Here & Beyond Magazine, Spring/Summer 2015

O��T R AV E L W E L L

YOUR DESTINATION WEDDING GUIDE

O��B E W E L L

STAYING HEALTHY AT HOME AND AWAY

O��L I V E W E L L

TEQUILA TRENDS WORTH TASTING

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 5

COMP L I M ENTA RY

Riviera MayaFIND WHAT’S TO BE

DISCOVERED ALONG MEXICO’S

CARIBBEAN COASTLINE

C1.indd 1 3/3/15 9:09 AM

A first-class destination now has a world-class resort to match.

Sandals LaSource Grenada is an all-inclusive luxury experience on the

magical and romantic “Spice Island.” Here Sandals has infused the exotic

feeling of the South Seas with a bold, contemporary design that goes

beyond the unexpected. You will be amazed by pools that fl oat in the sky,

a living room that fl oats inside a pool, and private Tranquility Soaking Tubs

that rest upon oceanview balconies. Meanwhile, ten exemplary restaurants,

including the Caribbean’s fi nest steakhouse, will impress with savoury

dishes prepared by worldly chefs. These are just a few of the innovative

new standards in luxury you can expect from the Sandals of tomorrow.

The Sandals® of tomorrow.

C2-pg 1.indd 1 3/3/15 10:28 AM

Sandals® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is the affi liate of the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts.

Today.

BEYOND THE UNEXPECTED

Book today with Funjet Vacations, call your Travel Agent or

1.800.SANDALS or visit SANDALS.COMA Caribbean Family-Owned Company

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We surround guests with the lush romance of the Caribbean, endless swimming pools and a philosophy of total wellness in cuisine, spa and service. For us, all-inclusive luxury is more than a label. And excellence is more than a goal. It is who we are. Every day, every night, for every guest.

All-inclusive romance.

pg 2.indd 1 3/3/15 9:48 AM

HEREANDBEYONDMAG.COM SPRING/SUMMER 2015 3

CONTENTSF E AT U R E S

Hidden Treasures of the Riviera Maya34 If you think all

there is to do

in this Mexican resort

region is lounge on

the beach, think again.

B Y L I S A L A C H

Far Away on Your Big Day42 Destination

wedding planning

made easy, with tips

from the experts, hot

new trends, and up-and-

coming destinations.

B Y H E A T H E R S T E I N B E R G E R

D E P A R T M E N T S

5 PUBLISHER’S LETTER

6 FAST FIVE

Vacation Coaches share their travel

perspectives.

9 WHO WHAT WHERE

Hot new resort openings, a Los

Cabos comeback, kid-approved

vacations, tequila trends, a new

downtown for Disney, plus

products and fashion for the beach

and beyond.

18 SPOTLIGHT

The resort of tomorrow: Sandals

LaSource Grenada.

20 INSIDER

Stay healthy on vacation.

22 WORD OF MOUTH

Disney tips from the experts.

26 STYLESHEET

Haute Hawaiian.

28 FIELD GUIDE

What kind of Las Vegas are you?

Six ways to experience the city.

30 GEAR UP

Latest tech trends.

51 TRAVEL LISTINGS

Premier resource guide to hotels

and destinations.

Spring/Summer 2015

The Mayan ruins

at Tulum.

Q��For the most travel options and best deals,

the best time to book is 4+ months in advance. Q��United Vacations has the best vacation

package prices on United Airlines—

guaranteed.* Q��On Hawaii’s Big Island, you can explore

11 of the world’s 13 climate zones.THE

TIPSTER

*See page 55

ON THE COVER (AND ABOVE): Photographs by Jessica Sample

pg 3-30.indd 3 3/3/15 9:20 AM

Located in the heart of Playa del Carmen, THE Royal is the ultimate luxury escape. On one side, the

bustling scene of the famous Fifth Avenue showcases shops, restaurants and nightlife. On the other,

the peaceful waves of the Caribbean Sea lap at pristine shores. And in between, this AAA FOUR

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* Offer valid for new bookings made now through March 31, 2015 for travel now through August 31, 2015. Not combinable with other consumer saving promotions and is not applicable for group bookings of 20 rooms or more. Blackout, weekend, holiday and peak season surcharges may apply. Rates and promotion are accurate at time of printing and are subject to changes, exceptions, cancellation charges and restrictions. All advertised savings are refl ected in rate. Rates are subject to change based on currency fl uctuations. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Additional higher priced packages available. Valid for new bookings only. Only combinable with select promotions. Offer may be changed or withdrawn at any time. Call or see playaresorts.com for details. Playa Hotel & Resorts materials (including, but not limited to, names, trademark, service marks, logos, marketing materials, etc.) shall not be used, reproduced, transmitted or distributed in any way, except with express written consent. ©2015 Playa Resorts Management, exclusive operator THE Royal and The Grans. All rights reserved. Other restrictions may apply.

For more information call your preferred travel agent or visit playaresorts.com

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pg 4.indd 1 3/3/15 9:49 AM


O at the mark travel corporation,

we embrace the idea of traveling beyond

your comfort zone—at home and on

vacation. Th at’s why we’re so excited

to present to you our new lifestyle and travel

magazine. Within the pages of Here & Beyond,

you’ll embark on a journey with us, one that will

open your eyes to vibrant destinations, interesting

people, hot trends and the many ways you can

infuse your own life with adventures, wellness

and the spirit of discovery.

In our debut issue, our experts will take you

deep within the Riviera Maya, and they’ll share

insider perspectives on destination weddings.

We’ll break down the Disney experience, take

an intimate look at the new Sandals LaSource

Grenada, and introduce you to Maui. Plus, check

out our Las Vegas field guide for great travel

advice, whether you’re a foodie or a thrill seeker.

We’ll also introduce you to our Vacation

Coaches, who will share their favorite hotspots, activities and advice, letting you in on

the secrets that will enrich your travel plans and deliver authentic experiences, from

the Caribbean to Hawaii. Be sure to read our Fast Five department on page 6, and also

keep an eye out for valuable Vacation Coach tips sprinkled throughout the magazine.

Here & Beyond isn’t only about travel. In this issue, you’ll learn more about pursuing

your lifelong wellness journey with insider David Pritchard on page 20. We’ll also share

our top picks for digital gear, island-inspired fashion and accessories, and more.

Along the way, we’ll give you the tools you need to make these experiences your

own. You’ll fi nd plenty of inspiration to start your vacation planning here—and we, our

partners, our family of vacation brands like Funjet Vacations, Southwest Vacations, United

Vacations, Weddings by Funjet and Blue Sky Tours, and our network of Vacation Coaches

are ready with our signature End-to-End Customer Care to help you fi nd your beyond.

I hope you enjoy the magazine and are as passionate about its message as I am:

Live well, be well, travel well.

Best wishes,

BILL LA MACCHIA, JR.Chief Engagement Offi cer, The Mark Travel Corporation

Publisher’s Letter

Start Your Journey Here

Q��All-inclusive resorts include

accommodations, dining, most drinks, gratuities

and some activities all for one complete price. Q��Avoid the hassle and book airport

transfers with your package at the time

of purchase. Q��Use Funjet Vacations’ Non-Stop Value

Flight Finder tool to see available value

flights to Mexico and the Caribbean.

THE

TIPSTER

C H I E F E N G AG E M E N T O F F I C E R

Bill La Macchia, Jr.

E N G AG E M E N T S U P E R V I S O R /P R OJ E C T M A N AG E R

Jen Rumpel

D I R E C TO R O F C O N T E N T S T U D I O/P R O D U C T I O N M A N AG E R

Jennifer Law-Myles

A S S O C I AT E E D I TO R S

Heather SteinbergerLisa Lach

A S S O C I AT E A R T D I R E C TO R

Evan Stremke

C O N T R I B U T I N G W R I T E R / E D I TO R

Erin Christman

M A N AG E R , T R AV E L AG E N C Y E N G AG E M E N T

Erin Nass

S E N I O R I N T E R AC T I V E S T R AT E G I S T

Fred Ziegler

S O C I A L M E D I A M A N AG E R

Lisa Lach

A DV E R T I S I N G S A L E S

Lyndsey North

CONTACT US

Q U E S T I O N S :

[email protected]

S TO RY I D E A S :

[email protected]

A DV E R T I S I N G :

[email protected]

PUBLISHING PARTNER

MSP-C , A DIVISION OF MSP COMMUNICATIONS

mspcustomcontent.com

E D I TO R I A L D I R E C TO R

Colby Johnson

P R OJ E C T M A N AG E R

Katie Romaine

Here & Beyond Magazine is published twice yearly by The Mark Travel Corporation.

© Copyright 2015, The Mark Travel Corporation. All rights reserved.

READERS: Publication requests, questions can be made at www.hereandbeyondmag.com

POSTMASTER: Address changes can be sent to The Mark Travel Corporation

c/o Materials Distribution, 9240 N. 107th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53224

Printed in Wisconsin.

Information provided valid as of 2/23/15.

CST#2009218-20

Photograph by Anthony Giacomino

pg 3-30.indd 5 3/3/15 9:20 AM

6 SPRING/SUMMER 2015 HERE & BEYOND

travel agents don’t just book fl ights and hotel rooms. Th ese experts have years of experience, a wealth of knowledge and a fi erce passion for every aspect of traveling. Th ey’ve spent time in the destinations they represent, and they cultivate long-term relationships to ensure they can provide the best insider tips and advice, from resorts and room categories to off -property adventures and hidden gems. Travel agents really are

Vacation Coaches—they’re dedicated to crafting unforgettable, one-of-a-kind vacations, and they love every minute of it. We’d like to introduce a few of our favorite Vacation Coaches, who share their perspectives on all things travel.

FAVORITE

PLACE FOR PERSONAL

VACATION?

RIVIER A MAYA , SPECIFIC ALLY

EL DOR ADO C A SITA S

ROYALE ▶��Th ere are so many activities in the region, you can have a new experience each time you visit. — MICHAEL SCHELLHA SE , TR AVEL

PROFESSIONAL FOR 31 YE ARS;

ST. LOUIS , MO

COLOR ADO ▶��Because I love the mountains more than anything, and I enjoy the snow and the skiing and the smell! — HANNAH COTE , TR AVEL


PL ANO, TX

ALL-INCLUSIVE ▶��Anywhere with an all-inclusive plan is the way to go! I love having a totally stress-free vaca-tion with nothing to worry about but whether I'm going to lie by the beach or the pool. — R ACHEL GR AY, TR AVEL


PL ANO, TX

FAVORITE ACTIVITY

OR EXCURSION?

ZIP LINING ▶��I may be more than 60 years old, but I would do this over and over again! What a rush.

— LINDA SCHREIBER, TR AVEL


ARLINGTON HEIGHTS , IL

A SEGWAY TOUR OF ANY WHERE

▶��It’s like adult recess. If I’m on a Segway, I have a smile on my face. — C ATHERINE BANKS, TR AVEL


PL ANO, TX

A PACIFIC WHALE

FOUNDATION SNORKEL TOUR

ON MAUI ▶��We were able to see a humpback whale, snorkel in deep water over lava tubes and swim with the giant green sea turtles. — RG

CHICHÉN ITZ Á ▶��It’s one of the new wonders of the world. — LEIGH-ANN G ALPIN, TR AVEL


AUSTIN, TX

FAVORITE

CAN’T-LEAVE-BEHIND

TRAVEL ITEM?

MY iPHONE 6 ▶��I like to stay in touch, and post pictures on Facebook of all the great experiences in which I am privileged to participate. — MS

L AUNDRY BAG ▶��I always bring a bag in which to bring dirty laundry home. — HC

C AMER A ▶��So I can relive the experience over and over again. — LS

FAVORITE BOOK

TO READ ON THE BEACH?

THE 5 LOVE LANGUAGES BY

GARY D. CHAPMAN ▶��I’m still trying to get it right! — MS

HARRY POTTER ▶��I re-read the entire series every year, so you’ll usually fi nd me reading one of those. — RG

THE HUNGER GAMES ▶��I like something that makes me think. — HC

I DON’T READ ON THE BEACH

▶��I want to take in the destination ... the sights, the smells and the awe of it all! — LS

WHY CONSIDER

USING A VACATION

COACH?

▶��Our slogan says it best: “We know what we sell be-cause we have been there.” And we really mean it. — LS

▶��Our experience, personal knowledge and contacts are priceless. Together with our in-destination contacts, we make sure our clients have experiences beyond what they would have had if they’d just booked online. — MS

▶��Relationships. When you’ve worked with clients for years and really know them, what they like and want, that leads to magical vacations. — CB

▶��All the time saved! We already know the destina-tions and resorts, so when a client comes to us and says, “I want X, Y and Z,” we deliver their vacations on a silver platter. — HC

FOR MORE INFORM ATION

ABOUT OUR VAC ATION COACHES,

VISIT HERE ANDBE YONDM AG .COM/

VAC ATIONCOACH.

Vacation Coaches

C O AA C H

VACAATION

Fast FiveVacation Coaches' Perspectives—Insider Tips From Pros Who Know.

Add a little

adventure

to your next

vacation.

AM

MIT

JA

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pg 3-30.indd 6 3/3/15 9:20 AM

Your vacation experience should be stress-free.As a family-owned business, we take pride in providing unmatched

service and making sure every aspect of your trip is fun and stress-

free. And with insider knowledge of all the top destinations and

connections to over 70 airlines, we have the tools to give you a

vacation experience everyone will envy.

Ready to get away? Visit Funjet.com or contact a recommended Funjet Travel Agent.

We do pretty much everythingexcept apply your sunscreen.

&67Ỳӷ��ӷ��ӷ�

pg 7.indd 1 3/3/15 9:49 AM

pg 8.indd 1 3/3/15 9:50 AM


WWho What Where

FLIGHTS

OF FLAVOR

� The El Dorado

Seaside Suites in

the Riviera Maya

off ers guests a

unique tasting

experience that

infuses tequila with

more than a dozen

fl avors, such as

apple and coff ee.

AGAVE 101

� Guests at

Fiesta Americana

Puerto Vallarta

can participate in

cooking classes

and learn about

native agave plants

and the tequila-

making process,

followed by tequila

tastings.

