TomTravel2

For many people Phoenix is an enigma. What is the appeal of living in a desert? Isn’t it hellishly hot there? Why did all these people move there recently? Why would you stay in a place that has such backwards politics? For me, it is a pretty simple explanation. I was born here and have lived here most of my life. My family and friends are all here. I have lived elsewhere and liked it, but the Sonoran Desert and the people have always drawn me back.

The summers are extremely hot here. The whole dry heat myth was created by local boosters. It is dry, but so is your oven and you don’t hang out there. What makes the summers tolerable are frequent escapes to cooler climates (some just up the hill in Arizona-see the snow on Four Peaks?)  and the glorious climate in winter spring and fall. Some transplants from the East and Midwest complain about the lack of seasons here. We have seasons, just not the ones these people are used to. The Papago tribe here describe 3 seasons: dry hot season (May and June), wet hot season (July-September our “monsoon”), and the time of the pleasant cool (October-April). Today was so pleasant I decided to take a hike.

I usually walk for an hour in the park one block from my house. If I am willing to take 2 hours I can easily do my exercise in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, or the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The trail head I hiked today is about 10 minutes from my house by car, and I can get to the McDowells in about fifteen. The Phoenix metropolitan area is home to the world’s largest system of urban wilderness. There are maintained hiking trails in all of the mountains in and around the city. As anti tax as people here can be (this is a tea party red state after all) twice we have voted to raise our taxes to set aside land in our midst as wilderness. I was 18 when the first measure passed in Phoenix and I voted to “save our mountains” in my first election. Scottsdale amazed me when they passed a similar bill just a few years ago to save the McDowells (I live on the Phoenix side of the border between the two cities). By the way if you see one of the pretty cactuses in the above picture don’t touch it! That is the teddy bear cholla, aka jumping cactus and they are painful to remove from the flesh.

In addition to hiking, most trails are open to mountain bikers and equestrians. I saw these two riding off as I started out today. There are a variety of access points in both mountain preserve systems. I like the 40th street trail head for proximity to home in the Phoenix Preserve’s Piestewa Peak/Dreamy Draw section. This preserve is scattered through the city and is composed of several separate mountains, Camelback and Piestewa being the most well known and frequently hiked. On weekends the trails to the top of these two mountains can get pretty crowded. I mostly sneak in on weekdays and do my weekend hikes in the Mcdowells or out of town in the Tonto National Forest. 

We have had a wet winter thanks to the El Nino effect. Somehow warm water in the Pacific off Peru turns on the rain and snow machine in the Southwestern US. Although the photos don’t quite do it justice, our desert is about as green as it can get in 2010. We have been in a drought most of the last decade so this is a rare treat. The frequent cold fronts (which means rain and temperatures in the 50’s for Phoenix) have kept things cooler than usual this winter and although the desert is green, the spring wildflower bloom has not hit it’s peak yet.

These yellow “fiddlenecks” are always among the first bloomers. There were quite a few starting to show color today, but many more wearing buds that haven’t opened up yet. What will come over the next few weeks is a splash of color that will be spectacular. If you have never seen a desert in bloom you have led a life deprived of one of the most beautiful sights mother nature can deliver. During the last good spring bloom our rocky desert mountains were wearing sashes of yellow, orange, purple and blue. If you have a chance to come to Arizona this March you will not regret it. Unless you foolishly fail to take a hike!

This cluster of fiddlenecks is typical of what I saw today in many parts of the preserve. Areas that hold moisture have the lushest growth such as washes and beneath bushes and trees. Although the green growth was evident everywhere, most of the flowers have yet to show color. Next week and the week after will be awesome, and I can assure you I will be out gawking and hiking as much as I can fit into my life. If you do go flower watching please do not molest the plants (no picking flowers) as it is harmful to coming blooms and against the law as well.

The blurry flower above is the only lupine I saw in bloom today. There will be many more to come. The lupine is one of my favorite desert wild flowers. I have seen entire hillsides covered with these bold blue beauties and it is a striking sight. Some of my other favorites are indian paint brush, brittlebrush, shasta daisy, and mexican yellow poppy.

The trail I chose today skirted these rugged rocks. They really stood out against a sky that was almost surreally blue. Some people see the desert as stark and foreboding. I can see how those who grew up in the cloistered greenery of cooler climes feel out of place here. It is a different environment for most, and likely the most starkly unusual location for a city in the US. But getting out into our urban wilderness may give you a far kinder impression. To me, home is the Sonoran Desert of central Arizona. On a 73 degree day like today, I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. Come July, Victoria BC may look awfully good.

In the distance is Piestewa Peak whose summit trail is the most loved and hiked of all the urban trails in the Phoenix area. It is one the most hiked trails anywhere on earth. There are so many trails available in the Phoenix area that it is not hard to find a more lonely path to enjoy a walk or a ride in our extensive urban wilderness.

I rarely win anything. Although I have been very lucky in life I don’t seem to have much luck in games, gambling or contests. At many travel events travel agents put their cards in a bowl for gifts from suppliers with a winner being drawn from the bowl. I had never had my card drawn, nor did I have any expectation that this would occur in this lifetime. At this summer’s Virtuoso Travel Mart I opted to attend a lunch hosted by Mandarin Oriental Hotels. Judi and I usually pore over the schedule and counter program the events. If she wants to visit with Crystal Cruises I register for Oceania for example. This way we can share with one another any helpful tidbits we learn. I had several hotel companies to choose from on this particular slot. Since neither of us had personally experienced a Mandarin Oriental they were a perfect choice.

Towards the end of the excellent presentation they announced a prize drawing was imminent. Being confident I would not be drawn I decided it was an opportune time to get a head start at the buffet. As I put the finishing touches on my plate I heard a familiar name mentioned from the podium “Tom Lewis, Alliance Travel Partners.” With my track record I was at first convinced I was hearing things as I headed back to the table. As the presenter repeated my name I realized they were in fact talking about me, and I had won a stay at the Mandarin Oriental San Francisco! I am never one to turn down a free night at a luxury hotel so a trip was soon planned for January of 2010 with two members of my family. One had never been to the City by the Bay so a very touristy time was to be had by all.

I knew the reputation of Mandarin Oriental was one of modern Asian chic design, and pampering service. The Mandarin Oriental San Francisco did not disappoint on either count. I liked the look of this urban center luxury hotel. Everything is very up to date, but with just enough retro Asian touches to make it distinct from it’s many competitors in the commercial district of San Francisco. Red dragons, red carpet and red upholstery in the large lounge make a clear design statement. How apropos for a luxe lodging a short walk from historic Chinatown.

