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I was worried that on my second Alaskan cruise I would find the ports repetitive and boring since I had already been there.  I was SO wrong.  Every port had something to offer that I didn’t get to experience last time-different excursions, different restaurants, and different wildlife.  On my first cruise, I sailed Holland America in June, and this time I cruised on Princess in September.  The weather was absolutely beautiful in September! It was cool but not cold and the leaves were just beginning to change.
Balcony vs. Ocean View Ya’ll I’ve done it both ways, and absolutely hands down if a balcony cabin is in your budget, you will not regret it!  We loved hanging out on our balcony with a hot cup of coffee while we cruised the inside passage, pulled into ports, or just to step outside first thing in the morning to breathe in that cool crisp air!  It was also a great place for our toddler to run around.
A few pictures from our balcony:

Seattle If you’ve never been to Seattle, arriving a couple of days prior to your cruise is a great idea. The city is easy to get around and there are plenty of sites to see: Pike Place Market, the Seattle Aquarium, Chihuly Gardens, the Seattle Japanese Garden, and many more parks and attractions.

Skagway My biggest regret on our first Alaskan cruise was not doing a float plan over the Misty Fjords and I definitely wasn’t going to miss it again!  The views are absolutely breathtaking and bonus-my toddler slept the entire time!  We had a delicious local lunch, I include this info for all of my booked clients in my tips sheet!

Juneau Although September isn’t peak time for whale viewing, we really got a treat by seeing a pod of orcas, humpback whales, porpoises, sea lions, jellyfish, and more.

Ketchikan In Ketchikan we explored the Klondike Highway including the Klondike Suspension Bridge.  There are options for those who would like to experience the Klondike all the way into Canada-let’s chat about the best way for you to explore this beautiful piece of countryside!

Victoria Even if you port in Victoria for just a few hours, get off the ship and explore! This was a new port for me and Chihuly Gardens at night is truly magnificent. If gardens aren’t your thing, there is plenty of history, food, and shopping to experience in this lovely town!

Is Alaska on your bucket list? Not sure what the right cruise line or itinerary is for you?  I’d love to help and there are no fees for my services! I’ve experienced multiple excursions in most of the ports, so I’ve got great feedback on must-dos, places to eat, and shop!

Traveling with a toddler is like A Tale of Two Cities…. “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” Haha! No, really, I love traveling with my daughter.  Are there challenges? For sure! Public meltdowns aren’t fun for anyone, time differences can be challenging, and pressing pause for nap time can be a downer sometimes.

But it’s 100% worth it all.

My husband and I recently took my daughter on her first cruise to Alaska. We had so much fun with my daughter on this trip. So often people comment “oh she won’t remember the trip”. But you know what? We will remember. We’ll remember all the little moments of experiencing the world through her eyes.

We’ll remember her…
Waking up every morning and saying “I on toot toot boat!”
Playing with the sled dog puppies and giggling when the mama dog licked her face
Running to the balcony to see the other ships go by
Seeing a bear catch a fish and saying “I want another bear!”
The first time she saw a whale
Chasing birds on the deck
Eating ice cream after EVERY meal

She might not remember it but we’ll tell her stories of her first cruise for forever. And certainly she’ll be influenced by all the new foods she ate, people she met, and experiences she had. Traveling with a young kid isn’t always easy, but it’s so worth it.

Do you want to travel with your children? I’d love to help your family discover the best family-friendly destinations, resorts, and cruises! Or maybe you’re thinking of taking them someplace magical with a certain mouse? I’ll help with all of the details! Contact me to start planning!

Top Mexico All Inclusive Resorts for families of 5

By Lia Vincent

A common request is, “We love this resort. What is the price for a family of 5?” Rooms or suites that accommodate a family of 5 can be a challenge especially at all inclusive resorts.  As a family of 5 myself, I know this first hand. It can be such a challenge finding resorts with bedding to accommodate but still have the kids close.  We put together a list of our favorites in Mexico which our clients have loved, I personally have loved, ones that have more than just a couple suites so it’s realistic to be able to book and are rated a minimum of a 4 star all inclusive.

Dreams Playa Mujeres –

Located – Playa Mujeres, Mexico

With more room options than most, Dreams Playa Mujeres did it right when building this resort with multiple categories with 2 queen beds and a sleeper sofa to accommodate the family of 5. They also have a variety of water slides and a water park geared toward kids 5 and under.

Pro tip – Parents have the option to go next door to adults only, Secrets Playa Mujeres for dinner while the kids enjoy a buffet of all their favorites in the Explorers Club (ages 3 – 12).

