Beach

The Sunshine State Travel Spree

Earlier this month, Stephanie and I set out on a mad dash to see some of our favorite properties on the South Atlantic Coast of Florida into the Keys in a 4 night, 13 hotel “shopping spree.” By Day 4 (honestly by Day 2!), we were exhausted, but we learned so much– and isn’t that the point of using a Travel Advisor? So many people can tell you a great place that they have been, or sometimes more importantly– where not to go, but a great Advisor can point out the differences between the best properties, telling you why you should choose one property over another. When you are looking for the perfect place to celebrate a milestone, school break, or just a hard earned getaway– make sure you have an advisor on your side who is helping to guide you to the best property for YOU! Anyways, here are a few of the properties we visited on our “Travel Spree!”

Eau Palm Beach

We started our “Travel Spree” in Palm Beach, staying the night and touring Eau Palm Beach.

Why Stay Here? Spa lovers and Decor enthusiasts will rejoice in this property! Honestly, I don’t know if I have seen a more “fun” spa than Eau Palm Beach– take time to enjoy the amenities of the common spaces before and after treatments. I also love the decor of the rooms, they are so perfectly tasteful, feeling very “Palm Beach” with splashes of color and Mid-Century Modern. Families will also love their great kids club!

Pro Tip: Book an Oceanfront Lanai Terrace Suite and have access to all of the amenities of a Pool Cabana right out your Suite Door!

The Shameless Tourist Perks:

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
  • Daily Breakfast for two guests per bedroom
  • $100 USD Resort/Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
  • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

The Breakers, Palm Beach

Why Stay Here? There is really no better word than “iconic” for the Breakers Palm Beach. This resort is steeped in history and very much put South Florida on the Tourism Map for the United States. It is truly a history buff’s (like me) dream, having evolved so many times over the past 100+ years it has been in place. The amazing thing about this hotel is that it is still family owned and operated after all of these years! To put the icing on the cake, the family takes no money from the hotel each year, placing all of the profits back into the hotel for renovations, expansion, and employee benefits. Anyone wanting a historic property or a place to go with lots to do on site (with still impeccable service), will love the Breakers.

Pro Tip: If you want the best of the best service, book a Flager Club Room!

The Shameless Tourist Perks:

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
  • Signature breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom served in The Circle or The Beach Club Restaurant
  • $100 USD Resort/Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
  • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach

Why Stay Here? Looking to stay close to Miami but still out of the South Beach area? If you want some of the largest rooms and a resort atmosphere, Acqualina might be right for you! With their iconic Red and White outdoor decor, you are bound to have a glamorous South Florida Getaway at Acqualina!

Pro Tip: If you are looking for the Ultimate in Privacy, Acqualina has very small floors (sometimes with only 4 rooms per floor). If you have a larger group, it is easy to book an entire floor to yourself!

The Shameless Tourist Perks:

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
  • Daily a La Carte Breakfast for two adults, per bedroom
  • $100 USD Spa Services credit, to be utilized during stay
  • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
  • Complimentary Wi-F

Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club

Why Stay Here? Stephanie says I have a love affair with Four Seasons Hotels– she isn’t wrong. I’m completely smitten with the Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club. It perfectly combines my love of history, modern elegance, and luxury all in one beautiful property. Being a Luxury Travel Advisor, I always look at hotels with a discerning eye– how crowded is it? How is the vibe? What is unique about this property? Location? Room quality? And finally, what is the price point for all of these factors? While this hotel is certainly on the high end of the spectrum for price point, it was one of the only hotels we saw over spring break that was almost completely booked up and did not feel extremely busy, which to me, speaks volumes. This hotel is also an icon North of Miami and it has been graced by the presence of greats such as Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, Winston Churchill, and more.

Pro Tip: Book a room in the Cabana Tower for a Room with a Private Cabana attached! Or if you can’t swing a stay here, make sure you at least take time to visit their famous Champagne Bar, you won’t regret it!

The Shameless Tourist Perks:

  • Daily full breakfast for two people per bedroom, served in a hotel restaurant or through In-Room Dining 
  • Hotel/Resort Credit* (based on room category booked):
    • Guest Rooms: USD 100 credit per stay
    • Suites and Specialty Suites: USD 200 credit per stay
    • Private Retreats: USD 200 credit per bedroom per stay
  • Upgrade of one category, based on availability at time of check-in
  • Complimentary standard Internet in all guest rooms and premium Internet in all suites

1 Hotel South Beach

Why Stay Here? Are you looking for an Oasis in the middle of South Beach? Close to everything but the feeling that you are a million miles from the hustle and bustle? The 1 Hotel might be the right choice for you. With some of the largest and most beautiful rooms in the city, a rooftop bar and pool, multiple restaurants, a beach club, and a focus on wellness and your “day life” (as opposed to your “night life”), the 1 Hotel certainly made us feel right at home for our one night stay during our journey.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the gym here! It’s the largest hotel gym in North America.

The Shameless Tourist Perks:

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
  • Full American Breakfast daily for two per bedroom
  • $100 USD Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
  • Early check-in is subject to availability
  • Guaranteed 4pm late check-out for Premium Suites and Penthouses with all other room categories subject to availability
  • VIP Welcome Amenity
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

The Miami Beach Edition

Why Stay Here? If you want a hotel that embodies everything Miami, The Edition Hotel is your place. From the Mid-Century Modern Decor (and even remnants of its history!), to the nightclub, glitzy lobby, bowling alley, and ice skating rink, the Edition certainly screams Miami in all the best ways.

