Calgary's Beautiful Summer - Winter Travel Not Far Behind

Today is another beautiful sunny day in YYC. I can't believe the kids will be heading back to school in a couple more weeks!

 In looking back over the past two months we have been fortunate to have one of the best summers that I can remember in years. On that same token, we also had the worst winter that I can ever remember. Even with the temperature rising to the high 20s or low 30s during the day, our evening always cool down to temperatures in the teens so it is much cooler for sleeping.

However, we all know that with September approaching the snow and then the cold weather is not far behind. There is a lot of talk in the travel industry that airline fares and hotel rates will be lower this fall due to the unstability of the US economy. It's time to start dreaming about your next winter vacation.  With so many beautiful places in the the world to visit, it is often hard to make a choice. Hopefully my blog will give you some inspiration. I'm always looking for new places to write about, so if you know of a great place to vacation , I would love to hear from you.  Start making your travel plans today and if we can help in any way, do not hesitate to call or email me at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca.

Here's a couple of pictures from my trips in the past year to get you started thinking about your next trip.

North Shore of Kauai - Lumahai Beach

View of Mazatland, Mexico from across the bay

Costa Rica

Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island, Hawaii

Secrets Silver Sands Resort, Riviera Maya



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Muriel MacRae plans destination weddings, exciting getaways and customized vacations for discerning travellers, honeymooners and families. As the owner of Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or phone 403-477-0643.

Video of the Day: Jalisco, Mexico

I have had a lot of clients recently who have planned to travel to Puerto Vallarta, which is in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. This video shows some of the Mexican culture, the wonderful spirit of the Mexican people, the pictureque buildings, and some of the beautiful scenery. You will enjoy your visit much more if you know something about the area.

My husband and  I visited Puerto Vallarta a couple of years ago while on a cruise. Since we were only able to spend a part of a day there, we can't wait to return to photograph the area, especially the Malecon (the boardwalk), learn more about the city, visit some good restaurants, and enjoy some of the beaches.  And of course I always like to visit the  nicest resorts so that I know which ones to recommend to my clients!

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Muriel MacRae plans destination weddings, exciting getaways and customized vacations for discerning travellers, honeymooners and families. As the owner of Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or phone 403-477-0643.

Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun

As soon as our mini bus from the airport stopped at Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun, my husband and I knew we were in for a treat. We arrived at this beautiful resort with its contemporary design about 5:30 pm to be greeted by a charismatic doorman waiting for us with a welcome greeting, a cold towel, and a glass of champagne. Our luggage was whisked aside with the bellhop guarding it, waiting for us to get our room key. Check in was fast and uncomplicated. My husband’s previous phone call to the resort resulted in us getting the anniversary package. We were ushered to our ocean view suite located on the 4th floor. We walked into our modern, luxurious room to find red rose petals sprinkled on the ledge of the Jacuzzi tub and the small lit ledge which divided the bed and the sitting area.

The room was large and spacious with a suspended king-size bed, and a good sized sitting area with a large sprawling couch.

The tiny round table for two had a pretty arrangement for fresh flowers.

A relaxing video was playing on the 32-inch satellite TV to set the mood – relax and enjoy! The bathroom had a sliding door which can be opened to view the ocean while one relaxes in the large Jacuzzi tub for two.

In addition, the lovely tiled shower is also designed for two and there is still room for more!

The double sinks with the granite counter also add to the luxury and convenience for the couple staying in the room.

The private balcony is furnished with comfortable lounging furniture placed around a table.

There is also a Secrets box for private room service delivery!

Secrets Silversands Rivera Cancun is a striking adults-only resort dedicated to couples, singles, and friends. Nestled on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, it is located 15 miles/24 kilometres south of Cancun. Surrounded by warm crystal waters, this all-suite, adults-only Unlimited-Luxury resort features 433 suites. Along with 43,000 square feet/3,995 square metres of pool area and manicured gardens, there are seven a la carte themed restaurants, a delicious buffet, and eight bars ranging from swim-up to elegant making this a perfect destination resort.

The first thing you notice when you arrive here is the fantastic service! The staff is very friendly and go out of their way to make your stay enjoyable and provide every service they can think of. I left my curling iron at home and not finding one for sale on the property, my husband called the Concierge asking where we could purchase one. She offered to lend hers to me for the week claiming that she did not use it. If you are trying to figure out where to take your next vacation, come to Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun and find out why it was voted “one of the 10 most romantic resorts in 2010”!