T R E N D S

Tequila Takes FlightExperience the hottest tequila trends right at the source.

hollywood heavy-hitters and friends George Clooney and Rande Gerber debuted their Casamigos small-batch, ultra premium tequila last year, but they weren’t the fi rst celebs to realize that the Mexican liquor had potential for big buzz. Carlos Santana, Toby Keith and Justin Timberlake have rolled out their own brands of tequila in recent years. With or without celebrity endorsement, though, this south-of-the-border spirit is hotter than ever, with bars and restaurants around the United States now off ering extensive selections of the blue agave nectar. For an authentic experience, try tequila as the Mexicans do—with a sangrita chaser.

AGAVE GURU

� The tequila

sommelier at Hyatt

Zilara Cancún

teaches weekly

classes about the

harvesting and dis-

tilling processes of

tequila and its sis-

ter spirit, mezcal,

and off ers plenty of

tastings, too.

TEQUILA

EXPRESS

� An all-day

adventure leaving

from Guadalajara,

the Tequila Express

train carries you

through the rolling

hills of blue agave

country to the

famed Casa Her-

radura distillery.

TEQUILA

TASTINGS

� Test your taste

buds at Excellence

Riviera Cancún’s

weekly tequila

tastings, where

you'll discover the

pure fl avors of all

the distinct variet-

ies, from blanco to

reposado to añejo.

Photograph by Adam Voorhes

pg 3-30.indd 9 3/3/15 9:21 AM

10 SPRING/SUMMER 2015 HEREANDBEYONDMAG.COM

W

Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall & Hyatt Ziva Rose HallWHERE: Montego Bay, Jamaica

WHEN: January 2015

WHY GO: The family-friendly Ziva and

adults-only Zilara are adjacent to

one another, each offering easy access

to golf, attentive beach butler service

and specialty amenities, such as

rum sommeliers.

Royalton Riviera CancúnWHERE: Cancún, Mexico

WHEN: December 2014

WHY GO: Situated so that guests can

view the ocean from nearly everywhere

on the property, this resort features

innovative details such as wristbands

that function as your room key so

you don’t have to carry anything with

you to the beach.

Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta WHERE: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

WHEN: December 2014

WHY GO: Location, location! This

family-friendly resort, located on

Las Estacas beach, is just 20 minutes

from downtown, with quaint shops,

historic architecture and the

renovated oceanfront malecón.

Finest Playa Mujeres WHERE: Cancún, Mexico

WHEN: February 2015

WHY GO: This new resort is designed

with luxury for all ages in mind, with

smart design choices such as oversized

in-room Jacuzzis, private plunge pools

and chic room décor. Don’t miss the

adults-only French restaurant for an

all-encompassing culinary experience.

Moon Palace Jamaica GrandeWHERE: Ocho Rios, Jamaica

WHEN: Late Spring/Early Summer 2015

WHY GO: Palace Resorts’ first foray

outside of Mexico incorporates

a FlowRider wave simulator, a private

beach and excursions to Mystic

Mountain Park complete with a

Jamaican bobsled ride.

Baha Mar Casino & Hotel WHERE: Nassau, Bahamas

WHEN: June 2015

WHY GO: This lavish development is a

destination in its own right. A mini-

Riviera on the shores of Nassau’s Cable

Beach, it features three art galleries,

dozens of dining and shopping options,

the Caribbean’s largest casino, and a

beach sanctuary where you can inter-

act with exotic birds, fish and more.

For more details on these resorts, check

out our Travel Listings on p. 51 or visit

hereandbeyondmag.com.

O P E N I N G S

Best New ResortsCheck out these new hot spots in Mexico

and the Caribbean. B Y L I S A L AC H

LEFT Royalton Riviera Cancún

BELOW Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall

& Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall

BOTTOM Finest Playa Mujeres

pg 3-30.indd 10 3/3/15 9:22 AM


in the months since the Category 3 Hurricane Odile slammed into

Los Cabos, Mexico, last fall, the locals have worked tirelessly to make the

popular tourist destination better than ever. By the end of 2014, more than

90 percent of the destination’s shops and restaurants were open, and nearly

80 percent of its 14,000 hotel rooms were ready for guests.

“We didn’t lose an inch of sand, and the beach is clean,” says Juan Carlos

del Rio of Epic Group Los Cabos DMC, a top-level destination management

company. “Th e rains also helped ... the

golf courses are very green.”

Though it was one of the most in-

tense storms to hit the region, the

strong commitment to tourism was

on display as resorts made repairs and

renovations to get back up and running

as quickly as possible.

Barceló Grand Faro Los Cabos re-

opened in October, two weeks ahead

of schedule, and debuted a completely

renovated Sky Bar Cielito Lindo and

Sushi Bar Kyoto in its iconic lighthouse.

Meanwhile, Fiesta Americana Grand

Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa re-

opened in November with a brand new

lobby bar, plus a beautifully renovated

lobby area, Sushi Sky Bar and three

on-site restaurants.

Other area resorts will be unveil-

ing their repairs and renovations this

spring and summer. The Hyatt Ziva

Los Cabos luxury resort, for example,

will start welcoming guests this July.

Th e resort will feature 591 new rooms

and suites, a double-size Asian restau-

rant with new teppanyaki stations and

larger sushi bar, and a new sports bar

with evening entertainment.

For more coverage on Los Cabos, visit


N E W S & N O T E S

Los Cabos

Weathers the StormB Y H E AT H E R S T E I N B E R G E R

W I L D S I D E

Meet the LocalsGet up close and personal

with wildlife on your next trip.

WHALE

WATCHING

Maui

From November

to May, humpback

whales gather to

calve in the warm

waters off Maui.

To fully appreci-

ate them, join a

whale-watching

excursion. From

the boat, see the

whales swim,

breach and play.

SWIM WITH

WHALE SHARKS

Isla Mujeres,

Mexico

The largest fi sh

in the sea, whale

sharks can be

found in warm

waters around the

globe—includ-

ing just north of

Cancún. Here, you

can snorkel with

these gentle giants

in their natural

habitat from May

to September.

PLAY WITH

DOLPHINS

Atlantis, Paradise

Island, Bahamas

Interact with bot-

tlenose dolphins at

Dolphin Cay, a so-

phisticated 14-acre

marine habitat and

rescue-rehabilita-

tion facility. Its fi rst

16 dolphins were

rescued from their

Mississippi home

during Hurricane

Katrina and have

all fully recovered

since relocation.

FEED THE

CROCODILES

Grand Palladium

Hotels & Resorts,

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Located within the

resort’s mangrove-

rich grounds, a

dedicated croco-

dile habitat allows

guests to witness

an exciting feeding

exhibition.

HAVE LUNCH

WITH MONKEYS

Punta Cana,

Dominican Republic

Book an excursion

to meet friendly

and adorable

squirrel monkeys.

They’ll sit on your

shoulder and eat

from your hand if

you off er them fruit

and seeds, and they

love to pose for the

camera.

“Th e hotels and ground handlers have worked diligently to get Cabo back up and running. Th e region’s 14 stunning golf courses were barely damaged and are ready to be experienced. Try Cabo as you have never seen it before: re-freshed, clean and awaiting your arrival!”

— LINDA SCHREIB ER , TR AVEL

PROFE S SIONAL FOR 29 Y E AR S;

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS , IL

C O AA C H

VACAATION

Los Cabos is back

and better than ever.

For more information, check out our videos

at funjetinsider.com.

LO

S C

AB

OS

: CO

LL

EE

N C

AH

ILL

/MA

XX

IMA

GE

S

pg 3-30.indd 11 3/3/15 9:22 AM


W

WHERE TO STAY

MONTAGE K APALUA BAY

� Perched atop legendary

Kapalua Bay, this new all-suite,

family-friendly hideaway has

a cultural ambassador who

can arrange everything from

historic tours to hula lessons

for the kids. Afterward, relax

by the stunning, multi-tiered

lagoon pool.

HYATT REGENCY MAUI RESORT & SPA

� With a prime location on

Ka’anapali Beach, this contem-

porary hotel boasts a half-acre

pool, a 150-foot lava tube water

slide for the kids and one of the

best lu’aus on the island.

THE WESTIN MAUI RESORT & SPA

� Soak up the fun at the resort’s

87,000-square-foot aquatic

playground featuring fi ve pools

(including one for adults only)

and a 128-foot water slide, then

venture to the award-winning

spa and fi tness center.

THE FAIRMONT KEA L ANI, MAUI

� This all-suite resort off ers

guests authentic Hawaiian

culture and unparalleled luxury

service. Everything from its

9,000-square-foot spa to its

restaurant menus is infused

with native Maui traditions and

ingredients. Get the full Hawaii

experience, and then relax at

the adults-only pool with

swim-up bar.

K A’ANAPALI BEACH HOTEL

� There’s no question why

the Ka’anapali Beach Hotel has

earned the title of “Hawaii’s

most Hawaiian hotel.” This

charming resort off ers nightly

hula shows, garden tours high-

lighting the native fl ora and

fauna, and a wide variety of arts

and crafts activities for both

kids and adults.

These and other exciting vacation

packages are available through

your Vacation Coach or at

unitedvacations.com.

MauiWELCOME TO THE VALLEY ISLE

SacredPools of

Ohe’o

7

AverageTemperature78-88˚F

Miles of Swimming

Beaches

IslandFlowerLokelani

FEET ABOVE SEA LEVELAt the Summit of Haleakalā,the Island’s Highest Point10,023

MONTHS OF WHALE WATCHING (Nov. – May)

POPULATION 144,444

1 Volcano Haleakalā“House of the Sun”

Illustration by Erik Carnes

PIE

RR

E L

EC

LE

RC

/SH

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TO

CK

.CO

M

pg 3-30.indd 12 3/3/15 9:21 AM

© 2015 United Vacations

CST#2009218-20

Lowest airfares on United Airlines

As the exclusive vacation brand for United Airlines®, we can offer

the lowest fares—including on United First® and United Business®—

on the world’s most comprehensive global route network.

Best price guarantee

If you find a lower price on your vacation elsewhere,

let us know and we’ll match it.

More vacation options

• Choose from thousands of resorts in over 400 destinations

worldwide: United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean,

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• Customized ski, dive and escorted tour packages, as well

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For the best prices, best

service and best policies,

plan your vacation at

unitedvacations.com

Why choose United Vacations?

pg 13.indd 1 3/3/15 9:51 AM


R A C E C A T I O N S

The Perfect

FinishRaces you’ll go

the distance for.

LOOKING FOR A WAY to amp up

your exercise routine? Consider

combining your vacation with a

triathlon, marathon or fun run

so you have a tangible goal and

reward, all in one package. In

other words, think racecation.

The original racecation—admit-

tedly not for the faint of heart—

is the Hawaii Ironman World

Championship in October, with

a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike

ride and 26.2-mile run on the

Big Island that starts and ends

at The Fairmont Orchid resort.

Since the original 1978 event,

other destinations have joined

the action. Los Cabos, Mexico,

hosts a full-length Ironman

in October, and St. Croix, in

the U.S. Virgin Islands, hosts

events of varying lengths in

March and May.

In late February, nearby St.

John hosts 8 Tuff Miles, a run

that starts on the west side of

the island, rises to an elevation

of 999 feet and ends at sea

level in Coral Bay. Then there

is Jamaica’s Reggae Marathon,

which also includes a half-mara-

thon and 10K, in December.

“Training for a race gets me

active before my vacation, and

keeps me active during it,” says

Alyssa Feuerer, who has done

three racecations in Hawaii and

elsewhere. Be sure to arrive a

few days before your race to

acclimate to local conditions,

and stay for at least a few days

afterward to relax and reward

yourself. You will have earned it.

— ERIN CHRISTM AN

NICKELODEON

VACATION EXPERIENCE

Azul Hotels by Karisma


� Starting this summer,

young fans of Dora the

Explorer, SpongeBob

SquarePants and Teen-

age Mutant Ninja Turtles

will be able to meet their

heroes on vacation in the

Riviera Maya. An exclusive

partnership with Viacom

International Media Net-

works brings the experience

to life.

OCEAN BLUE & SAND

Punta Cana,

Dominican Republic

� This resort caught our

eye with its bowling alley

and climbing wall right

on the beach. It also

features special clubs for

kids and teens, plus water-

sports such as snorkeling,

windsurfing and kayaking.

Older guests shouldn’t miss

the intro-to-scuba pool

demonstration and full dive

center.

MOON PALACE

GOLF & SPA RESORT

Cancún, Mexico

� Younger children can

hang out at The Playroom

Kids Club, complete with

mini fashion show runway,

while teens spend time at

Wired Teens Lounge. And

adventure-seekers will get

their wish with the Flow-

Rider wave simulator and

the Ultimate Dolphin Swim

Experience.

HARD ROCK HOTELS

Cancún and Riviera Maya,

Mexico, and Punta Cana,

Dominican Republic

� Hard Rock Hotels know

how to make even the

youngest guests feel like

rock stars at The Little Big

Club. Kids can meet and

play with Barney, Angelina

Ballerina, Bob the Builder

and Thomas The Tank

Engine—and even put on

a live show with their new

A-list friends. Guests over

age 12 can live the rock star

dream at the Music Lab,

with expert instruction,

stage training and a live

performance.

For more information on

these resorts, see our Travel

Listings on p. 51.

Downtown Disney in Orlando is getting a mega

makeover and a new name. Disney Springs will

double the number of unique shops, entertainment

venues and restaurants to more than 150 choices

in four architecturally unique outdoor districts.

The beauty of Florida’s lakeside towns in the early

1900s inspired the vision for the three-year trans-

formation. The development will open in phases;

the first phase is expected to open in spring of 2015.

O N O U R R A D A R

Disney MakeoverIntroducing Disney Springs, Orlando’s newest hot spot.

F A M I L Y T I M E

Kid-Approved VacationsResorts are ramping up offerings for their youngest guests.

Here are our top picks for 2015. B Y H E AT H E R S T E I N B E R G E R

Enjoy

kid-friendly

fun, indoors (left)

and out, at

Moon Palace

Cancún.

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pg 3-30.indd 14 3/3/15 9:58 AM

A LIFETIME SUPPLY OF DINNER CONVERSATIONS. INCLUDED. With five family-friendly resorts in Mexico and Jamaica, the FlowRider® Double

Wave Simulator, Wired Teen Lounge and roughly a million other amazing amenities,

you’ll keep enjoying a Palace vacation long after your tan fades.

pg 15.indd 1 3/3/15 10:03 AM


M U S T H A V E

Beach and BeyondHit the beach with hot trends made

for even hotter locations —plus a few to help you get in tip-top shape before

you slip into that new bikini (or swim trunks for that matter).

