About Me

My photo
What does it really mean to get away from it all? To escape the everyday? We believe it means luxuriously appointed guestrooms and suites, butler service, gourmet restaurants, private beach side dinners, wine tastings, world class spas ... the list goes on and on. Our properties cater to our clients (all of whom are VIPs) and do everything possible to make your vacation a dream come true. So whether you're honeymooners, empty nesters, parents who need some time away or a social group - let us plan your next journey and take it from the ordinary to the extraordinary.

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

El Dorado Resorts: El Dorado Casitas Royale - For Couples Only

El Dorado Casitas...One of the Top 25 Hotels in Mexico for Romance!

It’s February, the month of LOVE! “Engagement Season” has ended, which means many couples are starting to plan their weddings and honeymoons. Join us for the rest of the month as we explore childfree, couples-only resorts...

**El Dorado Casitas Royale**







El Dorado Spa Resorts is a group of luxury, childfree, Gourmet Inclusive, spa resorts with exclusive services in secluded and dreamlike locations along the Riviera Maya coast. Of the four, El Dorado Casitas Royale (located just 15 minutes North of Playa del Carmen) caters exclusively to couples. An impressive selection of amenities and services make this an unmatchable destination for romantic escapades, weddings, honeymoons, and anniversaries. Stretching along a secluded beach, this resort provides indulgences from gourmet cuisine, to swim up suites, to a lavish spa and concierge service. This propety is also one of CondĂ© Nast Traveler Readers' Top 100 Hotels in the World and a AAA Four Diamond Resort - it is at the top of the list for romantic seaside luxury.

The casually elegant beachfront adults-only El Dorado Casitas Royale resort offers sophisticated couples an unforgettable vacation experience at this retreat complex. The Gourmet Inclusive® program is extensive and complete, including quality entertainment, enriching activities, and invigorating sports. Nondescript buffets are nowhere to be found, instead, culinary excellence takes center stage here, offering up everything from upscale Italian concoctions to Mexican street food. During the day, water is the main draw: Thirteen swimming pools meander through the property, with almost as many swim-up bars. For an added treat, book apalapa-roofed casita that connects a private terrace to the property’s lazy river.

Casita accommodations are designed to satisfy the body and soul. The resort complex which sits along the shore along with 450 acres of tropical Riviera Maya jungle, beckons to those adults seeking a romantic yet laid-back escape from the ordinary. Forget what it feels like to walk anywhere – from your room, step into a pool and float down gently flowing waterways to fetch a fresh papaya and pineapple smoothie from the health bar. Lounge on a white sand beach and take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico. Request a lime with your afternoon cerveza. Watch the sunset at a beachfront restaurant and order a salad with no hesitation – vegetables are grown onsite in an organic greenhouse. Secluded gazebos, rope swing bars, a world-class spa and a glorious beach combine with fine a la carte dining and a full array of day and nighttime activities for an exceptional vacation experience. 






When you're ready to book your next vacation, we're ready to get you there!

Check out our website at http://www.childfreetravel.net/
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/travelchildfree
Link to us on LinkedIn (Childfree Travel)
Follow us on Twitter @childfreetravel
Like Pinterest  under "ChildfreeTravel"
E-mail us at info@childfreetravel.net
Call us toll-free at 866-202-0404



Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Palace Resorts...For Couples Only!

It’s February, the month of LOVE! “Engagement Season” has ended, which means many couples are starting to plan their weddings and honeymoons. Join us for the rest of the month as we explore childfree, couples-only resorts...

At Palace Resorts, everything’s included: luxurious accommodations, fine dining, top-shelf drinks, unlimited select tours, sensational entertainment, 24 hour room service, non-motorized water sports, taxes and gratuities. Plus when you stay at a Palace Resorts, you have access to some of the finest golfing and spas. For romantic escapes, honeymoons, weddings and more, let Palace Resorts show you how a little self-indulgence goes a long way.

Palace features three childfree resorts, LeBlanc Spa Resort, Isla Mujeres Palace and Sun Palace. I'll do a full write-up on LeBlanc in the future, right now we're going to focus on the "couples only" resorts: Isla Mujeres Palace and Sun Palace...