All photos courtesy of Muriel MacRae

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Muriel MacRae is an associate wedding coordinator, a design consultant and event choreographer, and a destination wedding coordinator with Creative Weddings and Occasions and the owner of a boutique travel agency called Del Sol Travel.  She is a certified wedding planner and destination wedding coordinator through the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their dream wedding. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at muriel@creativeweddingsandoccasions.com or phone 403-477-0643

Wedding at Dreams Tulum - Plan your dream wedding or honeymoon



Photo courtesy of Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa



Photo courtesy of Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa

 Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa is an all-inclusive resort located in one of the most unique beaches in the Riviera Maya surrounded by lush tropical acres, sugary white sand and magnificent colonial architecture. Just five minutes from Tulum and 30 minutes from Playa del Carmen, Dreams Tulum provides upscale surroundings and combines fun and relaxation with the ancient world of the Maya. It is one of the only resorts in the Riviera Maya located a short distance to the ancient ruins of Tulum.

Its magnificent colonial architecture, original paintings and ambiance provide the perfect setting to unwind and discover the mystical power over the ancient Mayan civilization. This hacienda-style, Unlimited-Luxury resort features two swimming pools, one with a children’s area, full-service spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, and a Mayan-themed Explorer’s club for kids.


Photo courtesy of Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa



Photo courtesy of Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa

Dreams Tulum sits on two miles of powdery white sand with everything to make guest happy. And you’re right on the ocean for snorkelling, catamarans, sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking and ocean trampoline. Choose from magnificent dining option featuring five gourmet, a la Carte, and one buffet-style restaurant. Dine at the Seaside Grill, an a la carte steak house, enjoy French cuisine in a romantic setting at Bordeaux or visit El Patio for Mexican fare. Seven bars including pool and beachside, are perfect places to make new friends, or just catch up with each other.

Ideally located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Dreams Tulum is just a 75-minute drive south of Cancun International Airport.

All guest rooms and suites offer a private and furnished patio or balcony with a hammock, marble bathrooms, daily refreshed min-bar, and 24-hour room service. The spa offers a full range of natural curative massage therapies and facial treatments: each designed to soothe your body, mind, and spirit. For parents travelling with children, the Explorer’s Club keeps their kids happy and busy with their own kind of supervised fun.

Photo courtesy of Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa

The resort boosts 431 finely appointed luxury suites and guest rooms. The majority of the rooms either provide beautiful garden views or ocean views of the Caribbean Sea and the most magnificent scenery on the Yucatan Peninsula. The rooms contain one king-size bed or two-double beds.




Resort Information

Room Type:

Hacienda Section:
Deluxe Ocean View – 29

Junior Suite Ocean View – 12
Junior Suite Garden View – 64
Deluxe Garden View – 116
Hacienda Suites – 5
Presidential Suite – 1

Dreams Section:
Dreams Jr. Suite Garden View – 136
Dreams Jr. Suite Ocean View – 40
Dreams Jr. Suite Ocean Front – 20
Dreams Honeymoon Suite – 7
Dreams Presidential Suite – 1


Restaurants and types:

Photo courtesy of Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa

Bordeaux – Gourmet French cuisine
El Patio – Delectable Mexican cuisine
Himitsu – A fusion of Pan-Asian delicacies
Portofino – Innovative and traditional Italian cuisine
Seaside Grill – Steak and grilled specialties
Gohan – Sushi bar
World Café – Continental cuisine served buffet style with a variety of international-theme specialties

Local Point of Interest:
World’s second largest barrier reef lies just offshore
Nearby underground rivers, caves, and jungles for the adventure seekers
Eco-adventure attractions at Xel-Ha
Mayan ruins of Tulum, Coba, Xel-ha, Chichen-Itza, and Kohunlich
Xcaret Eco-Archaeological Park
Cozumel- ferry from Playa del Carmen

If you would like to book your trip to Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa e-mail us at info@delsoldestinationweddings.com

Wedding and Honeymoon packages available upon request.



Photo courtesy of Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa.