I have very few criticisms to offer about this hotel. I would stay here again for sure. I also would be much more inclined to opt for other MO properties in the future after experiencing this one in person. Despite having a very cool and ample lounge on the lobby level, and a lovely restaurant one floor up, there is not a great deal of public space in this hotel. The workout room is on the small side, and those who need a particular type of machine or a variety of every type might find this property lacking. The common areas are on the first 4 floors while the rooms begin on the 36th. This takes away from the unified feeling one might find at some other urban properties. The views from the rooms on the other hand are outstanding due to their lofty perch. My only other quibble is that there is a charge for Internet access. As anyone who follows me on Twitter can attest, this is one of my pet peeves in the luxury hotel business.

A foggy view of San Francisco and the terrace of one of the suites.

I loved being up in the clouds and fog during our stay in the City by the Bay. We were blessed with two rain free days at the beginning of our stay, and fog mixed with rain for the last two. Being a native of a desert city I always look forward to experiencing weather when I travel. I know that makes me unlike most people, but where I live there is an absence of anything one might refer to as weather 300 or so days of the year.

I am now a “Fan.” The spacious room offered views (as seen above) in two directions including a slice of the Bay Bridge and Treasure Island. The decor was modern with all the expected conveniences including a flat screen TV. All of furnishings were light wood which I found soothing and in keeping with the Asian flair.

The beds were firm and comfortable and the linens were high quality and attractive. One member of the party was recovering from a recent illness so we spent a good deal of time in the room. It was large enough to never feel crowded or cluttered despite several rounds of room service. There was a cozy and ample sitting area with a very cool high backed love seat we would have liked to take home.

The accent pieces and artwork were soothing and in keeping with the overall Asian theme.

The most enjoyable thing about this stay was the service. The management at the Mandarin Oriental San Francisco have done a great job in staffing and training. Throughout our stay little touches made the difference. On the rainy days the bell staff courteously and promptly offered umbrellas to all as we began our outings. A warm “welcome back” greeted us on arrival from the bell staff and desk staff. Check in and check out were a breeze with all of the details done to a tee.

We did not eat in the restaurant but instead opted to eat out two nights and in room for one. Room service was excellent with a broad menu to choose from. Service was prompt and always friendly. With our varied tastes we sampled a number of different items and all were to our liking. Upon returning from outings the room was always fresh and tidy. Of course, turn down was provided.

We were not sure how much we would be able to do with one of our party still feeling a bit off. I would usually have many things planned and arranged ahead of time on a trip like this. This time we played it by ear. This gave us many opportunities to call on the concierge staff. I cannot say enough about how excellent they did their job! At one point we had asked about reservations in Chinatown for seven. Within a few short moments the phone rang and “Your friend from downstairs!” informed us that an envelope had been delivered to our room. By the door we found the envelope with a nice personalized note, a reservation confirmation with the restaurant address and phone number, and a walking map to guide us there. This is just one example of how well we were taken care of by one of the best concierge teams I have had the pleasure of dealing with. All of their recommendations were excellent as well.

I will write about my very touristy visit to San Francisco soon…

Tomorrow we are off from Phoenix to Fort Lauderdale. We spend one night there which gives us a chance to see family for dinner. I am looking forward to that. Mid-day on Thursday we board the Island Princess for a 10 day sailing. This is my “Graduation Cruise” which is offered free of charge by the generous people at Princess Cruise Lines to all travel agents who complete their online training program. I have taken many travel supplier trainings in the past two years and this was by far the most rigorous and difficult to pass. Now as a “Commodore” I had my choice of joining a number of sailings since I passed the course in April of 2008. Due to schedule conflicts we had to pass on some good itineraries until this one came along. We both liked the idea of sailing through the man made wonder of the Panama Canal.

The map above outlines our journey. Starting of course in Phoenix we fly to Fort Lauderdale to meet the ship. We sail between Cuba and Hispaniola with a sea day before we arrive in Ocho Rios Jamaica. We are doing a waterfall and dolphin encounter tour booked through Princess. This is a new destination for both of us. Now that USAir is offering direct flights from Phoenix  to Montego Bay it is a good time to check out the island. Jamaica is followed by another day at sea.

Next we transit the Panama Canal most of the day and have 5 hours in the evening to explore the old city of Panama and check out a local restaurant. We plan to ad lib this adventure by cab. Our next destination is Puntarenas Costa Rica. We actually passed nearby this town on our way to Manuel Antonio where we spent a great week in Spanish immersion classes three years ago. Rather than revisit places we already have seen we opted for a river rafting and wildlife viewing trip through Princess.

The next day finds us in San Juan del Sur Nicaragua. This is probably the poorest country we will experience. Costa Ricans (or Ticos) look down on “Nicas” who flood across the border to take menial jobs locals shun. Sound familiar? We are taking a walking tour of Granada which is one of the oldest cities in Central America. We also will be doing a lake tour by boat, all arranged through Princess. We follow this with a day that starts at Puerto Quetzal Guatemala. We are doing a shopping experience at handcraft markets and a jade market (guess who picked that tour?). This is Maya country so I expect to come home with some colorful chatchkes!

We have only half a day in Huatulco Mexico which is a place we have visited before. We took our kids to the Club Med there (which is now part of a different hotel chain) once. It is a made for Fonatur destination so there is not much to see in that area except resorts. For that reason I am cashing in another travel agent graduation gift. I am a big fan of AmResorts properties (there are a number reviewed on this blog from a FAM I did with AmResorts to the Riviera Maya). This is one of the finest purveyors of luxury all inclusive vacations with their Zoetry, Secrets and Dreams Resorts. We will be pampered in all inclusive luxury on the beach of Dreams Huatulco with my “Master Agent" day pass I received after completing their training.

Our journey ends in historic and fabled Acapulco. Best known as a tropical destination resort now, this city was the primary port on the Pacific  Coast of Mexico for almost 200 years. Riches flooded through Acapulco as the Spanish galleons plied the Manila Trade Route buying spices and manufactured goods from the orient with Aztec silver from Mexico. Pesky English and Dutch pirates added further spice to the history of the region. We will be touring the city, the history museum, the famed cliff divers, and seeing some of the resorts before settling into the Fairmont Pierre Marques for one night. Thanks to another travel agent incentive program we are enjoying the Famous Agents rate which is a great deal. We fly home mid-day the next day.

I am really looking forward to a real vacation! As time and our limited internet access allows I will post some photos here on my blog (I can upload much faster than on facebook). I will post on facebook and tweet on twitter when a new post has been uploaded. I hope you enjoy!