**ISLA MUJERES PALACE**




Isla Mujeres is a secluded island sanctuary just over six miles northeast of Cancun, it's surrounded by crystalline waters, close to amazing coral reefs and boasts one of the whitest beaches in all of Mexico. Here is where you can experience Isla Mujeres Palace, Palace Resorts' first boutique-style all-inclusive resort for couples only. This sleek and intimate 62 room resort is in a matchless location on the southeastern shore of the beautiful bohemian island - a convenient ferry ride from the excitement of Cancun, yet worlds away. Combining sensational luxury with Mexican charm, the stylish accommodations feature king beds, double Jacuzzis, furnished balconies, 24-hour room service and most offer spectacular ocean views facing the dramatic Cancun skyline across the bay.

Guests can lounge around the free-form pool, on the tranquil beach or enjoy the nice breeze lying on a hammock strung amongst the palm trees. A variety of international favorites offered for a la carte breakfast and dinner. Don't miss the ample lunch buffet in the open-air restaurant by the sand where you can enjoy the Caribbean breeze. The activities staff will keep you entertained with pool and beach activities throughout the day, or if you prefer a more personal form of relaxation, rejuvenate yourself in one of four massage rooms.  

*Isla Mujeres Palace also features lavish yacht transportation aboard the “Casanova”. Part of the resort’s mission to offer a superior level of luxury and convenience, the new yacht will transport guests seamlessly from the pier in Cancun directly to the secluded island property, removing the added cost and inconvenience of utilizing a ferry. 


Isla Mujeres Palace


**SUN PALACE**














The totally redesigned Sun Palace is a relaxed, all-inclusive couples only high-rise resort located on the tranquil southern end of Cancun's famous hotel zone on a beautiful white sand beach. Just 15 minutes from Cancun Int'l Airport, the Sun Palace is renowned for its impeccable service, apparent from the moment you arrive and are greeted with a welcome cocktail. 

This resort features 252 guestrooms, all beautifully appointed with a double whirlpool tub, balcony, 24 hour room service and unparalleled ocean views. Within the room you will find a welcome bottle of wine, purified water, Farouk® CHI bath amenities and cozy bathrobes and slippers. Couples can enjoy the Sun spa, three infinity pools with swim up bar at main pool, an indoor pool and a stunning white sand beach with a nearby water sports marina. Four specialty restaurants satisfy the most demanding palates with a variety of international cuisines. Active guests enjoy kayaks and paddle boats, a full equipped gym and unforgettable off site excursions to interesting Mayan sites, while daily activities and nightly shows will keep them entertained throughout their stay. 








**PALACE PROMOTIONS**

Stay at One, Play at all Palace Resorts
As a Palace Resorts guest, you may take advantage of the facilities and services including restaurants, bars, activities and entertainment at the other Palace Resorts in Cancun, Cozumel and the Riviera Maya. (Transportation to other resorts is not included.)

$1500 Resort Credit
Now, when guests book a vacation, they will receive $1500 US Dollars in resort credits, which can be used towards a number of fun activities! This includes tours, spa amenities, rounds of golf, diving experiences, dining, and much more! 

Booking Dates: Book by June 30th, 2015
Travel Dates: Stay anytime before December 23rd, 2015 



When you're ready to book your next vacation, we're ready to get you there!

Check out our website at http://www.childfreetravel.net/
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/travelchildfree
Link to us on LinkedIn (Childfree Travel)
Follow us on Twitter @childfreetravel
Like Pinterest  under "ChildfreeTravel"
E-mail us at info@childfreetravel.net
Call us toll-free at 866-202-0404




Tuesday, February 10, 2015

Couples Resorts...the all-inclusive refined...re-defined!

It’s February, the month of LOVE! “Engagement Season” has ended, which means many couples are starting to plan their weddings and honeymoons. Join us for the rest of the month as we explore childfree, couples-only resorts...


Couples Resorts offer a tropical oasis where you can rediscover one another in a naturally beautiful setting that redefines everything you've ever known about an all-inclusive resort. Offering fine dining with premium brand beverages, imaginative spa treatments and complimentary off-site excursions; you'll find a wealth of ways to indulge your every desire. 