Pro Tip: Book a Bungalow Room (are you seeing a Pro Tip Pattern for South Florida?!)

The Shameless Tourist Perks:

  • Welcome Amenity
  • Complimentary Breakfast for Two Daily ($60/daily Value)
  • $100 USD Hotel Credit
  • Complimentary WiFi daily
  • First priority on waitlists in sold-out situations
  • Early Check-in/late Check-out, based on availability
  • First priority for requested room category, bed type, rollaways and connecting rooms
  • VIP status granted with in-person warm welcome
  • Priority for complimentary room upgrade (based on availability upon arrival)
  • Welcome note from General Manager (or Hotel Management)

The Ritz Carlton, Key Biscayne

Why Stay Here? Looking for a Florida Keys vibe just 20 minutes from the Miami airport? Look no further than the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne. With a laid back ambience, great on-site shopping and dining, and plenty of water fun for all, this hotel fits the bill for many personalities.

Pro Tip: Book a Cabana at the pool during your stay! The elevated platforms and personal service are well worth it!

The Shameless Tourist Perks:

  • Full Breakfast Buffet for two people daily in Lightkeepers Restaurant
  • Welcome Amenity
  • $100 USD Hotel Credit
  • Complimentary WiFi daily
  • First priority on waitlists in sold-out situations
  • Early Check-in/late Check-out, based on availability
  • First priority for requested room category, bed type, rollaways and connecting rooms
  • VIP status granted with in-person warm welcome
  • Priority for complimentary room upgrade (based on availability upon arrival)
  • Welcome note from General Manager (or Hotel Management)

Baker’s Cay Resort

Why Stay Here? If you are looking for a VIP Experience in Key Largo, which is the closest true “key” to Miami, Baker’s Cay is definitely the spot for you. With a dedicated team to assist our clients in making sure they are welcome and feel at home here, you will have the personal attention to detail and service that really makes a difference in a getaway. This hotel was recently refurbished and was beautifully decorated in doing so!

Pro Tip: Wanting Peace and Quiet? Book a Hammock View Room. Want to be in the middle of all of the action and with the most breathtaking ocean views? Make sure to book a Waterfront Room!

The Shameless Tourist Perks:

  • VIP Status
  • Personalized Welcome Amenities
  • Exclusive access to the onsite Guest Coordinator who can assist with just about anything!

Playa Largo Resort & Spa

Why Stay Here? If you are wanting a hotel with a large pool and lots of common amenities in Key Largo, Playa Largo might be the right choice for you! Personally, I feel like families will love this resort because of it’s common spaces and large beach area.

Pro Tip: Make sure to take part in their nightly Sunset Party at the beach!

The Shameless Tourist Perks:

  • Welcome Amenity
  • Complimentary Breakfast for Two Daily
  • Complimentary WiFi daily
  • Early Check-in/late Check-out, based on availability.
  • VIP status granted
  • Priority for complimentary room upgrade (based on availability upon arrival).
  • Welcome note from General Manager (or Hotel Management)

Little Palm Island

Why Stay Here? Looking for the only true luxury property in the Keys? Look no further! Little Palm Island is about a 30 minute drive and a 10 minute boat ride north of Key West. It is truly a paradise on this tiny island where the room accommodations, common spaces, and restaurant are all pristine!

Pro Tip: Our Favorite Room Category is the Island Romance Suite which has a private outdoor soaking tub! Book early and through the Shameless Tourist to make sure your suite is assigned to the most private location and best view.

Ocean Key Resort

Why Stay Here? Looking for the resort with the best location on Key West? Ocean Key Resort is located just at the end of Duval Street, the most “happening street” on this small island! While the lobby is very pretty, the rooms do need a little bit of updating.

Casa Marina, a Waldorf Astoria Resort

Why Stay Here? If you are looking for a resort on Key West with a large pool and great places for the kids to run around, Casa Marina might be the spot for you! Again, it’s worthwhile to note that the rooms here are in need of updating but we found the common spaces at Casa Marina to be a bit more accommodating to families than Ocean Key.

Do you love South Florida and the Keys? Drop us your favorite tip below!

Travel in 2021 and Beyond!

Since the pandemic began, you would be hard pressed to find an industry that is more changed by COVID than Travel. From new procedures and protocols to entry and exit requirements, it’s no wonder most of those who are traveling now have changed their travel habits as well. January is often the month where most people plan travel for some part of their year and at the Shameless Tourist we are beyond lucky to have seen a January and February to be booming with clients looking to plan their Spring Break, Summer, and Fall getaways.

Domestic Stays

“Long haul” travel has been placed on the back burner for many of us recently and most of our clients are looking to stay closer to home. We are so lucky to live in such a large country with so many diverse landscapes, there is a lot of domestic travel to choose from! Our top destinations have been Arizona, Tennessee, Georgia, South Carolina, Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and as always– Florida! Rounding out this list lately is Hawaii, which reopened in the fall and has been more popular than ever for travelers looking for a beach getaway.

Nature Calling

Our big cities in the US are something that have always amazed me- the energy, the culture, the food! But in the past year we have seen a big shift toward the great outdoors— the Mountains and the Beach are where most of our clients want to be and many are rekindling a love for an old sport or finding joy in a new one. Golf enthusiasts are flocking to their favorite courses and finding time to check off the bucket list some of those courses they have always wanted to play. Skiers are enjoying the snow, fisherman are getting out on their boats, and even I have taken up a new sport– Surfing.

