Mexico Travel Tips & Information

posted by Donna-Lee on Oct 22

Palace Resorts Members Offer Best Deal On All Inclusive Resorts

Here’s a great way to get the best deals on adults only all inclusive Mexico resorts as well as all inclusive family resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean.  

Palace Resorts members can offer you a way to save  on your 5 and 6 star all inclusive, Mexico and Dominican Republic Vacation.  Palace Resorts timeshare VIP members typically buy several hundred discounted weeks that they may not be able to use themselves; and are happy to be able to share with their family and friends . If you do a google search for presidential palace resorts VIP member you can contact a member willing to rent to people who don’t have a need to own a timeshare ,  but still would like to experience the benefits of a timeshare owner and resort member.   Members receive special benefits, like 1500 Vacation Dollar credits, that you would also recieve.

WHY MEMBERS RENT THEIR WEEKS

Selling the use of their VIP memberships helps them to pay down the balances that they owe  and still provide you with an average savings of $700 per week on the room and board  alone for your all inclusive Mexico vacation.   If you stay at any of the Palace Resorts as a guest of a VIP member  your all inclusive resort vacation will be even more memorable because of the benefits that they have paid for in advance, with their timeshare purchase. You get to travel to any of the five star Palace Resorts at a great weekly discount, oftentimes saving almost $100 per night off of the rates.  Additionally, check in will be a breeze with member express check in, priority in room assignments (and thus more ocean front/view rooms), and, if the VIP member still has one available,  you may want to ask for to use a Presidential suite.

Aventura Palace Resorts Presidential Suite

PRESIDENTIAL SUITES

The Palace Resorts Presidential Suites are two bedroom, 3 bath, living room and dining room, that is fabulous for two couples or a family with children.  This is a fantastic benefit as the Presidential suites during high season often rent for over $10,000 per week!  Many rent for as high as $18,000 per week in the Cancun resort area.  If you find the right Palace Resorts Presidential Palace Premier member, you will also have the opportunity to rent a family room which is two bedrooms adjoining for families with children.

ADULTS ONLY

There are also a few Palace Resorts VIP members that have purchased an upgrade package, you  you may have an opportunity for   an all inclusive Mexico vacation at the very highly rated  Le Blanc Resort in Cancun Mexico. Many reviews claim that a week at LeBlanc has been their ultimate dream Cancun resort vacation.  Celebrities and royalty have stayed at Le Blanc because of the luxury.  This is an amazing adults only resort, so is perfect for honeymoons, anniversary celebrations or romantic getaways.

BENEFITS OF VIP MEMBER PACKAGE

Another wonderful benefit of traveling as a guest of a Palace Resort VIP member is that you also receive one free manicure, one free pedicure, and one free massage per adult PLUS, new in 2010, 1500 Vacation Dollars credit to be exchanged  for excursions, more spa treatments, golf, room upgrades, special dinners or more. Transportation to and from the Cancun airport is also included as part of the Palace Resorts VIP package. These benefits are not even factored into the $700 per week savings you receive on the room and board. There are also some members with all inclusive golf packages.

HOW ARE MEMBERS ABLE TO OFFER THE BEST DEAL?

You may be wondering how a VIP Palace Resorts member can rent you their weeks and provide you with more that what travel agents or discount travel sources like Travelocity and Expedia can offer for much less.   Palace Resorts designates blocks of rooms for different purposes making them available only for that purpose.  They reserve rooms for the timeshare exchange companies as well as timeshare members with fixed week benefits.  The rooms available for the Palace Premier VIP Members are dependent upon the level of membership of the member.  Not all members have Presidential suite availability, Le Blanc, golf packages or even spa packages.

Palace Resorts offers some of the best all inclusive Mexico vacations. Palace Resorts Presidential Suites, Palace Premier Members timeshare rental offers you the best deals for your all inclusive Mexico Caribbean vacations.

posted by colin on Oct 9

In May of 2011, President Felipe Calderon (president ofMexico) reassured travel executives attending a global tourism summit in Las Vegas that “Mexico is a safe place to visit”.

Despite Calderon’s comforting words, various news programsand magazine articles have left some of us asking whether or not we should go.

Mexico is a large country, and so any attempt to answer that question should probably focus on those places that are safest for travelers.  On April 22^nd, the US Department of State issued a Travel Warning to inform US citizens aboutsecurity situation in Mexico.  In the Travel Warning, the Dept. of State specified that “resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico are generally do notsee the levels of drug related violence and crime reported in the border region
and in areas along major trafficking routes”.