Transform your next vacation into a romantic getaway at one of the four all-inclusive Couples Resorts in Jamaica—where world-class amenities such as superb spas blend effortlessly with the islands' most idyllic beach settings and local charm. See below for more information on each resort...


**COUPLES TOWER ISLE**
















Drenched in history and awash in old-world romanticism, Couples Tower Isle is like nothing else you’ll ever encounter. Scenes of natural beauty intermingle with exquisitely appointed rooms and endless amenities to transport you to a world that is equal parts "Jamaican paradise" and glamorous "50's Hollywood hangout." 

Enjoy a refreshing dip in one of three swimming pools, or a leisurely soak in the Jacuzzis scattered about the resort. Indulge in au naturel sunbathing on the resort's very own private island, Tower Isle. Take in a game of tennis, a round of golf, or while away the afternoon on a lounge chair by the sea. Discover the delights of snorkeling among the reefs or windsurfing on the waves. Work out at the air-conditioned fitness center, where state-of the art cardio equipment will keep you active. Partake in a variety of classes, including spinning, aerobics, yoga, Pilates, and meditation.

From gourmet indoor dinners at Eight Rivers to delightful al fresco meals at the perennially chic Verandah, guests are sure to find the perfect meal to tempt their taste buds at the six unique restaurants. Sample the finest international cuisine fused with Caribbean flavors. Four bars all serve premium-brand liquors, wines, and champagne. Whether exploring the luxurious treatments at the Zen-inspired spa, sipping cosmos in the fabulous pink piano bar, or savoring an exquisite Thai meal at ocean's edge, Couples Tower Isle includes countless indulgences that will inspire you to return again and again. 

Vintage-inspired pastels fit the retro-design sensibility of the well-appointed rooms. Each is completed with plush king-size beds, and open out onto private balconies and patios furnished with wide-cushion seating and an outdoor table.

Couples Tower Isle






**COUPLES SANS SOUCI**















Tropical elegance awaits you at the luxurious Couples Sans Souci, nestled in stunning Ocho Rios. This resort emerges majestically from the cliffs of Jamaica’s emerald mountains. Here, stone pathways tumble past tropical greenery to a breathtaking experience of opal-sand beaches and the azure Caribbean Sea. A kaleidoscope of pastels, exotic birds, winding walkways and natural mineral springs complement this truly elegant resort. The resort's design pays tribute to an understated colonial elegance. Each of the 150 suites offers unparalleled privacy and pristine views of the Caribbean Sea. Take in the ocean vistas with the one you love, and enjoy an outdoor meal from the sumptuous room service menu. 

Private cabanas at cliff's edge provide the ideal setting for signature spa treatments, while the choice of resort activities knows no limits. Explore the coral reefs, play a round of golf, take a professional tennis lesson, or sail into the sunset. Enjoy four swimming pools and a gorgeous stretch of beach, including a section for au naturel sunbathing. Six bars, including a swim-up pool bar, serve unlimited premium-brand liquors and wines. A seaside, air-conditioned fitness center has state-of-the-art cardio equipment to keep you in shape while on holiday.

Four unique restaurants serve the finest international cuisine with a Caribbean twist. From elegant country club dining on the sweeping terrace of Casanova to casual meals at the Beach Grill, the dining options never fail to please. Authentic Jamaican specialties made with only the finest local ingredients and spices may be enjoyed alongside a worldly menu of international favorites. At the end of the night, saunter up to the polished wooden counter of the Balloon Bar and feel like you traveled back in time. 

Couples Sans Souci






**COUPLES NEGRIL**















Here, style surrounds and infuses everything in sight. From the laid-back fun of the swim-up bar to the intoxicating allure of an in-suite Jacuzzi, there's just something about Couples Negril that says "chic." Add to that an incredible white-sand beach on famous Bloody Bay, complimentary weddings and a world of included land and water activities and you have all the ingredients for an exotically romantic getaway. Defined by imaginative, artistic details and possessing a beautiful balance of elegant and eclectic, this property is 18 lush, tropical acres of all-inclusive luxury, personality and pleasure. All expertly carved into the captivating landscape of Negril, Jamaica. 

