Merry Christmas

Merry  Christmas everyone! I hope everyone has an amazing day with friends, family or whoever it may be!

This year I decided to go out and buy a real tree! Which made me realise I should do every year! We bought a tree about 3 years ago that we put up every year.. but its just not the same as the real smell and the real thing. It makes it all come together! I put my tree up on the 13th which in some peoples eyes is too early and too late! You cant win?!

I haven't felt the most festive this year .. I guess as you get older the excitement of Christmas fades away! In some strange sort of sense. I didn't really have a chance to sit down and enjoy the whole Christmas period this year. Maybe next year.. somewhere on a beach.

What I am looking forward to and excited about is 2017 the new year. I feel like everyone has recently been saying how challenging 2016 was for them and how it opened there eyes to a lot of things. I kind of feel the same way. Almost as if this year was a run through for 2017. I was tested on a lot and realized a lot about myself and people around me as well as figuring out what I want for the future a lot more that I thought.

As we all do I have a lot of hopes, goals and dreams for the new year. Things I want to see, achieve and step more and more out my comfort zone.  For example I hope I stop drinking a hot chocolate nearly every single day! Although if there is any excuse to pig out for a good week I will take Christmas.



Merry Christmas!!

xo

Hotel Riu Palace Mexcio Review

The RIU Palace Mexico is set on Playacar’s to die for white-sand beach, and just a 5-10 min drive from Playa del Carmen. There are plenty of pools and different themed restaurants to try one of the reasons why people love RIU so much. When it comes to sleeping space, junior suites are the standard here.. so what's not to love aren't you booked already?  If you follow me on social media you would have known I went for 2 weeks in October ... also been before so I've had a lot of chance to note things down and make this a real review of both the hotel itself and RIU as a brand.

I arrived late afternoon after about a 1 hour 20 mins transfer from Cancun Airport which is really not that long. I felt jet lagged worse than ever I don't know the reason why still.. I felt like it for the following 3 days. Being welcomed is always a important first impression we received a welcome from the reception staff  but more off the doormen who knew who we was from a previous visit. We sipped our welcome drinks plus the extra drink we had been offered and I immediately felt at ease and that this vacation was well needed. My jet lag was really bad going to Mexico and returning to the UK for 3-5 days! It sucked as I felt I was totally out of my own body with it almost like I wasn't their but was. Luckily this is the perfect place and area to sit back and relax while watching the world go by.


Sneaky photo off the doorman! Who knew it was being took! Haha.

What are the rooms like at Hotel RIU Palace Mexico?

As I mentioned before the standard room is a 'junior suite' which is amazing and luxurious. If your wanting a bigger room then go for the 'suite' I believe the difference is a bigger room, bigger bed , a separate lounge area and also bigger television. If your thinking of spending quite a lot of time in your room then opt for the Whirlpool bath suites which has a Jacuzzi on the upper terrace.

I stayed in a room which is a suite which I ask for every time. I like where the room is and the view of the greens, sea and pool area.  The bathrooms are all open planned  which I have read a few people complain about as there is no privacy... you can ask for a sheet to be placed so its not as open.. but it was no problem for me and didn't want to spoil the look of the amazing room. Your room is regularly restocked for the minibar and liquor dispense.  The room is modern and up to date with everything. I really love the rooms in the palace hotels they are one of my favourites out of a lot of hotels.

I cant fault the rooms for anything the only thing I would say is being in a hot climate like Mexico you can expect a damp smell time to time .. this isn't just at this hotel or even just in Mexico.. expect it when travelling to a hot climate. Also we had a problem with a few ants about the room in one certain place, when I say a few I mean literally not a lot .. Luckily it was far for the sleeping area and only came about in the last few days but we did go to reception two times about the issue and explained. They asked for the room number and said they would make sure they get it sorted.. I'm not sure they did anything.. as we still had ants and we couldn't really smell anything like something had been sprayed  we did ask for the spray so we could do it ourselves but they refused and said house keeping would attend to it! So maybe they did.. who knows.

Staff at Hotel RIU Palace Mexico

 The staff  were so accommodating and made you feel at home so easily. Every single person we passed from the waiters to the garden staff greeted us with a big smile and a hello how are you? This scores big points for me. The hotel was quite busy at this month more busy than the last time I was their so its easy to feel like your inconveniencing staff when a hotel is busy with a lot of guests.  Every staff member at this hotel work to the highest standard I ever have saw. I think every single guest will notice how hard they do work to make sure everything is perfect for you the guest.

