Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Sandals Negril in Jamaica – the Perfect Spot for Lovers

If you are looking for the perfect romantic get-away in a beautiful tropical setting, look no farther! Sandals Negril Beach and Spa is a serene and secluded resort located on the north-western side of Jamaica on Negril’s famous Seven-Mile Beach. This resort is set among lush palm groves, powdery white sand beach, and the calm aquamarine Caribbean Sea. With an average year-round temperature of 28 degrees Celsius, or 82 degrees Fahrenheit, it is always a beautiful day on Jamaica. This popular destination is for couples only and is a very popular honeymoon spot that attracts a basically young and unsophisticated audience. Sandals Negril has won numerous awards including Best Honeymoon in Negril and Jamaica.

Located approximately 1½ hours from Sangster’s International Airport in Montego Bay, this all-inclusive resort is “a little bit exotic, and a whole lot of chic”. Perched along the best stretch of Negril’s Seven-Mile Beach, Sandals Negril is an oasis in the midst of an unspoiled Jamaica. Enjoy the relaxed attitude and barefoot elegance of this luxurious resort as you listen to the rhythms of Bob Marley playing all around you. Sandals is the one resort that can make your romantic dreams come true.

The resort offers a wide variety of hotel amenities. There are three impressive pools and three whirlpools, all with gorgeous oceanfront views. The exclusive Red Lane®Spa is a sanctuary for mind, body, and soul that reinterprets classic European spa rituals with a distinctive Caribbean flair. The six distinctive restaurants on site serve Beringer wines and savoury cuisine from Italy, Asia, and of course, the Caribbean. There is also Butler service and 24-hour room service in select categories.

Every day and night is a party at Sandals Negril, with five bars and nightly entertainment with live shows, theme nights, Honeymooner’s Party, Returning Guest Party , talent shows, art auctions, and more. Want to go windsurfing, kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving, or sailing? How about a game of tennis, racquetball, badminton, volleyball, bocce ball, billiards or work out at the fitness center? It’s all included and more!

Sandals Negril Resort offers 223 luxurious, spacious rooms and suites which are casual and well furnished with a tropical motif and come in a variety of styles. Imaging swimming up to your room, experiencing the height of tropical luxury in a two-story suite in a palm grove or retreating to a cliff-top sanctuary! All rooms include air conditioning, king size beds, and a private bath and shower. Views from the room range from the garden, pool, to oceanfront. All rooms have been renovated and contain four poster mahogany beds and furniture and tiled floors.

Best of all, a vacation at Sandals is all-inclusive. This means the airfare, the ground transportation to and from the hotel to the resort, the beautiful room you stay in, snacks, meals and fine dining, drinks including alcohol, most sports whether on land or at sea, tips, and taxes are included in one price. Sounds perfect? People who have stayed there say it is! For more information about Sandals Resorts, email travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or call toll free 1-866-653-4055.

Photos courtesy of Sandals Resorts

Discover a Hawaiian Paradise

Experience the Hawaiian Islands as few have on a Royal Caribbean Cruise vacation. Depart from Vancouver, British Columbia on September 17, 2010, and experience four carefree days at sea.. dancing, dining, enjoying a heavenly massage, and being pampered.

Visit the “four major islands” – the Big Island, Maui, Kauai, and Oahu on a 12 - night Hawaii Cruise. Treat yourself to Hawaii’s welcoming climate, spectacular scenery, and miles of sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Enjoy this tropical paradise of cascading waterfalls, magical mountains, and witness Kilauea Volcano’s fiery drama on an evening cruise!

The islands are calling. Answer aloha’ae, yes, as you sail from Vancouver to Honolulu one way on the beautiful Rhapsody of the Seas. Come share the Aloha spirit of this unique, fun, and culturally diverse vacation destination. Air transportation from Honolulu is not included.