Hard Rock Riviera Maya –

Located – Riviera Maya, Mexco

Unique family suites with nonstop fun from an onsite waterpark , indoor skatepark and private beach cove at Hard Rock Riviera Maya make this a top pick for families looking for an all inclusive that will keep everyone happy. The Deluxe Family Suites are guaranteed adjoining rooms with a room with 1 king and a room with 2 double beds. Another great suite that accommodates a larger family are the Deluxe Platinum Connecting Sky Terrace  Suites which offer 1,928 square feet with 1 king, 2 double beds and an outdoor terrace with lounge chairs and a hydro spa tub.

Pro tip – Normally this resort is divided to create half for adults only. A chunk of summer, Christmas and Easter do not have restricted adults only areas so kids can have the run of the entire property.

Marival Armony –

Located – Punta Mita, Mexico

A brand new build which opened in 2019, Marival Armony had families in mind when they built this luxury all inclusive in Punta Mita just north of Puerto Vallarta. The resort has a variety of two bedroom suites which include a king master, living room and an adjoining room with 2 double beds. These suites include 3 bathrooms.

Pro tip? Book the Family Emotions category of suite. This will include a custom picnic on the beach, additional kid friendly amenities in your room and a family portrait session.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya

Located Playa del Carmen, Mexico

For families of 5 looking for the ultimate in luxury but still an all inclusive environment look no further than the Grand Velas Riviera Maya. The AAA Diamond Award recipient resort since 2010 boasts top dining options, a world class spa and a perfect choice for upscale families seeking adventure and/or relaxation.

The Two-Bedroom Zen or Ambassador Suites feature 1 king and 2 queen size beds to accommodate up to families of 6. Parents will love the variety of drinks and snacks the suites are stocked with as well as 24 hour butler concierge service.

Included Children’s Activity Program: Grand Velas´ exciting Kid´s Club is an innovative program where children can play and learn through fun activities in a safe, friendly environment supervised by highly qualified personnel. The program provides numerous fun activities such as flying kites, table games, soccer and treasure hunting for young children ages 4-12.

There are English-Spanish classes to help kids learn the names of colors, clothing, and body parts; arts & crafts; live shows with animals where children will appreciate the importance of ecology and care for nature. There are endless outdoor activities and watersports at the pool in addition to indoor fun at the video area that includes a home theater and X-Box.

The Kid´s Cooking classes is a favorite among the young crowd who love to decorate miniature cakes using multi-colored whipped cream and later enjoy the taste of delicious muffins from our bakery.

Pro tip – No need to over pack! Items such as baby monitors, strollers, walkers, and illuminated mobiles can all be requested thru the baby concierge!

Cozumel Palace

Located – Cozumel, Mexico

Traditionally known as a scuba divers paradise, Cozumel Palace has set the bar when it comes to family options people love. The Loft Suite features a king bed with private bath and shower on the lower level and an upper level with 2 double beds also with private bath and shower! Amenities like 24 hour room service, nightly turndown service and stocked minibar make this truly a vacation for everyone.

Stays of 5 nights or longer include a $1500 resort credit which can be used for scuba diving, spa or tours on the island. (16% service fee applies)

Pro tip – Playacar Palace is just across the way on the ferry. Guests of Cozumel Palace can journey over and have a change of scenery for the day with just the cost of a ferry ticket. Food and drinks included at Playacar Palace.

Riu Sante Fe –

Located – Los Cabo, Mexico

This resort is a go-to for traveling with teens but wanting them to stay close by. Riu Sante Fe saves their 2 Bedroom Suites to only be booked with a minimum of 4 guests that are over the age of 13. This is a great option for parents traveling with teens! The onsite waterpark, Splash Water is included with the all inclusive.

Pro tip – Book early! This resort has very few of these suites and is often sold out during school holidays.

Royalton Riviera Cancun –

Located – Rivera Maya, Mexico

This increasingly popular Canadian resort chain has thought of families with all their rooms sleeping 5 or more. Royalton Riviera Cancun appeals to active families with their endless variety of activities for all ages. Included kid’s club and even a teen’s club for the hardest to please guest makes Royalton a great choice for a wide range of ages.

Pro tip – Ask about Diamond Club! Some of the resort areas are exclusive to Diamond Club and the upgrade is sometimes very minimal.

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta

Located – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

This resort is tucked away just south of the town of Puerto Vallarta on the private beach cove of Mismaloya Beach. Almost all the rooms at the resort have an ocean view!