Welcome to Tower 23, what I like to think of as the solution to the San Diego dilemma. Trust me, like most “Zonies” (which is what San Diego surfers began derisively referring to the hordes of people from Arizona who crowded their beaches back in the ‘70’s, and we adopted as our own self description)  I love the place. It is that little slice of So Cal that has the most laid back nature with just enough urbanity and California chic. It also has coolness of the climactic sort which is why so many flee the Phoenix area’s scorching summer to chill on the beach there. This is what leads to the dilemma. There are great lux hotels in the area, but only one is on a great beach (The Del Coronado). The Del sits on the soft sand of Coronado Island which is a charming little upscale community that is a bit isolated from the happening scenes of the Gas lamp District and the hip beach towns south of La Jolla. Mission Beach and Pacific Beach are the see and be seen urban places to be, but until recently they lacked an uber cool place to stay. Tower 23 has come to the rescue to scratch that itch and do it in a way that will satisfy the discriminating Generation X and Y consumer.

This is a boutique design hotel. Ultra modern design elements start with the structure itself which is white concrete, glass and polished metal. I stumbled upon this gem doing research for some younger clients who were looking for a beach stay in the area. I was struck by the overall look of the place, and decided to pop in for a site inspection on my next trip to the area. It was far more impressive in person! I was surprised by the artistry the designers applied throughout the property. When I visited there was only one suite vacant for me to see and it was a patio suite on the deck. When I saw the view of the PB scene from the deck I knew if I were to stay I would be paying up for beach front.

When it came time to do a family va-cay I let the 20-somethings pick the lodging in San Diego. I picked in LA and have already posted my review of Raffles L’Ermitage. We went from refined elegance on a quiet street in Bev Hills, to urban chic in the middle of the PB beach scene. I like the irony of doing crazy LA in a very subdued location and laid back SD at what has become THE happening place on the beach. None of us were disappointed in the choice despite having a 4 month baby in tow. She slept through all the hubbub coming from the packed bar below the balcony. All of us enjoyed being in the middle of the excitement.

The well stocked, and hipply appointed, bar at Tower 23’s excellent restaurant JRDN (I’d like to buy a vowel) is worth a visit even for those not staying at T23. Primp the hair and makeup girls and find yourself a stool, sofa, or table here, the place is packed with the best guys on the beach. Guys, this is where the hotties get dressed up to party and do so until late into the night. On weekends JRDN is the PB scene. It is the upscale alternative to the fun but down market “crab shack” hang outs. If you want a quiet sedate stay DO NOT go to Tower 23. If you want a room on top of the hottest bar in PB T23 is paradise!

The spacious bar faces the busy boardwalk in the heart of Pacific Beach with the beach, the blue Pacific Ocean, and the PB pier just outside the floor to ceiling windows. Sitting at the bar or in the lounge is a comfy seat on the boardwalk where you can watch the people walk, bike, board or blade by. Location, location, location!

My favorite place to dine was at the front outdoor tables where the scene just flows right by on the boardwalk. The food is widely acclaimed by critics. I liked the diverse selections with nouvelle leanings. Some old favorites are re-invented with creative flair. The quesadillas are packed with vegies and come with a really great guacamole. My second fav dining was via the 24/7 room service for breakfast. Generous portions, artful presentation and always well prepared no matter the hour. The coffee was outstanding! They serve it in a glass press and I must say it was strong but not overbearing and very aromatic.

The Deck is the place to kick back and relax. Although the pool is more of a fountain where one is invited to dip ones tootsies, there is ample room to find a chaise and lay back in the sun with a view of the Pacific. There is a great sofa conversation pit where a gas fire is lit when the air gets chilly. The amazing service extends “poolside.” Management here has done a great job staffing and training. Everyone we interacted with was friendly, helpful and hip. Service is attentive without being smothering, and all of the staff reflects T23’s cool vibe. For any “cougars” looking for girl friend getaway let me mention that all of the waiters are as tempting as the desserts.

D

Do not even ask for a dessert menu unless you are ready to indulge (or are far better than me and my crew at resisting temptations). This pair of lovely selections disappeared in a flurry of spoons attacking from all directions. It was a good thing I had accomplices or I would have devoured the chocolate caramel cake by myself. It was even better than it looks!

No swimming, but you are welcome to cool off your tootsies in the “pool” or just sit nearby and listen to the soothing sound of the waterfall.

What a great place to sit and watch the boardwalk scene! Listen to the waves and watch the surfers hunt for the perfect crest to ride in a comfy chaise lounge. The sunsets are to die for and chair side service is always there for your every need.

You will pay a premium for a room with a view like this one from our deck. Was it worth it? I think so! Sadly there are not many full ocean front suites at Tower 23, and they fill fast during the summer. There are a good number of partial ocean views as well, but most rooms open to the deck or offer city views. The resort is intimate so the ocean view deck, and the boardwalk facing JRDN are steps away from every room.

Rooms are “pads” at Tower 23. This was our surf pad. Our room was directly above JRDN so even noisier than most pads would be, but I found it acceptable with the door closed the muted voices and music lulled me to sleep. This pad is also on the corner of the building facing La Jolla hence the great views in many of the photos to follow and the one above of the coastline.

Does size really matter? If it does to you than the rooms are the weakest link at T23. This is not a Virtuoso property, and those who expect the type of rooms found in that caliber of hotel would not be satisfied here. I found them very well appointed with high quality linens, duvets and a really comfy bed. There is not a great deal of space to move around in. Coming from the wide open spaces of our room at L’Ermitage the lack of square footage was quite a contrast.

Snacks and premium beverages were for sale in the snack shop and mini bar. I was tempted to buy one of the very cool caps or visors as well. Furnishings are simple, chic and modern. Wireless Internet access is FREE and available throughout the property. I was Tweeting from the deck overlooking the Ocean while I was there. Some of you more expensive luxury hotels please take note! For most of us Internet access is seen as a right or necessity not a privilege we should pay extra for! Bravo for that cool inclusion T23!

Bathrooms are small but very well decorated. All is sleek lines and modern fixtures throughout. Premium bath amenities are provided of course.

This optic light wall is not done justice by day. I kept forgetting to take my camera downstairs to catch it in all it’s glory! This backs the bar at JRDN and pulses with changing colors making the scene come alive at night.

There is no lack of space downstairs! The ample dining, drinking and lounging space is the attraction at Tower 23. If you are a stay in my room type it may not be for you. If you are a make the scene type welcome to your new favorite beach digs! Notice the wine wall in the background? Premium bottles are opened daily.

Tower 23 is particularly appealing to those in their 20’s and 30’s who want to splurge on a high end beach boutique that is all about design. Hip vibe, great service, Pacific views, and access to SD’s coolest beach scene is included in every stay. Great for Bachelor or Bachelorette trips, girlfriend or guys getaways and romantic trips for those couples who like night life.

Click on the first image below to enjoy a slide show of T23. Mouse over the pop up window and click the arrow to the right to advance the slides. Call Alliance Travel Partners to plan your escape to Tower 23 today.