Anecdotally, I can report that my wife and I spent two weeksin and around Cancun in May.   We took taxis into town and buses to attractions outside of the populated areas and never had any problems or felt uneasy at all.   The locals were always friendly and very helpful.  Most are very proficient in English.  We are heading to Playa del Carmen in December without giving it a second doubt!

And what about our guests?  Are they concerned about venturing to Mexico?  We have had a few inquiries about this
topic.  Safety questions do arise once in a while.  To questions such as “how safe is it? and Is the media blowing it out of proportion?”  I insist that you should use common sense.  Be alert, stay in populated areas, don’t wear expensive jewelry away from the resort, late night activities away from your resort should be curtailed, be respectful of your surroundings.  The same advice that I would give if traveling to NYC, Washington DC or LosAngles.   Use your head,  contact KokoTravel for your next Mexico vacation and you’ll have a great time!!!

posted by colin on Jan 29

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, located on Macao Beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, will officially open on Jan. 29, 2011. The 121-acre property is Hard Rock International’s first all-inclusive hotel and casino and also the company’s first Caribbean resort, which is operated by Palace Resorts. The official launch party will feature platinum international recording artists the Gypsy Kings featuring Nicolas Reyes and Tonino Baliardo. As part of the ceremony, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana will donate new guitars to benefit local children’s music education programs.

If you think you know what an all inclusive, upscale resort is, think again. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic defies any pre-concept you may have by providing you with a vacation destination like no other. And it is not just the inclusions and the service. You are in an environment where you and nature become one.
With the largest casino in the Dominican Republic covering 45,000 square feet of gaming space and 1,790 elegantly appointed rooms, the resort is designed to appeal to a varied range of guests. From families, couples, and friends, to casino players, golf enthusiasts and spa lovers, there is plenty for everyone. And its superb location, overlooking a golden beach, entices those looking for a resort that will certainly surpass their expectations to deliver the best all-inclusive experience. 

By early 2011, the resort will also feature an Oro nightclub, and a restaurant designed by acclaimed celebrity chef Kerry Simon. Guests will also enjoy 11 pools, four swim-up bars, a kid’s pool and lazy river.

Gourmet dining options include 11 restaurants, from the Brazilian steakhouse Ipema and the international buffet at The Market, to Asian Teppanyaki at Zen and brick-oven pizza at Pizzeto. On-site shopping includes jewelry and spa boutiques, and the resort’s exclusive Hard Rock memorabilia includes Elton John’s hand-painted piano, Tommy Lee’s Motley Crue silver space ship outfit, Gene Simmons’ custom axe base and Sammy Hagar’s 1926 hot rod. For more information, call 503-816.6587 or visit KokoTravel.

posted by Donna-Lee on Jul 17

Riviera Maya: Tulum, Mexico is 2010 Travellers Choice in the Top 10 Beach and Sun Destinations, Romance Destinations and Relaxation and Spa Destinations, in the Caribbean and Mexico.  This award winning area  is located on the breath-taking Caribbean coast of Mexico, a 50 minute drive South of Cancun and the Riviera Maya, on the Yucatan Peninsula.

Tulum is the site of a Pre-Columbian Maya served as a major port for Cobá.  One of the best-preserved coastal Maya sites, Tulum is a popular site for tourists.  Tulum’s greatest attraction is its location. It stands on a bluff facing the rising sun looking out on views of the Caribbean that are nothing less than spectacular. In Maya, Tulum means “Wall”, and the city was christened thus because it is a walled city; one of the very few the ancients ever built.  When visitors arrive at Tulum’s ancient pre-hispanic site they are able to see the buildings that in its time were the city’s main center (ceremonial and political), monumentally encircled by the Mayan world’s best known wall.  This site is impressive!  You may be able to feel the energy of an amazing civilization as you tour the area.

The most famous Mayan temple city, Chichen Itza  served as the political and economic center of the Mayan civilization. The Kukulkan Pyramid (El Castillo) itself was the last, and arguably the greatest, of all Mayan temples. The Maya believed that on the Equinoxes, their god Kukulkan came down from the heavens to speak directly to their priests. This natural phenomenon of light and shadow is a unique experience that attracts visitors from all parts of the world. Unquestionably, the ancient Maya created a wonder of the world in the great Pyramid of Kukulkan  In 2007, Chichen Itza’s KuKulkan Pyramid was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World after a worldwide vote.

This ancient Mayan region   offers relaxation and romance, adventure, historical, ecological and geographical interests as well as gorgeous Yucatan beaches.

Two very popular destinations for visitors  are Xcaret (pronounced sh-cah-ret) and,Xel-Ha (pronounced shell-ha) which are beautiful natural parks with inlets and cenotes for swimming and snorkelling, as well as swimming with dolphins in natural aquariums  for an unforgettable experience .

