Antigua: A Hidden Gem Awaits You!
January 8, 2025
"Antigua, oh Antigua! This Caribbean paradise truly lived up to its reputation as a hidden gem. I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the luxurious new Royalton Chic, a vibrant and festive resort that opened its doors in April 2024.
As a Diamond Club guest, I was treated to unparalleled luxury. Imagine having not one, but TWO butlers at your beck and call! The service was impeccable, and the resort truly catered to my every whim. And let's talk about the food! As someone who grew up with Caribbean flavors, the cuisine at Royalton Chic felt like a taste of home. The oxtails, in particular, were simply divine.
To further enhance my relaxation, I indulged in a rejuvenating spa treatment followed by a blissful massage. The next morning, I started my day with an invigorating Pilates class before taking a leisurely stroll along the pristine beach. The tranquility was unmatched – it was as if I had the entire coastline to myself! After a delicious lunch, I joined the vibrant pool party. The energy was infectious, with foam cannons, lively music, and incredible dancers. And let's not forget the pool bar – pure bliss!
Royalton Chic exceeded all my expectations. But our adventure didn't stop there. We ventured to Barbuda, Antigua's sister island. While some opted for the ferry, others took a thrilling seaplane ride. Next time, I'm definitely chartering a yacht and exploring the island by sea!
In Barbuda, we embarked on a thrilling speedboat ride to the breathtaking Bird Sanctuary. Witnessing the sheer abundance of birds living in harmony was an awe-inspiring experience. Our final stop was the legendary pink sand beach, famously known as Princess Diana Beach. We then enjoyed a delicious lunch at the picturesque Nubo Restaurant, situated directly on the beach. The ambiance was simply surreal.
Back in Antigua, we concluded our trip with a visit to the legendary Shirley Heights. This vibrant Sunday gathering is a must-experience! While we unfortunately missed the sunset, I can assure you that the energetic atmosphere, the lively music, the delicious food, and the opportunity to party with the locals, especially during the steel band performances, will be unforgettable.
Antigua is a destination that will captivate your senses. If you're ready to experience this Caribbean paradise for yourself, I invite you to join me on an upcoming group trip. Let's create unforgettable memories together!"
Dubai
January 8, 2025
Dubai & Abu Dhabi: A Whirlwind of Wonder
"My recent trip to the United Arab Emirates left me utterly spellbound. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are a testament to human ambition, constantly pushing boundaries and striving for the extraordinary.
My journey began with a quintessential souvenir hunt: a Pandora charm from the world's largest mall! After a delightful lunch, we checked into the luxurious VOCO Bonnington Dubai and then indulged in a captivating evening at Q's Lounge in the Palazzo Versace Hotel. The ambiance was electric, with talented performers and musicians captivating the crowd. The Halloween-themed cocktails were simply divine, adding a touch of spooky magic to the night.
The next day, we embarked on a whirlwind tour, exploring iconic landmarks like the Dubai Frame and the Jumeirah Grand Mosque. We wandered through the vibrant Old Baladiva Street Market and the dazzling Gold Souq, before indulging in a traditional Muslim lunch. As the sun began to set, we witnessed the breathtaking spectacle of the Burj Khalifa illuminate the night sky, a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Our adventure continued with a thrilling journey to Palm Jumeirah, a testament to human ingenuity. We marveled at the breathtaking views from the train, then explored the vibrant Dubai Marina. Finally, we ascended the Burj Khalifa, experiencing the world from a dizzying height. The panoramic views were simply breathtaking, leaving me speechless.
Later that evening, I pushed my limits with an unforgettable "Dinner in the Sky" experience. While initially daunting, the breathtaking views and the festive atmosphere, complete with professional photoshoots, made it an unforgettable adventure.
My Dubai experience culminated in a magical desert photoshoot, capturing the ethereal beauty of my "flying dress" against the vast desert landscape. This stunning image now graces the cover of this blog, a reminder of this extraordinary journey. We then embarked on a thrilling dune bashing adventure, followed by an enchanting dinner and show under the desert stars.
Our journey then took us to Abu Dhabi, where we explored the captivating Louvre Abu Dhabi museum and witnessed the vibrant energy of the camel market. We settled into the luxurious Marriott Fairfield Abu Dhabi and then visited the awe-inspiring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in the world, and the fascinating Presidential Palace.
My UAE adventure was a whirlwind of excitement, luxury, and cultural immersion. From the towering skyscrapers of Dubai to the serene beauty of the desert, every moment was unforgettable. I can confidently say that this is a destination I will return to again and again.
As a travel agent, I can help you plan your own unforgettable UAE adventure. Contact me today to start your journey!"
Scarlet Sails and Sunsets: My Virgin Voyages Escape to Riviera Maya and Bimini
February 4, 2024
Forget the kids' clubs and the buffet lines, this was a cruise for grown-ups! I recently embarked on a luxurious 5-night adventure with Virgin Voyages on the Red Scarlet, setting sail from Miami to the sun-kissed shores of Riviera Maya and the laid-back island vibes of Bimini, Bahamas. And let me tell you, it was nothing short of spectacular.
Everything but the Booze (and Fresh OJ)
Virgin Voyages boasts an all-inclusive experience, with everything from delicious meals at specialty restaurants to state-of-the-art fitness classes covered. Yes, you read that right – no nickel-and-diming here! The only extras were alcohol and fresh juices, but even then, the selection was impressive and reasonably priced.
Spa Bliss and Fitness Fun
I indulged in a rejuvenating Swedish massage at the top-notch spa, and let me tell you, it was worth every penny. The spa facilities were also fantastic, offering a haven of relaxation and pampering. For the fitness enthusiasts, the gym was cutting-edge, and the group classes, like Sunrise Yoga, were a fantastic way to start the day.
Sophisticated Vibes and Mature Crowd
One of the things I loved most was the atmosphere. The Red Scarlet attracted a sophisticated, adult crowd, mostly 45 and above. This meant no screaming children or endless buffet queues, just a laid-back vibe where you could truly unwind and enjoy the company of fellow adventurers.
Culinary Delights and Entertainment Galore
The food was exceptional! From gourmet Italian fare to fresh seafood, there was something to tantalize every taste bud. And the best part? No assigned seating or formal dress codes. Just grab your crew, choose a restaurant, and savor the deliciousness.
Unforgettable Evenings and Scarlet Night Magic
Beyond the food and relaxation, the entertainment was top-notch. I belted out my heart out during karaoke with my two travel buddies (we called ourselves the "3 Divas"), and the trivia nights were a blast, hosted by a vibrant and engaging personality. And let's not forget Scarlet Night, where the ship transformed into a sea of red, with dazzling shows, pulsating nightclubs, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Relaxing in the Hammock with a Minor Chill
My only minor complaint was the weather. It was January, and things got a bit chilly at times. But hey, a little extra snuggle in the red hammock on my balcony wasn't the worst thing in the world, especially with the breathtaking ocean views as my backdrop.
Dominican Daze Awaits!
Overall, my Virgin Voyages experience was simply incredible. It was a cruise unlike any other, and I can't wait to do it again! If you're looking for a sophisticated, adults-only escape with amazing food, entertainment, and relaxation, then Virgin Voyages is the way to go. Trust me, you won't regret it!
P.S. Don't forget to pack a sweater for those January/February and November/December sailings!
Bonus Tip: Be sure to check out the "Sailor Loot" program, where you can earn credits towards drinks and spa treatments based on your cabin category.
Email: [email protected]
Ready to set sail on your own Virgin Voyages adventure? Book Now
Juanique Welch
Divas Destinations