I had the pleasure of staying at this stunning luxury hotel for two nights recently. I also had the opportunity to do a site inspection and see the amazing two bedroom suite. L’Ermitage is subtle. It is nestled on a leafy residential street in Beverly Hills. The facade is also subtle. It blends so well into the luxury condos it shares the street with, that I drove right past it the first time.

I noticed the addresses I was passing were west of the hotel’s address and looked in my mirror. I only then saw the valet and knew I had missed my mark. The sign in the first picture is to the left of the awning in this shot, so you can see that they aren’t loudly announcing their presence at Raffles L’Ermitage. They also don’t have to. This hotel is a favorite of the rich and famous and prides itself on shielding them within. We were told at check-in that no photography is allowed on the first floor (the lobby, lounge, bar and restaurant). This policy is to protect the privacy of the many celebrities who stay there or just come by for a meal or a cocktail.

So how did I get photos of the interdicted first floor? Partly by sweet talk and charm, and partly by luck. When I met the sales manager I mentioned how lovely my photos would make the hotel look when placed on my blog. When we arrived in the lobby I asked again and mentioned that the entire first floor was now empty except for employees and myself. A quick call to the general manager and I secured permission.

Clean light wood furnishings, Asian accents, and bold modern art make quite a statement at this elegant retreat. Raffles started in Singapore and China nearly a century ago as a sanctuary for the British nobility traveling there. Although this hotel is far from those fabled shores it salutes it’s heritage in ways both direct and subtle.

Bamboo and dry flowers ornament a pot in this niche. Among the many design elements that remind us of the roots in China.

The other statement made loud and clear by the design team at L’Ermitage is welcome to the heart of Los Angeles. Bright modern artworks jump out from the soft blond wood paneling. Much of the art continues this bold statement of place. Here we are in Beverly Hills. The Beverly Hills of the Hollywood Elite.

Ah, the glamour and glitz of old Hollywood! “Dahling, you really should put me in your next picture!” She cooed. “After your last star turn, dear, perhaps I should.” This 3-D piece really jumped out and caught my attention. There is a lot of attention to the details at this hotel.

This is what gives the posh comfy bar at L’Ermitage it’s name and it’s renown. Original screen plays are prominently framed on display. It was cool to see notes hand written on some of them. The Writer’s Bar is a favored watering hole for screen writers, producers, and of course actors as well. We spent a very fun evening sharing drinks and talk with a dear friend who lives in Malibu. While we caught up on all of our various doings a number of well known faces showed up as well. I am not the star—struck type in the slightest. To me people are people even if they are household names. As for who we saw during our stay, I do not kiss and tell. Discretion is important in my line of work.

Jaan is the signature restaurant at L’Ermitage and has earned the AAA Four Diamond award. We had one dinner here and the service was understated but attentive. Entrees were creatively presented and very flavorful. It is a lovely place to take a meal. My only complaint was that the menu was very limited. This was not at all an issue for me, but the fussy diner may see it as one. We enjoyed room service breakfasts that were brought promptly and were nicely prepared. I really loved the sign for Jaan.

As I have learned to travel with camera in hand and finished photographs in mind I have found taking good pictures of a room to be the biggest challenge. Bathrooms in particular are hard to do justice. Most are hard to shoot because one is in a small space. What was hard here was getting a picture that showed how large the space was. The bathrooms at Raffles L’Ermitage are very large. Very, very large. The dressing room area that you enter going into the bath was the size of many hotel bathrooms. Then it opens up to a large double vanity offsetting the oversized tub on one side and the toilet room and shower to the other. We did love the bathroom at L’Ermitage!

This was our king bed with a clever sliding screen headboard and blond wood night stands. The screens closed for privacy or opened up to connect the room to the dressing room area. It is another Asian touch that gives the property an exotic and elegant feeling.

Two overstuffed chairs with ottomans made for a very comfortable seating area in the room. There was a desk with chairs and high speed internet access. This is a must for hotels these days. The next must have is rapidly becoming flat screen HD Televisions. That bridge is yet to be crossed here. The move to HD is going to be a costly one for most nice hotels due to the existing investments in armoires that hold analog TVs and keep them out of site. The consumer will eventually demand it as they are accustomed to the big clear picture at home.

This is the living room in the huge two bedroom suite. There is a bedroom with private bath on either side of this central living area. This suite is large and very will appointed. One of the bedrooms has a king bed and the other two queens. A perfect family abode for your Beverly Hills getaway.

Each room has a balcony which we truly enjoyed. The hotel is on a tree lined street with a very residential feeling to it. I spent hours sitting on the balcony with my baby granddaughter. She loved watching the traffic go by and the bird chirping in the many trees. With such a benign climate, access to the outdoors is a must for a stay in Los Angeles.

To really savor the outdoors go up to the rooftop pool. Sit under an umbrella or in the sun on a padded chaise lounge. You can call room service at tables opposite the pool in a private feeling niche on the roof. All with a sweeping view of the city beyond and the lovely green Hollywood Hills.

The location is ideal for those who want to be close to the main shopping areas of Beverly Hills (including famous Rodeo Drive) but prefer to have a more residential feeling retreat. We were able to easily walk to Beverly Drive and Robertson Boulevard and then return to our more quiet tree lined street.

While close to all of the main Beverly Hills attractions, you find yourself in a sedate niche with a residential nature.

This simple yet stylish water feature greets you on exiting the exercise room and spa area leading to the rooftop pool. They make the most of the space allowed by the small footprint of the hotel. This is not a large property. Because of that they are able to personalize service. On check-in I was greeted at the desk by name. All of the staff do the same throughout your stay. That is one thing I love about a smaller boutique hotel. They do a great job from the valet to room service at recognizing and serving their guests.

This was a wonderful stay, and I highly recommend this hotel. It may not appeal to those whose tastes are more European or traditional in terms of decor and design. If you like modern design with Asian sensibility and attentive service you will love Raffles L’Ermitage.

Click on the first photo to open a slide show in a pop up window. Advance the slides by mousing over and clicking the arrow on the right…

This was the most interesting site inspection I have done including the one I did in Spanish at Maroma. It was also the most fun I have ever had getting to know a new property. When I went to the Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills it was at the invitation of Jorge Collazo their director of marketing who I have enjoyed interacting with on Twitter. He also invited Stacy Small who I have also met on Twitter and really like tweeting with. She was joined by Gen Hershey who is new to Twitter but trying to get herself up to speed at Stacy’s prompting. Rounding out our group was Peter Falke the charming sales manager for the Four Season Los Angeles. Peter is not on Twitter despite his colleagues’ attempts to lure him there.