Xcaret Cenote

Known as ”nature’s sacred paradise”, Xcaret is one of the world’s most famous eco-archaeological parks. Here, you will find archaeological ruins, a dolphin show, a display of horses and riders working together, a farm with tropical birds, butterflies, bat caves and a stunning beach. You can go also snorkeling in the famous caves and the well known underground river.

Xcaret Underground River

With its 53 activities to enjoy, Xcaret is an experience for all your senses. This ecological park was once one of the most important Mayan ports.

Xcaret Plus is a new experience that provides an array of services with one ticket. One major benefit is the preferential access to the exclusive Plus Area, created only for those visitors who purchase the Xcaret Plus ticket. There you’ll find all the facilities you need including towels, snorkel gear, life vests and lockers available at any time of the day. You will also have access to our lockable bags to store your things while you travel down the river. Your Plus Admission will allow you to enjoy the park attractions and the main advantages it has over the Basic admission is that you’ll also get a buffet lunch included with juice and coffee, as well as a 10% discount on all water activities! Without a doubt, this is your opportunity to spend a perfect day just having lots of fun.

The amazing Xcaret Show is the most renowned attraction in this park, featuring 300 artists on stage that will fascinate you with the best selection of music, regional dances and Mexican folklore. When the sun sets the sound of pre-Hispanic drums starts and a line of Mayan warriors and priests guard the way to the theater, this will let you know it is show time. Get ready to experience an extraordinary feast of color and learn about the different episodes of Mexico’s rich history, including a stunning recreation of the famous Ball Game.

Xel Ha is an eco-archaeological site that arose with the Maya Civilization settled on the eastern coastline of the State of Quintana Roo, Mexico.  Xel Ha is located in the Riviera Maya, south of Playa del Carmen.   The name is the combination of the roots xel that means ”spring” and ha’ that means ”water”. Xel Ha is the largest natural open sea aquarium in the world, which offers a myriad of land and water activities, ecological attractions, world-class restaurants, and countless more unimaginable experiences, a place to enjoy the biological parade of the Riviera Maya.

The Yucatan peninsula is renowned for water activities in the Caribbean sea as well as the natural freshwater pools called Cenotes, which are underwater caves and caverns to swim in, snorkel or scuba exploration. 

One of the most beautiful is the Gran Cenote,  just 4 km. from Tulum hotel zone on the road to Cobá, Its clear water allows swimmers and divers to see the underwater cave formations and the small fish that live there.

Cenote Calaveras is located about one km before the Gran Cenote, down an unmarked path into the jungle. Its three holes form the skull shape which gave the cenote its name. Visitors love to jump into the water from the ground above. 

Farther up on the highway to Cancún and Playa del Carmen is Cenote Dos Ojos, (about 10 minutes north of Akumal whose two holes make an excellent place to swim or dive. Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido are both located south of Tulum, on the road to Carrillo Puerto and Chetumal, just five minutes from Tulum pueblo.  Admission prices include both cenotes.

Ancient Mayan ruins are scattered throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. Tulum is the best preserved Mayan coastal site.  The Cobá ruins are located about 45 minutes from Tulum along a quiet highway through the jungle and are well worth visiting by either car or bus.

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, one of Mexico’s largest parks, covers more than 1 million acres of coastal jungle or about 20 percent of the state of Quintana Roo’s land. This virgin wilderness is home and sanctuary to innumerable species of tropical flora and fauna, of which, the jaguar found here is counted as one of the many protected species.

As eventful and exhilarating as the encounters with the native wildlife are, archaeologically, more than two dozen ancient Mayan sites have been discovered here in various states of ruin. Evidence of habitation dates back at least 2,000 years but most sites uncovered belong to the post-Classic Period, around 1200 AD.

This vast complex, Mexico’s donation to the world nature inventory administered by the UN, contains just about everything the area has to offer the nature buff. Services are meager and activity access is highly restricted. Punta Allen, a small fishing town 60 km. into the biosphere is the only settlement in this northern sector. There are a couple of modest accommodation facilities just before the entry.

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is located about 2 hours south of Cancun, just south of Tulum on the road to Punta Allen.

Tulum certainly is an impressive vacation spot in Mexico  for whatever you are looking for whether it be a romantic anniversary celebration, an adventure vacation, simply a beach destination , an archeological experience or just a fabulous family vacation.