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Muriel MacRae, owner of Del Sol Travel and Del Sol Destination Weddings is a travel consultant and wedding planner who specializes in destination weddings and romantic getaways to tropical areas such as Hawaii, Costa Rica, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the South Pacific. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans destination weddings and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your destination wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or phone 403-477-0643

Riu Tequilla

The all-inclusive Riu Tequila is a fabulous 664-room village-style resort, located next to a beautiful 18-hole golf course inside Playa del Carmen's exclusive resort area. Numerous clinets have given great reviews about staying at this property. A tropical garden path opposite the Riu Yucatan hotel provides easy access to the resort's beach club, just a short stoll away. A beach shuttle is also available.

If you are looking for a lovely, laid back resort, then look no further. Renovations completed in November 2008 include completely re-decorated guest rooms, a new Asian restaurant, an updated palyground and a separate pool for the kids. Riu Tequila offers comfortably furnished rooms and a wide variety of bars and restaurants for fine dining. The all-inclusive Riu Tequila resort is a favorite among the other sister properties, as activities and entertainment are non-stop day and night.


* Located in the Yucatan peninsula, 3 km / 1.9 miles from Playa del Carmen
* Within the resort area Playacar along with the hotels Riu Palace Mexico, Riu Palace Riviera Maya, Riu Yucatan and Riu Playacar
* Main building and 1-story buildings
* Surrounded by 48,000 m2 / 57,600 sq. yards of lush gardens
* 800 m / 2,650 ft. from the beach (complimentary shuttle)
* Complimentary sun loungers on the beach
* 300 m / 990 ft. from Mexican Street
* 55 km / 34 miles from Cancun Int'l. Airport
* 1 hour to Cancun

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All-Inclusive

All Inclusive features
All meals and snacks:
Breakfast:
* Full American breakfast buffet and on the spot cooking stations
* Continental breakfast/snack
Lunch:
* Hot and cold starters, assorted meats, fish and snacks
* Buffet and on the spot cooking stations at the "Beach Club"
Dinner ("Jalisco" restaurant):
* Buffets and on the spot cooking stations
* Special evenings: theme buffets (twice a week)

* Stay at 1, Play at 3. Receive full exchange privoleges at Riu Yucatan & Riu Playacar.  (dinner restaurants excluded,)
* Wedding packages and honeymoons

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Optional dining (reservations required in advance):
* Mexican cuisine
* Grill and steakhouse
Snacks 24 hours a day
For additional lunch and snacks, a free choice from a selection of restaurants at the Riu Tequila, Riu Playacar and Riu Yucatan hotels.
Beverages:
* Unlimited local beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks) available 24 hours a day
* Access to all bars at the Riu Tequila, Riu Playacar and Riu Yucatan hotels
* Regularly restocked mini-bar and liquor dispenser
In-room safe

Sports and activities:
* Table tennis, workout, volleyball, gym
* 1 floodlit hard surface tennis court, 1 mulitpurpose sports pitch
* Windsurfing, catamaran, kayaking, body board and snorkelling equipment (at Riu Yucatan water sports center)
* 1 introductory scuba diving lesson in the pool

Entertainment:
* Daytime entertainment programme for children ages 4 to 12 (daily)
* Daytime entertainment programme for adults (daily)
* Riu evening programme, shows or live music (daily)
Complimentary entrance to "La Piñata" night club and drinks (open every night)
All accommodations, taxes and gratuities

Rooms:
* 664 guestrooms
* Bathroom
* Hairdryer
* 110 V
* Telephone
* Central air conditioning
* Ceiling fan
* Mini-bar
* Liquor dispenser
* Satellite TV
* Radio alarm clock
* In-room safe
* Balcony or terrace

Suites with:
* Living room area

Photo Credits: Riu Tequilla Resort
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Muriel MacRae, is the owner of Del Sol Travel and has formed a new company called Del Sol Destination Weddings with Cathy MacRae. She has been helping couples plan and organize their dreams weddings throughout the world in exotic locations, such as Mexico, the Caribbean, and Costa Rica. An expert in terms of dealing with some of the challenges of group travel, she is well versed in finding resorts that perfectly match the needs and wants of her clients. Furthermore, her expertise in wedding planning makes her more than just your regular travel agent. Call her today at 403-477-0643 or e-mail travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca.

