Why you should go to Mexico

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Now’s not the time to visit our neighbor to the south, right? Well, wrong. Mexico is still an amazing tourist destination that we have come to love. I’m currently in Cancun and wanted to take the time to let Apple Vacationers know what I’ve been experiencing firsthand. I’ve noticed thousands of happy travelers from around the world, most of whom are Americans. They are enjoying the sun, sand and warm Mexican hospitality. The vacations are meeting and exceeding expectations, exactly what you dream of when booking your vacation.

I am experiencing nothing like what the American press is reporting at all. When I’ve been talking to travelers, there seems to be the consensus that the negative press on Mexico is ridiculous! They’ve managed to lump all of Mexico – a country that’s the size of Western Europe – together! I personally don’t think that’s indicative of what’s happening in the entire country. Americans who travel to Mexico primarily go to six places, none of which have had travel alerts. These destinations are Cancun, Riviera Maya, Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit and Los Cabos. As a travel expert, I can tell you that it’s as easy-going as it’s always in these tourist destinations. And, it’s no surprise to me that Mexico remains one of the top tourist destinations in the world! It’s home to archaeological wonders, turquoise seas, a magnificent underwater world, and world-class hotels and vacation amenities.

Most travel to Mexico, ultimately, is simply good travel. It’s fun, affordable, eye-opening and fascinating. But, no, you don’t have to visit Mexico. Just know that the Mexico vacation experience on the ground almost never matches the sensationalized Mexico we see and read about.

Strolling the Malecón and ‘Old Town’, Puerto Vallarta

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Malecón Bronze SculptureThe Malecón is a perfect place for a romantic stroll or to just people watch.  Evenings are my favorite time to go. For the adventurous, I recommend starting at the Center of town and walk south towards ‘Old Town’, also known as the ‘Romantic Zone’.

The first things you’ll notice are the incredible bronze sculptures set against the backdrop of the gorgeous Banderas Bay. These sculptures are true interactive art; guests are invited to touch, sit in, and in some cases, even climb on.

Further along the Malecón are local artisans, souvenir shops, street performers and the most incredible sand sculptures. Across the street are a variety of restaurants and nightclubs to appeal to almost every sensibility. And continuing south, you’ll end up in the heart of ‘Old Town’ on Olas Altas Street.  Cobble stone streets, outdoor cafes, abundant shops, and eclectic nightlife make this area a must-see in Puerto Vallarta.  Nothing can compare to sipping a tropical drink and watching the parade of people strolling by.

If you haven’t had the pleasure of visiting the Malecón and ‘Old Town’, I would highly recommend doing so on your next Apple Vacation to Puerto Vallarta.

Say “I do” to a Destination Wedding

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weddingYour wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. The day you celebrate your love for each other should be a day of paradise. Why not exchange your vows in a place called paradise? Today more and more couples are replacing the stress and time consuming preparations of a state-side wedding for a breathtaking, picturesque tropical beachside wedding. Celebrate what promises to be the best days of your life at a world-class resort with a personal wedding consultant to take care of every detail, the most beautiful and exotic flower arrangements, and a trained photographer that truly captures the essence of your day. It leaves you asking, why wouldn’t you have a destination wedding?! It would be the ultimate wedding and honeymoon experience. In many cases, destination weddings cost significantly less than traditional weddings as well.  I highly recommend any bride-to-be and groom to take the time to investigate these options with Apple Vacations.

Here are my Top 5 Reasons to plan the Destination Wedding:

  1. Dream Location that’s Exotic & Fabulous
    You can create your dream wedding at one of the most stunning and luxurious resorts in the Caribbean or Mexico. There is no more beautiful, romantic or memorable setting to sanctify your life together. The first step is deciding where your dream wedding will be. Apple Vacations can help with the rest.
  2. Deeply Unique & Unforgettable
    Saying “I do” at a world-class resort on white sand beaches fronting turquoise waters is a little more than a reception at the same home town spots. A destination wedding provides a couple with a romantic setting unlike any other that is intimate and memorable.  Think ocean views, beautiful sunsets, and being under moonlit skies.
  3. Cost Effective
    You may have realized the time, effort and expense of planning a wedding and Continue reading

Traveling with a Toddler

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My son in the cockpit with the USA3000 Airlines captain.

My son in the cockpit with the USA3000 Airlines captain.

Since I work so much, and have that “mommy guilt” complex, when I go away I always take my son. Honestly, since so many of the resorts have great kids clubs that he loves, it is truly a vacation for all of us.  Here are my top travel tips for traveling with a little one.

  1. The airplane ride. If you plan to bring a car seat on the plane ensure it is FAA approved. It says it on the seat. Otherwise they will take it from you as you get on the plane and / or put it in the overhead bin.
  2. Entertainment. I am amazed when I look around the plane and see unruly children who have nothing to entertain them. My son, since he pays for a seat, is entitled to a carry on. We always bring a backpack of items to amuse him on a flight and the ride to the hotel. I invested in a small DVD player. We also bring an assortment of small books, crayons, coloring books, small trucks or action figures travel well.
  3. We bring small juice boxes (keep an eye on the ounces to get thru security) but we bring the small “Juicy Juice” boxes and if they are for a toddler (4 and under) they get through security just fine. Also some small snacks that the child is familiar with.
  4. I also always bring lollypops. The sucking motion helps their ears while landing. I usually bring ring pops because they are also entertaining. I give it to my son about a half an hour before we land. Now he knows when he gets ring pop, we are almost there. Continue reading

New Mexican Law on Accepting US Dollars

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We are still getting a lot of questions on this topic, so I think a re-post of this blog is a good idea. 

The Mexican Government passed a new law, which comes into effect in Mexico starting September 14, 2010.  I wanted to share the information, which I have received from our off offices in Mexico so everyone is aware.

Starting September 14, 2010 the use of CASH American Dollars to make purchases in Mexico will not be as free as it has been in the past.

Many repeat guests to Mexico who have become accustomed to using American Dollars CASH in Mexico as though they were effectively in the United States will notice the difference. Other payment methods such as Credit Cards of all types and all issuing banks, Travelers Check’s, Mexican Pesos and non American Dollars foreign currencies in cash (ex Euros or Canadian Dollars) are not affected in any way by this new law.

The most noticeable differences to Apple Vacations’ customers will be: Continue reading