Six Secrets of a Smooth Arrival at Cancun International Airport
Welcome to Cancun!
Are you planning your first trip to Cancun or the Riviera Maya? Or has it maybe been a while since you’ve been? Here are some things you should know to make the beginning of your trip as smooth as possible.
1) Bring a pen on the plane. The flight attendants will be passing out a form commonly referred to as a “tourist card”. You’ll need to fill it out. You’ll be the most popular one on your row if you have a pen. You’ll need your passport open to fill it out. Be sure you carefully keep track of your passport because if you misplace it or leave it on the plane you will have a big problem. Possession of your passport is really the only deal breaker in the whole process. You can make up for anything else, but if you lose your passport you have issues.
2) Properly fill out your tourist card. Hopefully it will be printed in English, but it may not. It could go either way. Read it carefully and fill it out correctly. If you’re arriving into Cancun, the name of the state is “Quintana Roo”. It can be abbreviated “Q. Roo”. Also remember that the format for writing a date everywhere but the US is day/month/year rather than the month/day/year format we use.
There will be a guy checking your tourist card right when you get off the plane to make sure it is filled out correctly. If it is not, you’ll have to stop right there and lean up against the wall and make your corrections. This will upset your evil plan of rushing down to passport control and being first in line.
3) Speaking of the line in passport control, it goes pretty fast. Don’t despair if you see a long snake-like line. It’s pretty much like Walt Disney World in that it moves fairly continuously. If you get bored, look down at the floor. Ninety nine percent of the women in the line have fresh pedicures. I roll my eyes at them in my head while I wait. Oops, you have a fresh pedicure too? Compare yours to theirs and see whose is better.
4) The next line you’ll encounter is customs. This is the line you wait in after you’ve claimed your luggage. Sometimes this line can move rather slowly. If you notice a substantial line when you enter the baggage claim area, make a deal with your traveling companion that one of you gets the bags, and one of you goes ahead and takes a place in line. You may encounter sniffing dogs while in this area. They are looking for drugs and/or unpackaged food.
5) After you leave the customs area you go through sliding glass doors and will go to your right (the only option). You’ll walk past a bunch of people who are trying to get your attention. Ignore them. They are timeshare people. They may say they are your transfer, or that they are representatives of your hotel. They are not. They are lying. Ignore them, and walk outside. Your transfer is waiting for you outside. If transfers were not included in your package, you’ll find the legitimate taxi drivers out there too.
6) Relax. Even if the lines are long, or the airport is a complete mad house, relax. You’ve just arrived into one of the most beautiful places on earth. You’re on vacation. Relax.
A Review of Puerto Vallarta
Terrah and Nicki in Puerto Vallarta
I recently returned from a stay at the beautiful Riviera Nayarit, Mexico. Terrah and I stayed 4 nights at The Marival Residences & World Spa which is just 15 minutes from the Puerto Vallarta airport. We stayed in a gorgeous, spacious 2 bedroom residence and just some of the things that surprised me about the resort included: the incredibly spacious balcony, the beautiful vegetation throughout the resort, and the great service. The 2 Bedroom Residence that we had the privilege of staying in had the largest rooms and the biggest balcony I’ve ever seen. You never would have been able to tell that the resort was new by looking around. There were flowers on every veranda, foliage in every hall, palm trees throughout the resort, and all the plants throughout the property made this resort look and feel as though it had been up and running for years, not months. The service was also fine tuned; whether we were making reservations at the concierge desk for an excursion, ordering room service, or taking advantage of the beach butler service at the private beach club next door, the service was always impeccable.