From scuba diving to sailing, snorkeling to pool volleyball, the water adventures know no bounds. For land-lovers, there's complimentary tennis (including lessons) and unlimited golf (transfers and green fees included; caddy mandatory at a nominal charge). The central cluster of restaurants, grills, and bars encourages you to mingle with fellow guests over cool tropical drinks, freshly prepared local red snapper, or a spirited game of pool volleyball. 

Feast on the extravagant breakfast buffets at the poolside Cassava Terrace, delight in the nuances of Asian cuisine at the refined Lychee eatery, or explore the gourmet dishes of Jamaica at the acclaimed Otaheite restaurant. Enjoy a cocktail at any of the four bars, and socialize with couples from around the world at the friendly swim-up or piano bars.

Classes include spinning, aerobics, yoga, meditation and Pilates. Work out at the fitness center, then refresh at two swimming pools and four Jacuzzis. There's even a private beach section for au naturel sunbathing. Praised as the "Best Spa in the Caribbean" by Travel + Leisure, the Oasis Spa at Couples Negril fully embraces its idyllic setting by offering its exclusive treatments in organic therapy rooms, an open-air thatched hut on the beach, or in the tucked-away intimacy of the Tree House. 

Couples Negril






**COUPLES SWEPT AWAY**















With acres of breathtaking white-sand beaches, a bounty of tropical gardens and an ambiance drenched in romance and escape, Couples Swept Away redefines your idea of paradise. In an idyllic setting that is as invigorating as it is inviting, you'll uncover the tranquility of an intimate, all-inclusive hideaway. Couples' most private, peaceful resort is set on 19 acres of Negril, Jamaica's, sparkling Seven Mile Beach. It offers everything you need to unwind; from yoga lessons to fine dining at the gourmet restaurant, Feathers. However you choose to spend your time, you'll discover unlimited opportunities to wrap yourself in its radiance and indulgent pleasures. With 312 Caribbean-style rooms and suites (all with a private balcony or verandah) the rooms embrace a quiet elegance, with cedar furnishings and pure, white linens. Plantation shutters open onto views of gardens and the azure sea.

The spa takes personal pampering to a new level of delight. Eight private treatment rooms await alongside a Buddha plunge pool, while the eucalyptus steam room and showers are mere steps away. Sporting an exceptional 10-acre fitness complex, there are endless opportunities to be active. Within the complex, you will find 10 tennis courts, squash and racquetball facilities, a fully equipped gym with cardio and weight training equipment, a private aerobics room, a 25-meter lap pool, a basketball court, and an outdoor running track. For beach and water-lovers, an excellent selection of gear such as sea kayaks, snorkeling fins, masks, sailboats, and wind surfers are readily available. Three swimming pools and five Jacuzzis are also located throughout the property.

Six unique restaurants serve the finest international cuisine with Caribbean flavors: The Palms, Feathers (fine dining), Lemongrass (Thai-fusion), Patois Patio (Mediterranean fare with wood-burning oven), Alfresco Sea Grape CafĂ© and Veggie Bar, and Cabana Grill. Enjoy the festive atmosphere while sipping a Couples Sunset or Couples Mojito signature cocktail served at any of eight bars, including a swim-up option. After dinner, listen to international musical talent covering everything from steel drums to soul, reggae rhythms to rock 'n' roll. There's a beat to match every mood. The piano bar offers a chic indoor setting for cocktails and live entertainment five nights of the week, and transforms itself into a lively nightclub for the other two. Kick up your heels after dark as you embrace the spirit of this beautiful place. 

Couples Swept Away







When you're ready to book your next vacation, we're ready to get you there!

Check out our website at http://www.childfreetravel.net/
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/travelchildfree
Link to us on LinkedIn (Childfree Travel)
Follow us on Twitter @childfreetravel
Like Pinterest  under "ChildfreeTravel"
E-mail us at info@childfreetravel.net
Call us toll-free at 866-202-0404




*Videos and Photos Courtesy of "Couples Resorts".