B Y E L I Z A B E T H D OY L E

Carry-AllPerfect for all your beach essentials. Havana Tote by Mar Y Sol, $ 135. marysol.com

On-the-GoTrack your daily activity in the chicest of ways. Tory Burch for Fitbit, $195. fi tbit.com/toryburch

“Riu Resorts in Dominican Republic make searching for souvenirs a cinch! Stroll La Calle Caribeña, a charming palm tree-lined market through the Riu complex in Punta Cana on the way to the beach. You’ll fi nd everything from cigars and local artwork to cool beach hats—all haggle-free.” — MICHAEL SCHELLHA SE, TR AVEL PROFESSIONAL FOR 3 1 YE AR S; ST. LOUIS , MO

VA C AT I O N

C O A C H

VA C AT I O NO

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VACAATION

W

For more style tips, check out our videos at funjetinsider.com.

Enjoy a day of

shopping along

La Calle Caribeña

at Riu Resorts in

Punta Cana.

Sun Care EssentialBroad spectrum, non-greasy, no shady ingredients. Sunscreen by Shiseido, $39. sephora.com

W Time KeeperA supremely designed and waterproof watch, in case “checking out” doesn’t entail losing track of time. Runwell Sport by Shinola, $625. shinola.com

Keep Calm Embrace tranquility and trend simultaneously in one necklace. Bella Necklace by Tess and Tricia, $75. tessandtricia.com

Cocktail KitPerfect for the mid-air mixologist.Carry on Cocktail Kit W&P Design, $24. carryoncocktailkit.com

pg 3-30.indd 16 3/3/15 9:24 AM

pg 17.indd 1 3/3/15 10:03 AM

Spotlight

there was a time when va-

cationers seeking a sun-kissed

Caribbean island were mainly

concerned with one feature: a

beachfront hotel room. Times

have changed. As contemporary

travelers’ expectations have

evolved, resorts are stepping it

up by offering more than just ac-

commodations; they’re offering

experiences.

When Sandals Resorts Inter-

national announced the opening

of Sandals LaSource Grenada

in December 2013, it called the

property a convention-defying

“resort of tomorrow.” With its

innovative on-site offerings,

impressive array of what Sandals

calls “Luxury Included” ameni-

ties and full embrace of island

life, we’d have to agree.

This 225-room luxury resort,

just minutes from Maurice Bishop

International Airport, comprises

three villages: Pink Gin, Italian

and South Seas. General Manager

Peter Fraser says the island’s

former LaSource hotel became

Pink Gin Village, while the South

Seas Village emerged from its

golf course.

“Sandals transformed this

hotel in 10 short months, which

is extraordinary,” Fraser says. “It

looks like a large property, but it’s

actually very compact and easy to

get around.”

The intimate feel is one of our

favorite aspects, along with the

daring architecture and Skypool

Suites. These upper-floor cre-

ations offer infinity plunge pools

on their bedroom balconies and

soaking tubs off the living rooms.

Some suites have private

plunge sanctuaries, while others

bring the main pools right to the

living room (69 suites even offer

personal butlers trained to the

impressive standards of the Guild

of Professional English Butlers).

The property was clearly designed

to provide a more immersive ex-

perience than a traditional hotel.

“It’s a brand-new concept, and

T

The Resort of Tomorrow

The new Sandals LaSource Grenada infuses the culture and adventure of this unspoiled

Caribbean island with the luxury amenities contemporary travelers expect.

B Y H E AT H E R S T E I N B E R G E R

SK YPOOL SUITES

SWIM-UP SUITES

BUTLER SUITES

pg 3-30.indd 18 3/3/15 9:25 AM

� Recent upgrades

to the Ochi Beach

Club at the

Sandals Grande

Riviera in Ja-

maica include the

Popcorn & Palms

Cinema for movie

lovers, and new

dining options

featuring Jamai-

can jerk, tapas,

southern soul food

and a speakeasy.

E L S E W H E R E

I N T H E

C A R I B B E A N …

� Sandals Barba-

dos has reopened

after extensive

upgrades such as

280 luxury rooms

and suites, 11

restaurants (in-

cluding Sandals’

first-ever Indian

restaurant) and

the Red Lane Spa.

� Sandals Regency

La Toc Golf Resort

& Spa in St. Lucia

has unveiled eight

fully renovated,

two-story Water’s

Edge Suites that

offer luxurious

amenities in spa-

cious comfort.

� Sandals Royal

Caribbean Resort

& Private Island in

Jamaica is building

five over-the-wa-

ter, 1,400-square-

foot villas to be

finished this year.

PRIVATE POOL SANCTUARIES

MEANDERING RIVER POOL S

JUST 5 MINUTES FROM MAURICE BISHOP INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

it’s awe-inspiring,” Fraser

says. “Guests feel at one with a

pristine, unspoiled island that

offers a pure experience—pure

spice, pure culture, pure adven-

ture. And a warm, beautiful,

hospitable people.”

Choose from 11 restaurants—

including Butch’s Chophouse,

the Caribbean’s first authentic

steakhouse—and endless activi-

ties on and off the resort. There’s

even unlimited free diving for

certified guests.

“Each day, 80 to 100 guests

go out on catamaran tours, Jeep

tours, diving excursions, and

so much more,” Fraser says. “You

must see the island.”

Fraser has some additional tips

for first-timers to the unforget-

table Caribbean island. Don’t

miss historic Fort George, or St.

George’s Carenage waterfront

promenade, he says. And take

advantage of the Sandals Founda-

tion’s Reading Road Trip, which

gives guests an opportunity to

interact with the island commu-

nity by reading to local school-

children. Q

Vacation packages to Sandals

Resorts are available through your

Vacation Coach or at funjet.com.

PINK GIN BEACH (UNIQUE VOLC ANIC SAND)


pg 3-30.indd 19 3/3/15 9:25 AM


Healthy Habits To Go

David Pritchard is a certified exercise and nutrition specialist, and creator

of My Destination Wellness programs. We asked him to share some of his best secrets

for taking wellness on the road.

Insider

as a wellness ambas-

sador, my job is to guide and

coach people so they can

achieve long-term health

and wellness. Here’s how

you can make yourself

healthier, enjoy your vaca-

tion more, and be totally

present.

You want to make sure

you soak up all the great

experiences waiting for you

rather than worrying about

how you look in a swimsuit

or stressing out about the

calories you’re consuming.

You can even use these tips

when you get home and

keep the momentum going.

FIND A REASON

BIGGER THAN YOU.

What inspires you?

Perhaps you want to set a

good example, dance at

a family wedding, or be

around for grandkids. Even

on vacation, you can stay

motivated and continue

your wellness journey.

� Start planning your goals

and, remember, staying

fi t on vacation doesn’t have

to be hard.

� Set goals during your

trip. Examples include a

30-minute walk on the

beach, a bike ride around

the resort or sunrise yoga

every morning.

� Be selfi sh. Carve out time

every day for your wellness,

whether at home or during

your vacation.

EMBRACE

YOUR REALITY.

A healthy lifestyle is all

about balance and time

management, and it’s

important to focus on small

changes over time. As you

get ready for your trip, re-

member that you are going

on a journey.

� During your vacation,

continue exercising and

eating well, but don’t get

caught up in trying to lose

weight.

� Consider activities that

PRACTICE THE

80/20 PHILOSOPHY.

MAKE GOOD

CHOICES 80 PERCENT

OF THE TIME AND

ENJOY A FEW TREATS

THE REMAINING

20 PERCENT

OF THE TIME.

Q��Traveling as a group? With Groups Your

Way, Vacation Coaches can easily handle

arrangements, even if you’re arriving from

separate cities.

Q��Take baby powder to the beach and

dust some on to get the sand off. Q��Fill an empty contact lens case with

makeup and moisturizer instead of

bringing full bottles in your luggage.

THE

TIPSTER

Photograph by Anthony Giacomino

pg 3-30.indd 20 3/3/15 9:26 AM


may be new to you like

surfing, snorkeling or beach

volleyball.

� Sleep. Rest. Recover.

Breathe. Relish this time to

rejuvenate and slow down.

EAT CLEAN.

Vacation is great for rest,

rejuvenation and new

experiences, but it also

takes us away from our

daily routines. Don’t let it

take you away from your

healthy habits.

� Practice the 80/20

philosophy. Make good

choices 80 percent of the

time and enjoy a few treats

the remaining 20 percent.

� Pick your splurges wisely.

Enjoy a rich local specialty,

but pass on items you can

get at home that just add

extra calories.

� Plan ahead. Bring healthy

snacks for travel days

and familiarize yourself

with the resort menus in

advance.

� Eat four meals a day:

breakfast, lunch, 4 p.m.

protein snack, dinner—but

watch portion sizes.

� Minimize sugar and

sodium, and be mindful of

hidden sugars in cocktails.

MOVE.

Vacation gives you a break

from your usual workout

routines. Use this oppor-

tunity to find new ways to

move your body, have fun

and stay fit.

� Consider walking on the

beach, swimming, biking,

hiking, golf and tennis.

� Visit your resort’s fitness

center, or use the hallways

and paths around the

property for power walking.

� Choose sightseeing and

tourist activities that

require walking or biking

rather than a tour bus.

Take the stairs instead of

escalators and elevators.

� Incorporate movement

into your travel days. Just

10 minutes of stretching or

walking at the airport will

prove beneficial. Q

For David Pritchard’s

monthly health tips, visit


Get motivated with

yoga on the beach.

M Y D E S T I N A T I O N W E L L N E S S

Guilt-Free Getaways

Turn your next vacation into a fitness-focused get-away. David Pritchard has worked with Funjet Vacations to develop My Destination Wellness. The group wellness retreats are held at Hard Rock Hotels in Cancún, the Riviera Maya, and Punta Cana, and El Dorado Royale and El Dorado Casitas Royale by Karisma in the Riviera Maya. Whether your ideal getaway consists of beach-front yoga classes, high-octane individual workouts or something in between, My Destination Wellness will help you rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.

For more information, con-

tact your Vacation Coach or

call 800-281-4806 to learn

about group vacations.

discover your aloha

Escape to Hyatt Resorts in Hawai‘i – Maui, Kaua‘i, and Waikiki - where “aloha” is more than a greeting; it’s a way of life.

Visit hawaii.hyatt.com for more information.

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts ® encompasses hotels managed, franchised or leased by subsidiaries and affi liates of Global Hyatt Corporation. The trademarks Hyatt ®, Andaz ®, Grand Hyatt ®, Hyatt Regency ®, Hyatt Place ® and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. © 2015 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

HYATT RESORTS IN HAWAI‘I

Andaz Maui at Wailea Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i

Hyatt Regency Maui Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Call Your Travel Agent Today!

pg 3-30.indd 21 3/4/15 9:29 AM


starts, especially in the

Magic Kingdom.”

— SCOT T GIERUM,

UNITED VAC ATIONS

WHAT’S THE BEST

WAY TO USE DISNEY’S

FASTPASS PLUS,

THE NEW SYSTEM

INTRODUCED IN 2014

THAT ALLOWS GUESTS

TO SKIP TO THE

FRONT OF THE LINE?

“Look at the wait times

to select the busiest rides,

and look at your dining plan

so you know where you’re

going to be. With the app,

it’s all laid out so you can

manage your day.”

— MELISSA BACKUS,

SOUTHWEST VAC ATIONS

“Don’t use FastPasses

for character meet-and-

greets, unless it’s really

important to your children,

and don’t use them for

the fi reworks or parades,

use Rider Switch if you have

a child who’s too small

for a ride.”

— HEIDI RUMPEL , 10-TIME WALT

DISNE Y WORLD RESORT GUEST

AND MOM OF THREE

“Go on the rides during

the parades. Th e crowds

start gathering up to

an hour before the parade

WHAT ARE THE

BEST WAYS TO BEAT

THE LINES?

“Use Disney’s free My

Disney Experience app or

its Touring Plans app.

Remember that the left

line is always shorter, and

VA C AT I O N

C O A C H

“One of my favorite Disney apps is My Magic Plus, where you can link park tickets, hotels and dining. You can use the app to link in your family members and manage and change your plans. It really is the cutting edge of technol-ogy. Plus, your MagicBand can open your room, act as your charge card ... everything is on that band, from tickets and din-ing to FastPasses and PhotoPass-es. Th e cast will even know if it’s your birthday.”

— WENDY RIGG ALL , TR AVEL


WILLOW GROVE, PA

VA C AT I O N

C O A C HC H

VA C AT I O NVA C AT I O N

CCCCC OOO

AA

C HC H

T

C HHHHC O A C HC HC OO

ATAT

O A CC HC HCCC OC OO A

AT

O A C

A

AAA COOO A CCO A

A

A

C O AA C H

VVAVAA CA CC AC AA

ATATAAT IT II OI OOONNN

because there are so many

places to watch.”

— MICHAEL TINE, TR AVEL

PROFESSIONAL FOR 5 YEARS

ORL ANDO, FL

ANY GOOD TIPS ON

DISNEY’S INCLUSIVE

MEAL PLANS?

“Eighty percent of the time,

fi rst-timers who go with

Word of Mouth

Disney Decoded

Six experts share their tips on making the most of Orlando’s Walt Disney World Resort.

B Y H E AT H E R S T E I N B E R G E R

you might think that Walt Disney World Resort is just for

kids, or that it’s too expensive, too crowded, and perhaps even

too complicated. We’re asking you to think again. Our experts

reveal that it can be magical on any budget and at any age.A

S T

O D

ISN

EY

AR

TW

OR

K,

LO

GO

S,

AN

D P

RO

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RT

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: ©

DIS

NE

Y.

Q��Pack your clubs! With Southwest Vacations,

two checked bags per person—including golf

clubs and skis—fly free.* Q��When you stay at a Walt Disney World

Resort Hotel, you’ll get extended access to

the theme parks during Extra Magic Hours. Q��Kid safey tip: when flying,

child safety seats must be booked

in window seats.