Sailing Itinerary (subject to change)

Day 1 Depart Vancouver

Day 2- 6 At sea

Day 7 Hilo, Hawaii

Day 8 Kailua Kona, Hawaii

Day 9 Lahaina, Maui

Day 10 Lahaina, Maui

Day 11 Nawiliwili, Kauai

Day 12 Arrive in Honolulu, Oahu

Rates (based on per person, double occupancy)

Interior cabin from $1369 Outside cabin from $1589
Balcony cabin from $2729

Prices are in Canadian dollars.
Government taxes and fees are additional.

Don't be disappointed, be sure to book this cruise early as the same itinerary has sold out quickly in past years. For more information call toll free 1-866-653-4055 or e-mail travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca.

Escape to your dream vacation!

Splurge at the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa

Are you planning a romantic getaway this winter? Treat yourself to the brand-new villas at the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa.




While many people claim that Bora Bora is one of the most beautiful islands in the world, it is indisputably one of the most romantic! Bora Bora is located in the Leeward group of the Society Islands of French Polynesia, 230 kilometers (140 miles) northwest of Tahiti, in the Pacific Ocean. French Polynesia is made up of 120 islands forming the five main archipelagos. The capital, Papeete, is located on Tahiti, the largest island. Tahiti is located 6,660 kilometers (4,100 miles) or an eight-hour flight from Los Angeles with another hour to connect.

Bora Bora depends on tourism for it economic well-being. The only other commercial activities on the islasnd includes fishing and harvesting coconuts. The locals speak French and Tahitian, but most speak fairly good English.
Bora Bora is located in an lovely area, The island is surrounded by a barrier reef that encloses the bluest of lagoons. The land rises up from white beaches through lush jungle-covered slopes to the dual peaks of an extinct volcano – Mounts Pahia and Otemanu.

Suspended between crystal waters and limitless blue skies, the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa is nestled in an idyllic cove of white sand and majestic lava rock. Choose an over-water suite and marvel at the spectacular marine life of the South Pacific Ocean as it floats past glass panels in the floor. Gaze out at the sunset from your private terrace in the Polynesian-styled beach or hillside villas. Unwind in the spectacular infinity pool with stunning views of the lagoon or cool down with a local cocktail at the relaxed Ta Le Le Beach Bar. Explore the azure lagoon with your snorkel or take a cruise on a catamaran and stop off with a picnic on the resorts unspoiled private island, Motu Tapu. Take in views of the Mt. Otemanu volcano and the islands of Tahaa and Raiatea from the hilltop Nui Spa and sample delicious local cuisines from the Iriatai Panoramic Restaurant.

Prices start at $550 CAD a night not including taxes. There is not a bad time to travel to Bora Bora but the high season is from July to October.

For more information, call Toll Free 1-866-653-4055 or e-mail travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca.

Information and photos courtesy of Hilton Hotels and Resorts

Five Things to Consider When Choosing the Location for Your Destination Wedding

Destination weddings are becoming more popular every year. Many brides dream of having the perfect setting in a beautiful tropical location with the turquoise blue waters of the ocean lapping on the white, sandy beach! How do you decide from the multitude of choices exactly where you will tie the knot?

Many couples want to choose their wedding destination based on some significance to them. It may have been a place that they have visited in the past and have wonderful memories from their holiday there. It may be where he proposed! On the other hand, it may be a locale that couple have never visited but have always dreamed of seeing.

One of the first things to consider is how many guests will be attending and where will they be coming from? Find places that have easy to access from all parts of North America. The Riviera Maya, just south of Cancun, has daily flights throughout the year from all over North America. Try to avoid out of the way places which require numerous connecting flights to get there or have only one flight arriving and departing that week. Hawaii, a very popular place for destination weddings, may be quite far for your guests and family who live on the east coast. Also consider whether or not your wedding is a family affair or for adults only. Some resorts will not allow children onsite even for a wedding. Many times a couple may want to take their children with them to the destination wedding as that will be their vacation time together for the year.



