The Peninsula New York Hotel Review

The Peninsula New York is ranked by U.S. News as one of the Best Hotels in the USA for 2018, conveniently set in midtown location on 5^th Avenue in the heart of Manhattan. You have 'high-end' shopping a few blocks away. Central park, MoMA (Museum of Modern Art), Broadway and Times square basically at your finger tips. Where else to discover this crazy city than here?

My 2017 travel goals

I love reading about where people want to visit and why .. I feel like its so refreshing to set personal goals as well as travel goals. So here is a just a few of the places I want to visit in 2017 and why.

Sri Lanka if you wasn't aware this is an island nation south of India in the Indian Ocean.  2016 seems to be the year so many visited Sri Lanka and I was amazed at the photos I got to see! It gives me feels of a exotic place but with some amazing things to see. The one thing that draws me in is seeing the elephants in the natural habitat. What could be magical than that feeling? It looks like a big green paradise!

New York City!
I feel like everyone and their dog has experienced New York but me! Surprisingly I haven't ever took a trip over. Its one of those places so many people seem to re-visit over the years.. so it must have something super special to offer.
Food, Views , Shopping and much more.
I'm pretty certain I am going in a few months. Its a big bucket list one if you must say.
City that never sleeps.

Paris is somewhere I would love to revisit, if you have been following my blog for the past 2 years I wrote about going to Paris back in 2012 and not really enjoying it as much as others seem to. I think if I hop on the plane without too much thought of planning going into it I would hopefully enjoy it more.

 Venice  the capital of northern Italy’s Veneto region is a place everyone should visit in their lifetime as my mum says. No roads just canals makes it all that bit more special. Just looking at the photos makes it look like a slice of heaven.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Mexico has lots of different islands to visit and I will always go back to Mexico. I want to visit Isla Holbox and Isla Mujeres soon. I am in awe of the photos. Even more in awe if you have had a chance to visit.

 

Liuwa, Zambia Africa’s most remote national parks. I have wanted to visit Africa for the longest time I can remember.. for some reason It has never happened! I am not so sure what is stopping me from doing it? I would love to see the animals in the wild where they belong.

So like everyone else I have the desire to travel everywhere. Literally. These are just a few I would like to conquer this year.

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
 

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

 

Thomson Airways Preumium Club: Is it worth the extra money?

Thomson is the world's largest charter airline, offering scheduled, charter flights from the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland to destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia and North America. I have mostly always flew with them as its just a easy choice and I know I can trust them as nothing has ever gone wrong.

If you've been keeping up with my social media you will know I have just been to Mexico for 2 weeks! It was amazing I love it their. A long review of my Hotel and lots more will be up in the next week. So back to the main question that I know a lot of people ask before booking; Is premium club worth it? What exactly do you get?

The first Premium Club experience that you will get before even stepping onto the plane (long haul only I'm pretty sure) A bigger luggage and hand luggage for starters! You are fast tracked through security - completely separate queue from the other which took about 5 minutes for me! While the other line was lonnnnng! I defiantly had that feeling of " Thankgod for that" Lounges at the airport - I flew from (MAN) Manchester Airport they have the Terminal 2 – Swissport Lounge while it isn't as fancy as Gatwick it still is more quiet to sit round in waiting for your flight than in the actual building.

 

Priority boarding! I found this sort of a hit and miss. Lets face it we all know 50% of people who enter the airport will stand forming a queue thinking they are getting on 1st even if there seat is at the back!  Manchester airport had this under control they called out Premium club seat numbers to come first as that's what you pay for. As the gate number was called everyone got up and was forming a line! I was confused no way was all these people sat in Premium club.  Luckily staff made sure we got on first! As for the experience at Cancun airport ... that's another story.

 The main ones for me; The bigger seats and a lot more room to relax and might actual get a snooze! Bigger recline and pillows and duvets are supplied. (Once again only for long haul flights) A little pack of things you may need through out the flight ( I will leave this out for a nice surprise if you take a trip!)

The tv series and movies are the same as the economy class which I was abit annoyed at! I had watched them all already. Food and the service was really quite good. A fresh orange or sparkling wine is offered as soon as you sit down while others are still boarding which is a nice little extra. Your food will be served first with silver utensils with any drink of your choice of course complimentary throughout the flight! Food is specially prepared and no less than 4 courses! With a snack before landing.  It was much quieter and I felt more at ease as it was a stress-free journey.

 

 

If your in premium club your luggage should have a premium club tag on so your cases are put on first and come of first! Unfortunately  the girl at Manchester airport forgot to do that to the 2 cases I took! So arriving at Cancun airport I had to wait unlike the other premium club members! Abit disappointing! In fact the check in lady wasn't going to put the 'hand baggage tags' on till I mentioned it! 

All in all your paying either between £300-410 to have premium seats return on top of the price your paying for the flight in general. I cant remember how much I exactly paid I think it was around the £305 mark return. You cant go wrong if your looking for extra room to relax and a little special treatment!

I would recommend booking premium for long haul flights for sure it is worth the extra money.


Happy flying!!
xo
 

                Loved this magical bathroom design in Morocco-Riu Palace Hotel in Agadir!

How to survive a Long-Haul flight

Long haul flights, you've even been their or not. I class long haul flights as anything more than 4+hours. I've done a good share of short and long haul flights and can say I find them both easy.

I have a friend who travelled for 3 hours and hated it! Couldn't wait to get off. I also have a friend who hates the thought of being on a plane for 5+hours!  You can either love long flights or hate! I've travelled since a really young age and it has never bothered me in the slightest.

After speaking to my friend and trying to convince her that its really not that bad on a flight for 10+hours I got inspired to write down the tips I told her to make it just that bit easier and more relaxing for someone who runs at the idea!

First things first! Don't set yourself up the disaster! What I mean by this is don't go into it thinking "Uh this flight is going to be hell" "I can not wait for this to be over"

If you have done long haul before and you know that you do find it difficult being sat in the same spot for a number of hours, why not consider upgrading? Of course this a extra price but will be so worth it. First class has a lot more comfort and room for you to feel more at ease than in economy unless travelling my a A380 (airbus) which all seats are pretty spacious!

Take a nap! Really, its easier than it sounds when your in the sky! With literally nowhere to go or no view change for hours, sleeping is your best friend! Before you know it 5 hours will go by! Just when I think I wont sleep on a flight I end up having a good nights sleep!

Load up on your devices... your phone, laptop , things to keep you entertained and busy. Normally long haul flights will have a selection of the newest movies to watch! Some airlines provide you with earplugs that are new and you can keep, but its always nice to have your own!

Make a check list of what you plan to do on this vacation or work trip. Write notes or plan ahead.

Hydration is just as important up their as it is when your feet are on the ground, if not even more important. Cabin pressure is dry and will air zap moisture from your skin. stock up on your bottled water and always bring hand creams.

Take a walk up and down the plane to stretch your legs, this will reduce a risk of DVT Deep Vein Thrombosis. While some people are probably at a 0% chance of this its always good to stay safe.

Happy flying!
xo