First off, I completely fell in love with the charming, picturesque town of Playa del Carmen.  When we arrived at the resort, RIU Palace Mexico, I was pleasantly surprised with the upscale accommodations and friendly staff.  The décor of this hotel, both exterior and interior, is beautiful with Spanish type architecture/frescoes, which carries throughout the hotel and an immense lobby full of brilliant chandeliers.   The grounds are perfectly landscaped and their cascading waterfalls made a peaceful setting.  The junior-suite rooms were spacious with turn down service and flower petals in the bed/bathroom every night. Other top amenities include 24-hour all-inclusive and exchange privileges with the other RIU Resorts in Riviera Maya, which we took advantage of for breakfast and lunch.   They have a large court yard and every night there was entertainment with bands, singers and dancers, whom were awesome I might add. I truly felt like I was in a king’s palace because the scenery is breathtaking.   Everything was close and not a lot of walking to get from one area to another. The Theater across from the courtyard had different shows every night from Las Vegas type shows to Magic acts.   The staff was friendly, always cheerful, and there to accommodate you.  I loved their buffet restaurant for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.  They had such a display of foods from seafood dishes to roasts of all kinds (such as duck, which is one of my favorites and cooked to perfection).  The chefs can cook your steak/poultry to your liking, which is a nice touch.   Their gourmet restaurants, an Asian, Brazilian, Krystal Fusion, El Patio, were all very good. My favorite was El Patio, serving steaks and seafood specialties, and located on the beach.  The lobby bar with the pianist was exceptional – playing various types of classical music to rock n roll pieces.  Top shelf liquor served throughout, mini-bar stocked daily, and with liquor dispensers on the wall, no one should go thirsty.  2 Pools, 1 with a swim-up bar and daily activities, and the other pool for a less active, quiet setting.  And they have a pool bar too!

Aaah….then there’s the beach, and a very large beach with lots of palm trees, waiter service, barbeque/snack area, massage area and plenty of watersports available.  Shopping right across the street on Caribbean Street and Playa del Carmen’s famed 5^th Ave just minutes away.  The hotel is not far from the Tulum ruins with their displays of temples facing the beautiful blue sea is a great ½ day excursion.  If you have time, visit Chichen Itza, one of the 7 wonders of the world,  is about 2 hours travel time from the hotel and absolutely a must see with so much Mayan history/culture. The famous pyramid, Temple of Kulkulkan, depicts a calendar which the Mayans incredibly designed and is spectacular.  All in all, there is much to do around the Riu Palace Mexico Resort. I definitely was pleased with this hotel and highly recommend it.  In my opinion, and having stayed at several hotels, maybe this hotel should have a higher rating?

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I decided to totally go for it, and booked a whole week down in the Riviera Maya for Mom and me.  We stayed at the Iberostar Lindo and were immediately blown away by the beauty of the resort.  We must have looked like two teenage girls upon check-in– laughing, smiling, and practically jumping up and down as we were escorted to our room with refreshing cocktails in hand.

Mom and I had all these grandioso plans to go on excursions, go snorkeling, go “into town”– yeah right.  Every morning we’d look at each other and say, “Let’s just go to the beach and maybe we’ll feel like leaving the resort tomorrow.”  We never left the resort. Each day Mom would wake up before me and make coffee in the room for us (Yes, talkabout a lucky daughter!).  We’d sit on our balcony with our coffee and listen to the birds before heading to breakfast.  After breakfast, we’d relax by the water, eat lunch, and then take a walk around the property.  Everyday we discovered some new vegetation or newanimal.  We particularly loved the coatis, and were always highly entertained by their antics.  After our walk, we’d shower, grab a martini at the lobby bar, and then head to our dinner reservation.  In the evening, we’d attend the Lindo’s nightly entertainment show in their open-air atrium and were amazed about the high quality of the performances and choreography.