So, it’s a given that I loved the resort, but I really want to point out that the destination itself is absolutely wonderful. The people in Puerto Vallarta are extremely friendly. Everyone we met, whether it was a taxi driver, a salesman, or a waiter–all outside of the resort–were always welcoming, sociable, and helpful. Another pleasant surprise was how truly beautiful the beaches were. I was not expecting a beautiful white sandy beach with the turquoise waters that the Caribbean offers, but I wasn’t expecting what I saw either. What I experienced on the beaches in the Riviera Nayarit was nothing short of amazing. The beaches were nice, big, and very clean. They were not cluttered with sea weed and although the water was not as clear as what you would have in a pool, it was very clear nonetheless. I was very surprised that we were able to snorkel and see blue and yellow fish on the Pacific coast. As opposed to the Caribbean, the Pacific featured slightly larger waves which allowed me to enjoy watching kids boogy-board and play in the surf. All in all, I was very impressed with the resort and the destination, and can’t wait to go back with my friends and family.
Nicki and her friend the dolphin!
Captain Hook Pirate Ship Dinner Cruise
Hello, my name is Leah and I’m addicted to pirates. (Hello, Leah) I’ve had this problem for years. My favorite ride at Disneyland was Pirates of the Caribbean (until the Indiana Jones ride opened) for the majority of my life. So, you can imagine my great joy when they made movies out of that ride and cast one of the sexiest men alive as Captain Jack Sparrow.
Anyway, I will move on. Pining over Johnny Depp is another blog entry. We recently had a training session with Lomas Travel about the various excursions that clients have available to them in Cancun and the Riviera Maya. I was appalled that I have been doing this for two and half years and I never noticed the Pirate Assault Cruise Dinner. I practically shouted across the table, “There’s a pirate cruise?”
I told Cathi over and over again that we had to do it. Cathi and I went to Cancun to film the eight Riu resorts March 25-28. I was very excited that she agreed to go with me! I’m really the luckiest girl in the world. I work for (and with) people that are supportive of my pirate enthusiasm and obsession and they only make fun of me a little.
So, Saturday night came and we were transferred to the marina in Cancun to meet our ship. We were on the Black Pearl, or course. I’m not sure how they split up the tickets, but some people were on the Black Pearl and some people were on the enemy ship. Jack Sparrow was the captain of our ship and I think the enemy captain was Captain Hook.
You get on the ship and sit on deck for the first section of the show. The first parts lasts almost two hours as you are sailing around the bay. It was wonderful. It seems like such a fun job…and the actors never quit. They were in character the whole time and having more fun than some of the people on the ship with us. They also were very good at keeping everyone involved the whole time. Cathi and I were sent down to the Brig for our meal and while we were eating the Captain came around to take pictures and make sure everyone was having fun. Side Note: He doesn’t make very good pirate faces in pictures.
I’m probably the wrong person to be writing this blog because I am forcing myself to think of the down side. I mean, come on, it’s a pirate cruise! They could have sat us on deck and paced back and forth glaring at us for two hours and I would have been singing pirate songs in my head the whole time…
But, in an effort to reach out to the peeps, I will say this – this excursion is probably not suitable for people that get really motion sick. It’s a three and half hour tour. (Maybe too close to a three-hour-tour for some people’s enjoyment) During parts of the tour you can really feel that boat moving, it’s loud, and if you don’t like audience participation then you might have to find another excursion while in Cancun.
They turn the deck into a dance floor! A pirate ship, food, pirates, loud music, lights, the ocean breeze in your hair…….and pirates…….doesn’t that sound like the best evening ever? You should go there. Call me. We need to get you on a pirate ship!
Nicki’s First Trip to Mexico
I recently had the opportunity to travel to the beautiful Riviera Maya, just south of Cancun, Mexico. It’s only a little over a 2 hour flight from Dallas… I love, love, love short, direct flights : ) I stayed 3 nights at The El Dorado Seaside Suites which is a little over an hour transfer from the airport, but definitely worth the drive. I stayed in a Beachfront Jacuzzi Junior Suite- Beautiful view, location, setting, everything. I knew it was going to be nice from what other agents in the office had told me, but their pictures and stories just didn’t do the resort justice. I’m already anticipating my next trip back.
The El Dorado boutique chain continued to impress me every time I turned around. I am so excited that they’re going green. The El Dorado Maroma already heats all of it’s water with solar panels and the El Dorado Royale has a huge green house on site where they grow all of their own vegetables.