The animation team who work more hard then I have ever saw. They also make the whole experience for everyone Id say. They work from the morning to late at night ensuring you are entertained and having fun at all times. I take my hat off to them working long hours in the heat and never looking dull. What I would say which also when chatting to other people in the hotel they also found this is that the animation team seem to head for the big groups that are staying in the hotel. Maybe the ones they could have a laugh with and get them all going. So if your alone or in a two they did not seem to take any notice really.. this isn't a big issue and not something that would stop me from returning. Example I got approached and my 3 last days at the hotel by them and this was only because of a certain reason. I have to mention Cindy who is part of the animation team who has been there since my first visit! I was super excited to see she was still part of the hotel.. it was sad as I just got there and within 4 days she was going on vacation herself! All in all the animation team are great and keep your holiday fun and entertained.


The bar and restaurant staff were ever so polite and professional. I also should mention the spirits their are the real imported deal and lets not talk about how much they put in .. ;) They serve all the classic cocktails you would expect. They are also willing to make a drink they don't have on the menu if you know what goes in and then your getting it. The pool staff who bring you drinks all day long also stood out a mile for me.. once they know you and know what you drink you can be assured you will be topped up within 15 minutes or if your drink is empty. Sitting on the beach they come down with a selection of drinks often something for everyone's taste you cant go wrong.

It would be really good if I could drop some names but I couldn't possible remember most of the staff names as literally they all are in my good books. Edward from the restaurant was kind, friendly and the most loveliest person ever. Even the chefs took a second to make conversation and each night asked how was this makes all guest surely feel so welcomed.

Entertainment

The hotel has 2 weeks of different entertainment going on and then starts again. This way all guest can be assured they see a good show. The shows had been the same as last year when I visited and just as good.  The entertainment team have a few nights where they do the show and then there is nights when people come from outside to perform such as the Michael Jackson show which is a big hit for everyone and is really amazing.

Facilities

Two main pools, two infinity pools and a swim up bar. The sunbeds were never a issue you are almost guaranteed a sunbed at whatever time you roll up. People putting towels on and leaving did happen but it happens everywhere almost .. but there was spare beds all around.
With 6 restaurants you wont be hungry. "Don Julian" restaurant with terrace to sit outside which is the main buffet which has a selection of every food almost. "La Dolce Vita if your into Italian food "Krystal" Fusion "La Bodega" Mexican  "Miyagi" Japanese  and the "Guacamole" beach steakhouse.

I tried all the restaurants the first time round so this time we went too the main one every night and went to the beach steakhouse for a change one night which was really lovely. I love the Italian restaurant as we all know I love me some Italian food.. really its getting out of control.

Grounds and Gardens

The gardens couldn't be more pleasing to the eye if they tried. The walks to and from the pool area, beach, food isn't so far so you don't have to expect tiring hot walks between because the resort is well designed to be compact without being crowded. I know some resorts are to big to walk around and it does ruin it in a way. The gardens are kept stunning and almost everyday they are being worked on. Can I steal the gardeners for my own garden please ?? Hotels on the beach of Playa Car all have a section of the beach so it ensures only hotels guests can use sunbeds at this area.

 I would say don't leave your personal belongings on the beach if your going for a swim .. such as electric devices. This is a norm wherever you travel too I guess you could say. I mention this because for one you can never be to sure and for two men come around and try sell stuff. I heard this isn't allowed but there was no one really around to tell them no and to get off the beach area? This isn't the hotels fault of course but still worth a mention.  It can get quite annoying when trying to relax and people are literally stood over you repeating the same line as they did 10 minutes ago. Again not a big issue and has definitely been worse elsewhere I've visited.

Things to know when in the Hotel

Wi-Fi is free all around the hotel and always worked perfect for me.

You can visit other RIU'S in the area for a change if you feel like your  repeating each night although as this hotel is a 'palace' no one can come in I am to believe? I did visit all the other RIU'S and had a drink but came back as the palace is one of the best I had to admit. The palace hotel is a more quite relaxed vibe while others have a lot of guests in and a lot of party makers.

24HR all inclusive there is a room that is open all night for you to get midnight snack at all times.
If its your first time to Mexico in Playa Car and your not so sure about where to stay .. I have recommended this to a few people I know who has asked me who are going to try the hotel! yay.

Here are some links that may interest you:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBaO2JTZMR8
http://www.riu.com/en/Paises/mexico/playa-del-carmen/hotel-riu-palace-mexico/

Will I go back?

Yes if I'm looking for a vacation that I know will all be good and safe with nothing to worry about in the area then you can count on it.  I do however want to try new places in the area but for my own personal reasons and its interesting to see what other places are like.  But stick with the company RIU for new places I will visit as I feel RIU wont fail me.