THE

TIPSTER

*See page 57

pg 3-30.indd 22 3/3/15 9:26 AM

SPAIN | ITALY | MEXICO | DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | JAMAICA | BRAZIL

THE FREEDOM TO

PLAY YOUR WAY

Discover all-inclusive Palladium Hotels & Resorts, kids clubs, a variety of a la carte

gourmet restaurants, nightly live entertainment, fabulous beach locations and much

more. We ensure our guests experience the vacation of a lifetime.

@PalladiumHG/PalladiumHotelGroupwww.palladiumhotelgroup.com

pg 23.indd 1 3/3/15 10:03 AM

Word of Mouth

bigger plans end up with too

much food.

Start with the base plan, and

then you can make an educated

decision regarding whether or not

to upgrade on your next trip.”

— LISA M AL SCH,

SOUTHWEST VAC ATIONS

“I always tell guests to step out

of their comfort zones. For ex-

ample, check out Morocco at Epcot.

Also, I recommend that parents

use points for sit-down meals, and

kids use them for Quick Service.

And if you haven’t used all your

snacks, take them home! They’re

yours.” — MT

WHAT DOES DISNEY

OFFER ADULTS?

“There are underground and

backstage tours, boat rides,

dinner tours on the lagoon, spas,

championship golf courses and

really top-notch hotels and

restaurants. And, if you are travel-

ing as a family but would like a

little grown-up time, you can take

advantage of kids’ clubs and in-

room babysitting services.” — HR

“One of my favorite things to

do in the whole world is the Epcot

International Food and Wine

Festival each fall.” — LM

To see the full insiders’ discussion,

visit hereandbeyondmag.com. AS

TO

DIS

NE

Y A

RT

WO

RK

, L

OG

OS

, A

ND

PR

OP

ER

TIE

S:

©D

ISN

EY

.

A wedding at Disney is filled with every bit of magic you

would expect, and they have packages to fit most budgets. The wedding pavilion

at the Grand Floridian is definitely unlike any other place to tie the knot,

and the experience is unmatched for true Disney fans.

— SCOT T GIERUM, UNITED VAC ATIONS

Inspired by Culture, Well-Being and Genuine Aloha. The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii…

24

pg 3-30.indd 24 3/4/15 9:32 AM

Enjoy a world beyond expectations at OCCIDENTAL GRAND & ALLEGRO RESORTS. Melt your cares away basking in

the sunshine, surrounded by the beauty of our tropical locations and the unrivaled commitment to service. Guests staying

at an Occidental Grand can choose to upgrade to Royal Club, our exclusive boutique resort within a resort experience

offering VIP lounge with private check-in/check-out, exclusive restaurant, pool and beach area, personal assistance of

our Royal Club concierge and much more. The little ones will get a vacation experience of their own with supervised

activities at the Kids Club, playground area, splash pool, video games, movie nights and other fun activities.

A R U B A | C O S T A R I C A | D O M I N I C A N R E P U B L I C | M E X I C O

CREATE NEW MEMORIES...

pg 25.indd 1 3/3/15 10:04 AM


Stylesheet

Haute HawaiianWhether lounging poolside or playing the back nine, embrace a style evocative of the

golden age of travel in the lush islands of Hawaii. B Y E L I Z A B E T H D OY L E

“Discover golf on one of Hawaii’s beautiful islands. With so many courses to choose from, you will fi nd everything from black lava rock-lined fairways, stunning sea-side water hazards and palm tree speckled greens.” — DEBRA SULLIVAN, TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL FOR 26 YEARS; NEW LENOX, IL

VA C AT I O N

C O A C H

VA C AT I O NO

C O A C HC OOCCC

V

C O

VAVAA

C

A

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A

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CCOO

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AT

C O A

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C O AA C H

VACAATION

Caftan � Banjanan, $600 banjanan.com

Earrings � Deepa Gurnani, $163 deepagurnani.com

Shirt� Alial Fital, $85alialfi tal.com

Shorts � Bonobos, $85 bonobos.com

Swimsuit � Tory Burch, $225 toryburch.com

Shoes � OluKai, $130 olukai.com

Sunglasses � Illesteva, $320 mrporter.com

Golf Bag� Tommy Bahama, $550tommybahama.com

St. Regis

Princeville

in Kauai

Caftan Photograph by Mike Hendrickson

pg 3-30.indd 26 3/3/15 9:27 AM

Sun, sand and smiles. Located on Mexico and the Caribbean’s most spectacular

beaches, IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts brings together the best in accommodations,

service, recreation and all-inclusive dining. While the children are living it up at the

supervised Kids Club, the adults can relax on the beach, in the spa or beside one of

the refreshing crystal pools. Plus, our Premium Gold resorts feature exciting water

amenities like wave pools, interactive playgrounds and lazy rivers. From specialty

restaurants to casual dining — IBEROSTAR has something for everyone. Introduce

your clients to the Caribbean’s best all-inclusive family destinations at IBEROSTAR.

MEXICO · DOMINICAN REPUBLIC · JAMAICA

Families shine brighter at IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts.

IBEROSTAR PLAYA MITA, RIVIERA NAYARIT, MEXICO

pg 27.indd 1 3/3/15 10:04 AM


T H R I L L

S E E K E R

S TAY

Stratosphere▶ Take advantage of the four thrill rides atop Las Vegas’ highest hotel—more than 800 feet in the air. For the ultimate experience, leap off the building and revel in the controlled free fall to the Strip.

S T E E R

Richard Petty Driving Experience ▶ Feed your inner speed demon from behind the wheel of a 600-horsepower NASCAR vehicle as you compete at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

S O A R

VooDoo Zip Line▶ What’s better than an awesome view of Vegas? One enjoyed while traveling 33 mph on a zip line link-

ing Rio’s two towers. The one-third-mile round trip takes just a minute and 10 seconds.

F LY

Helicopter Tour▶ Catch the last rays of day and the city’s fi rst nighttime neon lights with a whirlwind sunset helicopter tour above the Strip. Opt for a front seat if you can.

SHOPAHOLIC

S TAY

The Venetian▶ This luxury hotel is just steps away from the attached Grand Canal Shoppes, an upscale shopping and dining complex set against the backdrop of a Venice-inspired façade.

S I P

Downtown Container Park▶ Stop for a glass of wine and take in this funky new collection

of start-up retail shops housed in repurposed shipping containers. Then peruse the unique, handmade items cre-ated by local artists for a souvenir to take home.

S AV E

Las Vegas Premium Outlets▶ With two outlet malls located so close to the Strip—one north (open air) and one south (en-closed)—it’s easy to take advantage of the great deals sold at the approximately 150 name-brand stores located at each.

W A N D E R

The LINQ▶ Take in one of Las Vegas’ newest attractions, where

everything is lit up at night and performers provide free enter-tainment. Quirky shops and al fresco dining options line the promenade lead-ing to High Roller, the world’s highest observation wheel.

V I N TAG E

V E G A S

S TAY

Golden Nugget▶ Originally built in 1946, the Golden Nugget is one of the oldest casino hotels in the city. Located within the Fremont Street Experience in downtown Las Vegas, the prop-erty most recently opened a 500-room, $150 million hotel tower in 2009.

D I S C O V E R

The Neon Museum ▶ This two-acre out-door museum houses more than 150 of Las Vegas’ retired neon signs. Guided tours off er insight on this colorful and artistic side of the city’s history.

LAS VEGASThe Entertainment Capital of the World has something for every type of traveler.

What kind of Vegas are you? B Y J OA N N A H AU G E N

Insanity

the Ride at

Stratosphere

Neon Museum

Th ere is so much more to Las Vegas than casinos. Any-one can book a room, but a Vacation Coach can help you navigate the endless options so you don't miss all the enter-tainment wonders of the city and its exciting surround-ing area.

— JUA N P ORTILLO, TR AVEL


AUSTIN , TX

C O AA C H

VACAATION

Field Guide

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E AT

The Steak House at Circus Circus▶ In business for nearly 33 years, this steakhouse holds no surprises. If you want steak, you get steak, and it’s served by the same staff that has been working at the restaurant for many years. Fans return visit after visit because of the res-taurant’s consistency and quality.

GIRLS’

GETAWAY

S TAY

Delano Las Vegas▶ This non-gaming boutique hotel has a chic but laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for a week-end with the girls, with access to lively Mandalay Bay when you’re ready to party and just the right amount of seclusion when you need a retreat.

S H O P

Fashion Show Mall▶ Get your credit cards out at the Strip’s largest mall, where you’ll fi nd doz-ens of name brand stores as anchors: Macy’s, Dillard’s, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus.

R E L A X

Canyon Ranch SpaClub▶ At 134,000 square feet, this spa at The Venetian and The Palazzo is one of the largest day spas in the world. Traditional massages are avail-able, as are dozens of specialty spa treatments, thermal environments and relaxation rooms to help melt away the eff ects of the night before.

P A R T Y

Hyde Bellagio ▶ This classy nightlife hot spot was inspired by an Italian villa, and is small and intimate compared to most Vegas clubs. It’s upscale touches—paintings, chande-liers and plentiful candles—will make you feel like a celeb-rity, especially at the tables overlooking the Bellagio Foun-tains.

HEALTH

NUT

S TAY

Stay Well Suites at MGM Grand▶ A collaborative eff ort from wellness real estate pioneer Delos, the Cleve-land Clinic and Dr. Deepak Chopra, these health-cen-tered rooms feature vitamin C-infused shower water, air purifi cation, energiz-ing lighting and healthy in-room menu options.

T R E K

Hiking at Red Rock Canyon▶ Rent a car and escape Las Vegas to the stark red-rock landscape of the desert Southwest. During the 13-mile scenic drive, turn off for a hike on one of the many marked trails. Pack plenty of water.

S T R E T C H

Yoga among the Dol-phins at The Mirage▶ This relaxing fi tness class is held in the

underwater viewing area at The Mirage’s dolphin habitat. It’s off ered Friday through Sunday with limited space, so register in advance.

E AT

Simply Pure▶ Even healthy eating naysayers will be impressed by the limited but delicious vegan off erings at Simply Pure in the Downtown Con-tainer Park.

FOODIE

S TAY

Mandalay Bay▶ With 15 celebrity chef restaurants in the resort and the adjoining Shoppes at Mandalay Place, this property has prime pickings if you have a discerning palate. If you don’t get the chance to dine at Charlie Palmer’s Aureole, you must at least swing by to see the four-story wine tower.

I N D U L G E

Bacchanal Buff et▶ At the Bacchanal Buff et at Caesars Palace, 500 dishes are made daily from more than 800 rotat-ing recipes. You can even watch your food being prepared at the nine show kitchens. After a $17 million renovation in 2012, it’s clear this is no ordinary buff et.

G A Z E

Giada▶ Make reserva-tions at Giada De Laurentiis’ fi rst ever restaurant for the food—most notably

her signature lemon spaghetti dish—but stay for the view. Located on the second fl oor of The Cromwell, Giada looks out over one of the busiest corners of the Strip, directly toward the Bellagio Fountains.

D R I N K

Chandelier Bar▶ The Cosmopoli-tan’s crown jewel is a crystal-covered, three-tiered bar.

Enjoy a nightcap—or several—on one or all of the three fl oors, each with its own atmosphere: high energy and fun, sophisticated with high-tech cocktails and intimate with a feminine touch.

Exciting vacation packages are available through your Vacation Coach or at south-westvacations.com.

Canyon

Ranch

Spa Club

The Mirage

Red Rock Canyon

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Gear Up

Q��Keep your mobile devices safe by putting

them in a plastic, zip-top bag so you can con-

tinue using them at the pool or beach. Q��Avoid international data charges by

leaving your phone or tablet on airplane

mode and connecting to the hotel’s Wi-Fi. Q��Snap photos of your travel documents

and export them to the cloud for easy

access and safe keeping.

THE

TIPSTER

R�3. Instant cameraCapture moments for mood boards on the go. Instax 90 Camera by Fuji, $ 179.99. bandhphotovideo.com

R�2. Noise Canceling HeadphonesFor those times when you need to focus. Zik Gold Headphones by Parrot, $400. parrot.com

R�6. Power CableHey, why not have an ultra-cool option? Lightning cable by Eastern Collective, $29.95. easterncollective.com

R�1. Waterproof Phone CaseWho can risk a fumble around the pool? Aquatik waterproof case by Lunatik, $100. lunatik.com

R�4. Wireless EarbudThis discrete gizmo provides access to your smartphone via your voice. Moto Hint earbud by Motorola, $149.99. motorola.com

R�5. Portable SpeakerBig sound. Compact package at just 9 ounces. Jambox mini by Jawbone, $129.99. jawbone.com

What’s in Your Bag?Business meets pleasure when you pack the right tools. B Y E L I Z A B E T H D OY L E

1

2

3

4

5

Camera Photograph by Mike Hendrickson

6

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pg 3-30.indd 30 3/3/15 9:29 AM

In New Orleans, there’s something to amuse and delight visitors around every cobblestoned corner. Enjoy dishes like seafood gumbo or listen to live music every day of the week.

In New Orleans we don’t need a weekend to have a good time because our Tuesdays have just as much going on as our Saturdays.

Visit SouthwestVacations.com

to start planning your trip today!

Something new to discover every day.

pg 31.indd 1 3/3/15 10:04 AM

mgmresorts.com

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Las Vegas caters to everyone; especially when you select an MGM Resorts’ destination.

From Mandalay Bay at the southern tip of The Strip to The Mirage, you’ll fi nd 13 stunning

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and the entertainment Vegas is known for; it’s all right here.

For more information about one of our astounding resorts, visit mgmresortsvacations.com.

Or book today with any of these trusted vacation brands:

Southwest Vacations Funjet Vacations United Vacations

Everywhere Else Isn’t Vegas.

pg 32.indd 1 3/3/15 10:09 AM

We think planning your next vacation should be as fun as the

vacation itself! With benefits like exclusive savings, bags fly

free®*, no change fees**, 24-hour traveler assistance, and no

online booking fees, Southwest Airlines® Vacations will help

you experience the getaway you’ve been dreaming of.

Book your next dream vacation at www.southwestvacations.com.