Longer stays, more luxurious hotels

With work from home and school from home being a large part of our lives now, another trend we have noticed is that most people are booking longer getaways. The short weekend getaway has turned to week long stays for many. I’ve also noticed a more dramatic shift in the luxury travel sphere– more people have been willing to book luxury hotel options. I’m assuming this has to do with traveling less frequently (more budget for getaways), less expensive airfare, and the desire for a stress free vacation. I’ve also noticed for my clients who have kids back in school, the desire to travel during school breaks has been immense, so I recommend if you would like to travel during the breaks, plan ahead!

Our Favorite Getaways

So, for the fun part– where are our favorite places to recommend at the moment? Where are our clients traveling to? Here’s a short list of some of our favorites:

As a reminder, booking any of the above properties through the Shameless Tourist give you exclusive access to VIP amenities, pricing, and insider tips you cannot get by booking directly at the same price or better than listed online. Contact us today to learn more and find your perfect 2021 getaway!

Living La Pura Vida

Costa Rica has always been a popular place to visit for US Travelers, but in recent years it has become one of the top destinations for which I receive requests! Daily flights from many US hubs (that are usually fairly short!) coupled with plenty of adventure, nature experiences, and pristine beaches– Costa Rica is definitely worthy of its hype. The icing on the cake is that the “Tico” People are also some of the nicest and most hospitable you will ever meet. If you want to experience the Pura Vida (as they say), look no further than Costa Rica.

Getting There:

There are two major airports in Costa Rica; San Jose (the Capital) and Liberia. San Jose is a great choice to fly into if you would like to visit the rain forest and Arenal Volcano area. Liberia is the right choice if you would like to visit the beaches of the famous Guanacaste region. Pro Tip: Fly into San Jose and out of Liberia if you are wanting to really experience the country.

Planning Your Stay:

As I mentioned previously, I usually recommend visitors split their stay in this gorgeous country. Spending a few nights in the Arenal area and then a few nights near the beach. I would plan to spend a minimum of 7 nights in Costa Rica to get a taste of both locations.

The Arenal Area:

Visitors love the Arenal area which is located about 2 hours from San Jose airport. This area immerses guests in the rain forest and the flora and fauna that Costa Rica is famous for. If you aren’t aware, Costa Rica is the most bio diverse country in the world! Visit coffee plantations, soak in hot springs, go zip-lining, explore “cloud forests”, and scout animals.

Where to Stay in Arenal:

Nayara Springs, Nayara Gardens, and Nayara Tented Camp- this property is great for those staying 3 nights or more as there are lots of restaurants and on property experiences to choose from. Nayara Springs is the adults only side of Nayara Gardens, which allows families. Nayara Tented Camp is their brand new section offering “glamping” in the amazing Costa Rican Rainforest.

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
    • A la Carte breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom
    • $100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
    • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa- The only property with natural hot springs flowing freely through the property, Tabacon is a hot spring and spa lovers dream!

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
    • Daily Buffet Breakfast for two guests per bedroom, served in the Restaurant
    • $100 USD equivalent Resort Credit to be utilized during stay, applicable to Food & Beverage or Spa services (Not applicable to tours, souvenir store, spa retails products, transfers, minibar. Not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeem in full)
    • Unlimited entrance to the hot springs resort during the stay
    • Exclusive Access to Shangri-La Gardens for hotel guest 18+
    • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi

The Beach:

Costa Rica is lucky to have two large coastlines to choose from– one on the Caribbean Sea side and the other on the Pacific sea side. While the Caribbean side of the country has an amazing culture of its own, I always recommend staying on the Pacific side– the tourism is more developed in this area, the water is warmer, and it is generally a safer area of the country. From Las Mareas all the way down to Tamarindo, there are tons of places to choose from and I would love to help you choose the best beach town for you!

Beach Resorts from North to South:

Dreams Las Mareas: At almost the border of Nicaragua, Dreams Las Mareas is the perfect choice for families looking for an all inclusive resort.

Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo: This resort is hard to beat in terms of amenities, accommodations, area, and more. It is one of the most popular Four Seasons Resorts in the world for a reason– the common spaces are beautiful, restaurants amazing, and this area of Costa Rica has so much to do in a very small area. Pro Tip: Book a Canopy Suite and spend a few nights in a real life adult tree house. These are my most favorite rooms on the property!

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Daily full American breakfast for two people per bedroom, served through In-Room Dining or in the hotel restaurant (including buffets)
    • For suite bookings, one complimentary round of golf per guest per stay (including club rentals)
    • Upgrade of one category, based on availability at time of check-in (excluding signature suites, villas, and private residences)
    • Welcome note at check-in
    • Complimentary basic Internet in all guest rooms; complimentary premium Internet in all suites
    • Choice of USD100 Spa credit (not applicable to products) or USD100 golf credit

Andaz Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo: If you want to be in the Papagayo area, but are looking for a more modern vibe or your budget doesn’t quite stretch far enough to stay at the Four Seasons, the Andaz is an amazing choice. With some of the most beautiful entry level rooms in Costa Rica, you will be spoiled at the Andaz! And being only about 5 minutes drive from the Four Seasons, you still have access to the amazing restaurants and bars at both hotels (plus the most amazing golf course!).

