Everything from the practical to the sublime: Le Blanc Spa Resort, Los Cabos

mexico vacation

With what limited time we have for vacationing, when we run off, we want our romantic voyages to exceed our wildest imaginations. We want the best of the best, with everything as soothing and simple as can be. Le Blanc Spa Resort, Los Cabos, Mexico, has already been awarded the AAA 5 star status. That’s the pinnacle of luxury destinations, with many strict requirements to qualify for your best vacation ever, assuring your pleasure and enjoyment. The property is located right on the beach, but still has 4 pools – including an infinity pool – along with swim up bars, a massive and sumptuous spa with hydrotherapy and special couples’ treatments. Speaking of water, their drinking water is purified – so no worries there, you don’t need to worry about “bottled water only”, saving both your sanity and the environment. 

le blanc

Leave your extra stuff at home! With Bulgari toiletries, Chi hair appliances, top shelf liquors, bathrobes,  slippers and umbrellas, you can lighten your load (and not pay ridiculous airport fees) in luxurious style. You can leave your change at home, as well: taxes and tips are included. But should you want some cash, there’s an ATM and currency exchange on site. For those who may require them, there are rooms available for those who are physically challenged and wheelchairs are available, as well as a 24 hour doctor on call.

le blanc mexico

For many of us, the best part about traveling is the wonderful and exotic food that you don’t have to cook. As part of the included indulgence, 24 hour room service allows you to stay ensconced all cozy in your room. Sometimes, you just want to lie in. When you want to head out, there are a dozen restaurant options, serving almost anything you could be craving. Whether you want to explore the local Mexican traditional fare, freshly caught seafood, a cornucopia of buffet choices, classic steakhouse cuisine or even a simply perfect pizza, it’s all yours for the asking. Vacation time is the perfect splurge time and Le Blanc makes it worth your while: the world-renowned and award-wining pastry chef, Antonio Bachour, curates all of their menus, cakes, desserts, pastries, breakfast pastries, etc. He was named one of the ten best pastry chefs in America, so you know that your caloric intake sacrifice will be worth it.  Then, of course, you can atone the next day at one of their juice bars if you feel guilty- but I suggest that you leave THAT baggage at home as well. There is a gym on site with state of the art equipment as well as classes that include yoga, spinning, (even a water spinning class, which we tried and loved) and many more that rotate on a daily basis. Check the schedule on the weekly calendar when you arrive, your workout routine doesn’t have to suffer if you don’t want it to.  It’s also a great time to try something new, why not?

resort mexico

The spa is absolutely amazing, and if you can tear yourself away from the pools and beach, you will want to book a treatment or 20. The spa area is absolutely enormous, at more than 29,000 square feet. You will find a hydrotherapy area, hot and cold plunge pools, tons of lounge chairs, a sauna, herbal steam room, an ice room (with little individual palettes of chilled aloe lotions in ice baths you can massage all over yourself for further cooling), a relaxation lounge, and 25 treatment rooms to  indulge in any spa treatment your heart desires, including some really lovely couples options.

The relaxation areas have some fun and unique lounge options, with teardrop hammock swings big enough for two, various bed-like chaises, cold tiled seats shaped to your body which are great for the temperature rooms and add to the experience, and so many more options.  Bring your bathing suit and prepare to spend some time relaxing on your spa day- you won’t want to leave quickly.

resort in mexico

After you are done being pampered, head back to your room and perhaps order in. Your room comes with full butler service, and it’s amazing to have someone there to assist you when you require it. At one point, I had wanted to put some bath salts into my (amazing) tub, but was out. I called to request some, and the wonderful and thoughtful butler brought about four different scents and options to choose from, as well as extra towels and conditioner ( I have very long hair and he thought I might run out).  What a guy!

room service le blanc resort

If you want a day out to experience a bit of Mexico, see your butler or guest services, as there are numerous excursions available. Of the options available, we spent the day in Todos Santos- the “magic town”, where we visited the iconic “Hotel California” (yes, THAT one), toured local restaurants and shops along streets with amazing and beautiful historic architecture, and had the good luck to wander upon a festival happening.  We also went whale and dolphin watching with Cabo Dolphin, where we were able to see quite a few species of ocean life. This we highly recommend, the views as we sailed were amazing- bring a waterproof camera.

whale watching mexico

If you are looking for a truly relaxing and invigorating experience- yes, it can be both- make your next romantic getaway at Le Blanc Spa Resorts in Los Cabos, Mexico.