*First and second checked bags. Weight and size limits apply. **Fare difference may apply. CST#2009218-20

Vacation, holiday, travel.No matter how you say it,it still sounds fun.

pg 33.indd 1 3/3/15 10:09 AM


HIDDEN TREASURES OF THE RIVIERA MAYAIF YOU THINK ALL THERE IS TO DO IN THIS MEXICAN RESORT REGION IS LOUNGE ON THE BEACH, THINK AGAIN. BY LI SA L AC H

P H O T O G R A P H S B Y J E S S I C A S A M P L E

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pg 34-C4.indd 35 3/3/15 9:42 AM


MAYAN MYSTERY

the riviera maya gets its name from the an-

cient ruins that dot the region. Their influence is

imprinted on the culture here, and making time

to explore at least one Mayan remnant provides a

fascinating window into the ancient people who

lived here more than a thousand years ago.

The most popular of the sites is Chichén Itzá,

which is about a two-hour drive inland from the

beachfront resorts of the Riviera Maya. It’s well

worth the trip. The stepped pyramids, columned

arcades, temples and sacred ball courts are all that’s

left of the city that served as the dazzling urban

center of the Mayan world from A.D. 750 to 1200.

Visit Chichén Itzá at the spring or fall equinox

to see the full effect of Mayan sophistication on

display. Twice a year, the shadow of the serpent

god Kukulkán appears to slither down the side of

the perfectly-positioned main pyramid known

as the Castillo.

Hundreds of travelers congregate to watch

the shadowy snake’s slow progress. A thousand

years ago in this very place, hundreds of Mayan

people gathered to watch this very event. It’s a

profound moment of humanity, as present-day

crowds witness the remains of their ancient

counterparts’ ingenuity.

TIP : On the way back from Chichén Itzá, make

a stop at Valladolid, where you can get a glimpse

of modern-day Mayan life. Here, many people wear

the typical dress of the Maya, and colonial buildings

scattered around the main plaza are painted in

bright pastel colors. You may want to rush back to

your hotel for a cerveza, but slow down here to get a

taste of a more laid-back way of life.

Known for its cliff-top perch overlooking

the Caribbean Sea, Tulum is the only known ar-

chaeological site of the Maya located on the coast.

The first time I stood on the coast of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, I was hooked. It was the water that really did me in: that unbelievably blue sea stretching into the dome of the sky overhead. The sand under my bare feet was so blindingly white that it didn’t get hot enough to burn my soles as I stood there, the mangroves at my back hiding treasures that I had yet to discover.

And that’s the thing: as tempting as it is to just stay put on that literally pic-ture-perfect beach, don’t do it. There are too many things to discover, like the an-cient temples tucked away in the jungle, a sanctuary for sea turtles, a fishing village turned foodie hotspot and much more than I ever expected to find.

THIS PAGE:

(top) Akumal Beach;

(above) Chichén Itzá;

(left) Tulum ruins.

OPPOSITE PAGE:

(top) Woman making

tortillas in Valladolid;

(bottom right) Mexicarte

in Akumal; (bottom

left) Painted buildings

in Valladolid.

PREVIOUS SPREAD:

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In the Mayan language, “Tulum” means “wall”

or “fence”—and indeed, the sharp cliff below the

ruins protected the ancient city from invaders.

“I’m a history guy, and that’s why I love Tulum,”

says Matthew Anderson of United Vacations.

“You get the whole history of the area there, plus

it’s one of the best photo opportunities in the

whole Riviera Maya region.”

These days, a staircase makes it easy to reach the

protected beach cove at the base of the cliff. The

crowds start to arrive around mid-morning, so

arrive early in the morning and you can have the

entire beach to yourself to swim beneath the walls

of the Castillo.

About an hour inland from Tulum is Cobá,

where stepping deep into the mangroves offers

a different kind of reward. Situated around two

lagoons, this is an archaeological site in the truest

sense of the word. Many of the structures are still

covered by the jungle, but don’t be fooled; this city

is estimated to have housed nearly 50,000 people

in its days as a hub of trade and agriculture.

“Cobá has one of the tallest pyramids in the

region, and you can climb up to the top,” says

Natasha Satanovsky of Funjet Vacations. “It’s very

cool to see where the Mayan kings lived. But be

warned—there’s only a rope to help you back down

the steep sides! Just take your time. It’s definitely

pg 34-C4.indd 37 3/3/15 9:42 AM


worth it to see the view from the top.”

Spend time walking among the ruins and

jungle. The peaceful, dappled light reminds you

that you are in an ancient place—not an architec-

tural tourist park.

INTO THE DEEP

the exploration of the Riviera Maya con-

tinues even underground in cenotes, the deep

limestone sinkholes scattered throughout the

Yucatán Peninsula. Filled with clear freshwater

pools, many of these cenotes are connected to

underground rivers flowing to the sea.

“The most extraordinary thing that someone

new to the region can experience are the cenotes,”

advises Sarah Martinache, marketing director at

Riu Hotels and Resorts. “There’s nowhere else in

the world like Riviera Maya for exploring cenotes,

and they are simply gorgeous.”

One of the best ways to experience these

underground pools and rivers is at Xcaret Park,

where three rivers are hidden underground. As

you float down through the maze of tunnels and

channels, light filters through natural openings to

the surface, illuminating marine fossils and rock

formations with ghostly light.

It is no wonder that the Mayan people considered

pg 34-C4.indd 38 3/3/15 9:42 AM


all this foliage and vegetation. It feels like you’re in

a cave, but you’re right on Fifth Avenue.”

TIP : Guests at The Royal Playa del Carmen should not

miss a dinner at Asiana Restaurant, which overlooks

Playa del Carmen. The view feels like you’re looking

out over a small European town (and the tempura ice

cream is a dessert you must indulge in).

Martinache recommends walking to downtown

Playa from the Riu Resort complex in the nearby

community of Playacar. “There are so many

bars for all tastes,” she says. “There is definitely

something to make everybody happy and have a

great time.”

There certainly is an abundance of bars with

different atmospheres. You can even count on

catching a game if your favorite team is playing.

End Zone Sports Bar, located on the corner of Fifth

and Corazón, is always showing sporting events

on its many televisions, so you don’t have to miss a

game while on vacation.

During the day, enjoy cocktails on the sand at a

beach club. Both Kool Beach and Mamita’s Beach

Club host DJs during the day, so the atmosphere

is always upbeat. As the sun goes down, head into

town to dance the night away at a club like Man-

dala. When you’ve danced until you’re ready to

drop, there’s still more to delight your taste buds.

“Even the late-night taquerías are incredible,”

La Macchia says. “There are so many different

choices—don’t be afraid to try them out.”

TURTLE TOWN

the small town of Akumal means “place of the

turtles” in the Mayan language, after the green

and loggerhead sea turtles that nest on the beach.

The unique ecology of the Riviera Maya makes

Akumal the ideal place for turtles—and a variety

of other marine life—with the protection of the

mangrove jungles on one side and the coral reef on

the other. Between the two are fields of sea grass

that nurture turtles and protect their young.

“Akumal is the best place to snorkel with turtles

in the whole region,” says Karen Terry, marketing

TOP ROW FROM LEFT: Gran Cenote; biking in Tulum;

Mariachi players in Valladolid. LEFT AND BOTTOM

RIGHT : Camel rides and the view down Punta

Maroma Beach at Maroma Adventures.

these cenotes and underground rivers the gate-

ways to Xibalba, the underworld. The stories of the

ancient people add an extra element of awe to your

explorations of craggy caves filled with unearthly

blue water, and lined with stalactites and stalag-

mites shrouded in shadow.

“The cenotes are a very unique experience

because they’re so connected to the history of

the region,” Satanovsky says. “With the rituals

and blessings from Mayan priests, it’s just a really

special experience.”

CITY FLAVOR

if the cenotes and underground rivers are

the hidden veins of the Riviera Maya, then Playa

del Carmen is its beating heart. The town began

as a small fishing village, and has come of age as

a hot-spot for foodies with one restaurant after

another lining the main drag of Fifth Avenue and

its surroundings.

“It’s mind-boggling,” says Bill La Macchia,

Jr., Chief Engagement Officer of The Mark Travel

Corporation. “There are so many places—sushi,

Argentinian, Italian. I’ve even had some of the

best pizza in Playa.”

A literal hidden gem of a restaurant is Aldea

Corazón, which has some of the best Mexican

cuisine in the area. The menu focuses on fresh,

local seafood and traditional Mexican dishes with

a Mayan twist.

“It’s the most unique setting,” La Macchia says.

“It’s in a cenote just off the street, surrounded by

pg 34-C4.indd 39 3/3/15 9:42 AM

Riu Palace MexicoWithin walking distance

to Playa del Carmen,

this popular resort is

one of six Riu Resorts in

the gated community of

Playacar. The resort was

recently renovated and

the new modern look is

both upscale and relax-

ing. As a bonus, guests

of Riu Palace Mexico

have access to all of the

Riu Resorts in Playacar.

Golfers will enjoy the

special guest rates at

three courses: El Man-

glar, Grand Coral Riviera

Maya and the nearby

Playacar Golf Club.

Iberostar Paraíso LindoOne of our favorite

spots for families, this

resort has six pools, an

exceptional kids’ club, a

wave pool and lazy river,

an on-site golf course

and a long stretch of

beach. The resort’s

colonial-style architec-

ture adds to the charm,

and the breathtaking

views are unforgettable.

Barceló Maya Beach ResortAnother great choice

for families, with an 18-

hole mini-golf course,

bowling alley and brand

new FlowRider surf

simulator, this resort sits

on almost two miles of

white sand beach. Book

a Club Premium room

and get great perks like

free Wi-Fi and 24-hour

free room service. Our

favorite new room

category is the swim-up

suite, and if you want a

little extra room, ask for

a corner suite with twice

the outside space!

Moon Palace Golf & Spa ResortWhile technically

located just south of

Cancún, Moon Palace

is one of our favorite

resorts. The expansive

resort is divided into

three sections: Sunrise,

Nizuc, and Moon

Grand. The essence of

Moon Palace comes

down to entertainment,

from the FlowRider

surf simulator to the

awesome Wired Teen

Lounge, and concerts by

big-name artists such as

Usher and Shakira. With

their range of rooms

from family suites to

romantic honeymoon

hideaways, this resort

lives up to the saying

that there’s something

for everyone.

El Dorado Maroma by KarismaThis adults-only resort

has a prime location

next to Maroma Adven-

tures on Punta Maroma

Beach. Add to the mix

the Wine Spectator

award-winning cuisine,

super-attentive service

and all-suite luxury

accommodations, and

the results are divine.

The inside scoop is that

this resort is building

Mexico’s first-ever over-

water bungalows, set to

open this year.

Excellence Riviera CancúnEvery feature of this

adults-only oasis was

designed to surprise

and delight, from the

two-story rooftop

terrace suites to the

spectacular ocean views

from your bed. Speaking

of surprises, there’s

an Indian restaurant,

Basmati, that earns top

marks from guests, and

all the lobster you can

eat is included in the

all-inclusive plan.

The Royal Playa del CarmenSteps from vibrant Fifth

Avenue, with access to

all the shops and bars,

The Royal strikes the

perfect balance of relax-

ation and energy. The

swim-up bar area next

to the beach is always

action-packed, and the

quiet pool is an oasis of

serenity. But The Royal’s

most memorable fea-

ture is its “Service From

the Heart” concept,

where guests are made

to feel like family.

Hard Rock Hotel Riviera MayaAlong with rock-star

treatment, guests at

Hard Rock Hotel Riviera

Maya are spoiled by

the coolest host on the

Yucatán Peninsula, the

Vibe Manager, who

makes sure the music

is smooth, the room

is buzzing and the

temperature is just right.

We also love the unique

protected beach, the

great kids’ club for little

ones, the super cool

Music Lab for teens and

adults, and the option

to have a Fender guitar

or mixing board in your

room during your stay.

The Royal Suites Yucatán by PalladiumWe love the combina-

tion of small-resort

vibe with access to all

the big-resort ameni-

ties. When you stay at

the adults-only Royal

Suites Yucatán, you get

access to 13 additional

restaurants and 26

bars at sister proper-

ties within the resort

complex. And you can’t

beat eight pools (includ-

ing one with saltwater!),

butler service and close

proximity to Akumal.

Occidental Grand XcaretThe obvious appeal

of Occidental Grand

Xcaret is its proximity

to the spectacular eco-

archaeological Xcaret

Park. But the resort’s

own wow factor should

not be overlooked.

Check out the brand

new dolphinarium, plus

archery, tennis and mini

golf. Tip: to get the most

from your stay, choose

the Unlimited Xcaret

Xperience package,

which includes unlimit-

ed access to Xcaret Park

along with upgraded

hotel amenities and VIP

treatment.

Generations Riviera Maya by KarismaEvery room at

Generations Riviera

Maya is amazing: the

first floor suites have

swim-up access to

the pool; the second

through fourth floors

have private plunge

pools on the balconies;

and floors five and six

have the best sweeping

views of the Carib-

bean Sea from their

oversized balconies.

Plus, every room comes

with butler service. Add

the Gourmet Inclusive

experience, with incred-

ible cuisine, a kids’ club

supervised by certified

professionals, and a

secluded beach—well,

you can see why this

resort is one of our

favorites. Q

E D I T O R ’ S P I C K S

WHERE TO STAY

pg 34-C4.indd 40 3/3/15 9:42 AM


ABOVE: From

shopping along

Fifth Avenue to

enjoying a margarita

at Asiana Restaurant

or fish tacos at

Aldea Corazón,

Playa del Carmen’s

vibrant nightlife

offers something

for everyone.

BELOW: El Dorado

Maroma by Karisma.

C O N T I N U E D O N P A G E 5 0

sea turtle population and participating in envi-

ronmental education. During sea turtle nesting

season, visitors can volunteer to join turtle walks

to look for new nests, move eggs to protect hatch-

lings and release baby sea turtles into the sea.

IN THE SAND AND SEA

now that you’ve spent time immersed in

ancient history, exploring the caves of the under-

world, chilling out in Playa and swimming with

turtles, it’s time to hit the beach … but not just

any beach. Punta Maroma Beach is one of those

places that defy superlatives. It is arguably the

best beach in the Riviera Maya for the views alone,

but there’s much more to this stretch of sand than

a place to lay out in the sun.