I’m trying really hard to think of one thing that stood out above all the rest… The beach was beautiful. The rooms were excellent. The layout of the properties were perfect- None of the resorts felt too crowed or spread out and everything you could possibly want and/or need is always just a few steps away. Restaurants are spread out through out the properties and there is a concierge desk for every 35 rooms.
I was also really impressed by how the Azuls have combined Karisma’s Gourmet Inclusive concept with their family friendly concept. They have contracts with Fisher Price toys and they have absolutely everything you could possibly think of for babies and kids of all ages. From kid’s clubs, kid’s activities and programs, play equipment and arcade rooms, to bottle warmers, and play pins- They have it! I really enjoyed the nightly shows at the resort, but out of all the things that I made me do a double take my favorite thing has to be the food!
I had the opportunity to meet the Head Chef for the El Dorado Royale and I was so EXCITED to hear him talk about his job with such enthusiasm. He has worked/cooked in over 22 countries and he said that there is no request that he cannot fulfill either on his own or with the help of his Sous Chef and staff. A fellow travel agent said that she was currently making arrangements for a bride and her guests that will be coming down in October and asked if he could possibly make a Hindu menu for her and her guests and he said of course he could. I love the idea of sending clients to a resort where I know that they are going to be completely taken care of. Below is a picture of just one of the many desserts that I was lucky enough to indulge in while I was at The El Dorado Maroma.
This was served in the Sabores restaurant.
When I arrived I was greeted with this welcoming sign : )
Trying to catch some sun…
This is the view from one of the Jacuzzi Suites at the El Dorado Royale.
When you go to The El Dorado Seaside Suites you have to order a Sombrero!
This is the only adult’s only restaurant at Azul Sensatori.
Serves 8 courses that takes about 2-2 1/2 hours to enjoy 
You can upgrade to a 14 course meal that takes about 3 1/2 hours to enjoy!
The next time you’re at The El Dorado Seaside Suites
You have to try the Tequila Tasting they offer- Very informative and delicious!
GIVC Awards
GIVCs in Mexico! Plus new amenities for Legacy Travel brides!
It was nothing short of amazing.
We zip lined in the jungle and even rode on snuggly camels! Yes, camels are in Mexico now and they will be coming up in the world you just wait and see. 
During our stay we were also able to visit the adventurous Selvatica! If you haven’t been yet, we strongly suggest it!
Karisma resorts now have a certification for qualifying travel agents to be a Gourmet Inclusive Wedding Consultant. I was quite surpised when they announced my name along with a handful of other agents who were rewarded with this new certification.
Legacy Travel was honored to receive awards of recognition at the GIVC ceremony during our last night there. All in all, we are happy to be back home and the experience just inspired me to have an even more prosperous year in 2010!
We received a nice, warm welcome to the El Dorado Royale.
We had a carnival right on one of my most favorite spots, Maroma Beach! We won Monopoly money to cash in for authentic Mexican toys.
The El Dorado Royale now have a camel tour along with their traditional horseback tour. Everyone who tried this walked away with a new love and passion for camels. ♥
The ceremony was beautiful and the entertainment was absolutely amazing.
Rafaela, the Karisma wedding director, was there as well! It is always lovely being able to spend time with this destination wedding guru. Stay tuned for an enticing interview with Ms Rafaela!
We miss it there already. ♥
Wishing you all a wonderful 2010!
Marty’s Trip to Antigua
Let me show you Antigua!
Antigua (Pronounced An-tee-ga by the locals), is a beautiful island in the Caribbean. I had the opportunity to travel there recently and fell in love with the destination. I definately look forward to going back.
I stayed 4 night at The Verandah Resort and visited 13 additional properties while there. The Verandah is a great property. Is is spread out on a peninsula with hilltop bungalows overlooking a small bay and the ocean. Although the property is spread out and seems large, there are only 200 rooms.