Peter was extremely gracious and patient as he tried to give a site inspection in the middle of a tweetup. From the moment we all started trickling into the lobby Twitter was the dominant force poor Peter had to contend with. Whenever you gather any enthusiastic tweeters together the elephant in the room is a little blue bird. Usually I am attentive and snapping oodles of photos when I have the opportunity to visit a property, but this time I was very distracted. As we toured the hotel side twonversations kept popping up about Twitter. Jorge and I  chatting about what this vendor or that is doing or not doing on Twitter. Stacy and Jorge discussing a mutual tweeter. Stacy and I comparing notes on how Twitter is changing our business. The three of us explaining to Gen what this Twitter term or that one means, or how to do this or that on Twitter. Throughout it all Mr. Falke kept his composure and showed us the changes being made to modernize and upgrade this lovely hotel.

Whenever a group of travel professionals gather for lunch there is much talk of mutual acquaintances and former colleagues. It is a business of relationships. During our gathering there was a lot of this tracking of where one person is and how we know them perhaps from their last position in the industry. The difference on this day was adding the all important “He’s not on Twitter” or “She is @so-and-so on Twitter.”  During it all @elitetravelgal was tweeting on her blackberry and snapping photos of us all to post on Twitpics! She also talked @jorgecollazo into downloading “UberTwitter” for his blackberry. It was a most interesting time!

So let this rambling serve as my apology for failing to get enough good pictures to do this lovely property justice here on my blog. I guess this means I will have to return! The next time I visit Los Angeles to see friends and family or for a business function I hope to stay at the Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills. The location is fabulous. The hotel sits on a leafy intersection a bit off the main hubbub of Beverly Hills. It still is very close to Rodeo Drive and the other temptations that the area is famous for. For those wanting easy access to all that Los Angeles has to offer, but preferring a room that offers a respite from the bustle, this location is ideal. A short drive or a long walk puts you right in the thick of things in Beverly Hills. The Robertson Boulevard shopping area which is up and coming is only one block away.

The circle drive at the lobby is subtly screened by trees and other greenery making a very private experience in a very public area. Word is that this is what makes the Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills very popular with Hollywood types. Along with the nearby Raffles L’Ermitage this is one of the favored stays for celebrities both local and visiting. The bar also serves as a favored watering hole for the rich and famous. When asked what distinguishes this Four Seasons from the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire one of our hosts replied that the latter is where tourists go hoping to see celebrities and the former is where celebs go to avoid the tourists. True to this description several notables strolled by during our visit.

Another view of the front facade.

What three words say you have arrived better than Four Seasons Hotel? This is a view of the lobby overhang from the circle drive area. Though small (this is an urban hotel) the grounds are lush and green. One of the things I like about Los Angeles is how well every square inch of land is taken advantage of with plantings of the myriad variety of foliage that can grow in this benign climate. This property is true to that trend giving it a lush tropical feeling with bougainvillea, palms, annual flowers and all manner of green things.

Yes, we are in Los Angeles. Reminders of that inescapable fact start with this oft photographed statue of Marilyn Monroe in her most famous movie scene. This fun sculpture is there to greet you opposite the lobby in the circle drive.

This geometric tiled water feature is also front and center offering the sound of splashing water to mute the sounds of the traffic beyond. The hotel is oriented so that it faces the less busy street. Neither is a major thoroughfare so by L.A. standards it is a very quiet and sedate location.

One of us asked our hosts if they had a resident florist and the answer was “Of course!” Upon entering the lobby it is the stunning floral arrangements that immediately catch the eye. Could they please send the florist by my house once in a while?

This detail of the large white rose arrangement on the wall opposite the front desk was one of my favorite pictures from this trip. I do so love flowers, and these white roses were exquisite!

The main emphasis Jorge and Peter wanted to impress upon us is that they have started a rolling make-over that will touch every room in the hotel over the next year. I have to say the redone rooms were really nice. From the simple yet smart art touches on the contrast was striking. The best new feature is replacing vertical armoires with low desks and adding flat screen HD TVs. It creates a much more open feeling in the rooms. It also gives the guest the great HD picture they are used to on their home TVs.

They are incorporating marble and high end fixtures in all the baths. This is one of the few times I took a decent photo of a bathroom. Rooms in general are a big challenge to the budding photographer. I really would like to take another photo lesson from @equusluminous, but this time in a resort during a site inspection.

When I book this hotel for you I will request a high floor if you like a nice view of Los Angeles. Each room includes a balcony most with nifty views of the exciting city that is it’s setting.

I liked the subtle hues on the print headboards. They were framed by mirror walls further opening up the rooms. Of course high quality linens are the rule. This is a Four Seasons after all.

This is the family room of one of the remodeled one bedroom suites. Spacious and comfortable, no? All the rooms are very nicely appointed.

By the time we got to the pool area I was thoroughly distracted. We had lunch under an umbrella overlooking the pool. Somehow in all the buzz and twittering over Twitter I forgot that I had a camera with me and was there to take pictures. The two I took do not really capture how nice the pool area looks here. As you can see in the left corner of this picture (barely) they have very smart two shade green pads on the chaise lounges. There were some very cool cabanas that had the same color scheme that were lovely. You will have to take my word for it because I neglected to snap a single shot of them!

Here is the other reason that I MUST return to the Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills. It was strongly suggested that we try the ice cream sandwich. This is a dessert not to be missed! In fact, I have been pining for it ever since. I rarely look for sweets at lunch time, but I was so glad they insisted on splitting this fabulous creation. Starting with two freshly baked homemade chocolate chip cookies (which would be a delight on their own) they add a center of soft whipped homemade vanilla ice cream. One end is then dipped into dark hot fudge sauce and the whole is chilled. Offset with a colorful assortment of berries it becomes a work of art that is every bit as tasty as it looks!

If you would like to see more click on the first image to start a slide show in a new window, then mouse over to the arrow and click to advance the slides:

This is the entry drive to Maroma (not to be confused with Secrets Maroma Beach or the town of Maroma) and it is a great introduction to just what this magical little luxury resort is all about. Place. Maroma celebrates, salutes, and nestles into it’s place in the world.

Everything about Maroma says “Welcome to the MAYA Riviera.” Here you are on a jungle beach in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico  that is the homeland of the Mayan people. The jungle is untouched on the drive to the resort. As you pass through the lush greenery simple signs depicting the native fauna line the road. The first edifice one encounters is the Mayan statue and shrine above. Like all of the buildings at Maroma resort it is surrounded by the lush natural landscape.

This is the view from the simple open air lobby. Maroma is not a rustic bare-bones hammock on the beach eco-resort. This is an Orient Express luxury resort with service and amenities of the highest quality. It just looks and feels as if you are alone in nature. You can call room service any time from your well appointed suite.