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Daily full American breakfast for two people per bedroom
    • Upgrade of one category, based on availability at time of booking
    • Welcome amenity
    • Complimentary basic Internet in all guest rooms
    • $100 Resort Credit

Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica: If you are looking for an adults only, all inclusive resort in Costa Rica, Secrets is always a great choice. About a 20 minute drive from the Peninsula Papagayo area where Four Seasons and Andaz are located sits the Secrets Papagayo resort. The Papagayo area is only about a 25 minute drive from the Liberia airport, making it a super easy place to visit, and Secrets always presents an amazing value for its guests.

The Mangroove, an Autograph Collection: Looking for a boutique hotel at a great price near this exclusive Papagayo area? The Mangroove is your place!

The Westin, W Hotel, and Margaritaville: although I did not see this area, these three hotels all share a similar location in Playa Flamingo, about 45 minutes south of the Liberia airport and a popular snorkeling spot on the coast.

Calaluna Hotel & JW Marriott: These two properties are in the Southern part of the Guanacaste region in Tamarindo, one of the oldest and most famous beach towns in Costa Rica. Tamarindo is a lively city with lots of local and international travel, a huge beach with lots of beach vendors, restaurants, bars, and more. Tamarindo is also famous for surfing. I would choose this location for those looking for a lively local beach vibe or those wanting to learn/intermediate surfers. Choose Calaluna for a boutique hotel experience right in the city.

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks- at the Mangroove, Westin, W, and JW Marriott, our clients enjoy perks like:
    • Complimentary Breakfast
    • Room Upgrades
    • Resort Credits
    • and more!

Have you been to Costa Rica recently? Is a trip on your horizon? Let us help you plan!

Saint Barths Destination Guide

I’ve been all around the Caribbean and Saint Barths, for me, takes the cake. The amazing restaurants, the gorgeous shops, the best hotels, the cleanliness of the island— for those looking for an island escape where they can get out of the resort and really have the island as their playground; I can’t think of a better place than St. Barths.

We just wrapped up a 10 night stay on and around the island; 6 nights we sailed on a luxury 75′ Catamaran “Sur L’eau” and for the last four nights we rested on land. I also had the pleasure of visiting most of the best hotels on the island and dining at many of the favorite “hot spots”. I plan to write a separate post about our incredible experience on Sur L’eau, but I wanted to recap our trip on land for this St. Barths destination guide— St. Barths is truly a world class destination with so much to offer, however you decide to experience it!

Getting to St. Barths

A wise person once told me, “you can’t get to paradise on a 747”. This is definitely the truth with St. Barths!

There are four ways to arrive– via hopper flight from San Juan, St. Maarten, or Antigua or via ferry from St. Maarten. My favorite way is via the Tradewinds flight from San Juan. Tradewinds is an amazing airline to fly with and their planes are so nice and well appointed for the 45 minute flight! Pro Tip: Add the VIP service to your Tradewinds flight to make traveling through a breeze!

Where to Stay

Eden Rock- St Barths

Why Stay Here? Travelers looking to stay in the middle of all the action will love Eden Rock St. Barths. In the heart of St. Jean beach, this is a perfect choice for those wanting something “fun and lively” in the best location. I also can’t get enough of the red and white everything.

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks
    • Daily Full Breakfast for two people per bedroom, including buffets
    • Access to the best room booked in your particular category
    • One Category Room Upgrade at Time of Booking, based on availability
    • Complimentary High Speed Internet Access
    • Priority access to the hotel courtesy car
    • $100 USD Food and Beverage Credit once per stay for single night stay, $200 Credit for stays over 2 nights

Cheval Blanc

Why Stay Here? To me, Cheval Blanc is perfect for those wanting something distinctively French with understated elegance, in a superb location (right next to the action, but not quite in the heart of it), and someone who wants a beautiful, expansive beach to spend time on. Cheval Blanc is located on Flamands Beach, which is one of the largest beaches in St. Barths and is right next to St. Jean (where Eden Rock is located).

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks
    • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
    • Daily Full or A La Carte Breakfast for two guests per bedroom, served at the restaurant.
    • $100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
    • Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Villa Marie

Why Stay Here? Design lovers will rejoice in this beautiful mix of plantation style architecture with fun patterns and eclectic accessories. Plus the views from this resort are simply the best. Perched on top of the hills above Colombier beach, don’t expect beach access from the resort directly, but coming mid-December 2020 guests will have access to Villa Marie’s all new beach club in the heart of St. Jean Beach.

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Roundtrip Transfers
    • Daily Breakfast

Hotel Le Toiny

Why Stay Here? For those looking to be out of the hustle and bustle but still have access to some amazing on site restaurants and a beach club, Le Toiny is the perfect choice. Every room at this stunning hotel has its own private pool and with the hotel perched on the hillside, most of the rooms also have amazing views of the ocean. I would describe this as the most romantic choice on the island!

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks
    • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
    • Continental breakfast daily via room service
    • $100 USD Equivalent Food & Beverage credit, to be utilized during stay
    • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Le Barthelemy

Why Stay Here? For guests wanting a fun ambience, with a beautiful hotel infinity pool, rooftop bar, and one of the best spas on the island, Le Barthelemy might be for you!