My favorite resort, though, is Hermitage Bay. A small resort with less than 50 rooms, and each room is your own private bungalow. There are standard, hilltop and hilltop with plunge pools. All bungalows are partial to full on oceanview. My recommendation is the hilltop plunge pool room.
My second favorite is actually a tie between The Inn at English Harbour and Carlisle Bay. Both small resorts on beautiful beaches with so much to offer. Carlisle Bay is compact and contemporary feeling while The Inn is a bit spread out on the beach and hillside and much more traditional.
Blue Waters and Galley Bay are also at the top of my list. Blue Waters is fantastic because of the 6 to 9 bedroom villas that an entire party can rent out or just book a room to have a villa feel. There are also standard hotel style rooms that are quite nice, too. Galley Bay’s standard rooms are quite unique. You have a private plunge pool in the courtyard and there is a building for your bedroom and a separate building for the bathroom. Of course, you have a private gate and fence surrounding your room, so nobody can see you walk from the bedroom to the bathroom.
The two hotels that surprised me most were Coconut Beach Club and Cocobay. Both small hotels and owned by the same person. Although the rooms at Coconut Beach are a bit gaudy, the room sizes, layout of the resort, and location are ideal. Cocobay has small individual bungalows, some with plunge pools, has a great view and is out of the way.
A must, is an excursion on a sailboat. That is if you are a boat lover. The small sailboat was fun and interesting. I chose to just sit on deck and watch the world pass by. Eventhough I did that, people do have the option of actually helping the crew sail. The OnDeck sailing crew was outstanding.
Another excursion was the Barbecue at Shirley Point. It is a historical hilltop fortress built by the British to protect the island from the French. The owner of the property decided to hold a local, weekly Sunday barbecue, some 30 years ago. He eventually opened it up to the public and started inviting big name local bands. The barbecue is definitely not for those of you who do not like crowds. If you do decide to go, go early.
I had so much fun in Antigua. I saw hotels for every budget and personality, for couples and for families. Nevermind the long flight to the destination, it is worth the stay.
Marty Taking it Easy in Antigua
Marty about to sail away in Antigua
Marty in Antigua
Cathi and Philip at El Dorado Royale
Wonderful friends toasting a wonderful trip
Philip and Cathi were honored to be a part of the Gold and Above 500 Club Trip November 7-11 at El Dorado Casitas Royale. Attending the trip were 28 of the highest producing travel agencies in the country.
One focus on this trip was the experiences available in the Riviera Maya and Cancun. In the past we have so focused on the resort experience and knowing the resorts that we have passed right on by the amazing off resort experiences that are available in the destination.
Cathi enjoyed a day at Selvatica where she zip-lined through the jungle, then boarded a jeep and went to a cenote in the jungle and swam in the cold water. They even have a cenote where you can take a Segway to the cenote to swim.
Our group ready to take off underground to explore caves
After the cenote, the group was transported to Rio Secreto where we put on wetsuits and explored underground caves. Simply amazing. There were lights on the helmets, but when the lights were turned off it was the darkest dark you can imagine.
Cathi Inside the Underground Caves
At the same time, Philip went to Xcaret to swim with the dolphins. He reports that the dolphins were “cute”. In groups of 5 or 6 they went onto the submerged platform and first they brought them out one by one and had the dolphin interact. The dolphins allowed them to pet them, then they danced, then they jumped over their heads. The grand finale was a foot push where the dolphins took each participant and pushed their feet until the swimmer was sailing above the water.
One night we all ate at John Grey’s Place in Playa del Carmen. We had a tasting menu with so many courses I lost count. No one could tell how much wine they’d consumed because you never got to the end of a glass. It was just filled up over and over again.
The El Dorado Royale was fabulous, as always. We were in a casita. We used our jacuzzi all but one day and Philip slept out on the bed on the balcony so he could hear the ocean.
Philip and I each got a “four hands massage”. There are not words to describe the wonderfulness. No.Words.
That pretty much sums up the trip. Wonderfulness!