“Maroma Adventures is a very well-developed

center of activities,” says Satanovsky of Funjet

Vacations. “You have all your activities, beach

chairs for relaxing, you can have lunch, and do some

low-key shopping for souvenirs. It has the best

variety of things to do and it’s so organized—you

can go horseback riding, ATVing, go on a camel

ride, swim with dolphins or just do nothing at all.”

It’s true that Maroma Adventures has all the

activities you could dream up—and quite possibly

some that you wouldn’t even think of, including

those camel rides along the coast.

You would never guess that some of the best

views of the beach can be had from the (very tall)

back of a camel.

manager of The Royal Suites Yucatán, which is lo-

cated just north of Akumal. Near to shore, the giant

sea turtles don’t so much swim as soar through

the water over the gently waving mats of sea grass.

The water is very clear, making it ideal for encoun-

tering the serene presence of a sea turtle.

“We get hundreds of turtle nests on our beach

every year,” Terry says. “We work hard to protect

them, and our guests love to be involved with that.

They can even help release the hatchling turtles

into the wild.”

At the nearby Akumal Ecological Center, you

can join volunteer projects on monitoring the

health of the coral reef, keeping a close eye on the

pg 34-C4.indd 41 3/3/15 9:43 AM

pg 34-C4.indd 42 3/3/15 9:43 AM

i must have dozed off. My morning

dive off Mexico’s Isla Cozumel took more

out of me than I expected, and the refresh-

ing post-lunch chelada (beer and lime

juice, with salt caked on the rim) finished

me off. I blinked in the golden Caribbean

sunshine and searched in the beach bag

for my watch.

It was almost 2 p.m.—time to go to the

Iberostar Cozumel’s spa for my pedicure.

And to get my hair done, because in just

three and a half hours, I was going to

marry my soulmate on the beach.

At the time, my idea of a destination

wedding included a few friends gathered

on a sunset beach, a ring from a local jew-

elry store, a breezy flea-market dress with

embroidered flowers on the waist and a

cozy dinner at the resort restaurant.

But what I learned is that whether you’re

looking for an intimate experience like

mine or a larger, more traditional wed-

ding, finding a destination and resort that

will exceed your wildest expectations is

easier than you might think.

far away

on your

bıg dayDESTINATION

WEDDING PLANNING MADE

EASY, WITH TIPS FROM

THE EXPERTS, HOT NEW TRENDS

AND UP-AND-COMING

DESTINATIONS.

by HEATHER STEINBERGER P H O T O G R A P H S B Y S A R A N I E S T R A D A

43

pg 34-C4.indd 43 3/3/15 9:43 AM


haydee tovill a, groups and wed-

dings sales manager for Excellence

Group Luxury Resorts, calls a destina-

tion wedding “the perfect canvas” for a

couple, one that is ready to be painted.

“A romantic wedding under the stars,

a classic luxury indoor event, a vintage

party, do-it-yourself decorations … we

can accommodate it all,” she says. “A

bride just needs to share her dream and

we’ll help her every step of the way.”

Ashley Morgan of Weddings by Funjet

says that roughly 75 percent of couples

prefer a simple wedding or a slightly

upgraded package with some custom

elements. The remaining 25 percent are

interested in what she calls the “full-

blown version.” Moon Palace Golf & Spa

Resort in Cancún offers a horse-drawn

carriage to carry the bride to the wed-

ding gazebo, for example, while Excel-

lence Punta Cana in the Dominican Re-

public can accommodate a bride’s most

elaborate requests.

“We see mainly American-style cel-

ebrations, but we’ve also had Hindu,

Asian, Jewish, Persian, and Mexican

weddings,” says Lisbeth Cruz, wed-

ding coordinator at Live Aqua Cancún.

“Groups vary a lot in size, but the most

common are weddings of around 50

people.”

However big or small your destination

wedding will be, you can avoid the year

(or more) of list-making, phone calls,

decisions and stress that seem to plague

too many engaged couples. Morgan says

you don’t need to start the process a full

12 months in advance, which has long

been accepted as standard. A wedding

concierge (see page 45) will help moni-

tor your timeline and keep the process

running smoothly.

“If you’re thinking of a peak season

wedding between February and May,

you might want to lock in your dates

further in advance. Otherwise, even a

few months gives you plenty of time for

planning,” she assures. “You don’t need

to be anxious or feel pressured—we can

even handle last minute weddings.”

what’s hot in destination weddings

these days? Insiders say there are new

trends emerging all the time that allow

couples to infuse their special day with

personality and ensure that guests talk

about it for years to come.

“Resorts are offering more, because

brides don’t want to just take a pack-

age deal,” Morgan says. “They want to

personalize their weddings.

“Gift bags are huge,” she adds. “I’ve

seen some really creative ones that in-

clude sunscreen, a beach book, even

flip-flops. We can help deliver them to

the rooms before the guests’ arrival.”

Wedding photography even has its

own trends. “Trashing-of-the-dress

photos, showing the brides in the pool

or in the ocean, have really taken off,”

Morgan notes.

Giovanna Alonzo Riveroll, market-

ing manager with Riu Hotels and Re-

sorts, says they’re seeing a trend of more

Sikh destination weddings. Morgan and

Tovilla both note an uptick in fall wed-

dings. There’s slightly more risk, as the

Atlantic hurricane season doesn’t end

until November, but rates are lower. And

wedding sizes are increasing, according

to Rafaela Lantigua, wedding manager

with Weddings by Lomas Travel.

“More and more couples have families

and friends that live in different cities,

making a destination wedding location

more attractive,” she explains. “They’re

also staying longer, and combining

H

ABOVE: Trashing-of-the-dress

photos are all the rage.

RIGHT: Personalized décor.

LEFT: A traditional Mexican hat

adds local flavor.

more of a vacation experience into the

wedding.”

“Groups are growing every year,”

says Valeria Martinez, wedding super-

visor for Mexico-based Weddings by Lo-

mas Travel. ”We’ve had some weddings

with 300-plus guests.”

“Weddings also are becoming more

elaborate and elegant,” adds wedding

manager Rafaela Lantigua, who works

with Martinez. “We no longer do as many

casual beach weddings. Now, most wed-

dings have chandeliers on the beach!”C O N T I N U E D O N P A G E 4 6

pg 34-C4.indd 44 3/3/15 9:44 AM


WHAT’S A WEDDING

CONCIERGE?

O A Weddings by Funjet con-cierge is someone who will handle all the details of your destination wedding. From travel and accommodations, to excursions and the wed-ding itself, The Weddings by Funjet Promise means your concierge is your biggest ad-vocate—someone who has your best interests at heart.

O When you work with a concierge, you get a wed-ding planner and a Vaca-tion Coach in one person. However, if you do have a preferred Vacation Coach, your concierge will be happy to work with him or her to bring your wedding vision to life.

O Weddings by Funjet has concierges based in Milwaukee. The concierge works closely with the engaged couple to under-stand their unique vision, negotiating pricing and contracts and walking through available options.

O The relationship between the concierge and the couple is one that’s based on trust. The concierge helps bring the couple’s vision to life by helping with decor, photog-raphy, music, logistics, and answering guests’ ques-tions—anything to take stress off of the engaged couple.

O In some destinations, the Milwaukee-based concierge can be on hand to manage last-minute details and pro-vide wedding-day support. In others, an in-destination team takes over to handle all on-location needs; Weddings by Lomas Travel, a professional team of bilingual wedding coordina-tors, partners with Wed-dings by Funjet to provide this in-destination support in Cancún and the Riviera Maya, Mexico.

To learn more, visit weddingsbyfunjet.com.

pg 34-C4.indd 45 3/3/15 9:44 AM


DESTINATIONS

TO WATCH:

JAMAICA

AND

DOMINICAN

REPUBLIC

While Mexico remains a wildly popular destina-tion for weddings due to aff ordable airfare, direct fl ights from many U.S. airports, and a broad range of all-inclusive resorts, Jamaica and Dominican Republic are up-and-coming hotspots in their own right. Starting this year, Weddings by Funjet will expand its in-destina-tion team to cover these destinations. So, couples who are planning to get married at Caribbean resorts like Excellence Punta Cana in Dominican Republic, and Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall in Jamaica will have the same on-site support as they would if they got married in the Mexican Caribbean.

“My Weddings by Funjet concierge is quick to respond to my emails and phone calls and has gone above and beyond for me each and every time I have made a request!”

— HE ATHER THORPE, TR AVEL PROFE S SIONAL FOR 5 Y E AR S; WESTMINSTER , MD

VA C AT I O N

C O A C H

VA C AT I O NO

C O A C HC OOCCC

V

C O

VAVAA

C

A

C

A

HHHH

OO NO NO NOC

HC O

T I OA C

C HC OC H

O NVA CVA C AT

C

O N

HO A C

I OIIT ICCCC A

CC HC HCOC OC O

T I O

A C

A

C O A

ATATAVA C

CC

O N

H

O

O A CCO

C AAAT ITT I

CCOO

T I O

O AA C

AAT

C O A

C A

C O AA C H

VACAATION

Th en there are the highly memorable

add-ons to the festivities, including

beach campfires, fireworks displays,

live entertainment at dinner and more.

“We have our unique barefoot el-

egance, plus the personal touch of each

couple,” Cruz says. “Photo booths, wave

runners to bring the groom to the cere-

mony, mariachi bands to set the Mexican

mood.” Custom décor also has taken off ,

according to Morgan and Martinez, who

note that pastels and blush pink are the

‘in’ colors right now.

“Th ere has been this stigma attached

to destination weddings, that they’re

all starfi sh and seashells,” Morgan ex-

plains. “But we’re seeing a lot of simple,

glamorous weddings. One bride incor-

porated fall colors and the colors of her

destination—whites and greens, but also

burgundy. Th ese brides aren’t theming

to their destination. Th ey’re theming to

themselves.”

Tovilla agrees. “Couples add elements

that are meaningful to them, which

makes the event unique,” she says. “It’s

their wish for everyone to remember

that day, so our wedding packages are

designed in such a way that brides can

completely personalize them according

to their needs.”

Many couples are extending their

creativity to excursions. While many

groups will stick with golf outings, spa

days, fishing trips and boat tours, a

couple defi nitely can go outside the box.

Beaches Boscobel

Resort & Golf Club,

Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

pg 34-C4.indd 46 3/3/15 9:45 AM


“One large wedding flew their entire

group to Chichén Itzá for the day,” Mor-

gan recalls. “And one bride went ATVing

with her bridesmaids.”

All the experts agree: Do your re-

search, whether you’re doing it on your

own or with a wedding concierge. Un-

derstand the scope of what the resorts

offer to ensure that they can make your

vision a reality. And relax.

“Remember that you a re i n the

hands of experts who have overseen

more than 1,000 weddings annually,”

Martinez advises.

“The journey is part of the ride,” Lan-

tigua adds. Although each destination

wedding is unique, they all have one

thing in common: you can fully enjoy

your exotic getaway, knowing you’re in

good hands. You can even go diving in

the morning and nap by the pool until

it’s time to get ready for the biggest mo-

ment of your life. Q

To learn more, contact your

Vacation Coach or visit

weddingsbyfunjet.com.

It’s impossible to tell what will meet our family

and friends’ needs from pictures or a website. After meeting with my

Weddings by Funjet concierge, I was so relieved. It was great to have

someone on my team who had done this before.

— SAR AH SCHMIDT, TO BE M ARRIED IN C ANCÚN, MEXICO, JANUARY 2016

C O N T I N U E D O N N E X T P A G E

Kiv & Chris,

El Dorado Royale,


pg 34-C4.indd 47 3/3/15 9:45 AM

Five Steps to Finding

the Perfect Spot

ASHLEY MORGAN FROM

WEDDINGS BY FUNJET OFFERS

THESE FIVE SIMPLE STEPS

FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT

DESTINATION FOR YOUR BIG DAY:

if you’re interested in a destina-

tion wedding, the sheer volume of options

seems endless. Even if you already know

which resort brand you prefer, you might

be blown away by your choices. Riu Ho-

tels and Resorts, for example, has more

than 30 properties in Mexico, Costa Rica,

Jamaica, Aruba, Dominican Republic,

Panama and Saint Martin. If you’re feeling

overwhelmed by the choices and details,

take a deep breath—many resorts offer

wedding coordinators and you even can

hire your own wedding concierge (a full-

service wedding and travel coordinator

who also can work with your preferred

Vacation Coach—see page 45) to hold your

hand every step of the way, from book-

ing travel and rooms to finalizing all the

wedding details.

1. CHOOSE YOUR CEREMONY STYLE.

Would you like to be legally married in

the host country or get your marriage license

at home and have a symbolic ceremony?

If you’re going the symbolic route, you can

choose the type of ceremony that’s right for

you. Karisma Hotels and Resorts, for one,

offers nondenominational, Catholic, Jewish,

Indian and Mayan ceremonies at El Dorado

Royale in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

2. DETERMINE YOUR BUDGET.

As is true in all areas of life,

establishing a budget is key to the wedding

planning process. You’ll need to figure

out what you can spend on the ceremony,

reception and dinner, but keep in mind that

Q��ASK! No request is too big or small

for a Weddings by Funjet Concierge.THE

TIPSTER

ASK ABOUT THE EXTRA BENEFITS

Resorts that host destination weddings offer a variety of special benefits for visiting groups. Examples include:

O Complimentary anniversary stays

O Every sixth guest stays free

O Free room upgrade for every 10 rooms booked

O Group pricing for excursions

O Free cocktail hour between the ceremony and dinner

O Special in-room amenities

O Candlelight dinner on the beach for the newlyweds

O Many resorts, includ-ing Riu Resorts, offer complimentary wedding packages when couples book a certain length of stay or number of rooms

48

SETTING A NEW STANDARD FOR LUXURY, THE FAIRMONT KEA LANI BOASTS $70 MILL ION IN

RENOVATIONS. SUITES AND VILLAS INCLUDE A CONTEMPORARY DESIGN AND THE

AWARD-WINNING KO RESTAURANT DELIGHTS WITH FRESH, INNOVATIVE CUISINE PREPARED

WITH THE FINEST MAUI-SOURCED INGREDIENTS. THE NEW WILLOW STREAM SPA, HAWAII ’S

BEST, WILL REJUVENATE YOU WITH ENERGIZING AND EFFECTIVE TREATMENTS.