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks
    • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
    • Complimentary Daily Buffet Breakfast for two guests per bedroom
    • $100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
    • Complimentary roundtrip private airport transfers
    • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Le Sereno

Why Stay Here? Guests looking for a vibe that isn’t quite as lively as Eden Rock but a little more lively than Le Toiny will love Le Sereno. From the gorgeous views from the restaurant and pool to the modern & clean decor of the rooms, its hard to think of a traveler who wouldn’t love this hotel. I also love this property for families with young children because the beach in this area is very shallow for quite a ways out. It’s also located on a Turtle Reserve, which makes for such fun while paddle boarding and kite surfing!

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
    • Daily full breakfast, for two guests per bedroom
    • $100 USD Equivalent Resort or Hotel credit, to be utilized during stay
    • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi

The Christopher

Why Stay Here? With amazing views and the largest pool on the island, the Christopher is a great fit for any St Barths Visitor. The staff here was some of the friendliest I encountered on the island. The beachfront spa is not to be missed– it is certainly my favorite spa in St Barths with Ocean sounds from every treatment room! It should be noted that there isn’t a beach to visit here per say, so be prepared to drive to one of the other amazing beaches on the island!

Hotel Barriere Le Carl Gustaf

Why Stay Here? Located just above the popular Shellona Beach Club, this hotel is perfect for guests looking to be walking distance from all of the best restaurants and shopping in St Barths (this is the closest hotel to the main town of Gustavia) but still be surrounded by 5 star luxury. The beach here has one of the prettiest sunsets on the island and the sand is more “shells” giving it the name “Shell Beach”. I also loved the room design as well as the fine dining restaurant option, Fouquet’s.

Hotel Manapany

Why Stay Here? This hotel is perfect for travelers who like to be surrounded by an environment that resembles nature. The price point of the Manapany is also a little more “wallet friendly” than most of the island’s other 5-star options without sacrificing room design or common spaces. Also, any of my surfing aficionados will love that you can surf and take surf lessons right off the beach at this great hotel!

Where to Dine

Bonito St Barths- for the best fine dining in the Caribbean, this is a restaurant you cannot miss. My favorite dishes are the Ceviche Bonito and the Mahi Mahi!

Le Tamarin- the gardens alone are a reason to visit this popular St Barths dining location. This is a great choice for families looking for a nice dining experience where the kids will be happy too. With lots of room to run and play (quietly) and a small kids room with toys and fun, everyone will be happy dining at Le Tamarin.

Black Ginger- for those who love Thai food, this is a gem on the island!

L’isoletta and L’isola- travelers looking to have a taste of Italy on St Barths will love these pair of restaurants! L’isoletta is a very moderately priced casual pizzeria owned by the famous L’isola, their fine dining sister restaurant.

Fish Corner– if you like ceviche, try Fish Corner for a casual lunch!

Bagatelle – For those looking for a lively night, look no further than Bagatelle.

Beach Bars/Restaurants:

Nikki Beach- perfect to see and be seen and for the travelers that want to have a little more party in their beach club atmosphere

Shellona Restaurant- I loved the ambience here. It is a bit more quiet than Nikki Beach but still has a fun vibe with beautiful sunset views.

The Beach Club at Le Toiny- for a more sophisticated and quiet beach club vibe

GypSea– The New Beach Club by Villa Marie, located right next door to Nikki Beach with a more “hippy” vibe than it’s modern neighbor!

La Cabane at Cheval Blanc– For Great Tequila Cocktails and a beautiful beach with a more mellow ambience, La Cabane is a great option!

Al Mare at Le Sereno- If you are looking for the ultimate in a very relaxed ambience with little to no crowds but excellent scenery and food, Al Mare is a perfect place. Make sure to swim with the Turtles post lunch!

  • Shellona
  • Nikki Beach
  • The Beach Club at Le Toiny
  • La Cabane at Cheval Blanc
  • GypSea
  • Al Mare at Le Sereno

What to Do

Shopping- the shopping on St Barths is the best in the Caribbean. Some of my favorite stores included Terra (for fun bright colored dresses and cover ups!), Pati de St Barths (for high quality souvenirs), Linge St Barth (for locally made perfumes), and KIWI St Barths (for moderately priced swimwear and cover ups).

Surfing- there is some good surfing on this island and some great instructors if you are looking to learn!

Kite Surfing, Paddle boarding, Snorkeling

Beach Hop! There are 14 beaches on the island and they all offer something unique. Here are a few of my favorites:

  • Colombier- this is a hike to/boat to only beach and it is worth the trouble of getting to. The hike begins at Flamands beach and takes about 25 minutes. Easy hike, but I recommend wearing good shoes!
  • Flamands Beach- one of the largest and most expansive beaches on the island. Cheval Blanc is located on this beach if you want a refreshment!
  • St Jean Beach- this is the most “happening” beach on the island. Nikki Beach and Eden Rock are located on this famous beach, so you will not run out of things to do here. You can also spend hours watching the planes take off and land from the sand– it is an incredible thing to watch!
  • Lorient Beach- is perfect for surfers!
  • Grand Cul de Sac- this is a very unique beach– it is the windiest part of the island, so great kite surfing, but it is also a Turtle Reserve so guests looking to spot some wildlife will love this beach! I also love this beach for families as the water is quite shallow! (Visit Le Sereno or Le Barthelemy here!)
  • Toiny- another great surfing spot or a great beach to visit the Beach Club at Le Toiny and just enjoy the afternoon!
  • Gouvernor and Saline- these two beaches are local favorites. Choose between Saline which is a much larger beach with two sides– one better for families and the other for adults; or Gouvenor which is a bit more quiet but has very easy parking access- a rare find on this small island!
  • Shell Beach- located right in downtown Gustavia, Shell beach is fun for families looking to collect seashells or for guests looking to enjoy one of the best beach clubs (Shellona) on the island!