I hope this review helps anyone booking their own holiday at Hotel RIU Palace Mexico I promise you won’t be disappointed with this Hotel or the area which I have previously spoke about here. RIU should be proud of this Hotel as its one of my all time favourites with amazing staff.

I look forward to my next trip with RIU in a new destination and also look forward to returning to this hotel in the future.

Happy Holidays


xo
 

December

I cant believe its almost 2017 never mind Christmas .. How fast 2016 has gone is crazy! I swear we was just in August! I remember thinking when I was entering High school that I would be stuck here for years and that it would go so slow. Before I knew it I was all grown up! That's also how I feel about this year.. its gone in a flash.. I am looking forward to a fresh new year .. Im not planning to make any new years resolutions as anything I want to change should be for the long term.. besides I feel when you don't tell everyone your resolutions they work out better!

Good night,
xo

Daily shampoo and conditioner by dermalogica

I've talked about Dermalogica skincare for the longest time. It's a brand I can truly count on to rescue my skin needs all year round. Little did I know they have a shampoo and conditioner range! I mean if I trust them with my skin ... I gotta trust them with my hair care ...


I've had them sitting in my hair products to try draw for a good 2 weeks! I skipped the others as I was  too excited to try Dermalogica ...

 

The bottles have the classic design that dermalogica have been using forever. It's super clean looking that says high end as soon as you look. The shampoo retails at £19.80 while the conditioning rinse is priced at £20.70. So a lot of people have probably looked and thought what .. Really that much when you could easily get shampoo/conditioner at £5-10 or even less. 

Like all of Dermalogica products you get what you pay for and I can't stress this enough! It's like flying you book a economy seat for a good price your happy with it . Then you book first class and your even happier and it's so worth the money! 

No harsh chemicals are used in the products which means they won't strip your hair of natural oils ... I guess why I love them so much is I wash my hair everyday .. Yes we all have different opinions on how many times a week you should do that but personally I have always done this..  Hence the name "daily cleansing shampoo" I would say my hair is in pretty good hands for a everyday wash especially now.  The scents and products they have is amazing coconut, argan, avocado oils  to help make the hair stronger and purify the scalp. While the grapefruit and lavender leave your hair smelling like a tropical paradise .

Don't forget good hair days can make you feel like you can rule the world!!

xo

Why Mexico is my go to destination

Followed me for quite a while over on my social media? You will know Mexico is my go to place I always return to. Its kind of like my safe option I know what Im getting and I know its good. I am going to hit up some new places in the new year but also once again go to Mexico.. I have so many reasons why I go! Here are my top 4 If your looking to visit for the 1st time or endless times to the area of Playa del Carmen.

Short and sweet lets go!

• Playa Del Carmen is a lot more relaxed than Cancun. I mean it obviously depends on the type of person and vacation you want. Depending on what trip I plan usually I want a relaxed vacation. Cancun has been named as "americanized" so its suited up for the Americans really.  Looking for a spring break trip then head to Cancun! But if not stay clear especially as American calendar holidays.  Playa del Carmen is laid back. More of a chill out by the beach place.. Don't get me wrong there is so much to do in Playa del Carmen if your looking to do it.. and just walks away! Its a no brainer for me every time.

 

 

• Its safe. This is a big plus for me it is so safe. I have been to places before where I haven't felt so safe even if its branded as safe. I have been in some crazy situations when heading to explore a country's town. From my very first trip to Playa I knew it was for me. I stayed in 'Playa Car' this has security check points on the arrival of the homes an hotels in the area.  Also 5th Ave is so safe! I have touched on this in my 5 things to do in playa del Carmen post but I visited at night and day and equally both as safe. Nothing to worry about! Also I had to walk on the back streets a few times ok so a few people did turn eyes and must of thought "does this blonde girl know where she is" haha! No one bothered me and went about the normal day! :)



Taxi rides ..

 

• The Mexican people are lovely. I mean how rare is it for about 99% of people you see on the street or in stores to smile at you ... unfortunately its really rare :-( For some reason Mexican are super kind! I mean the staff where I stayed are second best to none. (Currently writing a big review about the hotel) From walking the 5th Ave streets to being in taxis... they are nice kind people.

 

 

• Its only going to get better. They are constantly on the go building new things and improving old things. This is a good sign. Tourists are going to be going here for a long long time to come. Its already a upcoming place for people to go.. I don't blame anyone. I love this place its like a second home as soon as I land.

Oh and Tequila is Mexican water ;) Be sure not to drink the Water.. only bottled or what your resort provides you with. I got told the water was ok to drink where I was or brush my teeth with but I haven't ever chanced it and not going to start!

adios amigos... xo

 

5 things to do In Playa Del Carmen or surrounding areas

As travelling to Playa Del Carmen Mexico more than once I think I have a good outlook on what do and what there is to see! This post is about 5 things you can do in the area which includes trips! Happy reading!!