Third, be sure to consider the type of resort that your guests will want to attend. You and you fiancée may love adventure and decide on an isolated eco-resort in a rustic setting with no electricity, screens on the windows, or modern conveniences. However, your guests may not share your enthusiasm and be upset with the accommodations that you have chosen which might be just as expensive as a luxury hotel but without the benefits. Think about what your guest want to do when they are not attending wedding-related activities. Are there golfers in the crowd? Do people want to hang out at the beach? Are there folks who like to visit the casinos? You might want to make a list of the “must haves” as well as a list of the “nice to haves” so that your destination wedding consultant can help you narrow down your decision.


Consider the timing of your wedding. Lots of brides think they will get a better deal if they and their guests travel in off season. Remember that these times are often off season due to poorer or rainy weather, hurricanes season, high humidity and other factors. In addition, many of the resort services including some of the restaurants will be closed at that time. Also consider that some resorts advertise special rates to the locales during off season which can result in an overcrowding of the amenities on the resort. Some couples think of Valentine’s Day as a date for their wedding. I have been in Las Vegas on February 14th and have seen brides and grooms in long lines in the hotels waiting to get into the chapel to get married. How unromantic! Be careful! You do not want to have your wedding at a resort where 20 or 30 weddings are taking place on the same day as yours.

Finally, let the dream begin. Close your eyes and let your imagination take over. What does your wedding look like? Where is it located? Maybe a tropical garden on a beautifully landscaped resort in Hawaii, or is it in a pretty wedding gazebo overlooking the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean? Or perhaps you always wanted to become man and wife in a quaint white stucco chapel in Greece, or dreamed about getting married by the captain aboard a cruise ship sailing to exotic places? There are so many exciting possibilities. Don’t settle for second best! With a little time, creativity, and planning, your destination wedding can become the dream that you have always been thinking about!

For more information about destination weddings, call 1-866-653-4055 or visit www.delsoltravel.ca.

Caribbean Popular Cruise Destination This Winter Season

The Caribbean continues to be a popular cruise destination for Canadians. Beautiful crystal blue, waters, pristine, white sandy beaches, and a kaleidoscope of cultures beckon us to the tropics. Even this past summer, the Caribbean was one of the most popular destinations for cruise lines.

The Caribbean is a favourite destination for many reasons. It has warm weather compared to Canada’s frigid winter temperatures. There are lots of interesting ports with each one being unique and exciting. In addition, the Caribbean is a perfect place for the beginner cruiser to be introduced to cruising.

There are more choices of ports of embarkation for the cruisers heading south this year. Passengers will be able to depart from New York City, Baltimore, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, San Juan, Barbados, Colon, Mobile, New Orleans, and Galveston. More ports, mean a huge saving on flight costs, especially if you are travelling as a family or group.

Numerous cruise lines sail the Caribbean such as MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Carnival, Celebrity, Disney , Holland America, Princess, and Royal Caribbean. Cruises can be as short as three nights or over two weeks long. The most difficult decision is deciding which cruise to take! Right now there are still some great deals. Check http://www.delsoltravel.ca/ or call 1-866-653-4055 for more cruise information.

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Muriel MacRae, owner of Del Sol Travel and Del Sol Destination Weddings, is a travel consultant who specializes in destination weddings and romantic getaways to tropical areas. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans destination weddings for couples in and around the Calgary area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your destination wedding or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca

Four Seasons Nevis

The Four Seasons Resort on the tiny lush Caribbean island of Nevis-- is a luxury property that welcomes families with many features. The resort is simply beautiful. It really feels much more like a Hawaiian resort than a Caribbean resort. Nevis is one of the more secluded destinations. The facilities are very quiet and slow paced.

The beach is stunning. The water is warm, blue and clear with very little seaweed; the surf is always calm. The hotel has a half-mile of golden sand on Pinney's Beach with tons of chairs, so there is no need to rush outside to secure a seat. The beach staff is extremely accommodating, providing as many towels as you like and regularly circulating with water, cool washcloths and an occasional fruit snack.



The Four Seasons Nevis has two free-form infinity-edge pools. Above, the Garden pool is the designated Quiet Pool.