¯

R E F I N I N G

the art ofR E L A X AT I O N

¯

Transient Accommodations Tax License Number W15961777-01

BOOK TODAY WITH ANY OF THESE TRUSTED BRANDS:

funjet vacations, united vacations

OR blue sky tours.

pg 34-C4.indd 48 3/3/15 9:44 AM

you’re also planning a significant vacation

for yourselves and your guests. Determine

your per-person vacation package budget for

guests; your wedding concierge will help you

find the right number.

3. CONSIDER YOUR GUEST LIST.

Some resorts are beautifully equipped

for families with children, while others are

designed only for adults. If your resort of

choice is adults-only but your guest list

includes kids, neighboring resorts can provide

age-appropriate accommodations. For

example, if you’re attending a wedding at the

adults-only Iberostar Grand Paraíso, guests

with children can stay at the Iberostar Paraíso

Maya next door.

4. ASK YOURSELF WHAT’S

MOST IMPORTANT.

The answer is unique to each couple. It’s

easy to be very focused on the wedding itself,

but couples should start with what’s most

important for the whole experience. They

might want a resort with lots of activities at

the pool, or a resort that’s elegant and upscale,

or a resort with top-shelf liquors. It could be

anything. If excursions are important, take a

look at your options based on wedding size.

Couples might choose a catamaran tour or a

lobster-and-steak dinner on the beach. The

girls might have a spa day while the guys go

fishing or play golf. The bigger resort brands

can seem similar on the surface, but when

you look at the details, you’ll discover many

opportunities for customization and special

benefits available to wedding groups (see

opposite page).

5. DIG INTO THE DETAILS.

Do you want to be married on the beach

or in a garden? Would you like a private or semi-

private setting? El Dorado Royale by Karisma

has sand, sea and chapel wedding locations,

and the Generations Riviera Maya by Karisma

next door offers sky weddings; Excellence

Group Luxury Resorts offers gazebo weddings

as well as beach ceremonies. What type of

meal would you prefer? Are you looking for an

intimate, unusual dining venue like Live Aqua

Cancún’s Hidden Garden Restaurant, or are

you interested in a full, American-style dinner

and reception? As part of the Weddings by

Funjet Promise, your wedding concierge will

walk you through your options and help you

find just what you’re looking for. Q

Q��Add a mariachi band to serenade your wedding

guests for some local flavor.

I want everyone to know how much I loved having a

wedding concierge at our wedding. I appreciate everything Karmen put

together to make our trip and wedding so special.”

— TARYN DIX , WEDDINGS BY FUNJET BRIDE

49

It’s private butlers and personal

concierges who attend to your every

wish. And culinary masters who never cease to amaze. It’s

beachfront boutique hotels, private villas and lavish resorts.

And swim-up suites and bars, canopied beach beds and beachfront

Sky Massages that make you beg for one more day. It’s weddings,

honeymoons, romantic interludes and family time. And it’s clubs for

teens and kids designed to keep everyone happily engaged. The

Gourmet Inclusive® Experience. Only at Karisma Hotels & Resorts.

Gourmet Inclusive.®

Everything you crave.

pg 34-C4.indd 49 3/3/15 9:45 AM

“The waverunners are an awesome

excursion,” Satanovsky recommends.

“The speed, the feeling of freedom—

you’re out on the open ocean by your-

self, and it’s really fun. It’ll get your

adrenaline going, for sure. It’s just a

freeing experience.”

The beach club is also home to a new

dolphinarium, which opened in 2014. It

is the largest dolphin habitat in the Riv-

iera Maya, and has tons of different kinds

THE BACK NINE

riviera maya is one of the

Caribbean’s top golf destinations, with

flagship courses by some of the biggest

names in golf course design. Bonus: you

can play the day away without blowing

your vacation budget.

“Several resorts in the Riviera Maya

have partnerships with golf courses,

or have their own golf courses right on

the property,” says Anderson of United

Vacations. “Some even have special

packages like unlimited golf at Hard

Rock Golf Club Riviera Maya or Moon

Palace Golf and Spa Resort.”

One of the top golf courses in the

region is El Camaleón (The Chameleon),

designed by Greg Norman. The name is

well-deserved as the course’s character

changes between mangroves, cenotes,

lagoons and the beach. El Camaleón

hosts the OHL Classic at Mayakoba every

November, one of only a few PGA Tour

events held outside of the United States.

Resorts are also stepping up their

golf game with on-site golf clubs. The

Iberostar Playa Paraíso Golf Club, for

example, is designed by P.B. Dye and is

accessible from any of the five resorts

located within the complex.

Nearer to Cancún, the Moon Pal-

ace has 27 holes of golf on property,

including one of only two Jack Nicklaus

Signature Golf Courses in the region.

For neophytes, Moon Palace also has

its unique Jack Nicklaus Academy with

certified instructors.

Further south, near Akumal, test

your game on the Riviera Maya Golf

Club designed by Robert Trent Jones II.

The course is impressively challenging

and its partnership with Grand Bahía

Principe Akumal makes it more acces-

sible—and affordable—to visitors.

UNLOCKING THE TREASURES

my love story with the Riviera Maya

began at first sight, and only grew from

there as I explored its diverse adven-

tures. I am not unique in this respect;

thousands of travelers flock here all

year long. But what I discovered among

the mangroves, along the beaches, in

the ancient temples and hidden in the

cenotes is the truth about what makes

this region so special: the deep pride

and genuine love that the people here

have for their home, which they are so

eager to share with the travelers who—

like me—are only beginning to unlock

the treasures of the Riviera Maya. Q

RIVIERA MAYA

C O N T I N U E D F R O M P A G E 4 1

of activities for all ages. The professional

trainers are knowledgeable and the dol-

phins are friendly, particularly the pair

named Hidalgo and Morelos.

The snorkeling at Maroma is excel-

lent, as the Mesoamerican Reef is just

offshore. It is the world’s second-longest

barrier reef system behind Australia’s

Great Barrier Reef. At around 7,000 years

old, it’s home to more than 900 marine

species along its 700-mile stretch, so

keep your eyes open for bright coral, an-

gelfish, yellowtail snapper, triggerfish,

barracudas and arrowhead crabs.

50

F O R G E T T H E F R E E Z E .

AND JUST CHILL.

Think tropical. Think warm waters,

superior indulgence, and legendary

hospitality. Now add some all-inclusive

attitude and congratulations — you’ve

got the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotels of

Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

And just in time for a winter escape, too.

Additional terms and conditions apply.

CALL A FUNJET RECOMMENDED TRAVEL AGENT

OR VISIT FUNJET.COM TO BOOK TODAY.

20% SERVICE FEES APPLY

GET UP TO

pg 34-C4.indd 50 3/3/15 9:45 AM


T H E M A R K T R A V E L C O R P O R A T I O N

Funjet Vacationswww.funjet.com

Q Funjet Vacations is the fl agship brand of The Mark Travel Corporation, headquartered in Milwaukee. With over 40 years of experi-ence and hundreds of destinations to choose from, Funjet specializes in providing travelers with vacation packages that meet their needs, delivered with unparalleled customer care and at an exceptional value.

Southwest Vacationswww.southwestvacations.com

Q Southwest Vacations off ers vacation packages to over 100 destinations, with fl ight

service available from every scheduled South-west Airlines departure city plus packages to Mexico and the Caribbean from most depar-ture cities. Travelers can customize packages to include fl ight, hotel, ground transportation, show tickets and tours, plus bags fl y free!*

United Vacationswww.unitedvacations.com

Q United Vacations combines the best fares on United Airlines with everything you need to create the vacation experience you’ve always dreamed of. With over 50,000 resorts and 10,000 activities in over 400 destinations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, the world is in your hands. Plus, United MileagePlus mem-bers can take advantage of exclusive bonus award mile off ers.

Weddings by Funjetwww.weddingsbyfunjet.com

Q Weddings by Funjet is a destination wedding planning service off ered by Funjet Vacations. As part of the Weddings by Funjet Promise, each couple works with an experi-enced wedding concierge, who serves as the central point of communication between the couple, resort, in-destination support team and the couple’s travel agent, to ensure a stress-free experience from start to fi nish.

W H O . W H A T . W H E R E .

TAKING FLIGHT: TEQUILA TRENDSFiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive & Spa HotelPuerto Vallarta, Mexico

www.fi estamericana.com

Q A 4-star all-inclusive resort located on

RESOURCE GUIDEJourney Beyond Your Expectations with Our Premier Resource Guide

Travel Listings

*See page 57

90<�/V[LSZ��9LZVY[Z�V�LY�ZWLJ[HJ\ SHY�HSS�PUJS\ ZP]L�HT LUP[PLZ�SPRL�ZWHJPV\ Z�YVVT Z��KLSPJPV\ Z�KPUPUN��WSLU[`�VM�WVVSZ��HUKⅺNVYNLV\ Z�ILHJOLZ��>OL[OLY�PUMLJ[PV\ Z�LULYN ��H�YLSH_LK�H[T VZWOLYL�VY�JVSVYM\ S�HT I PHUJL�`V\ �JYH]L ��[OLZL�YLZVY[Z�PU�4L_PJV�ⅺ[OL�*HYPI I LHU��*VZ[H�9PJH�HUK�7HUHT H�V�LY�ZVT L[OPUN�MVY�L] LYV UL��Book today with one of these trusted vacation brands:

) 8 1 - ( 7�9$ & $7 ,2 1 6 � � � �÷ � � � �81 ,7 ( '�9$ &$ 7 ,2 1 6�� ÷� � � �62 8 7+ : ( 6 7�9$ & $7 ,2 1 6

I T ’ S A L L WA I T I N G F O R YO U .

pg 34-C4.indd 51 3/3/15 9:45 AM

the calm cove of Banderas Bay. Whether on a romantic getaway or family vacation, you’ll be surrounded by elegance and friendly service. Enjoy nine dining options, extensive family amenities and beautiful location close to downtown Puerto Vallarta.

El Dorado Seaside SuitesRiviera Maya, Mexico

www.eldoradosparesorts.com

Q Just over an hour from the Cancún airport, the 380 suites at this romantic beachfront resort exude casual elegance. The Gourmet Inclusive concept means guests can expect the most attentive service, upscale accommo-dations and unlimited gourmet dining at the

eight restaurants and 10 bars. Excellence Riviera CancúnCancún, Mexico

www.excellence-resorts.com

Q Soak up the sun at this adults-only, all-suite, all-luxury resort. Enjoy swim-up or two story rooftop terrace suites, eight internation-al restaurants, unique activities and the famed Miilé Spa. Hyatt Zilara CancúnCancún, Mexico

www.cancun.zilara.hyatt.com

Q Contemporary and classic luxury meet in a refined but casual atmosphere, where every

suite has an ocean view. A premier adults-only all-inclusive resort in the heart of Cancún’s Hotel Zone, this resort features six gourmet restaurants, an ocean-view spa, and excep-tional service.

Tequila Express TrainGuadalajara, Mexico

www.tequilaexpress.mx

OPENINGSBaha Mar Casino & Hotel Nassau, Bahamas

www.bahamar.com

Finest Playa MujeresPlaya Mujeres, Mexico

www.finestresorts.com

Q This brand-new resort offers a luxury all-inclusive experience for guests of all ages, including full concierge service, oversized suites, nine gourmet dining options, and 10 unique swimming pools, plus separate a children’s pool with playground. Enjoy extra privacy and pampering in adults-only Excel-lence Club accommodations or Finest Club accommodations for families.

Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall & Hyatt Ziva Rose HallMontego Bay, Jamaica

www.rosehall.zilara.hyatt.com

www.rosehall.ziva.hyatt.com

Q These all-inclusive resorts will wow you with contemporary luxury and top-notch hos-pitality, all just minutes from the airport and three world-class golf courses. Guests of the adults-only Zilara will enjoy the beachfront Zen spa and three exclusive dining options, while Ziva offers eight more restaurants and plenty of family activities.

Hyatt Ziva Puerto VallartaPuerto Vallarta, Mexico

www.puertovallarta.ziva.hyatt.com

Q This all-inclusive resort is tucked away in a secluded tropical paradise close to colonial Puerto Vallarta‘s cobblestone streets, authen-tic craft shops, and rich history. The whole family will enjoy swim-up suites, four delicious dining options, and butler service at the pool and beach.

Moon Palace Jamaica GrandeOcho Rios, Jamaica

www.palaceresorts.com

Q The 5-star Moon Palace Jamaica Grande features all the family amenities, friendly staff and comfortable accommoda-tions Palace Resorts are known for. This all-inclusive paradise has four pools, five restaurants and endless entertainment at The Playroom kids club, Wired teen lounge, and Noir nightclub.

Royalton Riviera CancúnCancún, Mexico

www.royaltonresorts.com

Travel Listings

52

For more information call your preferred travel agent

or visit allinclusive.hyatt.com

HYATT ZILARA (Adult Only) CANCUN MONTEGO BAY

HYATT ZIVA (All Ages) LOS CABOS (July 15, 2015) PUERTO VALLARTA CANCUN (Fall 2015) MONTEGO BAY

* Offer valid for new bookings made now through March 31, 2015 for travel now through August 31, 2015. Free round of golf is per person, per stay and excludes caddies and carts. Transfers are from MBJ to Hyatt ZilaraTM or Hyatt ZivaTM. Blackout, weekend, holiday and peak season surcharges may apply. Rates and promotion are accurate at time of printing and are subject to changes, exceptions, cancellation charges and restrictions. All advertised savings are reflected in rate. Rates are subject to change based on currency fluctuations. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Additional higher priced packages available. Valid for new bookings only. Only combinable with select promotions. Call or see allinclusive.hyatt.com for details. Playa Hotel & Resorts materials (including, but not limited to, names, trademark, service marks, logos, marketing materials, etc.) shall not be used, reproduced, transmitted or distributed in any way, except with express written consent. The Hyatt ZilaraTM and Hyatt ZivaTM trademarks and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt International Corporation. ©2015 Hyatt International Corporation. All rights reserved. ©2015 Playa Resorts Management, exclusive operator of Hyatt ZilaraTM and Hyatt ZivaTM

resorts in Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Mexico and Panama.

Exceptional beachfront resorts that include everything from attentive beach butlers, rum

& tequila sommeliers, world-class spas, applauded dining options, and 24/7 in-suite

service. Designer amenities abound in our spacious suites and beachfront swim-ups

where guests will experience genuine Service from the Heart.