Concerned About Your Wedding Budget - Have a Destination Wedding

Who isn't concerned about money these days? Sure the recession is over but most couples are still watching their budget. If you are one of those couples and are planning a wedding in the next few months, consider a destination wedding. Let one of our wedding planners at Del Sol Destination Weddings help you plan the wedding of your dreams and show you ways to meet your budget as well. We have a variety of programs to suit your style and to help you plan the ultimate destination wedding in magnificent locations, especially in Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Costa Rica. What could be more fun than spending time at a beautiful romantic get-a-way on a pristine beach with your closest family and friends. Picture yourself on your wedding day with a gorgeous sunset in the background. Just email mailto:info@creativeweddingsandoccasions.com to find out how one of our wedding planners can help you budget and plan for your destination wedding.
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Muriel MacRae, owner of Del Sol Travel and Del Sol Destination Weddings, is a travel consultant and wedding planner 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, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or mailto:info@creativeweddingsandoccasions.com.

Keeping Your Money Safe While Travelling

You have all heard the horror stories about someone having their money stolen while travelling! As a travel agent specializing in travel to various countries throughout the world, I have been asked about using credit cards, cash and other money matters when travelling internationally. When going to Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, Australia, Tahiti, Fiji, and Europe, this is what I recommend:


Before you leave on your next trip do a little homework so you can get the most for your money. Know what some of the options you have in travelling to your destination. For example, the Dominican Republic has very high credit card fees, and many restaurants, stores, and hotels there will not accept credit cards. Traveler’s cheques used to be a popular way for providing money, but today most people rely on credit cards and ATM withdrawals, which usually offer a lower fee or better exchange rate. You need to know what works best for you and what currency conversion options you have when travelling internationally.

The best advice is to diversify and bring cash, debit and credit cards, and traveller’s cheques. Bring $200 to $300 cash, an ATM card, and two major credit cards. Use the safest the most frequently.


Using Cash
For the first 24 hours of your trip, cash is a good way to tide you over until you can find an ATM machine. Get some foreign currency before you leave so that you have some cash to pay for immediate expenses such as taking a cab to your hotel, buying lunch at the airport, or giving the bellhop a tip. If something happens to you ATM card or your credit cards, you will have some back up with having some cash. You can get foreign currency from your local bank. You may have to pay fees or commissions and you will not get a great conversion Many times you need to order it ahead of time so your bank can have the money transferred to their branch.


Be aware that the one of worst places to get cash is a currency exchange counter. They often charge very high fees and often have a dreadful exchange rate. Mexico has reported problems with tourists being robbed while exchanging money at airports. Also note that there has been a problem worldwide with counterfeit American one hundred dollar bills, so avoid these.

Using Credit Cards
When making large purchases such hotel bills, airline tickets, restaurant meals, tours, and car rentals credit cards are an advantage. Make sure that you pay off the balance each month so that you do not have to pay exorbitant credit card interest rates. Credit cards protect you from fraud after you have made a purchase.


What ever type of plastic you bring with you make sure that you tell the bank and the credit card company when and where you are travelling internationally. You do not sudden international activity on your account to cause the banks and credit card companies to deactivate your card to protect you. I recommend that you bring two credit cards on your trip just in case one card stops working. Also ask what fees the credit card company charges for your purchase, both in local currency and in dollars.


Some merchants especially in Europe offer a dynamic currency conversion – they’ll charge you in dollars rather than the local currency. This could save you some money since some card issuers will waive the currency conversion fee when you purchase are made in dollars overseas. Be aware that the merchant will almost always charge you a conversion fee up to five percent instead. Before deciding which currency to use, make sure that you know what fees apply to each option.


There are a number of other things to be aware of when using your credit cards. Many car rental companies and some hotels may put holds on your credit card for certain amounts of money. For example, in Costa Rica, most car rental companies will put a hold of $1000 on you card. This can use up the credit limit on your card so that you do not have the money you need for the rest of the trip, hinging on whether or not you damage the car. Also make sure that these holds have been removed when you have paid your bill in full.


Incidents are always being reported over inaccurate charges on credit cards. Always watch merchants imprinting your card and keep your receipts. If you are buying something expensive such as jewellery, or original art, use a credit card and ensure that the receipt states the specifics for the purchase. After you get home, check your credit card statements.


ATM Cards
ATM cards are best for getting cash in local currencies as they are generally the cheapest and most convenient. Each cash withdrawal you make will usually charge a currency conversion fee, foreign ATM fees and other charges from your bank. When using an ATM, make sure you read the fine print. I heard about someone in Mexico withdrawing a 100 USD worth of pesos from an ATM machine and the machine charged him an extra 30 USD.