The Hyatt Club Level Suites feature 2 double beds and a sleeper sofa for families up to 5. The Club tower a private check in in an exclusive area, VIP in-suite refreshment center and access to exclusive club lounge with continental breakfast, table games, books and premium brand liquors.

Pro tip – Select the club suite with hot tub! The hot tub is on your balcony with great views. It’s perfect for an escape after the kids crash from a day of fun!

Generations Riviera Maya

Located – Riviera Maya, Mexico

Unique swim up suites and upscale dining options make Generations Riviera Maya a perfect resort for what a lot of families are looking for. All rooms are oceanfront and the resort features 1, 2 and even 3 bedroom suites that can sleep up to 12!

Pro tip – Guests 18 and up are welcome to dine at El Dorado  Royale which is just a short stroll away.

Barcelo Karima

Located – Manzanillo Bay, Mexico

For travelers looking for something different consider Manzanillo on the Pacific side of Mexico. Barcelo Karima is located only 15 minutes from town and 30 from the Playa de Oro International Airport. The resort offers 6 interconnecting pools with waterfalls, 5 bars, 4 restaurants, 24 hour room service and sits on a private cove beach. There is a kid club for ages 4 – 12 with supervised activities

We love the Master Suites which are 2 bedroom suites. They have 1 king, 2 double beds and a sleeper sofa to sleep up to 6. These suites are 1259 square feet.

Pro tip – Upgrade to the Master Suite with private pool!

On a budget?  Here are some great options that won’t break the bank!

Dreams Puerto Adventuras

Located – Riviera Maya, Mexico

Dreams Puerto Adventuras prices one of the lowest for families of 5 or even 6 in Riviera Maya with their Family Suite options which include 2 double beds and a sleeper sofa. Families love the dolphins on property, 24 hour room service at no additional charge and the included Explorer’s Club for ages 3 – 12.

Pro tip – Part of Sip, Savor and Dine Program! You can dine for dinner at nearby Dreams and Now Resorts for no additional charge. (transportation not included)

Riu Dunamar

Located – Costa Mujeres, Mexico

Located north of Cancun in the newly popular Costa Mujeres, this family friendly all inclusive was built in 2017. The 2 bedroom suites consist of 2 guaranteed adjoining rooms which can have up to 4 double beds and accommodate up to 8 guests. There are 5 pools, a children’s pool, water park with slides and an expansive beach area make this a great choice for families traveling on a budget.

Pro tip – Children’s Activity Program: “RiuLand” for children 4-12 years old. Children are divided into two groups – ages 4-7 and 8-12, and each group features its own entertainment team and programs. Kids will enjoy exciting themes, such as Games Day, Riu Holiday, Pirate Day, Aqualand and Olympic Games.

Barcelo Maya Grand Resort

Located – Riviera Maya, Mexico

This huge complex boasts one of the most amazing beaches in the Mexican Caribbean with a stay at one, play at four experience that includes a wide variety of activites in the resort complex.

Options include guaranteed adjoining rooms or families with smaller children love this option for the Oceanfront Junior Suites which have 2 double beds and a sleeper sofa all in one room.

Pro tip – Ask your Vincent Vacations agent about booking with All Inclusive PLUS which includes express check-in, unlimited ala carte dining  and upgraded in-room amenities.

Marival Emotions

Located – Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Beachfront resort located on a large stretch of beach, Marival Emotions is the ultimate in suite options for large families. The resort does a great job with nightly shows, playground and children’s water play area.

The resort features 1, 2 and 3 bedroom suites with the ability to sleep up to 9! The two bedroom suites sleep up to 7 with a king in each bedroom as well as a sleeper sofa in the living room. A unique feature is these include 3 bathrooms!

Pro tip – You can pre-reserve dining reservations in advance. Inquire with your Vincent Vacations agent!

Sunscape Sabor

Located – Cozumel, Mexico

Located on the south side of Cozumel on one of the best beaches, Sunsape Sabor features 2 swimming pools, a kids club for ages 3 – 12 and 4 restaurants.

The family suites will sleep a maximum of 5 with guaranteed connecting rooms offering approximately a total of 1,250 square feet. Each room has a king and a sleeper sofa. There is not an age minimum or maximum so works great for all ages of families.

Pro tip –  Located very close to the island’s main reeds for snorkeling and scuba diving. Snorkel gear is available at no additional charge or bring your own!