THE SAND BETWEEN YOUR TOES

Plus - FREE round of golf, exclusive airport lounge & FREE transfers

FREE Wedding Packages

Save up to 45%

Welcome to the Evolution of All-Inclusive at the Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Save up to 45%*

pg 34-C4.indd 52 3/3/15 9:45 AM

ON OUR RADAR: DISNEY SPRINGS

Walt Disney World Resort

Orlando, Florida

www.disneyworld.disney.go.com

Q With so much to see and do, a vacation at

Walt Disney World Resort is truly magical at

any age. With its four famous theme parks and

a Disney Resort hotel to fit any family’s budget

and size, Walt Disney World Resort brings to

life favorite characters and worlds, while creat-

ing memories to last a lifetime.

KID-APPROVED VACATIONS

Azul Hotels by Karisma

Mexico

www.karismahotels.com/azulhotels

Q Designed with luxury for all ages in mind,

Azul Hotels by Karisma includes six Gourmet

Inclusive properties: Azul Beach, Azul Fives

and Azul Sensatori, all located in the Riviera

Maya, Mexico; and Azul Beach Punta Cana and

Azul Sensatori Punta Cana, opening in 2016 in

Dominican Republic.

Hard Rock Hotels

Cancún and Riviera Maya, Mexico,

and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

www.hardrockhotels.com

Q Hard Rock Hotels adds some rock n’ roll

spice to the all-inclusive experience by building

on a feeling of sophisticated style and elevated

service. These beachfront resorts have unique

amenities including The Sound of Your Stay, an

audio experience that immerses guests in the

music that started it all.

Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort

Cancún, Mexico


Q Just minutes from the Cancún airport, this

resort has a welcoming atmosphere filled with

endless activities, including a 27-hole Jack

Nicklaus-designed golf course and big-name

entertainment. With a convenient location

and variety of accommodations, Moon Palace

is perfect for a range of travelers including

families, couples and groups.

Ocean Blue & Sand

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

www.hoteloceanbluesand.net

MEET THE LOCALS

Atlantis, Paradise Island

Nassau, Bahamas

www.atlantisbahamas.com

Grand Palladium Riviera Resort & Spa


www.palladiumhotelgroup.com

Q This all-suite resort is located within the

Grand Palladium Riviera Maya complex, about

an hour from the Cancún airport. Guests have

access to 14 restaurants and 25 bars throughout

the entire complex, plus eight freshwater pools

and a saltwater pool, kids’ and teens’ activities

and a disco.

LOS CABOS WEATHERS THE STORM

Barceló Grand Faro Los Cabos

www.barcelo.com

Fiesta Americana Grand Los Cabos All-

Inclusive Golf & Spa

www.fiestamericanagrand.com

Q Enjoy classic luxury at this 5-star all-

inclusive resort overlooking the Sea of Cortez.

With just 249 rooms, the unique SOMMA

WineSPA, and access to two championship

golf courses, your stay will be defined by

exclusivity, distinction and discovery.

Los Cabos,

Mexico

Travel Listings

53

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Indulge in a culture of timeless luxury.

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pg 34-C4.indd 53 3/3/15 9:45 AM

including family-friendly resorts and the adults-only Riu Palace Macao.

S P O T L I G H T

Sandals LaSource GrenadaSt. George’s, Grenada

www.sandals.com

Q Located on exclusive Pink Gin Beach, this stunning new resort features 225 rooms and suites, 10 restaurants including Sandals’ first steakhouse, and five pools. The adults-only resort offers a romantic atmosphere with plenty of activities, including scuba diving, sailing, beach volleyball, kayaking and more.

I N S I D E R

El Dorado Royale & El Dorado Casitas Royale by KarismaRiviera Maya, Mexico

www.eldoradosparesorts.com

Q Located 25 minutes from the Cancún airport, these expansive resorts offer a combined 683 luxurious suites. Guests at these adjacent beachfront resorts will enjoy the utmost attention to service, plus access to nine gourmet restaurants, three snack corners and more than eight bars.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta CanaPunta Cana, Dominican Republic

www.hardrockhotelpuntacana.com

Q Set on one of Punta Cana’s best beaches, this resort adds a bit of rock n’ roll to the all-inclusive experience. Guests will enjoy the 13 pools, nine restaurants with top-shelf liquor, and a Jack Nicklaus golf course, plus unique amenities like the Fender guitar “room ser-vice” and complimentary music downloads.

Hard Rock Hotel CancúnCancún, Mexico

www.hrhcancun.com

Q Located in the heart of Cancún’s Hotel Zone, this beachfront resort brings the rock star treatment to all ages. With nine restau-rants and unlimited room service, premium beverages, two swim-up bars and a kids’

Hyatt Ziva Los Caboswww.loscabos.ziva.hyatt.com

Q A luxurious all-inclusive oasis of sophis-tication and comfort located on the stunning Sea of Cortez, just minutes from beautiful downtown San José del Cabo. Enjoy plush accommodations, five pools, and eight restau-rants, all with impeccable service.

WHERE TO STAY ON THE VALLEY ISLEMontage Kapalua Baywww.montagehotels.com/kapaluabay

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spawww.maui.hyatt.com

The Westin Maui Resort & Spawww.westinmaui.com

The Fairmont Kea Lani www.fairmont.com/kealani

Ka’anapali Beach Hotel www.kbhmaui.com

M U S T H A V E

Riu Hotels & ResortsDominican Republic

www.riu.com

Q The four resorts in the Riu Resorts complex in Punta Cana are located on Arena Gorda Beach, about 30 minutes from the airport. The all-inclusive resorts offer an ac-tive atmosphere for all ages and travel styles,

Sandals LaSource

Grenada

Travel Listings

54

pg 34-C4.indd 54 3/3/15 9:45 AM

activity area, this resort focuses on

entertainment for every guest.

Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya Riviera Maya, Mexico

www.hrhrivieramaya.com

Q About one hour from the Cancún airport,

this sprawling resort has a family section

and an adults-only section, with a combined

1,264 rooms, 10 restaurants and five bars. The

unique protected beach consists of several

calm lagoons perfect for swimming, while the

adults-only nightclub and teen club ensure

the fun continues well after sunset.

D I S N E Y D E C O D E D

Walt Disney World ResortOrlando, Florida

disneyworld.disney.go.com

Q For additional information, see the Travel

Listings for On Our Radar: Disney Springs on

page 53.

My Disney Experience disneyworld.disney.go.com/plan/my-disney-

experience

S T Y L E S H E E T

St. Regis Princeville ResortKauai, www.stregisprinceville.com

F I E L D G U I D E : L A S V E G A S

Stratosphere www.stratospherehotel.com

The Venetianwww.venetian.com

Golden Nugget www.goldennugget.com

Delano Las Vegaswww.delanolasvegas.com

Canyon Ranch SpaClubwww.canyonranch.com/lasvegas

Stay Well Suites at MGM Grandwww.mgmgrand.com

Mandalay Bay www.mandalaybay.com

B U R I E D T R E A S U R E S O F T H E R I V I E R A M A Y A

Barceló Maya Beach Resort www.barcelo.com

El Dorado Maroma by Karisma www.eldoradosparesorts.com

Q Just 40 minutes south of the Cancún

airport on the world-famous Punta Maroma

Beach, this boutique-style resort has just 101

suites. Guests will enjoy a romantic atmo-

sphere with four gourmet restaurants and

three bars. This resort will soon be home to

Mexico’s first overwater bungalows, set to

open in late 2015.

Travel Listings

55

*United Vacations best price guarantee: For price matches to be honored, all components of the vacation

must be identical, including flight, air class of service, hotel, room category, meal plan, airport/hotel transfers,

arrival date, length of stay, and add-on features. Travel protection is considered separate from price matches

due to variances in plan benefits. Guarantee valid for new, same-day bookings only against U.S.-based

competitor’s final price, including promo codes, when all vacation components match. Matches against

membership clubs are subject to review and may not be matched. Matches may be excluded in the case of a

competitor system error. Must contact United Vacations the same day the vacation is booked for price match

to apply.

*Funjet Vacations Price Match Plus: For price matches to be honored, all components of the vacation

must be identical including air class of service, hotel, hotel room category, meal plan, airport/hotel transfers,

arrival date, length of stay and add-on features. Minimum 3-night hotel stay required. Travel protection is

considered separate from price matches due to variances in plan benefits. Valid for new, same-day booking

only. Valid against US-based competitor’s final price including promo codes when all vacation components

match. Matches against membership clubs and other select vacation companies/reservations are subject to

review and may not be matched. Some restrictions may apply.

With you in mind.

www.oceanhotels.net

pg 34-C4.indd 55 3/3/15 9:45 AM

Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya www.hrhrivieramaya.com

Q For more information about this hotel, see

the Travel Listings for the Insider on page 55.

Iberostar Paraíso Lindo www.iberostar.com

Q A wide range of accommodations, res-

taurants and entertainment are spread out

amid the palatial grounds of this 5-star all-

inclusive resort. Located between Cancún

and Playa del Carmen, this colonial-style re-

sort is home to the Playa Paraíso Golf Club.

Enjoy extensive dining, shopping and activity

options, including kids and teens clubs.

Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resortwww.palaceresorts.com

Q For more information about this hotel,

see the Travel Listings for Kid-Approved

Vacations on page 53.

Occidental Grand Xcaret www.occidentalhotels.com

Riu Palace Mexicowww.riu.com

Q Located within the gated resort communi-

ty of Playacar, about 55 minutes from the Can-

cún airport, this all-inclusive resort features

modern décor, in-room liquor dispensers, an

active atmosphere and a fantastic beach. As

an added bonus, guests can access all of the

nearby Riu Resorts in Playacar.

The Royal Playa del Carmen www.realresorts.com

Q This adults-only, all-inclusive resort pro-

vides the ultimate in luxury for active travel-

ers, right on the beach in downtown Playa del

Carmen. Enjoy spacious suites, international

dining and Mayan-inspired spa treatments.

Book Royal Suite accommodations for up-

graded amenities, butler service and more.

The Royal Suites Yucatán by Palladium

www.palladiumhotelgroup.com

Q A “resort within a resort,” this adults-only

concept is located in the Grand Palladium

Riviera Maya complex. The exclusive resort

combines the benefits of the amenities

throughout the whole complex, with a bou-

tique atmosphere that includes butler service,

exclusive restaurants, a private pool and a VIP

beach area.

I N S I D E R ’ S G U I D E T O D E S T I N A T I O N W E D D I N G S

Karisma Hotels & ResortsRiviera Maya, Mexico

www.karismahotels.com

Q Karisma’s signature Gourmet Inclusive

concept extends throughout every aspect of

the vacation experience, from five-star dining

to top-notch service to world-class locations.

Choose from adults-only El Dorado Spa Re-

sorts or family-friendly Generations Resorts.

Excellence Riviera Cancún www.excellence-resorts.com

Q For more information about this hotel,

see the Travel Listings for Tequila Trends on

page 52.

Generations Riviera Maya by Karismawww.generationsresortshotels.com Q Located adjacent to the El Dorado Casitas

Royale, this family-oriented resort has 144

suites, all with butler service included. Fami-

lies and couples alike will enjoy the gourmet

cuisine at the five restaurants, three bars and

café. The needs of all ages are attended to,

from the baby beach lounge to the nightly

entertainment.

Generations

Riviera Maya by

Karisma

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Excellence Group Luxury ResortsDominican Republic & Mexico

www.excellence-resorts.com

Q Located in Cancún, Riviera Maya and Punta Cana, these all-inclusive resorts make for ideal romantic getaways, destination weddings or get-togethers with friends. Choose from the adults-only Excellence Resorts or the family-friendly Finest Playa Mujeres or Beloved Hotel. At each resort, Excellence Club accommoda-tions include extra amenities and access to private lounges, pools and beach areas.

Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall & Hyatt Ziva Rose HallMontego Bay, Jamaica

www.rosehall.zilara.hyatt.com

www.rosehall.ziva.hyatt.com

Q For more information about these hotels, see the Travel Listings for Openings on page 52.

Iberostar Hotels & ResortsCozumel and Riviera Maya, Mexico

www.iberostar.com

Q Enjoy plenty of entertainment, great dining and excellent all-inclusive service in spectacular beachfront locations. With both family-oriented and adults-only properties, Iberostar Hotels & Resorts offers something for everyone.

Live Aqua CancúnCancún, Mexico

www.liveaqua.com/cancun

Q Blending contemporary architecture with sophisticated accommodations, this premiere adults-only resort provides the perfect vacation getaway for active couples and luxury seekers alike. Located in the heart of Cancún’s Hotel Zone, this innova-tive resort will surprise and delight all your senses. Moon Palace Golf & Spa ResortCancún, Mexico


Q For more information about this hotel, see the Travel Listings for Kid-Approved Vacations on page 53.

Riu Hotels & ResortsMexico, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Aruba,

Dominican Republic, Panama, Saint Martin

www.riu.com

Q Offering a remarkably consistent expe-rience in every destination, Riu Hotels and Resorts are located on some of the world’s best beaches. The 24-hour all-inclusive concept and wide variety of activities for day and night make these resorts popular choices for families, couples and groups. Q

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*United Vacations $200 down, pay later: The actual deposit amount required varies based on the destination and hotel accommodations selected. Destinations outside of North America require a $300 per person deposit. Some special holiday/convention periods (or other exceptions) may apply where full payment is required at time of booking. Vacation cancellations/revisions are subject to penalties outlined in the United Vacations terms and conditions. All payments must be completed no less than 45 days before departure. *Funjet Vacations $0 down, pay later: Book land-only vacations for $0 down with purchase of All-In-One Travel Protection; book charter air/hotel for $50 down with purchase of All-In-One Travel Protection. Deposit amount required for published air/hotel packages varies based on the destination and hotel accommodations selected. Some special holiday/convention periods (or other exceptions) may apply where full payment is required at time of booking. Vacation cancellations/revisions are subject to penalties outlined in the Funjet Bill of Rights. All payments must be completed no less than 45 days before departure. *Southwest Airlines Bags fly free: First and second checked bags. Weight and size limits apply. A golf bag, pair of skis, or a snow board can be substituted for one checked bag.

Travel Listings

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Here & Beyond Magazine, Spring/Summer 2015

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