I felt like we were “celebrities”, as we became friendly with the various workers and entertainment staff at the Lindo.  Upon seeing Mom and me come for dinner, the one bartender would jokingly say, “Hola!  There is my wife and mother-in-law!  How was you day today?”  At breakfast one day, a member of the entertainment staff ate with us and talked to us about her family and home.  It made me feel good that Mom and I seemed so approachable, and the relationships we formed with the resort staff made our trip that more special.

To this day, I can’t help but smile and shed a happy tear when I think of that trip.  I don’t get to see my mom that often, and having memories like this are priceless.  We still, years later, always talk about our time together in Mexico—  it is an experience that we will always have together.  Thanks, Mom, for being my travel partner, beach buddy, and best friend.  Happy Mother’s Day!

Why Travel to Mexico? Why Not. Some of your favorite people already did!

We stayed in the gorgeous Occidental Xcaret in the Mayan Riviera, where we had time to relax and get to know each other better.  Between swimming in the beautiful cove to laughing over tequila at the swim up bar to romantic dinners to walking along the beach at night staring at the stars, we completely fell in love.  We had such a great time together that as soon as we returned home, my boyfriend and I moved in together and we have been happy ever since.  In fact, we just returned from our second Apple Vacation together in La Romana one year later.  That was fantastic as well, but nothing beats our first trip together, and Apple Vacations helped make it all happen.  We had a fantastic time. This was the first time my boyfriend was able to relax on vacation rather than have activities planned the whole day. There’s truly nothing like an all-inclusive vacation!

It was the best vacation of my life, and I thank Apple Vacations for offering the opportunities of a lifetime with their wonderful vacations that make it so easy to travel.

Over the past few months Apple Vacations hosted 20 “Golden Apple Award” dinners throughout the U.S. The exclusive dinners were presented by AMResorts. Top producing agencies received recognition for receiving their “Preferred status”. Awards were also given for most improved and top Hawaii sales. Kudos to all the agents who received honors! Check out some of the photos below.

We dedicate the entire month of May as Travel Agent Appreciation Month. We have lots of extra incentives and rewards for agents. Make sure you log on to the NEW Apple Vacations Agent Cafe to check them out.

All of the Philadelphia Golden Apple Agents at The Philadelphia Phillies stadium with Philadelphia Regional Sales Manager, James Reese, Philadelphia Associate Director of Sales, Brad Panik and Susan Gaines from AMResorts.

Photo of the stadium on the night of the Apple Vacations St. Louis Golden Apple Dinner.

They had Apple’s logo throughout the stadium, on the large scoreboard all the names of the Preferred Agencies!

If you are not a Travel Agent, and are looking for one to book your next trip, make sure you click on “Ask An Agent” on Apple Vacations website or click here.

364 Days a Year your Mom caters to you, to you sisters and brothers (if you have any), to your Dad, to the dog, the cat, the turtles. On the 365th day your Mom gets to rest. Why not give her another seven? Tell your Mom how much you appreciate her with a 7 night all-inclusive summer Apple Vacation for two, including roundtrip airfare, hotel accommodations, all meals, drinks, tips and more!!

But, first you have to tell us WHY YOUR MOM? Tell us in 200 words or less, include a photo of you and your Mom (or the Mom you’re nominating) by this Friday and one lucky Mom will win a week-long vacation in paradise this summer.

We will announce the winner this Sunday May 13^th, on Mother’s Day!

To officially enter the contest –

E-mail facebook@applevacations.com  and tell us why your mom is BEST (in 200 words or less), include a photo of you and your mom (or the mom you’re nominating) by Friday May 11, 2012.

Be sure to include the extra special Mom’s name, address, e-mail, and phone number where they can be reached.

The winner will be announced Sunday May 13, 2012.

By submitting a photo and story, Apple Vacations has the rights to use it for marketing purposes.

If you’re stuck for a Mother’s Day gift this year, here’s your chance to save some time and to make Mom proud!