The hotel itself is very pretty and the rooms are large, clean, cool and quiet. They have nicely painted colored walls and woodwork in white and are very clean. The high nine foot ceilings made the room feel airy and open.

This is a relaxing and somewhat pricey place to visit! However, to get to and from the airport on St. Kitts, the boat ride from St. Kitts to Nevis is a nightmare as there is no air conditioning and the boat can get very crowded.

Choosing Your Wedding Dress for Your Destination Wedding

Planning for your destination wedding at a resort in a warm and sunny tropical location comes with its own unique set of challenges. Finding a destination wedding gown that not only suites your personal style, but also that travels well, and works with the climate, and the setting of the wedding can indeed take time. You will want to start shopping for your wedding dress right away, but before buying a gown for your destination wedding, you might want to consider the following:

Don’t be rushed in choosing your gown. Grab your maid of honour, you sister, or your mother and start shopping. Look for a destination wedding dress in traditional, upscale department stores, bridal shops, online retailers such as BeachComberBride.com and eDressMe.com, or resorts such as Sandals Resorts which offer a full line of dresses for the bride, bridesmaids, and flower girl with all of the accessories. There are also several designers who specialize in destination wedding gowns including Jessical McClintock, Rina di Montella, Mon Cheri, The Dressy Group, Alfred Angelo, and Sophia Tolli.

While shopping, try on lots of dresses and take the time to make a decision. Ensure that the dress you choose makes you feel spectacular and beautiful. If not, leave it for someone else! You have dreamed about your wedding dress since you were a little girl. Be sure to choose one which lives up to your dreams and is best for you. You want the dress you chose to have the “wow” factor!

Determine the location first. Your dress should fit with the setting and not appear out of place. Destination wedding gowns can range from a very traditional full length wedding dress to a casual sarong. Destination wedding attire tends to be more casual and generally is much less formal and fussy than what you would wear to a traditional church wedding. However, a ballroom gown would not work on the beach, and wearing flip-flops would strike a wrong note if you get married in a castle. The setting, whether it is on the beach or in a beautiful garden, is lovely enough that you don’t have to detract from it by wearing heavy fabrics or lots of jewellery. If you are getting married on the beach, remember that the ocean breezes can cause a long cathedral veil to become unruly, and a long train will accumulate the sand.

Destination wedding dresses are usually made of simple construction with basic lines, not the lace, satin, and pearl creations of the top wedding designers. Stick with informal destination wedding gown styles that feel tropical or beachy such as lightweight, flowing dresses, slip-dresses, mermaid shapes, or even layers of wild ruffles. Wedding gowns can include spaghetti straps, capped sleeves, or a romantic and sexy off-the-shoulder look. If you are the traditional type of bride, you might want to wear the sleeveless gown with the floor-length skirt – just remember the hem is going to get dirty. Also realize that a dress right to the ground will not allow the air to flow under it which could make the dress very hot indeed on a humid, sultry day!

Choosing fabrics for a destination beach wedding dress. Opt for something that is light weight and that flows with the island breezes. Those of us who live in cold-weather climates tend to forget in January or February how hot and humid the Caribbean and Mexican climates can be. As a bride, you want to select a fabric so that you will be comfortable in your destination climate. If you are going to a steamy, tropical paradise, choose lightweight materials like airy silks that breathe, chiffon, organza, charmeuse, or crepe, and avoid heavy fabrics such as satin and brocade. Choose a dress that is cool and comfortable with fabrics that are light and wrinkle-resistant so that it is easy to pack for travelling. Try to find a fabric that is washable so there is no worry about sand and water affecting the look of the dress.

Fabrics to avoid in a destination wedding dress would be anything that stains easily or tends to be too heavy. Fabrics that wrinkle or pucker are also poor choices if it’s humid, as is heavy beading, which weighs a dress down. While a crinoline is pretty, it probably won’t travel well, nor feel good on your skin while standing in the warm Caribbean sun.