Be aware that more ATMs have become the target of thieves. If possible, use an ATM inside a bank or in some other secure area. Make sure that you inspect an ATM carefully before you use it to dispense cash regardless of where it is located.

Traveller’s Cheques
Traveller’s cheques are good for emergency backup to secure cash or can’t find a working ATM. Be aware that the exchange rate for traveller’s cheques is not as good at the rate you will receive when using a credit or a debit card. Also you have to pay commissions, shipping charges and/or conversion fees to purchase and cash the cheques. They are a bit of a hassle to get cashed. In addition, there are few merchants who accept traveller’s cheques for purchases these days. They provide more security than cash because they can be replaces usually within 24 hours if they are lost or stolen. You can often avoid fees by cashing your traveller’s cheques at the bank that issued them.



Here are a couple of more suggestions to keep your money safe. Use the secure places in your hotel, such as a room safe, to place your valuables. Do not leave wallets, purses, and credit cards, and cash laying around your room or in your suitcase. Use a money belt and keep you money and documents safe by hiding them well under your clothes. Never let others see you searching in your clothes and pulling out wads of cash or an array of credit cards. If carrying a wallet, keep it in a front pocket, preferably buttoned or zippered, and make sure that you keep limited amounts of money in it in case it gets stolen. Women need to ensure that their purses are kept in a safe place at all times. Do not put them on the floor in a public places or hook them over the back of your chair when dining.



Always make scans of your important documents and hid them in digital format in your e-mail account. Use this technique with your passport as well.

If you have other questions about international travel or you would like us to help you plan your next trip call the experts at Del Sol Travel. We specialize in the most popular destinations.

The Royal Playa del Carmen

Adults Only All-Inclusive Resort

Ocean view from the hotel

This upscale hotel is perfectly located on a beautiful stretch of beach in downtown Playa del Carmen within easy walking distance of the ferry dock for Cozumel and the eclectic 5th Avenue filled with shops, restaurants and trendy bars. Combining luxury with comfort and a relaxing atmosphere, THE ROYAL Playa del Carmen is distinguished for its unique warmth and personalized service.

Accommodations: Elegant spacious junior suites with New Royal Beds®, one king or two double beds; in-suite double Jacuzzi; "Cleopatra" chaise lounge; adjustable 29" flat screen satellite TV; clock radio; in-suite safety deposit box; mini-bar stocked with water, soft drinks and domestic and international in-suite liquor dispensers; "Magic Box" for discreet 24-hour room service; hairdryer; individually controlled A/C and ceiling fan with bedside controls; two-line cordless phone with voice mail; ironing board; coffeemaker; evening turndown service; furnished terrace with hammock. Royal Service suites feature all of the luxurious amenities of the Junior Suite plus the upgraded amenities such as prime locations with ocean views, a Bose stereo system, a loaded iPod, complimentary internet access, pillow menu and more, ask for more details!

Please note: The minimun age to check in at the Royal in Playa del Carmen is 18 years of age.

Features: Seven restaurants and food outlets including five a la carte (Spanish, Caribbean, Asian and Mexican), domestic and select international brands of liquors and wine by the glass at eight bars including a swim-up bar, 24-hour room service, personalized seated check-in with welcome cocktail; two free-form pools, one with Jacuzzi, pool and beach waiter service, non-motorized water sports: kayaks, paddleboats and snorkelling equipment; tennis courts (lighted), volleyball, billiards, ping-pong, table games; scuba diving tryout in a professional dive tank; gym, aerobics and Yoga classes; daily social activities; live music and evening entertainment including live shows daily; 24-hour club featuring snacks, drinks and table games and afternoon tea with hors d'oeuvres and fine pastry. Beauty parlour and laundry service both available for an additional charge. Access to all facilities at Gran Porto Real (next door) and other Real Resorts in Cancun (transportation not included).

Getting married on the beach!

Reception on the beach

35 miles (Approx 1 hour) from Cancun International Airport; located in downtown Playa del Carmen (100 yards from eclectic 5th Avenue and close to the pier to Cozumel ferry dock.)

Sunset after a perfect day!

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Muriel MacRae, owner of Del Sol Travel, 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