Apple Vacation Gift Certificates Available

When I started, agents really didn’t have competition besides other agencies. With technology of today, the good agents have survived. Don’t be fooled by the television commercials that state “never a booking charge for our services!” and “we guarantee the lowest rate.” Fact is, agents don’t charge those fees for packages either, and nine times out of ten our prices are identical to theirs.

One thing that sets the traditional agent apart from these is our customer service and knowledge. Anyone can go on line and find a vacation package to Jamaica, but it takes a good agent to put their clients in a resort that they feel comfortable with and will enjoy. How do you find a good agent? In the time it takes you to research your own vacation, you can find a good agent. There are several of us on the Apple Vacations Facebook page. We are there to answer your questions, advise you of resorts and the best deals available. You could also visit your hometown agency. Remember, buying local supports your community!

Here are my Top 10 reasons for booking with a professional travel agent:

1.    We love our jobs
2.    Supporting our U.S. Economy (ever wonder where those 800s go to?)
3.    We will be on top of any schedule changes, delays or cancellations
4.    We provide payment options and terms
5.    We (the majority) are there 24/7 if you need us
6.    Agents have toured the destinations and resorts, so yes…we know more than you!
7.    Have a better chance of scoring you an upgrade
8.    Problems before/during/after the trip, we go to bat for you NOT THE COMPANY
9.    We will put you in the perfect resort for your expectations and budget
10.    We are travelers just like you

So this week my blog proclaims the best “beach within reach!”  If you go on vacation and all you want is beach, beach, beach … and you want a recommendation of where you can really travel to, then read on.

In honor of Cinco de Mayo I declare my favorite “beach within reach!”  – Maroma beach in Rivera Maya, Mexico.  Maroma beach is on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula about 30 miles south of Cancun, and just north of Playa del Carmen.  It’s simply stunning. Powder white sand beach as far as the eye can see, leading right into the beautiful turquoise blue ocean. It’s both wide and long, with plenty of open space and palm trees perfectly lining the landscape. It’s the best beach not only because it’s picturesque, but there is plenty of space for walks, beach activities and it’s an amazing spot for snorkeling due to the nearby coral reefs.

Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun is the most amazing hotel on this beach and THE place to stay.  Self described  – Pure white sands, crystal-clear waters and warm tropical breezes promise a perfect paradise at Secrets Maroma Beach.  This  Unlimited-Luxury haven is located on this all-suite hideaway is surrounded by soft white sand, turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs and adventurous  one of the most pristine beaches in Mexico.  Secrets is adults only. Another great nice option is Catalonia Playa Maroma. This hotel has typical Mexican decoration with vibrant colors and palapa roofs.  The hotel is surrounded by lush mangrove forests which are native to the Yucatan peninsula. It’s a great location for both couples and families.

Even The Travel Channel agrees naming  Maroma beach one of the most beautiful beaches in  the world and “the most exquisite secret in Mexico”.

So, do you agree? What’s the best beach you have ever seen on an Apple Vacation?

Here is his review:
Secrets Capri was absolutely amazing and worth every penny we spent. It was honestly the trip of a lifetime. The best thing about the resort is the spectacular staff and service. They really make sure everyone is welcomed, happy and enjoying their vacation. They truly go above and beyond in every way. The staff checks in on you often. I just can’t say enough about them.
The resort is smaller and manageable, but there is still so much to do. We played pool games and did water aerobics during the day (they even let me teach a few days), and we almost won the newlywed game one night! We met many couples at the resort and all had a fun time together.

The spa at Secrets Capri was great. We couldn’t decide if we should get massages in the spa or on the beach, so we did both! I highly recommend the beach massage. It was so relaxing with an ocean breeze and a perfect view.

The food was delicious and we were happy not to be on a schedule with dining reservations. We could go as we pleased, and not have to rush.
The resort was beautiful. It was just a perfect trip, check out some of our pictures.
We are already planning our next trip back!

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.

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!