Cotton is cool and lightweight but is not generally used in traditional wedding dresses. However, it is used for embroidered, Mexican wedding dresses and tropical print sarongs and pareos.

If you want to do a “trash the dress” photo shoot pick a dress that is light and flowy.

Travelling with your dress. Before you buy you wedding gown, consider how you will get it to your destination and how well the fabric will bear up under travel. The longer the train, the more difficult it will be for transporting the dress. Carry your dress with you on the plane rather than checking it in your luggage. I suggest using a lightweight carryon bag that will hang in the first class garment bin. If this is not an option, place it close to you in the overhead carrier bin.

Be sure to check with the airline ahead of time to inform them that you will be carrying on your wedding attire. This notice is especially important if your dress is oversize. There may be an extra fee but you will be expecting it. Once you are on board the plane, ask the flight attendant to place your outfits in the closet in the first–class section Some airlines will insist that you put your dress in your luggage. Some fabrics such as linen, satin, and organza, wrinkle severely when packed. Call the hotel ahead of time and ask if they can press your gown on the morning of the wedding. Most hotels offer this service.

In addition to packing the dress and accessories, it is also important to carry a small sewing kits for loose beads and buttons. A portable steamer can help remove wrinkles that developed during packing and travelling.

Select a style of dress that flatters your body. While there are no set rules for what to wear at your destination wedding, a few styles are common. Regardless of what destination you choose, you need to select a style that flatters your figure. Dresses may be long or short, depending on your taste. Experiment with different hemlines. Cocktail-length gowns to skirts that are shorter in front and longer in back are popular choices that work beautifully when a wedding location is less formal.

Like the traditional wedding dresses, the most popular colours for destination weddings are light colours such as white, or off-white. For the bride who prefers colour, champagne , rose, or light slate gray are all nice, non-traditional choices suitable for a destination wedding.

Popular destination wedding dress designs include long, halter style dresses, the classic strapless gown, and those with low, cut-out backs. Make sure that the style you choose, whether it is a sheath, A-line, or Empire waist, plays up your assets and makes you feel gorgeous. The dress should be soft and fluid, not clingy, as well, as lightweight, and easy to pack. You are best with a dress made of fabric that fits and moves with your body. If you do select a strapless dress, buy yourself a strapless bathing suite to avoid tan lines.

What about footwear? When choosing footwear to wear at your wedding, the traditional satin, three inch pumps just won't work in the sand. There are numerous ideas for beautiful yet suitable footwear to accompany your island wedding dress. Lose the pantyhose. You could opt to go barefoot for your beach wedding but be sure to have a pedicure the day before the wedding. You could also choose simple, flat, one-strapped sandals, or dyed to match your dress flip-flops embellished with jewels or flower designs.

Comfort is the number one consideration when choosing your destination wedding dress. You want to look beautiful and appear “cool” as opposed to being red-faced from the heat on your wedding day! Considering practicality, style and reality before buying your destination wedding dress can help you succeed in having an enjoyable day and can help make your wedding day a dream come true!

Visit our Booth at the Calgary Bridal Expo

We are excited about the Calgary Bridal Expo taking place on Sunday, September 27th, 2009 from 10 am to 5 pm at the BMO Center. We will be there with our sister company, Creative Weddings and Occasions, with a fabulous booth so stop by and say hello.

We've got some amazing ideas for atmosphere and some tips on how to make your wedding a very special day. Be sure to visit our booth and sign up for our fantastic draws. Just added a new suprise draw which should be a hit but you have to come to the show to find out about it. While you are there ask about our destination weddings.

Since our appointment book is filling up fast, you might like to secure your free consultation to discuss your wedding planning and decor needs, or your destination wedding now, by emailing travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca.

See you at the show!

Muriel MacRae

Visit Us at Bridal Expo 2009 at Calgary's BMO Center

Del Sol Travel is at the Bridal Expo 2009!

Calgary's Bridal Expo is being held on Sunday, September 27th at the BMO Centre, Stampede Park. As Alberta's largest fall bridal show, it's a fantastic opportunity for brides, grooms, and mothers to check out the latest and greatest in regards to weddings.

