Trip of a Lifetime at Secret’s Capri Riviera Cancun part 1

Posted on April 30, 2012 by Eileen Herncane (Editor at Large)

The least expensive vacation – is not always the best choice.

My brother wanted to go away, so I booked him on an Apple Vacation to Riviera Maya, Mexico. He wanted to go away the week before Easter , which books early and is typically more expensive since it is a peak holiday week. But that was the only week he and his wife could go. I researched a bunch of locations, kept an eye on rates, and we found a good hotel at a GREAT price for a week in Riviera Maya, so we snatched it up. I was so happy to snag him a really great deal for such a popular week. Kudos to me!

As time got closer I started to panic a bit. It was a GREAT deal but… He was going to be there a full week and the hotel only had 3 restaurants. I didn’t know anyone who stayed there, so I didn’t know how the staff or service would be. It was far from the airport and they did not have non stop transfers…But, he does not travel that often so I was sure he would still like it. But then again, that itself was the problem. I am sure he would like it – but I wanted him to LOVE it!!!
The week before I called him and we decided to upgrade him to Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun. It was more money, but I knew it would be worth it. I have been there on a tour and know it is gorgeous. I actually desperately want to stay there myself, as soon as I can convince myself to take a vacation without my son. It is adults only, so perfect for a couple traveling alone. The service is spectacular, there are 6 restaurants, a stunning pool and a beautiful beach. And, he would now have non – stop transfers. I knew his expectations were high, and I knew he could pay a little more, so upgrading for him was the right choice.
For many people budget is super important and I totally get that. With a great deal, it allows people to travel, that may have otherwise not been able to. And it allows frequent travelers to go more often. But if your expectations are high, make sure you book a vacation that will meet those expectations.
So my brother called me on his way home from the airport and said he had 4 words for me … TRIP OF A LIFETIME. Which was exactly what I wanted to hear.
Stay tuned to this blog for his upcoming review of Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun.

Eagles land at Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana

Posted on April 27, 2012 by Eileen Herncane (Editor at Large)

Part of my job at Apple Vacations is working with various media partners including radio stations and sports teams, and maintaining those relationships. I love this part of my job and I get to work with some really great people including Mike Quick & Harold Carmichael.

Philadelphia Eagles pro–bowl wide receivers, Mike Quick (#82) & Harold Carmichael (#17) are two local legends. They are both still very active in the Philadelphia sports community. Harold still with the team and Mike Quick can be heard on CBS radio in Philadelphia on Sportsradio 94 WIP.

Punta Cana is one of their favorite destinations, and Apple Vacations was able to send them there again this winter to Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana.

Harold called me upon his return and said it was the BEST trip he ever went on and the service at Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana was the finest of any hotel he has ever stayed at! He said they spoil their guests so much is almost embarrassing, almost… And the beach was incredible. So much so he hardly left it during his stay. Secrets Royal Beach really won them over.

On behalf of my wife and myself, I would like to say thank you for one of the best vacations we have ever had. From the time we landed in Punta Cana, the first class services were awesome. The staff at Secrets Royal Beach made our stay very relaxing. The beach, the pool, dining, were all parts of a memorable experience for all of us. Thanks for arranging a fun vacation. Apple Vacations rocks!

So take it from Mike & Howard if you are looking for an amazing hotel with incredible staff and service, Secrets Royal Beach is the place!

Destination Wedding Ideas with Personality

Posted on April 25, 2012 by Christine May (Managing Editor)

as told by Dani Laverty of Apple Vacations Destination Weddings Department

Couples are incorporating more and more creativity into their wedding photos in exotic locations. From themed props and accessories to exotic modes of transportation and natural scenery, here we highlight some of the ways couples are really using the destination to their advantage in order to showcase their personalities and style within their chosen locale.

Trash the Dress

One of the more daring wedding traditions we’re seeing couples partake in is a “trash the dress” ritual. Typically, the day after the wedding, newlyweds (and sometimes their bridalparty) will put on their wedding-day ensemble and drive into the ocean, splash around in a pool, or play in the sand. It incorporates the couple’s quirks and personalities and many say it’s a daring, dramatic, and fairly romantic gesture. It sounds like fun, if you ask me, and it’s sure to make an awesome addition to the wedding album!

Playful Pics

Windy weather? Have the bridal party hold parasols or umbrellas on the beach together. Let the umbrellas turn inside out and choose funky poses for a relaxed, fun look. Pick colors that match your theme to tie it all together with the rest of the occasion.

If you’re anywhere near a beach, there tends to be plenty lounge chairs and hammocks lying around. You can be sure to benefit from these beach-related props by setting them up in a variety of arrangements. Everybody is sure to look happy and relaxed, isn’t that the look you were going for?

If there is a golf course nearby, see if you and your gang can use the golf-cart as a focal point to gather around, in, and on. Try a similar technique with a convertible, motorcycle, or trolley.

There is sure to be plenty of water surrounding you on your big day. Whether it’s a Jet Ski, surfboard, canoe, or speedboat, the motion of the ocean is sure to bring out some good shots between you and your beloved or even the whole group!

Take a picture as newlyweds and kill two birds with one stone by writing your names and your wedding date, “Just Married,” or “Thank You” in the sand and make it double as your thank you cards.