This is the library and business center. Notice the high thatched roof in the authentic Mayan style. Also notice the hardwood floor and clean whitewashed walls that are throughout the resort. Furnishings are stylish and comfortable. The local theme is at home in every part of the resort making a clean look that does it’s best to salute the Riviera Maya style.

Maroma is full of cozy places to curl up and read a book. Harmony with nature and a sense of place are paramount here. This is the place for those who want an experience of beauty and relaxation tempered with the pampering of a luxury boutique resort on a delightful Mexican Caribbean beach. One of my favorite amenities offered by this resort is a Spanish immersion program they offer. At check-in you are given a Spanish-English Dictionary and a lesson book. Your reservation is noted so that all staff of the resort will interact with you in Spanish during your stay (of course if the Spanish fails you can get assistance in English as needed).

I learned about this when I arrived at Maroma and greeted my hostess for the site inspection in my best Spanish. She explained the immersion program and offered to continue the site inspection in Spanish. I accepted her offer (also in Spanish). I am not fluent in Spanish but I do have a pretty good grasp on the language. Several times I had to ask a follow up question in English to clarify something she had said. After explaining to my satisfaction in English we would continue in Spanish. I have to say it was a good way to practice my Spanish, and made the whole experience much more Mexican and authentic. This is the type of thing that really sets Maroma apart from most of the luxury properties on the Riviera Maya.

Dark hardwood, white walls and marble floors are dressed up  with colorful accents. This is the living room in one of the Suites. The rooms and suites are spacious and all include ample outdoor patio seating. Most rooms and suites face the beach with only a few garden rooms on the property.

I loved the bed presentation in all of the rooms. Some had this pyramidal sheer draping you see above. Muy romantico! Others had more of a four post frame that was similarly draped. All very nice.

Of course this is a beach resort. My, oh my, what a beach it has! Soft white sand greats you and the startling turquoise Caribbean beckons (as do the chaise lounges and palapas. The water is so clear here that every reef practically jumps out of the light blue water. Along with the Mayakoba resorts this is the best of beaches in the opinion of this beach lover.

While enjoying the beach or the gardens at Maroma you can enjoy a beverage or a meal at the open air Freddy’s Tequila and Ceviche Bar. I was not able to sample the fare at Maroma but I have heard from first hand reports that it is excellent.

This is El Restaurante which is open for breakfast lunch and dinner. It was built by skilled Mayan masons with authentic indigenous motifs. Specializing in “small portion Mexican cuisine” the skilled chefs pay homage to local flavors with international influences. They also feature El Sol with Yucatecan originals such as cochinita pibil (one of my very favorite Mexican dishes) and Creole dishes as well. In room dining is of course an option 24 hours a day.

This is the outdoor dining at El Restaurante. I think any of these tables will be fine, gracias. What a stunning backdrop for a meal dining al fresco at Maroma Resort and Spa! There is a spa restaurant as well rounding out the dining options.

What Mexican resort would be complete without a “tequila and coffee library?” I had to clarify that in English to make sure I understood the concept. Not a bad author that I could see in this library, just classics and award winners. The coffee smelled rich and robust. The coffee served in the Mayan Riviera area is usually quite bold and delicious. It makes me wonder why most of Mexico serves “Sanka?” It is puzzles like this that keep me up at night sometimes.

Blue on green is the scene at this pool set in a lush tropical garden. The landscape at Maroma makes every space feel like a private jungle enclave. Such a relaxing atmosphere this creates!

The ocean front Master Suites and Sian Nah Suites face that stunning water from every room. Ample outdoor seating is available. The Sian Nah Suites even have an upstairs area that contains a private couples massage room, and a private exercise room with several pieces of equipment for those who want to exercise while looking at the blue sea beyond.

These suites also feature a private tiled Jacuzzi tub that also looks down on the beach and blue Caribbean Sea beyond. That looks like a very inviting place to take a soak.

Don’t let the natural vibe and setting fool you, this is a luxury resort. Marble counters, tiled floors and modern fixtures are here for your convenience. Quality linens are provided. It just looks rustic. You will be pampered and comfortable here.

I loved the high thatched indigenous styled ceiling in the spa reception. Yes, there is a spa. Like most of the resort it makes the most of local design and opens itself to the lush natural verdure all around.

The many water features in the spa garden area show the Mayan influence with bas relief carvings, statues, limestone block and natural wood beams. They are also weaved into the jungle trees they were built around. It is a lovely effect, and creates a very private peaceful spa experience.

Even the indoor hydrotherapy pool brings the outdoors in.

The treatment rooms all can be open to the garden setting beyond or draped for privacy.

Would I stay at Maroma? If money were no object and I were able to choose any resort on the Riviera Maya for a personal stay this would be my first choice. I am a lover of natural settings, authenticity, and of course a great beach. I would truly enjoy immersing myself in this little luxury property for my next Spanish immersion program. My wife had a different opinion after reviewing all my pictures and listening to my descriptions of all the resorts I visited. Her favorite was the Rosewood Mayakoba. If I were to take my wife for a trip to the area that is where we would stay. A lesson any married man can learn from an experienced travel agent (and husband for almost 30 years) is that a happy wife is a must have for a good vacation experience. I always live by that motto and recommend it to others.

This concludes my reviews from my Maya Riviera FAM trip. I want to thank Connie Levang from Amresorts for hosting me on this fun and informative whirlwind tour. I also am grateful she had no objection to me seeing other properties in the area while on the trip. She was a very fun guide for our Secrets, Dreams and Zoëtry tours and stays. Visit our travel agent site if you would like to learn more about these and other fine resorts in the Riviera Maya, or anywhere else in the world you would like to visit. Not sure where to go? We can help you find the perfect destination for your travel style.

Click the first image below to see a pop up slide show of Maroma Resort and Spa. Mouse over to the arrow to advance the slide show.

Welcome home to Amresorts’ most unique and luxurious property. Zoëtry is a wellness resort concept and Paraiso de la Bonita is the first property under this exciting new luxury included brand. This resort is all about the Feng Shui. From a “director of wellness” offering numerology readings (I was told I think outside the box which seems pretty accurate to me) to yoga classes to a certified Thalassotherapy Spa offering anti-aging treatments and Mayan Temezcal ceremonies, a stay at this little paradise spells stress relief.

Paraiso de la Bonita translates into English as “paradise of the beautiful.” The resort was originally built and designed by an architect as a homage to his lovely wife. I found the look of this charming boutique resort striking throughout. Very bold colors accent eclectic art and furnishings. This is the only Amresorts property that is in the Virtuoso hotels program, and is rated five diamonds by AAA. The accolades are well deserved.

The minute one steps out of the private airport transfer one is greeted by breezes from the Caribbean Sea moving through the open air lobby. The soft sounds of new-age music and the many water features are your welcome. The helpful staff will soon know you by name which is one of the things I love about luxury boutiques. The lobby opens on to this water feature with the infinity pool and the blue sea beyond.