I’m headed back to St. Barths in January and would love to hear from you if there are any other favorites I missed on our last trip— what is your favorite thing to do on St. Barths?

Viva Cabo!

Los Cabos, Mexico has always been a popular spot, but since the borders reopened in June, it has never been more popular with my clients. Even though I’ve planned dozens of trips to the area, it had been quite some time since I last visited, so after our 3rd plan for our 10th anniversary fell through, I decided to regroup and plan a trip to the Baja Peninsula.

I love Mexico— the food, the resorts, the lower prices, easy flights, for me, it’s hard to justify the long flights to the beach elsewhere. The wonderful thing about Cabo is the plethora of things to do in this area from Surfing to ATVing, Deep Sea Fishing, Sunset Cruises to the famous Arches, beach parties, wonderful restaurants, hiking, biking, paddleboarding, you won’t get bored in Cabo.

Where to Stay

Las Ventanas al Paraiso

Why stay here? If you are looking for a sense of place with the very best in service and lots to do on site, Las Ventanas might be the place for you. Located in between San Jose del Cabo and Cabos San Lucas, this resort offers a quick 20 minute drive to just about anywhere.

Pro Tip: Book an Oceanfront Room to be closest to the Adult Pool.

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Complimentary upgrade to an Oceanview Rooftop Terrace Junior Suite from an Oceanview Junior Suite for stays through December 19 upon booking (based on availability)
    • Daily Full American breakfast for up to two people per bedroom available via in-room dining or in the restaurant
    • An Oasis Experience inclusive of a Margarita & Taco Sampler from Taqueria (for up to two guests, per stay)
    • USD125 nightly resort credit until December 19 
    • Welcome note and amenity
    • 4 PM late check-out for stays through December 19 (based on availability) 

One&Only Palmilla

Why Stay Here? This resort is one of the only luxury resorts in the Cabos San Lucas area with a swimmable beach. Located between San Jose del Cabo and Cabos San Lucas, it’s a perfect location for those visiting both cities. It was also the first luxury resort in Cabo, making a distinguished choice for any travelers.

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Upgrade on arrival to next room category, subject to availability
    • Daily Continental breakfast for two guests per bedroom
    • $150 USD equivalent Resort/Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
    • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi

The Cape, a Thompson Hotel

Why Stay Here? For guests looking for modern luxury closest to the “Squid Zone” (as the Party Zone is most commonly known), The Cape is a perfect choice.

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
    • Daily Full breakfast for two guests per bedroom, served in restaurant or via in-room dining
    • $100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay 
    • Early check-in/Late check-out, subject to availability
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Montage Los Cabos

Why Stay Here? Arguably placed on one of the most beautiful beaches in Cabo, the Montage is a dream for those loving beautiful beaches and dramatic scenery.

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability (excluding Specialty Suites, Residences, and Casas)
    • Daily $70 USD breakfast credit per bedroom, available in the restaurant or through in-room dining.
    • $100 USD equivalent Resort/Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
    • Welcome Amenity
    • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
    • Complimentary Wi-fi
    • For bookings in Specialty Suites*, guests will also receive complimentary one-way airport transfers (for up to 4 guests)

Grand Velas, Los Cabos

Why Stay Here? For those looking for a luxury all inclusive experience Grand Velas is the best. Your rate includes all of your meals, premium alcohol, activities, and more. Grand Velas is also a wonderful option for families looking to travel together as it has great Children’s Programs.

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    •   Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
    • Complimentary one-way private airport transfer 
    • $50 USD Spa credit per adult per stay
    • $100 USD food & beverage credit toward a private romantic dinner
    • Early check-in/late check-out**, subject to availability
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Zadun, a Ritz Carlton Reserve

Why Stay Here? I would recommend this property for guests looking for the newest accommodations still close to the Cabo “action” but far enough away to be out of the hustle and bustle. Most every room here has a private pool which is a huge perk as well. 24 hour per day butler service in all rooms and situated on one of the very best golf courses in Cabo. Also, for those looking to dine at Flora Farms and Acre during their Cabo visit, you can’t get much closer than Zadun.

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Welcome Amenity
    • Complimentary Breakfast for Two Daily
    • $100 USD Hotel Credit
    • Complimentary Wifi
    • Early Check-in/late Check-out, based on availability
    • VIP status granted with in-person warm welcome
    • Welcome note from General Manager (or Hotel Management)
    • First priority on waitlists in sold-out situations
    • First priority for requested room category, bed type, rollaways and connecting rooms
    • Priority for complimentary room upgrade (based on availability upon arrival)

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

Why Stay Here? The WA Pedregal is another very famous resort in this amazing part of Mexico. With a completely different location than any other luxury hotel, Pedregal is situated at the very tip of the Baja Peninsula. The landscape of this area is mountainous and offers dramatic views.

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
    • Breakfast buffet daily in Don Manuel’s for two guests per bedroom
    • $150 USD equivalent Hotel or Resort credit to be utilized during stay 
    • Complimentary VIP airport Lounge Tickets with all Beach Front Suite Bookings
    • Early check-in/late check-out subject to availability
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi
    • Double Hilton Honor Points
    • **For Bookings between now and December 17, 2021- Stay 7 Nights or Longer and receive 30% off!**

Esperanza, an Auberge Resort

Why Stay Here? Esperanza is often regarded as one of the top three resorts in the area. And in 2019 was named the #1 Hotel in Mexico by US News and World Reports. With 4 restaurants, 5 pools, a luxury spa, a great kids club, championship golf course, and the long standing history of being one of the top resorts in the area, you will not be disappointed at Esperanza!