 

The Algonquin Resort in New Brunswick

The summer can be the most exhausting time of the year. Figuring out what to do with the kids, the heat, planning your holiday- you can wear yourself out just thinking about it, and I haven’t even mentioned the events yet. It seems like there are always a million things to do, so many places to shuttle off to, and never enough time to do it all. When you need a break, you want to go to a place where your days were carefree and relaxed, sprinkled with fun and one of a kind adventures. Of course, I am talking about The Algonquin Resort.

20140820_152600This resort is amazing. The staff is helpful, knowledgeable, and will help take care of everything for you. Not only is the resort elegant and historical, but they offer amazing perks to make your stay as carefree as possible. You have  the option to hit the greens, go to the spa, take in a game of tennis, and enjoy the indoor or outdoor pools. Then retire to your room, where you will enjoy a historical look and modern conveniences. Some of the rooms offer panoramic views of the picturesque Passamaquoddy Bay, which is lovely.

20140821_072903In addition to offering lovely rooms and a true feeling of luxury, the variety of experiences available for guests offers something for everyone, the kids, the golfers, the lovers and the adventure seekers.  The food at the resort is top notch, with several restaurants to choose from, as well as buffet style options. Children’s menus are available as well, although I always reccomend you have your kids try something fun and new while traveling.  Why not experience new food while in a new place?
pic6The spa offered so many more services than other resorts I have visited- from make up to hair, hands and feet, massages and so much more. You can truly enjoy a day of complete pampering at The Spa at The Algonquin Resort.  The rooms are also perfect for relaxing- quiet, dark when you want them to be, and spacious.  There are kitchen areas with refrigerators, counter tops, a separate eating area, microwaves, and more, making eating in while on vacation an easy option.
20140820_16003820140820_160047If you feel like a getaway is in order to refresh your spirit for the new year, The Algonquin Resort located in New Brunswick’s charming town of St. Andrews by-the-Sea, is absolutely a lovely place to go to relax and unwind or discover a fantastic adventure.  Hang out in the resort, then go exploring in the town.  There are some fun and unique things to do with your family that you won’t want to miss, like whale watching in the Bay of Fundy on the the Jolly Breeze and vising the at Kingsbrae Garden.  Make sure you scheduled time for lunch there- you will get a fun surprise!  Alpacas come and eat on the field just feet away from the tables.  (Far enough so it’s not weird, close enough so it’s fun.)
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Head To Vermont, and The Basin Harbor Club

I am a sucker for a hotel that has not only history but also charm. The last time I was in Vermont I had the pleasure of staying at Basin Harbor Club. This hotel delighted my traveling soul. The location is not only is it scenic, but it offers so many opportunities for adventure that one could ponder why anyone would visit another place for a one of a kind vacation.

Basin Harbor

Located on 700+ tranquil acres, Basin Harbor Club is an ideal hotel for couples and families as well as large groups. Regardless of the size of your travel party, there is a spot for you at this wonderful resort. The scenery, the unexpected delights to be found around each corner and the endless opportunities for fun, relaxation, and a chance to reconnect with friends and family make this a noteworthy destination.

vermont resortsFor more than 128 years this lovely resort has been operated by the Beach Family. The love of the property and pride in their resort are obvious and make this a destination that is unforgettable. The history of Basin Harbor Club is rich, which adds something super special to your stay.

hotels on lake champlainLake Champlain offers water lovers the chance to dive into boating, swimming, paddle boarding, fishing, sailing and more. Tennis lessons and a fantastic course for golfing will appeal to athletic guests. Lawn games are a favorite for guests that are looking to get active while playing together as a family.

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Hilton Head Sonesta Resorts

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A vacation in the low country is a vacation to remember forever. The hospitality and charm of the locals combined with  the stunning views and the slower pace of life make Hilton Head like no other place on Earth.  If you are going to vacation in Hilton Head, you can make your stay extra special by marking the Sonesta as your destination.

04 18 14 057The Hilton Head Resorts family has unveiled the Sonesta for your vacationing enjoyment. The resort was recently renovated for your comfort. With 340 guest rooms and suites, the resort offers lovely accommodations to make your family feel right at home. Located on 11 lush acres, you will enjoy world class golf and tennis nearby, on site bicycle rentals and an amazing swimming pool complex complete with hot tubs and a heated lagoon style swimming pool to name a few.
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Hilton Head Resorts, SC

Is your family itching for a fun in the sun vacation? If a trip to somewhere with oceanfront views, southern charm and an atmosphere the entire family will enjoy sounds perfect, you can sit back and relax, I have discovered the perfect getaway for you.