Arrive (or Depart) In style!

Give your guests something to remember when you roll (or fly, or float, or trot) up to your wedding ceremony. Make a statement atop of a white horse trotting along the beach, let your hair blow in the wind as you come rumbling in on a motorcycle, or pedal yourself up to your own ceremony on a vintage-looking beach cruiser followed by an entourage of your wedding party.

Or, let your guests’ mouths drop as you and your sweetie make a dramatic exit out on a speedboat or private canoe. Fulfill that dream of feeling like a prince and princess and make your grand getaway via a romantic horse-drawn carriage. Think big, hot-air balloon rides and helicopters are sure to make your grand entrance or exit extra-special.

The sky is the limit! Anything fun, exotic, or just plain goofy at your location could be the perfect creative touch to your wedding day! Check out our destination wedding ideas on Pinterest!

Say I Do with Apple Vacations

Simply The Best…

Posted on April 19, 2012 by Eileen Herncane (Editor at Large)

As an employee of Apple Vacations, and as someone who has been in the travel industry for over twenty years, I often get asked on Facebook, by friends and family what’s the best ________ ? (Fill in the blank). So I have taken all of these questions and polled Apple Vacations employees, so we can share our expertise and help you make your travel decision. Each week I’ll be featuring the answers to these questions.

This week I have tackled sunsets. Where is the best sunset you have ever seen on an Apple Vacation? A photo-worthy place, perfect for a romantic dinner, a place to pop THE question or to steal a moment with a loved one.

Survey says … Negril, Jamaica and Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta received an overwhelming response for having the most amazing sunsets. Experiencing a sunset in Puerto Vallarta is a heavenly experience. It is like watching a sunset in “Oz“. On one side there are the magnificent Sierra Madre Mountains, then on the other side the sun looks as though it is setting right into the ocean. There are innumerable places to catch a sunset, and each one is better than the next.

Negril, Jamaica was the other favorite location. Negril is at the western tip of Jamaica and is known world-wide for amazing sunsets and a gorgeous Seven Mile Beach. Both are truly breathtaking and I have been able to experience both first-hand. Besides grabbing a spot on the beach, there are many unique ways to take in a Sunset (or several of them). If you want romance, there are several sailing and catamaran excursions where you can experience a magnificent sunset from right on the water. However, one of the most popular and fun recommendations is to head out early for a cold drink or meal, and watch the local cliff jumpers at Rick’s Café, and stay for the view and stunning sunset. A visit to Rick’s Café to see the sunset is a must do in Negril.

So, do you agree? Where is the best sunset you have ever seen on an Apple Vacation?

Take a family Apple Vacation to Mexico or The Caribbean – It’s The Shore Without the Chores.

Posted on April 6, 2012 by Eileen Herncane (Editor at Large)

OK, The Shore Without the Chores – You have heard Apple Vacations advertised it for years. A week in the Caribbean is less than a week at the shore, but no cooking, no cleaning, no laundry – just fun! Well, is it true?

I am a here to testify yes, yes it is! Yes, yes, yes!

Last summer, I needed something simple. I didn’t have a lot of time to plan. So I decided to do a week at “the shore”. It was against the grain of what I have preached for years, but I always loved the shore as a kid. So we’d do it.

I thought, well I’ll rent a beach house on “off – week” to get a break on the rent, and we’ll even get a place a few blocks from the beach. We’ll go down over Easter and buy the ride tickets when they are half price. If I really think about it I can do it for a good rate.

What was I thinking??

The first day after lugging a “cart” full of beach chairs, shovels, toys, umbrella’s, beach towels, beach bags, snacks, drinks and a child across 3 roads, I thought I may have made a mistake.

The second day when the fridge stopped working, and all of our groceries had to be tossed, I was again questioning my decision.

The third night when we paid over $40 for pizza and drinks on the boardwalk for dinner, I knew I was done.

Not to mention, why am I doing laundry and cleaning up on MY vacation?

Even with strategic planning, I had to admit, that a week in Mexico or The Caribbean would have saved us thousands! We advertise it on our flyer, based on a family of 4 and it could not be any more true. For our family of 3, we did not make the correct financial decision.

A small one – week rental was $1,500.00. This was an OFF week in June and NON beach block. $200 in groceries before we left (juices, water, bread, cereal, snacks) and another $200 once we got there. Another $100 a few days later to restock after the fridge went bad. I had to buy a beach Umbrella and 3 chairs before we left. $150.00. I even had to spend $60 on sheets and pillow cases, because the bed sizes in the rental we did not have at home. Lunch every day, the ice cream truck that drives to the beach, dinner out a few nights, a night out for mom and dad, a babysitter, cab ride, boardwalk, gas, parking, mini golf, snacks, drinks, rides, go carts, beach tags … it all adds up!

I honestly do LOVE the shore, luckily we live close enough we can do day trips. But for a family on a tight budget the better decision for us is right now is Mexico or The Caribbean. Needless to say, guess where I am going this summer? Mexico here we come!

Stay tuned to this blog the next few months as we feature some family resorts for you to consider this summer so you too can experience….The Shore Without The Chores. Sheets and pillow cases included.