We'll be there along with Creative Weddings and Occasions! Plan to come on over and say hi, as well as enter some of the great draws we'll have including:

* Gift Certificates off wedding planning and coordination services
* One week's accommodation at the beautiful Orange Lake Resort and Country Club, a two bedroom condo in Orlando, Florida located next door to Animal Kingdom . See pictures below - units may vary slightly from those shown

The Expo runs from 10 AM until 5:00 PM, and ticket prices include the Fantasy Fashion Show, held at 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM, showcasing new styles and trends. To purchase your tickets or get additional information, go to Bridal Expo 2009 Tickets. See you there!

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Muriel MacRae, owner of Del Sol Travel and Del Sol Destination Weddings, is a travel consultant who specializes in destination weddings and romantic getaways to tropical areas. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans destination weddings for couples in and around the Calgary area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your destination wedding or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca

Holland America's Zaandam to Sail Hawaii in Fall 2010

Want to Cruise to Hawaii next fall?

Holland America's Zaandam is set to discover the Hawaiian Island chain in 2010 with Circle Hawaii itineraries that offer guests relaxing days at sea and islands to explore. The 1,432-passenger ship will sail five 14-day roundtrip San Diego, Calif., cruises and one 15-day voyage from Vancouver, British Colombia, to San Diego. The sailings are from October through December. Scheduled between two stretches of sea days are back-to-back calls at Hawaii, Oahu, Kauai and Maui — plus a call at Ensenada, Mexico — before the ship returns to San Diego. Included in theHawaii cruise roster is a holiday sailing departing Dec. 19.

Departing Sundays from San Diego, guests will have several days at sea before arriving at Hawaii. During this time, they can enjoy a day at the Greenhouse Spa, visit the Culinary Arts Center for a hands-on cooking class or attend a Digital Workshop powered by Windows to learn how to share memorable photos taken on the voyage. The Speaker Series offers insights into upcoming ports and includes destination-related topics such as Polynesian music and dance traditions. The first port call is to Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii where guests can visit one of Hawaii's best-known landmarks — Kilauea Volcano. Other highlights include botanical gardens and the Akaka Falls. As Zaandam makes it way to Honolulu, the state capital, guests can enjoy an evening at the Polynesian Cultural Center or whale watching, a traditional Hawaiian luau, a stroll down Waikiki beach or surfing. Guests also can visit the USS Arizona Memorial from World War II.

On route to Nawiliwili, Kauai, guests can get spectacular views as Zaandam sails along the island’s Na Pali Coast. Upon reaching Nawiliwili they can visit Waimea Canyon (the Grand Canyon of the Pacific) or get an aerial view of the island on a helicopter tour. They can book a zipline tour through the forest canopy for a unique perspective of the island’s inspiring natural setting. At Lahaina, Maui, guests can explore the beaches and a volcano, or spend the day shopping at chic boutiques and galleries.Those sailing on the 15-day voyage departing Oct. 2 have an added call at Kona, once known as the playground of Hawaii's royalty. Kona is synonymous with the famous coffee that grows on the slopes of dormant Hualalai volcano. Another highlight of this longer voyage is an evening scenic cruise past the Kilauea volcano. Cruise fares begin at $1,608.85 CAD per person for the 15-day voyage. For a cruise brochure or for more information on Holland America's Linesrand Voyages, call Toll Free 1-866-653-4055 or e-mail travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or http://www.delsoltravel.ca/.