This Paraiso comes with a lush garden setting. The grounds are meticulously maintained and have a wonderful tropical paradise feeling. It is not a large property, and there are some other hotels not far down the coast, but it feels very private due to the clever layout and all of the greenery. All of the 90 large suites face the ocean with either a balcony or patio with plunge pool.

The welcome amenity is a bottle of Jose Cuervo 1795 Traditional. I am not a big fan of the low-end Jose Cuervo products, and I am a bit of a tequila snob (I live in a border state and have done much tasting of the agave products). I was so curious I had to look it up on the internet. It turns out that Jose was the first grantee of a license to distill mescal into tequila back in 1795. This is a special bottling of the best to commemorate that event which was the birth of the tequila industry. I opened the bottle. It was one of the best aged tequilas I have ever tasted. There was sea salt layed out in a spiral and a sliced lime to go with it. I have a new respect for the Jose Cuervo company.

This is the family room of my multi room suite named “Malindi.” There are no room numbers at this resort, as each room is named for a place that the designer had traveled to and loved. The design elements in each room are influenced by the country it is named for. Notice the leopard prints on the pillows?

The suites are very large and very well appointed. This is looking back at the desk area. There is a balcony with a sliding glass door to the right of the picture. There was another balcony in the bedroom area and both overlooked green landscaping and the blue Caribbean Sea beyond.

I told you the suites are large! The bed was very comfortable with high quality linens. Notice the African inspired accents which included spears, masks, and elephants. Not what I expected in Mexico but very cool. I saw another room with Asian accents and it all seemed to work very nicely in each suite. The decor throughout is eclectic with tropical, African and Asian elements mixing with local Mexican and Mayan touches. I thought it made for a colorful and interesting property. A design purist may find it off-putting.

The bathrooms were large and inviting. The tub was so big it seemed to be inviting a party. The ground floor suites had a private outdoor garden shower in addition to the large one inside. Modern glass double vanity with ample space to unpack made it a very usable bath experience.

Here is the sea view from one of the two balconies my suite included. The open doors carried a delicious breeze into the room that was a great accompaniment to the room amenity. I love an ocean view suite, and at Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita every single suite has something for me to love!

Seating or a hammock for however you want to enjoy palm trees swaying in a tropical breeze as the blue Caribbean Sea murmurs in the background. Crack a book, order a cocktail or snack and enjoy!

I liked almost everything about this resort. The food and service were superb. The setting was lovely. The look of the place was what I liked best. This is one of two statues that greet guests entering the open air lobby. I loved the way this photo came out with the contrasting colors.

Arty water feature just off the main lobby is a cool accent that adds to the tranquil spirit of this wellness resort.

Waiters walked on water to provide drinks and food poolside.

Frog statues livened things up in the infinity pool with a playful spray of water. It is not a large pool, but it did not feel crowded at all as the resort has a limited number of suites (it was near capacity on my stay).

Despite a rather hectic pace, I found reason to smile frequently. I was quite happy to be setting sail on the private catamaran at Paraiso de la Bonita when this photo was taken.

We enjoyed a relaxing sail along the coast as the sunset over the shore and the waters of the Caribbean. The resort in this photo is Secrets Silversands which we had visited earlier on the trip. The director of entertainment was a delight and he particularly was found entertaining by the ladies in our group. All of the crew were friendly relaxed and helpful on the sailing. It was a highlight of the trip and I will suggest it to my clients who go and enjoy the water.

This was the colorful hallway that led to my suite. Notice the privacy gate which was keyed to my room key if I wanted to be left alone. Being the gregarious sort that I am, i left it open.

Natural wooden columns and wood beam “vigas” on the ceiling. This photo doesn’t do it justice, but the floor is a very detailed mosaic of stone and tile.

This is the outdoor section of one of the two formal dining rooms. “La Canoa” features “cuisine de los soles” or food of the suns. It was a somewhat spicy blend of Caribbean, Asian and Mexican cooking styles. I enjoyed the meal we ate here very much. Ingredients seemed fresh and herbs and vegetables featured prominently.

This is one of the many mural covering the walls of “Kaax” which serves authentic Mexican food. I did not have the opportunity to eat here, but I loved the artwork. There are also a sushi and ceviche bar (I enjoyed some of each poolside and it was very good), and a grill for your dining pleasure.

This is the beautiful spa pool. Out schedule included “free time” the morning of our departure day. I got in a cab so I could do site inspections at two luxury resorts I had not visited before. While I was gone the other agents were treated to a surprise free treatment in the spa. Judging from the relaxed and smiling faces a saw upon my return, and the many favorable reports I was regaled with, I think I can safely say that the spa at Zoëtry is excellent.

High touch service, “endless privileges”tm, excellent cuisine, huge rooms, ocean views for all makes this a very desirable boutique resort. I plan to return as soon as I can fit it into my schedule. My only very minor complaint is sea grass. The beach is fine white sand, and it is easy to swim out all along the property, but off the beach a few yards there is mostly a sea grass bottom. It did not interfere with my use of the beach, but made the water appear somewhat dark from above. Those expecting that bright turquoise one thinks of when pondering the Caribbean. As this was to me a minor annoyance, it would not keep me from choosing to stay here again.

For some travelers who have a certain sensibility for style, architecture and design the very colorful and eclectic approach taken at Paraiso de la Bonita may not be to their liking. It is in places very busy. The use of elements from different cultures could be found distasteful to some eyes. It would be easy to see if this would apply in your case by looking at my photos. I thought it was a very attractive and unique property.

Click the first image and mouse over to the arrow to advance to the next image in the pop up slide show:

Dreams resorts are family friendly “luxury included” resorts in the Amresorts family of brands along with Secrets Resorts and Zoetry Wellness & Spa Resorts. The Dreams properties are similar in concept and execution to Secrets in terms of the cuisine and amenities (including the same restaurant concepts for the most part). The main difference is that Dreams are all about the kiddies. Each Dreams resort has a dedicated kid’s program called Explorer’s Club  that makes a vacation more like a summer camp experience for the kids but with a really nice room and great food for Mom and Dad. Now that I am a grandpa, I cannot wait to go to this resort when my little darling is just a bit older!

The grounds of this resort are lush and inviting. I personally look for a green garden setting as one of the most important features of a tropical vacation stay. I am not getting on an airplane to visit someplace that feels like home (and i am rather fond of my home here in Arizona). Dreams Tulum scratched that oh so tropical itch for me very nicely.

To the right in this picture is the new addition to Dreams Tulum which has some nice features. The rooms are slightly larger in this section, and the entry is through an enclosed hallway as opposed to the open air access in the older section. Booking a block of rooms in this section gives one the ability to create a suite with keyed access just for your party. This is a great asset to those traveling with children but wanting separate rooms and the ability to have easy access to the kids.

