six other couples. It was truly special because I was able to connect with my friends on a whole new level. Such a large trip will have to stay a dream for now, but family trips are totally doable in 2021! Mexico has so much to offer families and couples. Adults-only resorts offer breathtaking views over the water with top-notch room service. If you’re looking to spend time with your kids, there are shows and waterparks and your kids can even learn to surf!

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Just because traveling looks different in 2021 doesn’t mean it can’t happen. It’s totally possible and definitely worth dreaming about! I’d love to hear about your travel dreams and help you plan the perfect, stress-free and COVID-free vacation in 2021!

Best Adult Only All Inclusive Resorts in Mexico for National Bubble Bath Day

Happy National Bubble Bath Day!
Let’s find the best Adult Only All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico to celebrate!

2020 was a year like nothing we expected. The best way to wash away the “2020-ness” is by plunging in to a warm bubble bath. Sink into a cozy, bubbly, blissful jacuzzi and wash away all of your worries and stress

A rose with any other name would smell just as sweet… and there are lots of names that resorts call bathtubs!

  • Bath Tub

  • Jacuzzi

  • Hydro Spa Tub

  • Soaking Tub

Knowing which one you are getting you your room can make all the difference, especially if you want jets! Here is a great read on Tub terminology!

UNICO_hydrospa_tub.jpg


Benefits of a prepared bubble bath

Looking for a little help with getting a bubble bath prepared? Let’s make sure the resort you visit offers a Butler or Bath preparation services. Pamper yourself!

Upsides of having a prepared bath:

  • no waiting around- big tubs take a long time to fil!

  • Butlers know exactly how much bubbles to add, no worry about over or under filling

  •  It’s ready right after dinner/nighttime stroll on the beach/whenever you request it 

You can find prepared baths at Unico 2087 and El Dorado Palifitos

Unico 2087 Balcony Soaking Tub

Unico 2087 Balcony Soaking Tub

El Dorado Palifitos Bathtub

El Dorado Palifitos Bathtub

Bubble Baths Built for two

  • Do you like a solo bubble bath? Or do you want room for two?

  • Some bathtubs are only large enough for one person others offer double sized options

Tubs for Two can be found at El Dorado Casitas Royale and Secrets Maroma Beach

El Dorado Casitas Royale

El Dorado Casitas Royale

Secrets Maroma Beach

Secrets Maroma Beach

Best Bubble Bath Options

This is a HARD one to find as there are so many bubble bath options in Mexico! I’ve got to give it up to Grand Velas Riveria Maya. They offer bubble baths inspired by your favorite cocktails…COMPLETE with a cocktail to sip and savor while you soak away your stress.

Choose from the following:

  • Pink Grapefruit Margarita

  • Apricot Freesia Martini,

  • Cucumber mint Gin

  • Pina Colada

  • Cabernet Neroli

Gran Velas cocktail bubble baths.jpg

There are so many tub options when thinking of your next Mexican Adult Only All-Inclusive getaway! Use the above categories can really help you narrow down what you are looking for and make sure you get the best Bubble Bath of 2021 during your next trip!

Can’t remember them all?

Have a different Bubble Bath Request?

Just let us know.

We are here to help!

6 Reasons Travel Makes the Perfect Gift

STILL LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT GIFT FOR THE PERSON THAT HAS EVERYTHING? IT MIGHT BE TIME TO THINK ABOUT GIVING THE GIFT OF TRAVEL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.

Give a vacation for Christmas


WHY DOES TRAVEL MAKE THE PERFECT GIFT?

  • Travel provides memories that will last a lifetime rather than toys. clothing or items that might only be around for a few months. Think of it as the gift that keeps on giving. 

  • You don’t have to make extra room for a trip in your home. It doesn’t take over the toy room, sit in the corner for months, or collect dust on a shelf

  • Travel might actually be less expensive than all of the little gifts you would purchase individually (not to mention the wrapping paper and gift bags). 

  • Depending on when you purchase your trip, you could have extra time to save and pay for the vacation as many options don’t require payment in full at the time the reservation is made. 

  • Travel provides the perfect time for family bonding over shared experiences allowing you to connect with family. 

  • Traveling is educational for children. There is so much to be learned during the travel process (maps to navigate airports), as well as once you are in the destination (the local language, culture, customs) that kids just would have exposure to otherwise. 

Vacation doesn't mean leaving your home and pets un-loved.

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Winter weather season, is the perfect time to plan a warm weather getaway. Travel with Nikki puts so much time and attention into your important vacation plans and details making sure you are all set to have a fantastic time away.

What is often overlooked during the vacation planning process is who will take care of your home and furry family members while you are away. We wanted to share with you a fantastic resource with Southwest Michigan- A Single Ray of Hope’s Personal Assistance & Concierge Service. Mary Beth Lyons provides a trusted and insured business with her While you are Away & Pet Sitting Service.  

We all know that pets are more comfortable staying in their own home environment and Mary Beth can help them stay cozy and comfy with home visits. Having a reputable business checking on your home while you are away is crucial.  Winter weather, rain storms and other unexpected weather can cause havoc and destruction while you are away, so you want a trusted person checking on your home for you.  Mary Beth has caught serious water damage, power outages, inoperative refrigerators; teen friends making themselves at home in the outdoor hot tub, and more.  Hiring a trusted business provides that peace of mind knowing that you’ll be kept informed if problems surface. A Single Ray of Hope makes it look as if you are home; they can even do the grocery shopping prior to your return so you don’t have to run out just as soon as you’ve returned from your journey. And best of all, They will even leave the lights on for you!  

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Make sure to reach out to Mary Beth and A Single Ray of Hope NOW to secure your services during the upcoming busy travel season.


Mary Beth Lyons

269-720-7605

www.asinglerayofhope.com

marybeth@asinglerayofhope.com

Travel: The Perfect Gift

Still looking for the perfect gift for the person that has everything? It might be time to think about giving the gift of travel this holiday season.

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Why does travel make the perfect gift?

  • Travel provides memories that will last a lifetime rather than toys. clothing or items that might only be around for a few months. Think of it as the gift that keeps on giving. 

  • You don’t have to make extra room for a trip in your home. It doesn’t take over the toy room, sit in the corner for months, or collect dust on a shelf

  • Travel might actually be less expensive than all of the little gifts you would purchase individually (not to mention the wrapping paper and gift bags). 

  • Depending on when you purchase your trip, you could have extra time to save and pay for the vacation as many options don’t require payment in full at the time the reservation is made. 

  • Travel provides the perfect time for family bonding over shared experiences allowing you to connect with family. 

  • Traveling is educational for children. There is so much to be learned during the travel process (maps to navigate airports), as well as once you are in destination (the local language, culture, customs) that kids just would have exposure to otherwise. 


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