Sunscape Dorado Pacifico

Located – Ixtapa, Mexico

Located on the Pacific Coast in the beautiful town of Ixtapa, Sunscape Dorado is a great choice for active families.

Kids love the onsite waterpark with slides and splash zone. Teens have their own supervised social group  – The Core Zone to escape to. Movies on the beach and Monday night tailgate parties are just some of the included activities

Parents love the guaranteed adjoining rooms with 1 room with a king and the connecting room with 2 double beds.

Pro tip – Watch for kids stay free! This is a common promotion this with property.

When is the best time to visit Disney World? What is your favorite time to go?

These are questions we get asked the most in regards to traveling to Disney World.  There are many opinions on when you should visit but here is mine!

I love Disney in the fall months.  Crowds are generally low if you steer clear of the holidays. And there are lots of special events to take in.

One of the best times to go to Disney World for low crowds is in September. If you can go during early fall when everyone else has started school, you can see low crowds and low prices.  Plan some pool time or a day at the fabulous waterparks because it is really hot during these months.

September and October bring two of my favorite things: Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival.  Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween party is a great activity for the whole family to celebrate Disney magic Halloween style.  Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival is by far the best way to try different types of food in a little time.

Moving into November, you have the continuation of Food and Wine but guess what? The elves have visited the parks and you get a taste of Christmas.  Should you decide to brave the crowds and visit Magic Kingdom on Halloween, you’ll see the park all decorated for Fall.  Come back a few days later and you’ve got Christmas.  Don’t believe me?  You should! I know a former Disney elf!

Further into November, you’ll see more Christmas decorations popping up all over.  If you decide to go during this time, you should consider special decorations before you decide where to stay.  Want to see a gorgeous lodge with an enormous tree? Try Wilderness lodge! Want to see the life size gingerbread house? Visit the Grand Floridian.  All the resorts get a special touch of Christmas.  You will also want to check out the special Christmas items you can purchase or make a trip to the Christmas store at Disney Springs to pick out an ornament for your tree.  And of course, you want to see Santa at Disney World right?  Make plans to go to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.   Life size toy soldiers, Santa AND Mickey all in a parade together! (OH and don’t forget snow on Main Street! It’s Magical!)

Although, Christmas festivities are in full swing, don’t forget that holiday we like to call Thanksgiving!  Should you choose to travel during Thanksgiving, you’ll want to make a reservation to eat at a fabulous restaurant that serves Thanksgiving dinner. (Any holidays at Disney World will have higher volume crowds!)

You can continue these fun Christmas activities in December and also catch a candlelight processional at Epcot with a celebrity narrator (think John Stamos aka Uncle Jesse).  Just remember, the closer to the holiday you get, the crazier you are (I mean, the crazier the park will be…)

Another perk of planning your trip in the fall?  You may be able to get a free dining plan!  Disney traditionally comes out with a free dining promotion sometime in the Spring months.  That makes it an even better time to go!  (Make sure you watch our social media pages for information if there are more free dining dates released!)

There are other great times to visit Disney World, of course, but these fun Fall activities make your money even more worth it.   Follow along for more blogs with specific details of these activities that you can do at Disney World during one of the best times to visit!

Yes, as strange as it may seem, adults (sans children) can have a fantastic Vacation at Disney too!  The Disney Company prides itself in providing experiences for all ages, and in my humble opinion, they do a phenomenal job.
In this post, I will highlight a few hotels and restaurants that you can enjoy on your own adults only adventure.
So… you need to ask yourself, what do I want to experience and enjoy on my adults only trip to Disney?
Let’s Get Started! 
HOTELS
Disney has a variety of beautifully themed hotels and the newest is Disney’s Riviera Resort set to the theme of the French Riviera.  This hotel boasts the  rooftop restaurant, Topolino’s Terrace that features French and Italian Cuisine and has views of both Epcot and Hollywood Studios.  You can easily get to both theme parks via the new Skyliner and the resort is breathtaking!

Another resort that stands out as a fantastic location for an adult only vacation is Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa located on the Monorail Loop near Magic Kingdom and the Seven Seas Lagoon.  This lovely resort reminds you of the turn of the 20th century in its style and design.  The lobby has a live orchestra that plays a variety of music. You can enjoy nightly fireworks and the water parade from the beach at this resort.  It also houses the Senses Spa for those of you that want to indulge in rejuvenation and relaxation.  This spa offers a number of treatments for both men and woman and it is one of my favorite locations when I am at Disney.