The main lobby building is nicely appointed with modern flair. Dreams Tulum features French, Mexican, Italian, Japanese, steak house, sushi, and a continental buffet. There are six bars including a nightclub, a lounge, poolside bar and beach bar. Of course all of your meals and top shelf beverages are included. There is no need to carry a wallet or cash at any time, just step up to the bar or show up at one the restaurants and order what you want. I like the freedom of this “luxury included” approach.

This is one of the room sections in the new part of Dreams Tulum. The doors at the ends of the hallways can be keyed to create a private suite of rooms that then can be left open to one another. This is a nice feature for families that want to stay together but not squeeze into one suite.

“Welcome home!” From the moment you arrive at a Dreams resort you are made to feel both welcome and at home. Rooms are spacious, modern and nicely appointed. Furnishings are comfortable and tasteful. Relax on the canopy bed and order room service 24/7 with no additional charges. Each suite includes a fully stocked mini-bar with no restocking charges. This is a super inclusive stay.

Dreams Tulum is a large property and has very lush landscaping and a very natural feeling. Lively water features are found throughout the resort. This resort feels peaceful and open.

This is the large beachside pool. The pool has a swim up bar and the nearby beach bar is also available. Dreams Tulum is one of the only resorts that offers bike tours to the ruins of Tulum. There is entertainment including movies on the beach, live shows, and theme parties. There is a state of the art fitness center for those who need to work out on vacation.

Open air dining and drinking with a view of turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. I like that. The excellent kids’ club means mom and dad can relax while the tots are having a blast with the professional Explorer’s Club staff. Families can spend as much time together as works for them. We were treated to a performance by kids who were having so much fun that it seems likely most kids would opt for staying at the club all day!

Every Amresorts property features a unique venue for destination weddings. Dreams Tulum has two and each is quite unique. How nice would the bride and groom look with the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea as their backdrop?

The other wedding venue is in this colonial chapel which is an actual Catholic Church. The interior is rustic and very charming. My photos did not do it justice.

Park yourself and your favorite book on a chaise by the blue waters, and enjoy food and beverage service from the always friendly staff. All included! The beach here was very nice. Soft white sand interspersed with rocky shoals made for some of the most lovely colored seas. Plenty of pure sand areas for easy swimming access, and enough rocks to make for interesting snorkeling for those so inclined. I am a beach lover and I loved the beach at Dreams Tulum!

This is the interior of the Explorer’s Club which is decorated with painted hand prints from past guests. It was very well stocked with games, arts and crafts to amuse the most finicky children.

There is a splash pool. a sports court, a rock climbing wall, and a stage for performances (one of which we enjoyed watching). This is a fun choice for a family vacation.

This soothing water feature welcomes you to the “Spa by Pevonia” where all sorts of relaxing treatments await you.

I was treated to a small sample during my site inspection and the foot massage was a treat after walking through all the resorts all day!

Dreams Tulum is my first choice for a luxury all inclusive family vacation. For those looking for more of an adult experience Secrets or Zoetry might be a better idea. I plan to return to this resort with my family in a few years when my granddaughter is old enough for the Explorer’s Club (ages three and up). A great compromise for mom, dad, grandma, and grandpa as well.

One caveat important to note is the location of this resort. Tulum is on the far southern end of the Riviera Maya. This makes it about a one hour drive from Cancun International Airport and the Cancun hotel strip. For some, this might make for too long of a journey after a flight. It also makes it challenging to get into Cancun for shopping or dining. Even Playa del Carmen is over half and hour away. It is very close to the ruins of Tulum and not far from Ixcaret water park and some of the smaller towns of the south coast of the Riviera Maya (although there is not much tourist infrastructure in those towns). If convenience to shopping is important this may not be the best choice. For a relaxing tropical paradise experience it is just right,

Click on the first image below to open a pop up slide show of all my pictures from Dreams Tulum:

Dreams Puerto Aventuras Resort and Spa is an interesting property. Unlike most of the properties I visited on my FAM trip, this resort is in an almost suburban setting. it also is a mid rise tower and not a low slung resort. There are a number of other midrises almost adjacent to the hotel on the small cove that hold the beach.

The main draw for this property is it’s location adjacent to the port. While I would not make this my first choice for a relaxing tropical beach getaway, it is perfect for fishing or diving vacations. Your boat is a short stroll from your room. It also is super all inclusive or “luxury included” as a Dreams resort.

Next to the port is an upscale strip mall complex with dining and shopping galore. Threaded throughout the area is a dolphin park in a number of pools. This makes a fun distraction for the kids right at your doorstep.

I liked the mother dolphins swimming with their little ones. It was very cute. They also had some manatees, sea lions and other marine creatures on display. There are interactive activities with the wildlife available.

The compact layout of the resort puts the pool in the center of everything. It is a handy property to navigate as opposed to some of the more sprawling resorts in the area. Most rooms have a very nice view either of the port, the pool and beach, or down the coast in either direction.

View of the Caribbean and adjacent villas from the upper floors of Dreams Aventuras. As you can see there are different types of developments in this area from villas to mid-rise hotels and condos to shopping areas and the port facility itself. It is not an isolated resort on a lonely tropical beach. For those who want to be in the thick of things it fills that niche.

The port is the main attraction here, and this pool is nestled right against one of the port channels.

Like all Amresorts properties there are a plethora of drinking and dining options and service is always excellent. Dreams Puerto Aventuras features the full compliment of seven different dining venues and has a very nice modern nightclub as well.

We had a lovely Mexican lunch at the ocean side restaurant and this soup was as tasty as it was attractive. This is a high quality all-inclusive experience when it comes to food and drinks.

Rooms are spacious and well appointed. The decor is stylish and modern. The rooms are light and airy with some rather nice views from the higher floors. All or served by elevators, so I suggest booking the higher floors.

My other observation comes from the fact that I am a beach guy. The coastline here is mostly rocky. There is a small cove that has a swimmable beach, but the rest of the shore is rocky. I am sure there would be some very good snorkeling here for those who are so inclined. Take the mask and fins or check them out at the resort.

The rocky coastline does make for some scenic views. The water is many shades of blue here.

The small grounds are nicely landscaped and cabanas with chaise lounges are available on the large sandy area fronting the usable part of the beach. For those looking for a stay for a diving or fishing trip this would be a great choice. I would stay here for a fishing trip for sure. It also would work for those who want to be in the thick of things as far as shopping goes. Like all Dreams Resorts there is a dedicated kids’ program. You can let the excellent staff entertain the kiddies all day long if you like. Some guests drop off the kids in the morning and then pick them up for dinner. Dreams does an great job with their program for children.