There are several All Inclusive Palace Resorts in the Tulum area.  You can save substantially with our Palace Resorts Timeshare Rental.  We suggest the Adults Only Aventura Spa Palace or Aventura Cove Palace for family vacations with children.  Xpu Ha resort is perfect for couples or families interested in ecotourism as the resort has several animal displays and tours.~Playacar Palace is another small boutique hotel withing walking distance of the quaint market area of Playa del Carmen and the ferry dock to Cozumel.

posted by colin on Jul 15

New on the list of popular Mexico vacation destinations; the Riviera Nayarit, north of Puerto Vallarta is growing and changing, but with a plan to ensure that the natural beauty and culture remains.

Riviera Nayarit, Nuevo Vallarta Beach

New on the list of popular Mexico vacation destinations; the Riviera Nayarit, north of Puerto Vallarta is growing and changing, but with a plan to ensure that the natural beauty and culture remains.

Riviera Nayarit is in the beginning stages of development. Between 2005 and 2007, the government has invested $1.5 billion in tourism facilities and infrastructure. Of the 20 projects currently in development, 15 percent of the investment is from the United States. Our resorts, restaurants and other establishments place a major emphasis on service and quality as well. Travelers will also be spoilt for choice in terms of lodging options because Riviera Nayarit not only offers all inclusive resorts but also luxurious accommodations for the discerning traveler,” states governor of the state of Nayarit, Ney Gonzalez.

The region’s first stop is just 10 minutes from Puerto Vallarta’s airport, which allows visitors to benefit from constant flights from major U.S. gateways. “This accessibility has helped us to develop the Riviera Nayarit region and promote its unique traits of luxury, culture and nature.”

“Our primary focus in on luxury and nature and as the region develops in the next decade, luxury resorts and facilities will be enhanced by the protected flora and fauna. Nature is an important asset of Riviera Nayarit. For instance, did you know we are a major migration point for humpback whales? Riviera Nayarit is also home to several species of protected sea turtles and sanctuary for over 250 species of birds-one of the largest in North America-and many are rare,” he explains. “We believe a wide-spectrum of travelers would be interested in traveling to Riviera Nayarit, especially those who appreciate the beauty of the region’s natural wonders such as its mangrove forest reserves, Ridley sea turtle sanctuaries and 100 miles of golden-sand beaches. In terms of accommodations, Riviera Nayarit offers many options ranging from intimate bed and breakfast hotels by the sea to luxurious five-diamond resorts. It attracts couples, family vactions, destination weddings, incentive groups, golfers, and watersports enthusiasts.”

With these plans come an abundance of amenities, perks and unique offerings. For instance, Riviera Nayarit is home to La Tovara National Park, considered on the top sports for birdwatching in the entire continent. Visitors to the area can choose from four signature golf courses, with two more in construction. The town of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, says Murphy, is completing its first phase of development with a 400-slip marina; the second phase will see the construction of a boardwalk and a commercial area with boutique hotels. “Another totally new area, Libitu, is just being developed now, starting with a golf course that will be completed this year. Other locations are just starting their initial development phases and will be announced in the near future,” he adds.

One of the jewels of Riviera Nayarit is the fishing village of San Francisco (also known as San Pancho), which has a polo club with an active season from October through April. It’s out of the way yet very accessible, with hidden beaches and lush hills providing a hush-hush hideaway spot that’s still unknown by the masses.

Also, in the state of Nayarit, is the picturesque fishing village of Sayulita, Mexico that offers visitors and residents incredible beaches, lush jungles and a taste of rural Mexico. Located on the Pacific coast of Nayarit, Mexico, this pueblo is slowly gaining popularity as a vacation/second home destination with plenty of North Americans. With cobblestone streets hosting dogs, chickens and playing children, Sayulita is a half-century away from nearby Puerto Vallarta and it’s huge resorts, discos and parasailing. Sayulita’s location is ideal, only 35 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta airport and 3 hours from Guadalajara.

Nuevo Vallarta is a beautiful tourist destination, waiting to give you the most relaxing experience you have ever had. Nuevo Vallarta has emerged as a sister resort to Puerto Vallarta, keeping a very personal charm. Ultramodern hotels, most featuring an All-Inclusive plan, frame almost 4 miles of fine sand beaches, the best in Vallarta, and ideal for water sports and leisure, as they offer a hidden yet close paradise to stay and relax.  

Vallarta Palace Pool

Recommended All Inclusive Resort:   Vallarta Palace All Inclusive Resort & Spa Vallarta

Recommended Resort:   Mayan Resorts Nuevo Vallarta Grand Mayan Resorts Timeshare Rental      

Recommended Luxury Suite:   Grand Luxxe Nuevo Vallarta Suite  Rental With Golf