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Childfree Honeymoons: Part 2 (The Honeymoon Registry)

It’s February, the month of LOVE! “Engagement Season” has ended, which means many couples are starting to plan their weddings and honeymoons. This is our 2nd half of our mini-series on Honeymoon Travel - don't forget to read Part 1 if you missed it!

When people get married they usually register at Macy's, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Crate & Barrel, Target, Pottery Barn, etc. However, couples should not forget to also create a "Honeymoon Registry". Honeymoon registries allow a couple to create and customize a registry web page with photos and details of their upcoming honeymoon. Wedding guests are invited to visit the registry site so they may contribute a monetary gift to cover a portion of the honeymoon or a specific activity as detailed by the couple. 

For example, a couple may list dinner at an elegant restaurant, scuba diving lessons, or upgrades for hotel and airfare. These activities are displayed in an organized and user-friendly inventory format on their customized registry page. As wedding guests browse the registry page, they can make a gift, typically using a credit card, of any of the listed activities or give a general monetary gift of any amount towards the honeymoon. This is a perfect option for those who have already been living together and don't need towels, china or a waffle iron.




The Honeymoon Registry is a concept that is still catching on, even though on average, a couple who uses one will usually receive up to $2500.00 in gifts! I have had few clients who have been interested in taking advantage of this resource but were afraid that their guests would find them to be tacky. Actually, in a May 2008 Wall Street Journal review of popular honeymoon registry services, Peter Post, president of the Emily Post Institute states, "A honeymoon is a perfectly appropriate gift to request...there's no objection to it from an etiquette point of view." In reality, guests LOVE honeymoon registries as it's the easiest way to purchase a gift for the couple. In fact, most registries see the majority of activity in the last 48 hours prior to the wedding!

"Childfree Travel" offers a the option of a honeymoon registry for our clients and strongly believes that if done correctly, it can be a great tool for newlyweds and their guests. We partner with Honeyfund as our registry provider (our owner used them for her own honeymoon and hence recommends them from personal experience). Below we offer tips on how to do a Honeymoon Registry the right way...

1. Pay For Your Trip in Full:
Guests don't want to think they are being swindled to pay for your vacation. We suggest you pay for your basic trip, flights and hotel, in full. Then you can let guests know that they are not contributing to the "nuts and bolts" of your honeymoon but true experiences and activities that will give you memories to last a lifetime (such as a "couples massage", "private dinner on the beach", "exclusive wine tasting", etc.).

2. Stick with a Low Price Point:
I suggest couples have each activity priced in increments of $10, $15, $25, $40 and $50. This way a guest knows that a simple $10.00 contribution towards a gift will be appreciated, but another guest may still combine items and spend much more. Most guests want to make that choice for themselves and are put off by high ticket registry items (also true with a traditional registry). This is compounded if they already have to travel or otherwise spend for your wedding. Again, guests don't want to feel like they are being taken advantage of and you want them to know that you care more about them as a family member or friend, than as a pocketbook.

3. Do Not Promote Your Registry with Your Invitation:
Proper etiquette dictates that you should never invite someone and mention how they can get you a gift at the same time. "Childfree Travel" believes that the right place to alert guests of any registry is on a wedding website (sites such as www.weddingwire.com provide one free for couples). If you have guests who are not computer savvy, rely on the Matron Of Honor and/or Best Man to spread the word. We find that people who want to get you a gift, will figure out how to do so.

4. Create a Secondary Traditional Gift Registry:
There are still traditionalists who would rather buy tangible gifts from well known department stores. Don't leave them out in the cold by not giving them that option. It never hurts to create another traditional registry with a few gift options. This way you make everyone happy and put yourself in a position to receive a variety of presents.

5. Include a Wide Selection of Gift Options:
Don't have an entire registry that lists one thing, instead, mix it up with a many options! Your guests should be able to choose what they want to get you instead of being pigeon-holed by too few options. Remember even all-inclusive resorts have items that still cost extra, such as spa treatments or tours. Plus there are still things you can ask for related to the trip, such as private transfers, passes to the airport lounge, air or accommodation upgrades (this is an acceptable request since your basic room is already paid for), and even new luggage.