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
    • Breakfast credit of $35 per person for up 2 people per bedroom, per day. Credit is allowed in restaurant or room service
    • $100 USD Hotel & Resort credit, to be utilized during stay (Valid toward Spa in 2021)
    • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Four Seasons Los Cabos at Costa Palmas

Why Stay Here? For those looking for the newest accommodations in Cabo in the most up and coming area, Four Seasons might be the place for you. This resort is located in the East Cape, which is about a 90 minute drive from the heart of Cabo, but with a swimmable beach (a rarity in the area) and tons to do on site, the East Cape may capture your heart!

  • The Shameless Tourist Perks:
    • Daily American breakfast for two people per bedroom, served through In-Room Dining or in Estiatorio Milos restaurant (USD 120 value)
    • Complimentary round-trip airport transfers (USD 495 value)
    • Upgrade of one category, based on availability at time of check-in (excluding signature suites and private residences)
    • Welcome note at check-in
    • Complimentary basic Internet in all guest rooms; complimentary premium Internet in all suites

Where to Dine

Flora Farms is a must for guests visiting! It offers delicious food and a unique and casual, but fun vibe. Don’t forget to bring mosquito spray!

Flora Farms
  • Acre (near Flora Farms) offers a more upscale experience
  • Edith’s for authentic Mexican Food in the “Squid Zone”
  • The Office on the Beach- if you are looking for a party, look no further than the Office. Owned by the family who run’s Edith’s this beachfront dining experience is not to be missed!
  • Arbol at Las Ventanas
The Office on the Beach

What To Do

  • If you are looking to do more than relax and enjoy the amazing resorts in this area, you will find just about everything under the sun in terms of activities and excursions; here are a few of my favorites:
    • Surfing
    • ATVing
    • Deep Sea Fishing – The Sea of Cortez is home to one of the most diverse areas of sea life in the world!
    • Sunset Cruise to see “Los Arcos”
    • Go Whale Watching (in the Winter Months)
    • Snorkeling
    • Scuba Diving
    • Golfing
    • Zip Lining

A Weekend in Santa Barbara

The Santa Barbara area is considered The American Riviera. A city with beautiful beaches, amazing restaurants, unique architecture, and a much more relaxed pace than nearby LA. If you are looking for a California getaway, Santa Barbara is one of the very best places!

Our Girls Weekend Away!

We started the weekend off by checking into the beautiful Belmond El Encanto and spending the afternoon poolside. The views and the cocktails made for perfect post-flight place to soak up some Vitamin D!

For dinner, we decided to “dip our toes” into the famous Funk Zone, an area of Santa Barbara known for its restaurants, shops, and Urban Wineries. By recommendation of a friend, we chose to have dinner at Carlito’s Cantina. The Margaritas were amazing and I would highly recommend trying it out if you visit the area.

After dinner, we went back to the gorgeous resort and rested up for a busy Saturday!

Saturday morning we went took the short drive to the trailhead for Inspiration Point. This hike was easy (I would recommend for children over age 5) and has some of the best views in the area. It was a great way to start the day— approximately a two hour roundtrip excursion. Unfortunately, the fires in the area spoiled the view a bit, but I’m still so glad we did this!

After the hike, we freshened up, put our swimsuits on and headed toward the beach! Before swimming, we stopped at a local taco stand that I highly recommend — East Beach Tacos (I’m still dreaming of my Ahi Tuna Taco!).

We then hit the sand and waves at Butterfly beach! After strolling along this famous beach, we took a quick drive to Montecito to check out the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort. I love the beach bar at the Rosewood Miramar and also loved how there are actually houses and restaurants directly on the beach; a rarity in California.

Saturday ended with another visit to the Funk Zone and Stern’s Wharf. I loved this area; I loved walking around, seeing the skaters in the skate park, watching the sail boats in the water! It was the perfect Saturday evening!

On Sunday, we started the day with Brunch at the hotel then ventured out to Los Olivos (about an hour from Santa Barbara) to check out this quaint little town and visit a famous winery in the area, Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard. The wine was amazing but note; if you want to do a tasting on the patio you must be 21+, however, you can order a glass of wine and sit in the yard if you have your family in tow. Side note: I realized on this trip that I have an affinity for taking photos of my cocktails (or wine) — I’m a complete sucker for a great drink with amazing views.

After the winery visit, we promised Keki a shopping trip. We went to the outdoor shopping area in Santa Barbara called Paseo Nuevo; I’m not sure I would recommend this for most visitors as most of the stores in this mall have locations elsewhere, but Keki was a happy camper.

We finished this day and our trip, just as we started it, poolside!

Where to Stay Santa Barbara

Belmond El Encanto– for guests wanting exquisite views and a unique sense of place. I loved this property for it’s romantic vibe, beautiful gardens, and casita style accommodations.

Four Seasons Santa Barbara– for guests wanting a sense of place right at the edge of Butterfly Beach.

Hotel Californian– perfect for those wanting to be right in the heart of the funk zone! Walk right out your door and be in the action of the best shopping and dining.

Rosewood Miramar Beach– if you are looking for the most glamorous hotel in the area, the Rosewood Miramar Beach is your place. The decor is so chic and the beachside bar made me wish I had packed my Sperry’s and shoulder sweater. This is also perfect for anyone who wants to have an accommodation right on the beach, it’s one of the only places I can think of in all of California that offers that kind of an accommodation!

San Ysidro Ranch– lastly, if you are looking for a romantic getaway with history, San Ysidro ranch is the place. John F Kennedy and Jackie honeymooned at this idyllic spot nestled in the hills overlooking the area. All of the unique cottages offer something different for everyone.

As a reminder, booking any of these properties through the Shameless Tourist offers you exclusive benefits (like breakfast and resort credits, room upgrades, etc!) and VIP status! We would love to help plan your next trip to Santa Barbara!

The Island of the Gods: Bali

Bali was everyone’s favorite stop on our Asian tour.  From the hotels to the culture and the people, I am already trying to find a space in my schedule to return in the not so distant future.

We started our time with two nights in Ubud at the beautiful Four Seasons Sayan, which coincidentally was just rated the #1 Hotel in the World by Travel and Leisure.  This property of less than 60 villas was truly spectacular and located a bit over an hour north of Denpasar Airport.  Our Garden Villa was entered on the second floor which had a sitting area and small pond with lily pads.  Walking town the stairs there was a small fountain in the entry way and the front doors opened to our expansive patio and private pool.  The garden views were lush and made for a very private feel to the villa as you wouldn’t expect any guests to be strolling in the gardens behind our villa.

The room was very spacious and well appointed with a huge bathroom and closet and both an indoor and outdoor shower.  Everything about the room immersed us immediately into the Balinese culture.

I could go on and on– the breakfast was delicious (the fruit bar was incredible!), the Balinese dancers in the lobby were wonderful as was the traditional Balinese dinner held afterward.  We had the most wonderful time at the pool with its infinity edge overflowing into the Ayung River.  The scenery in Ubud is simply magnificent and with the river running through the heart of the city, it was so peaceful and serene.  Lastly. I have to mention the cutest kids clubhouse in the world (pictured below) was a colorful treehouse where the kids have movie night and other activities (complimentary from 9AM-5PM Daily).

While in Ubud, we went to the Mason Elephant Lodge and Safari Park where we used Flytographer to take some family photos.  Feeding the elephants was so much fun and it was such a great place to take photos where everyone was having a blast.  Bayu and Ebony, Flytographer’s photographer’s in Ubud were wonderful to work with and captured some precious memories for our family.

When it was time to leave Ubud, the Remote Lands team picked us up at our hotel and we did a short tour between check out and check in to our new hotel on the beach.  On our tour, we visited the Sacred Monkey Forest, the Ubud Market, a Wood Carver’s shop, and a Lewak Coffee Factory.  My favorite stop was definitely the Monkey forest, but I loved the stop at the Wood Carver’s shop where we purchased a beautiful Ganesh elephant.  Our awesome guide also helped us negotiate a great price, so I would highly recommend taking a (knowledgeable) local with you when shopping!

The next four nights were spent at the Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay, which is on the South Western coast of the island of Bali and only about 20 minutes from the Denpasar airport. Similar to the Sayan property, Jimbaran Bay is an all villa property with a very strong sense of place, immersing the guests in the Balinese culture.  Around 120 villas in total, this property is quite a bit larger than it’s counterpart in Ubud.  The room had similar features- a private pool, large terrace, and large bedroom and oversize bathroom with both indoor and outdoor showers.  We had a wonderful view of the Ocean in our Jimbaran Bay Villa, but because of the views it wasn’t quite as secluded as our Sayan Villa (although it was still quite private).

For the common areas, I loved the Sundara restaurant (order the Califlower Tabbouli and thank me later!) and Sundara Beach Club.  It never felt crowded while we were there and my daughter really enjoyed the kids club which was open with much more extended hours (9am-9pm daily– hooray for date night!).

Two of the evenings we ventured off property for dinner.  The first evening we chose a local favorite- Bumbu Bali which was one of my favorite restaurants on the trip.  This outdoor venue featured Balinese dancing and authentic local cuisine.  Bumbu Bali was approximately a 20 minute drive from our resort close to the Nusa Dua area, where we dined on the other evening at the St. Regis Bali.  The St. Regis is a gorgeous resort with spectacular rooms and lots of restaurant choices.  This was our tour guide’s favorite resort and I can see why– the spa, the beach and location, and as I mentioned the rooms were all amazing.  The price of this resort, however, compared to the Four Seasons is quite a lot higher and I preferred the more  Balinese decor at our resort.  Also, for families, the kids club at St. Regis is not complimentary and is not open in the evenings.

Overall, Nusa Dua beach is much prettier than Jimbaran Bay, which is something to weigh in consideration when choosing the right hotel for your family.  It would be a hard choice for me between loving the rooms and amenities of the Four Seasons and preferring the location and beach of Nusa Dua.

In my opinion, no matter where you stay and what you do, Bali should be on your list!

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Paraíso Maya

The Viceroy in Riviera Maya will not dissappoint.  From it’s incredibly secluded, spacious, and well appointed casitas (with private heated pools) to its amazing gastronomy, this property has romance written all over it.  Don’t forget to enjoy the complimentary daily sunglass cleaning.  

Booking this property through a Virtuoso advisor rewards clients with a $100 resort credit, Daily Breakfast for Two, and a complimentary room upgrade upon arrival, based upon availability.