If you are looking for something that is more budget friendly, then I would highly suggest Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter.  This resort is a hidden jewel.  It is a smaller resort that makes you feel like you are in the Quarter in New Orleans. The gas lamps, wrought iron balconies, and beautiful magnolia trees transport you to an place where Mardi Grad is always happening and Jazz is the music of choice.

Need a beignet fix??? No problem!  The French Quarter offers daily fresh beignets with a little Disney Magic and different flavors! They also have beignets just for us adults called Boozy Beignets with Baileys, Kahlua, or RumChata.

RESTAURANTS
Disney offers a variety of restaurants and nightlife venues that can enhance any adults-only trip to Disney!  I would like to highlight a few of my favorites!  
First, let me take you to Canada in Epcot so that we can visit Le Cellier Steakhouse.  You will go down into a wine cellar to enjoy a filet mignon with white truffle butter and mushroom risotto and tasty seafood specialties.  You will be able to choose from a variety of wines and beers and the Cheddar Beer Cheese soup is lovely! The atmosphere is cozy and intimate and perfect for adults!

The next restaurant I really enjoy eating at is California Grill at the top of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.  If you time it just right, you can watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the patio of the restaurant as they pipe in the music to go with the show.  This restaurant features global recipes that change with the seasons and is a great place for foodies. The seafood is tender and appetizing. The stone fired pizzas offer fresh ingredients that pair well with a delightful beverage from the spirits menu.  They have re-imagined Mac and Cheese that is delightful.

The last place I would like to highlight in this post is a whimsical bar at Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is a tropical tiki bar that offers you a unique South Seas experience through food and beverage.  In the Grog Grotto, you can enjoy specialty drinks such as the Uh-Oa! (Myer’s Original Dark Rum, Bacardi Superior Rum, Orange, Passion Fruit, Guave, Pinapple, and Grapefruit Juices, Falernum, Cinnamon, and fresh Lime Juice) that can be shared with two guests or my favorite, the Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Rum (Pyrat XO Reserve Rum, Creme of  Coconut, and Pinapple and Orange Juices dusted with Cinnamon and Nutmeg).  Some drinks come with an interactive experience and the staff are great fun.  If you like the corny joke on the Jungle Cruise in Magic Kingdom, then you need to go check Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto out!

If you are unsure of which hotel might be best for you – or need personalized help with any aspect of your trip from restaurants to attractions or experiences – reach out to us at Vincent Vacations.  We would love to help you!

Welcome to my travel blog. My name is Lindsy and I am an independent travel consultant with Vincent Vacations.

Not only do I enjoy planning vacations, I also enjoy sharing about my trips.  This blog will be a mixture of travel tips, destination ideas and personal travel stories.  Stay tuned for more post.

My husband and I traveled to Thailand for our honeymoon. We were there for 12 days and stayed in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket. I planned all of the site seeing for us to the temples, local markets, tours to the floating markets, the Golden Triangle, The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Phi Phi Islands, Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island. There is so much to see and do and so many elements to planning a multiple destination trip to Thailand. I would love to use my expertise to help plan the perfect itinerary that suits you best!

In Italy I have visited Florence, Venice, Sienna, San Gimignano, Pisa, Rome, Naples, Pompeii, Positano and Vatican City. Each city has something unique to offer. The scenery, rich history and food are some of my most favorite in the entire world. Whether you are are looking for an adventure or prefer drinking wine with sea views or both I can help plan the perfect Italian getaway for you!

The lady in the middle is my good friend Tonya. We celebrated her birthday in St. Lucia. Doesn’t that sound fabulous? We hung out on the beach, lounged around the pool and ate delicious food.

Celebratory trips are the best! Do you want to celebrate your birthday somewhere?  I would love to help! There’s no fee or charge for my assistance.  Let’s plan your next birthday trip.

 

Recently, I went on a Girls Trip to Hilton Head Island, Georgia.  We had an absolute blast! Hilton Head Island is a great destination for everyone: families, couples, multigeneration trips, and girls trips.  There is so much to do on the island, no one will get bored! Besides the beach, there are golf courses, shopping, top rated restaurants, biking trails, fishing, and alligators. Yes, alligators!

My group stayed at The Westin Hilton Head Island. This beachfront hotel was perfect for my group of four. We stayed in a 2 queen room. We found the room to provide plenty of space., and comfortable beds. The hotel staff was friendly, service was top notch, and the views were breathtaking. I definitely recommend The Westin and Hilton Head Island for anyone looking for a beach vacation.

Please enjoy pictures from the trip. If you are interested in booking a Hilton Head trip let me help you.