"Childfree Travel" works with couples who have honeymoon registries seamlessly. We book a honeymoon with the couple based on their current or projected budget and then add upgrades, tours, amenities, etc. as the money from the registry comes in. This way our newlywed clients are able to experience the a vacation of a lifetime!

**If you book your honeymoon with our agency, we'll create a registry for you for FREE!**



When you're ready to book your next vacation, we're ready to get you there!



Check out our website at http://www.childfreetravel.net/
Link to us on LinkedIn (Childfree Travel)
Follow us on Twitter @childfreetravel
Like Pinterest  under "ChildfreeTravel"
E-mail us at info@childfreetravel.net

Call us toll-free at 866-202-0404


Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Childfree Honeymoons: Part 1 (Enhancements, Planning & Recommended Resorts)

It’s February, the month of LOVE! “Engagement Season” has ended, which means many couples are starting to plan their weddings and honeymoons. So this week we’ll be posting two blogs, one today and one on Thursday (Part 2) as we discuss honeymoon travel...


Childfree resorts are the perfect place to celebrate your honeymoon. They create the perfect ambiance for adults looking to enjoy each other in a peaceful and romantic environment. At a standard resort you run the risk of rowdy teenagers, kids wearing water-wings and babies crying at dinner. Childfree resorts have swim-up pool bars, quiet areas, world-class amenities and romantic touches. The total ambiance is really hard to describe, until you have experienced it for yourself. We find them to be the perfect fit for our all-inclusive honeymoon, destination wedding and anniversary clients. Our agency also features “Couples Only” resorts, these give you all the benefits of a childfree resort plus the added benefit of no singles. (Stay tuned to our Tuesday blogs, for the rest of this month we’ll be delving deeper into the seven “couples only” properties mentioned below).

Honeymoon Enhancements – did you know that almost all resorts offer newlyweds special gifts to make their honeymoon even more special? Most are complimentary (although paid for upgrades are available) and include extras such as sparkling wine, a fruit basket and an upgraded room. Some properties even offer massages and private candlelight dinners. See our Honeymoons page for more information on the types of enhancements available at the properties we feature.

Planning your honeymoon with us is easy! Check out our Destinations page on our website and peruse the resorts we offer (or see below for our favorite honeymoon recommendations) and then send us a Quote Request. We’ll send you more information on the resort of your choice – or if you’re stumped – help match you to the perfect property.



Childfree Travel’s Recommended Honeymoon Resorts:

Resorts Specifically for Couples
  • Couples Negril, Jamaica
  • Couples Sans Souci, Jamaica
  • Couples Swept Away, Jamaica
  • Couples Tower Isles, Jamaica
  • El Dorado Casitas Royale, Mexico
  • Isla Mujeres, Mexico
  • Sun Palace, Mexico

Boutique Style Resorts
  • Chic Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
  • El Dorado Maroma, Mexico
  • El Dorado Seaside Suites, Mexico
  • The Hideaway at Royalton, Mexico
  • Le Blanc Spa, Mexico

CFT Preferred Resorts
  • El Dorado Royale, Mexico
  • Excellence Playa Mujeres, Mexico
  • Excellence Riviera Cancun, Mexico
  • Hyatt Zilara Cancun, Mexico
  • Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall, Jamaica
  • Iberostar Grand Bavara, Dominican Republic
  • Iberostar Grand Paraiso, Mexico
  • Iberostar Grand Rose Hall, Jamaica
  • Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla, Mexico

Private Island Resort

  • Luxury Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado, Dominican Republic

Please note: 

We are a Honeymoon & Destination Wedding Specialist certified by The Travel Institute.

When you're ready to book your next vacation, we're ready to get you there!

Check out our website at http://www.childfreetravel.net/
Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/travelchildfree
Link to us on LinkedIn (Childfree Travel)
Follow us on Twitter @childfreetravel
Like Pinterest  under "ChildfreeTravel"
E-mail us at info@childfreetravel.net
Call us toll-free at 866-202-0404