I think when you go to a place like Playa Del Carmen the first thing you think of is going on the amazing trips that they have thousands of tourists going on each day. Yes this is true and the trips are really amazing but a simple walk down into 5th avenue will have you sorted for the whole day if not even returning!

 

 

 

5th avenue is one of the most famous Playa del Carmen attractions. It is lined with shops, bars, restaurants, cafe's, gelato shops (which I took good advantage of) From local little shops to designer. You can literally pick anything up from the mall here. Oh and of course a Starbucks stop each time didn't hurt!

Mermaid statue on the beach front! Helpful if you remember where it is so you don't get lost!

 One thing that a lot of family/friends have asked me about this place? Is it safe? To walk here at night! Yes! 5th avenue is full of tourists day/night and not to mention Mexicans are really friendly. I walked up in at night twice and felt just fine. Nothing to worry about but how much cash I spent ha!

Name brand shops range from Mac, Sephora , Zara , Forever 21 , Bershka , Body Shop and even bath and body works. You cant go wrong! Local Mexican shops are also along the long strand of 5th ave. The only thing that puts me off is the men calling to come into the shop.. and getting right up in your face! TIP: Wear a band around your arm to hide the hotels name you are staying at! Because believe me I heard "Im your waiter from the Riu Palace Mexico" far tooo many times! I know they are just trying to make some sales I get it! But I went in the shops that no one called me too.. as did a lot of other people. They would have more look if they just smiled and probably a lot more sales. Its not the worst place I've been to have people trying to hassle me into the shop. So it should defiantly not put anyone off.

 

 

3D Museum of Wonders  is something that we discovered by luck. It isn't promoted a lot and I think that is so wrong! Its great. The story behind the guy who created it all is really inspiring. Kind of pricey to get it.. about £45-£55 per person if I remember correctly; but you have a member of staff who takes all photos for you and shows you how to pose so the photos look amazing!

 

 

Don't mine my funky socks. No shoes allowed!

 

 

 

 

It takes a good hour and half on a weekday to get round the whole place. Apparently on weekends its packed full! So I'm glad I went during a week day. It really amazing and pleasing to the eye! I couldn't believe just one guy did all this. So talented.  His name is Kurt Wenner.

 

 

Now lets talk about trips I went to Xcaret eco-archaeological Park located in  Riviera Maya while I wasn't too impressed I wouldn't rule it out of your trip! It is a full day trip! Its a large place and whole lot of walking in the heat.  You do have to travel away from Playa Del Carmen but its not so long.

 

 

 

 

 

From the trails of Xcaret to discover how the Mayan jungle and culture of Mexico come together there is more than 20 exciting attractions. It does have something for everyone at Xcaret if you are a nature lover you have to visit the Jaguar Island its a nice viewing. The Butterfly Pavillion where butterfly's just land on you was also a big hit for me! All pretty colourful butterfly around you.


Of course the  Caribbean Sea is everywhere you look. Choose from a snorkelling tour or swim in underground rivers which is what I did.  The water was freezing! As soon as I popped my foot in I was thinking oh no! You swim underground for about 30mins! So be aware you have to be a confident swimmer as there is nowhere to get out when swimming around the caves.  A life jacket is provided with flippers to keep you going! It was icy cold but I would totally do it again as its a beautiful site.

Swimming with dolphins is also a option.  But I 100% disagree with this and would never support that. So moving on.  As the evening draws to a close there is a show called "Xcaret Mexico Espectacular", a celebration party of light and colour with 300 artists that will take you through the history of Mexico.. its a big show and the actors are great.

 

So after a good 40 mins of swimming you come out with a view of the ocean with lots of hammocks and white sand. Hence the looks of I've been dragged through the water but still trying to look put together! Ha ha.

 

 

 

 

If your not too adventures in going out then right on the beach front of most hotels In Playa they have water sport activities such as jet skin, para sailing and kayaking. I did the para sailing and really enjoyed it. Looks totally unsafe before you get up but I have done It again since and still love it. Something about floating across the ocean like a bird! Well minus the straps and big parasail wing above me!

 

Its a really good price I can really remember but it was reasonable and not too much and you spend a good amount of time in the air. Pretending to be a bird. Duh.

 

 

 

 

 

The last one is going to be in a different blog post as I have a lot to write about it. But its a must visit Tulum! The Mayan ruins. I was so amazed it deserves a whole blog post dedicated to it!

I love staying in Playa Del Carmen its much more a relaxed vibe than Cancun and more a slow pace of life. I think I will be back once again!


xo