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The Hilton Head Resorts family has unveiled the Sonesta for your vacationing enjoyment. The resort was recently renovated for your comfort. With 340 guest rooms and suites, the resort offers lovely accommodations to make your family feel right at home. Located on 11 lush acres, you will enjoy world class golf and tennis nearby, on site bicycle rentals and amazing swimming pool complex, with hot tubs and a heated lagoon style swimming pool to name a few.

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Twitter Party Time! Win a Vacation to Orlando Florida (and more) with #DiamondResorts

It’s summer time, and we all know what that means- time to take a family vacation.  With everyone always rushing to and fro, there is no better time to take advantage of the school break (and for some, the slow down at work) and take some time together in a fun location.  Nothing like a different location to freshen your perspective and increase bonding time.

We all know that Have Sippy Will Travel extols the benefits of travel loudly and often- there is nothing like DOING for a child’s education, retention, and social skills.  Not to mention mom and dad need a minute to get out of the house now and again  🙂  Whether you travel often or only once or twice a year, make it as enjoyable as you can and spend the time you want to with your family.

That’s why we are giving away a 7-day vacation for four at Diamond Resorts International®’s Orlando Grand Beach property!  What’s not to love about that?  So head on over to the Twitter Party on 6/19/14 at 9 PM EST and join in the fun.  Make sure you RSVP to be eligible, and follow ALL the hosts and co-hosts- if we try to DM you and you are not following, we will be forced to choose a new winner, and who wants that?

photo via trip advisor

photo via trip advisor

Diamond Resorts International® has a network of more than 300 vacation destinations located in 33 countries throughout the continental United States, Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, South America, Central America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. Interested in winning the vacation of a lifetime? Check this out!  (Have you entered yet? Go on and give it a go!)
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Sheraton Hacienda Del Mar Golf & Spa Resort in Mexico

Will the winter ever end? Doesn’t it seem like it has been cold and or snowing for a very long time? If you find yourself day dreaming about a going away to a place you can frolic in the sun with your family, you need to keep reading- I am going to tell you about a place that inspires dreams and that turns day dreams into reality.

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The Sheraton Hacienda Del Mar Golf & Spa Resort highlights the the family-friendly side of Los Cabos. The pace is set to fun upon arrival when you get a glimpse of the 5 amazing swimming pools including an infinity pool and a kiddie pool.
Los Cabos
Kids are welcomed at The Sheraton Hacienda Del Mar Golf & Spa Resort. The Sheraton Adventure Kids Club offers daily activities. My little guy loved the kids beach excursion and the chance to spend an afternoon at the popular Chileno Beach.  The guides kept the kids busy with watersports, building sandcastles, teaching them how to ride the waves, and even giving them snacks and drinks.
mexico vacation
While the kids are busy with adventure, Dad can hit the greens.  With two fantastic courses and a full range of amenities including clinics and lessons from PGA professionals, a clubhouse, and a pro shop. Mom can relax and take advantage of the full spa featured at the Sheraton Hacienda Del Mar Golf & Spa Resort.  There are also stores available for shopping on the premises.
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If golfing and the spa don’t sound appealing, you can check out the activities desk and register for fun activities like tequila tasting, beach volleyball, or Spanish lessons.  There is a cute “Kids Club” that you can bring the kids to should you choose to.  It was raining the day we were going to take the little mister man, so they did indoor activities only.  They made a piniata and a Dia Del Muertos sugar skull craft that they were able to keep.  There is also games, toys, video games, TV and movies, puppets, and more to do depending on the age of your child.  Outside and weather permitting, there is a pool and cute water activities.

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The Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center

One of the nicest resorts we have been to in a long time, the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center was a vacation all in itself. With lovely rooms, several restaurants and dining options right on site, as well as shopping available, and it’s own pool and water park, you won’t need to leave the campus to have a great time. Beautiful gardens with running rivers and waterfalls, fish (including mangrove snappers, redfish, snook, stingrays and tarpon) and koi fish, alligators, turtles, and other aquatica abound in over 360,000 gallons of water, you may forget you are indoors as you [Read more…]