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Muriel MacRae, owner of Del Sol Travel and Del Sol Destination Weddings, is a travel consultant who specializes in destination weddings and romantic getaways to tropical areas. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans destination weddings for couples in and around the Calgary area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your destination wedding or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca

Marriott Offers 20 Percent Off Around the World

JW Marriott Gunacaste, Costa Rica

Starting on September 11, 2009, Marriott is offering 20 percent off weekend stays at more than 2,500 participating hotels and resorts around the world. Reservations must be made between Sept. 10 and 24, for weekend stays (and mid-week stays at select hotels) between Sept. 25 and Dec. 13. To book the Global Rate Break, call travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca and use promo code F5X. The Global Rate Break is available at eight of the company’s brands—Marriott Hotels & Resorts, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Renaissance Hotels & Resorts, Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield Inn by Marriott, SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Residence Inn by Marriott and TownePlace Suites by Marriott. The 20 percent Global Rate Break is available weekends (Thursday through Sunday) at most participating hotels in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Caribbean and Latin America. The offer is available seven days a week at select hotels and resorts around the world. For more information, visit http://www.marriott.com/.

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Muriel MacRae, owner of Del Sol Travel and Del Sol Destination Weddings, is a travel consultant who specilizes in destination weddings and romantic getaways to tropical areas. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans destination weddings for couples in and around the Calgary area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your destination wedding or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca

Our Villa In Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica

Playa Flamingo is one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. Situated in the Gold Coast, it is located in Punta Salinas, northwest of Bahia Brasilito and 75 kilometers southwest of Liberia. My husband and myself, including the kids and their friends, stayed in a luxury penthouse villa, called Casa Mimosa, for seven glorious days last New Years. Our villa is the brown one with the red tile roof that is on the left side, about the middle in the picture below.

Built on the side of the hill, Casa Mimosa was three stories high with a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside. Each floor was rented as a two or three bedroom villa.

The spacious veranda was where we ate most of our meals or enjoyed the wonderful outdoors. This was where I had my coffee every morning while enjoying the view.

The living room had plenty of space for visiting or watching TV. We found that by renting a villa for our group of seven, it was much cheaper than staying in a hotel.

We cooked most of our meals in the large kitchen of the villa. Marco, our young Costa Rican friend, loves to cook so he served gourmet-style meals and all of us took turns helping and cleaning up afterwards. Going out for a meal was often a let down as the food was not always as good as Marco cooked.

All seven of us enjoyed the space on the veranda. The best time to visit Playa Flamingo is from December to April during the dry season. The sun shines 11 to 12 hours a day at that time and the average annual temperature hovers around 28 degrees C or 82 degrees F.

This was the view of Playa Flamingo from our villa. The original name of the beach was Playa Blancha but it changed its name in the 1950s to coincide with the construction of the area's first major hotel, the Flamingo Beach Resort. Playa Flamingo has no village center. It does have a few excellent restaurants and hosts some of the most beautiful hotels, villas and condominiums that Costa Rica has to offer.

Looking in the other direction, you can see for miles. There are houses and condos down below but you can not see them because of the dense foliage on the trees. The hills are lined with private homes, villas and expensive condos.

Four of our five young people at the pool on the beautifully landscaped grounds of Casa Mimosa.

Playa Flamingo is an ideal vacation getaway with its stunning white sand, unspoiled beaches and pristine clear blue water.

This fabulous beach has near perfect weather all year round.

The beach is a small corridor of white sand flanked by low altitude hills lined with private villas and expensive condos.

The Palms, a new luxury condo, is built right on the beach where a unit sells for 1.2 million US dollars.

A view from the beach looking up the hill towards our villa.

A lovely late afternoon view of the tranquil ocean with a sailboat lazily sailing around the playa.

Playa Flamingo has the nation's largest marina and has some of the best deep sea fising in the world. We took a memorable sunset cruise from here on New Year's Day.

A view from some of the expensive real estate on the top of the hill.

This area is know for its spectacular sunsets and we were not disappointed. We enjoyed this time in paradise while the weather back home had temperatures about 30 degrees below C. I can certainly understand why so many Americans and Canadians are buying vacation property in this area. Playa Flamingo is costly but absolutely beautiful!

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Muriel MacRae, owner of Del Sol Travel and Del Sol Destination Weddings, is a travel consultant who specilizes in destination weddings and romantic getaways to tropical areas. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans destination weddings for couples in and around the Calgary area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your destination wedding or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca