After a quick tour, we were ready to start our day of relaxation. Our first stop was the lounge and infinity pool. There, we basked in the sun, enjoyed some cocktails, had lunch, and took a refreshing dip. The infinity pool provided a stunning view of the ocean and Las Catalinas town below. It was the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

After spending some time swimming, we decided to head down to Playa Danta, the beautiful black sand beach, just a few steps from the hotel. The beach was stunning, with crystal-clear water and soft sand underfoot. We spent some time strolling along the shoreline, taking in the natural beauty of the area.

As the sun began to set, we made our way up to the top floor of Sentido Norte, one of the hotel’s on-site restaurants. With a delicious glass of chardonnay in hand, we watched the sun sink below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the surrounding jungle, and as the evening progressed, enjoyed a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.

Sentido Norte offers some of the best food in the area. The menu features locally sourced ingredients and changes frequently to reflect the season’s freshest offerings. With its romantic setting and sunset views, Sentido Norte is the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The restaurant’s top-notch service ensures that every detail is taken care of, making your dining experience unforgettable.

By the day’s end, our time at Casa Chameleon had been filled with a plethora of experiences, including swimming, Playa Danta exploration, and a delightful romantic dinner at Sentido Norte. The combination of relaxation and sensory indulgence was perfect.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Casa Chameleon for appointing me as their ambassador and extending an invitation to spend the day at their stunning property.

The future of digital accessibility in the travel industry is rapidly evolving, and the industry is recognizing the importance of making travel accessible for all. Digital accessibility refers to the design and development of digital products, such as websites, mobile applications, and online booking systems, that can be used by everyone, including individuals with disabilities. In recent years, digital accessibility has become an important consideration for travel companies as they aim to make their products and services accessible to all travelers.

One of the major trends in digital accessibility in the travel industry is the development of technology that caters to people with disabilities. For example, airlines are introducing assistive technology to help people with hearing and vision impairments, such as in-flight entertainment systems with closed captions and audio descriptions. Hotels are also investing in accessible technology, such as smart room technology that can be operated by voice, touch or other means.

Another trend is the development of mobile applications that are accessible to people with disabilities. Mobile applications can help travelers with disabilities plan their trips by providing them with information on accessible accommodation, transportation and attractions. Mobile applications can also be used to provide real-time information on travel disruptions, such as flight delays and cancellations, and to offer alternatives.

The development of accessibility standards and guidelines has also been a key driver of digital accessibility in the travel industry. For example, the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide a framework for web developers to create accessible websites. The Accessibility Guidelines for Passenger Transport Services have been developed to help airlines, rail operators, and other transport providers to ensure that their services are accessible to all travelers.

Finally, there is growing recognition among travel companies that digital accessibility is not just good for people with disabilities but also good for business. According to a study by the American Institutes for Research, people with disabilities and their families and friends spend $17.3 billion annually on travel. By making travel more accessible, travel companies can tap into this market and increase their revenue.

In a nut shell, the future of digital accessibility in the travel industry is looking bright. As more and more travel companies prioritize digital accessibility, we can expect to see an increase in accessible technology, mobile applications, and accessible web design. With the continued development of accessibility standards and guidelines, we can hope to see a more inclusive and accessible travel industry for all.

Nestled on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Potrero is a charming town that is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful, laid-back vacation. With its picturesque beaches, tranquil atmosphere, and abundance of activities, Potrero is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Costa Rica.

Beaches: Potrero is home to several beautiful beaches, including Playa Potrero, Playa Penca, and Playa Prieta. Each of these beaches boasts soft, dark sand, and crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing and soaking up the sun. Visitors can take a stroll along the shore, enjoy a picnic on the sand, paddle board in the ocean, or even try their hand at surfing.

Activities: In addition to the beaches, Potrero offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Nature lovers can can explore the nearby Las Baulas National Marine Park, home to nesting leatherback turtles, and enjoy a guided tour of the park’s pristine natural habitats. Adventurous travelers can embark on a zipline tour through the lush canopy of the surrounding jungle, while those seeking relaxation can unwind with a massage or yoga class at one of the town’s many wellness centers.

But even if you decide to explore the beaches and trails of Potrero by yourself, you’re guaranteed to see plenty of nature and wildlife along the way. The area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including toucans, howler monkeys, and iguanas. Keep your eyes peeled for exotic birds, butterflies, and other creatures as you make your way through the town.

Restaurants: Potrero is home to a variety of dining options, from casual beachfront eateries to upscale fine dining establishments. Visitors can sample traditional Costa Rican cuisine, fresh seafood, and international fare at the town’s many restaurants and cafes. One highly recommended spot is Sentido Norte, which boasts of breathtaking sunsets and panoramic views of the Pacific coast. It’s the best restaurant for fresh seafood with a laid-back atmosphere; perfect for watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Accommodations: For those seeking a comfortable and relaxing place to stay, Seeking Sand is a highly recommended accommodation option in Potrero.

Located just minutes away from the beach, Seeking Sand offers a serene and verdant setting with four one-bedroom apartments situated on a mature, lush property enveloped by mango, almond, and cashew trees. Along with the picturesque natural surroundings, the property boasts a stunning saltwater pool and jacuzzi spa for your enjoyment.

Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Potrero has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the natural wonders of this hidden gem in Costa Rica.

For more photos and videos of my trip to Guanacaste check out my Instagram and don’t forget to follow!

Are you looking for the perfect place to spend your next holiday? Holiday cottages can be an ideal option for families, but kids come with toys and tantrums, so you’ll need a suitable base for a happy holiday. With so many cottages to choose from, here are some tips on how to pick the best holiday cottage for your needs.

Find the perfect location

The UK is filled with beautiful spots and scenic family holiday cottages. But where is the right place to take your family? Some cottages are tucked away in lovely rural locations, while others are in town centres or by the seaside. If you want to be near family days out, perhaps the beach, a zoo, a theme park etc., then choose a cottage accordingly. This means doing a fair bit of research before you book.

Choose a cottage with the right amenities

Now that you’ve chosen the perfect location, it’s time to think about the amenities your family will need. If you have a baby or toddler, they’ll need a high chair and cot – so check if these are provided with the cottage.

Are there any other facilities you’ll need? If the grandparents are coming along, do they have accessibility requirements? Is there a games room for the kids to play in? You might want to bring favourite toys and books, but these can take up a lot of space so a holiday cottage equipped with board games and activities can help to keep everyone occupied!

Think about the right size of holiday cottage

Think about your needs – do you need plenty of bedrooms for everyone? If your children sleep in separate rooms at home, will they share well on holiday? You may also want to consider garden space – is there room for the kids to run around? And will you be spending time inside or outside the cottage? If the good old British weather turns wet and windy outside, you’ll want a cottage with plenty of space to relax in. 

Avoid cottages with obvious hazards

If you have young children, you may want to think twice about the open-air pool outside or the cliff-top location. Choose a cottage that’s safe for kids and you won’t spend the entire holiday fretting. With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect family holiday cottage that allows you to unwind. 

Think about your budget

The cost of holiday cottages varies greatly, so it’s important to set a budget before you start looking. There’s no need to break the bank – you can find some great cottages for under £100 per night. And if you have a young family who aren’t yet at school, you’ll find prices are significantly cheaper during term time.

Do your research

Finding the perfect family holiday cottage ultimately comes down to doing your research. Although you may find some amazing accommodation available at the last minute, it’s usually best to plan ahead, so why not start today?

Italy is a country that is a favorite amongst tourists. From the gorgeous island settings to its historical sites such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Coliseum, Italy has wonders tourists can visit, no matter what their preferences are. Of course, the most exciting way to see all of Italy’s beautiful scenery is no other than by going on a road trip. Make the most of your Italian road journey by obtaining an IDP from the International Driver’s Association for a smooth and seamless Italian luxury trip.

Amalfi Coast

No other Italian road is more ideal for a luxury trip than the Amalfi Coast. The location of this stunning destination is right in between Sorrento and Salerno, Campania. Built by the Romans, Amalfi Coast boasts hairpin bend roads that give drivers a view of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello’s famous villages. The Amalfi Coast stretches at a length of 50 km with a gorgeous backdrop of pastel villages and sandy beaches.

Amalfi Coast is home to more than just a scenic road. Visit the postcard-like village of Sorrento by the ocean and taste the best cuisine the locals have to offer. Continue driving around the area to see more pastel-colored, picturesque sightings such as Positano and Atrani. Complete your luxury trip on the Amalfi Coast by visiting the Fiordo di Furore, the only fjord within the area that offers a stunning view of the beach far away from the hustle and bustle of urban Italy.

Via Aurelia

Go for a scenic drive on this Italian Riviera known as Via Aurelia. Via Aurelia’s location places it in between Bordighera and La Spezia. This famous Italian road has a reputation for being one of the best to drive on if you’re up for a luxury trip, as the routes lead drivers to destinations such as glamorous Portofino. With views of the ocean, cliffs decorated with trees, and a touch of modernity with its restaurants and cafés, Via Aurelia, is a narrow road worth driving on.

For a bit of a background on Via Aurelia, its English name is the Aurelian Way. It serves as a connection between Rome and France, hitting many tourist destinations in the process. Driving on this ancient consular road when traveling as a tourist requires an IDP for a hassle-free Italian journey, so get yours from the International Driver’s Association now. Among the famous spots, tourists love to travel to include Genoa and San Remo, giving tourists a feel of Roman living.

Stelvio Pass

Nature lovers are up for a scenic travel on Stelvio Pass. Stelvio Pass is an Italian road situated in the Eastern Alps. Located at 2758 ft above sea level, close to Bormio, Italy, Stelvio Pass gives travelers an exciting road trip since the roads are unbordered, allowing you to experience Stelvio Pass in its most natural state. Its long, winding and twisting roads can seem daunting, but the scenery makes the drive worth it!

Present in the area are accommodations and restaurants where travelers can stop to eat, with an average apartment costing 120-150 Euros. Skiers are in for a treat at Stelvio Pass, given the mountains’ tendencies to have snow well into the summer, making it perfect for an exhilarating ski. For a fantastic photo-op, visit Bormio and Livigno, especially in wintertime, as these places give meaning to the term “winter wonderland.” Summertime is the best time to travel to Stelvio Pass for pleasant weather, so mark your calendars to experience an Italian road travel now!

Salento Peninsula

The Salento Peninsula or salentino peninsula is located in Puglia, a lovely Italian town overlooking the vast sea, right at the heel of the boot. Salento’s location makes it ideal for travelers who are seeking a beach getaway. Should you find yourself in Puglia, take your time to travel to the churches and plazas that make the region so renowned.

Beaches are pretty famous in the Salento region along with old-town but very vibrant Gallipoli and historic Lecce. Along the peninsula is Otranto, famous for its villages and towns reminiscent of Greece. The road in itself with rocky coastlines is not one to miss, so get an IDP from the International Driver’s Association right now to make the most of your Italian road travels.

Great Dolomite Road (Grande Strade delle Dolomiti)

The Great Dolomite Road or the Grande Strade Delle Dolomiti is a road in Italy along the Dolomites mountain range. The Great Dolomite Road boasts luscious green surroundings that tourists can witness for themselves as they cruise down the road. Apart from the legendary Dolomite peaks, visit the areas’ other attractions such as Lago di Carezza and Andraz Castle. Partake in several winter activities, if skiing and the like are your cup of tea, as nothing is better than enjoying the winter in the middle of gorgeous sights and sceneries.

The Dolomites are a seasonal destination, so plan your road trip wisely ahead of time—exercise caution when driving in the Dolomites in winter. Visit the Dolomites in September for optimal weather that isn’t too hot or too cold, with perfect visibility and safe roads for driving. To experience smooth, seamless driving and travel in Italy, acquire an IDP from the International Driver’s Association.

I have a thing for Mexico (who doesn’t, right?). I love the food, the people and let’s face it: God was pretty inspired when it created it as it beaches are breathtaking.

To get to NYX Hotel Cancun, I flew Air Canada Vacations from Toronto to Cancun. My journey was around a mere 5 hours.

The hotel was gorgeous – beautifully designed with the most amazing decor. Impeccably designed – and with service to match. We were really impressed since the moment we walked in. Whoever designed the place really went to town on the expression ‘first impressions are everything’.

The lobby is very posh, with a trickling waterway running through it and each side connected by dark wooden bridges.

As your eyes reach the end of the room where the lobby meets the limestone steps into the resort you are greeted with a magnificent view of the ocean glimmering all shades of blue.

You’ll be pleased to know that unlike some hotels in the region this hotel isn’t an eyesore. No skyscrapers here! All of the buildings are the perfect height and in harmony with the natural surroundings. As I roamed around the place I noticed that no detail had been overlooked.

Accommodations

The hotel is geared towards couples and families and most bedrooms have king-sized beds. Our master suite was super spacious and very well-appointed – absolutely no complaints.

Food & Drink

Mmm, my favorite part of any trip!

The hotel had 4 restaurants and 3 bars available:

Chianti – The best place to try out exquisite traditional Italian dishes and wines, served by our candid staff in a nicely decorated room. Opens for dinner. Requires reservation. Available for guests with all-inclusive plan for each 3 room nights.

Bellavista – Buffet style restaurant with cozy and comfortable ambiance, offering Mexican and international breakfast to the most gastronomical curious guests.

Umami – For those looking for a fascinating gastronomic and sensory experience, this avant-garde design restaurant with incredible ocean view allows customers to watch the chefs prepare their dishes directly on their teppanyaki griddles.

Deck – Located in front of the beautiful Caribbean Ocean, not only does it offers amazing views but also exquisite and varied food and specialty dinners.

Lobby Bar – Perfect to enjoy a delicious cocktail in any of the comfortable lounges or while having a fun pool game.

Magic Bar – Fun and original, best place where guests can get entertained by the infinity pool while flavoring the creations of their talented bar tenders.

There’s also waiter service by the beach plus 24-hour room service to indulge whenever you please.

Well well well. We kind of adored the drinks at Nizuc. We loved the main bar, not only in terms of design, but also the wonderful setting.

We really went out of our way to blend in and embrace the culture – and after some good recommendations from the bar team, we found out we really liked tequila. Good sipping tequila. I still don’t know anything about this spirit, but after this experience, I am actually very keen to learn more.

Beach & Pool

Ahh, the dreaded conversation of the beach…

I breathed a huge sigh of relief when I saw the beach at NYX Hotel Cancun. It was everything you would hope and dream for from a tropical Caribbean vacation. There was no seaweed during my visit and I was happy to see the wide beach dotted with gorgeous palm trees swaying in the wind.

During our 7 days we had only 1 day of overcast skies, but we also had 6 gorgeous days of sun and 30 degree weather so we went to the beach as much as we could. I loved laying down on the white thin Caribbean sand, immerse in the hypnotizing turquoise ocean, and when I wanted to change things up I chose to rest on the VIP area where Balinese and beach beds were so comfy.

They say a picture speaks a thousand words and I will let the photos do all the talking.

Final thoughts

I have to be honest I loved this hotel and everything about it. The staff were so friendly, the hotel was stunning, the food was delicious and we may have enjoyed the bar a little bit too much. I can’t fault it. I would go back in a heartbeat.

Have you stayed at this hotel before? Don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments section, we would love to hear from you.

Special thanks to the team at NYX Hotel Cancun for the accommodation during my stay. As always, all reviews and opinions are entirely my own.

Planning a visit to London? You are in for a treat! Visitors to London are completely spoilt for choice when it comes to planning great days (and nights) out, and there is something for everyone. From fine art and the coolest shops to the most amazing restaurants and iconic landmarks, you will not be disappointed.

If you are looking for some of the most far-reaching views of London, then consider a spin on the London Eye. You can enjoy views from up to 135 metres above the ground. The Shard is also a stellar choice for gazing across the capital and The View from the Shard has floor-to-ceiling windows that boast the amazing views. If you are looking to gaze upon the stunning vistas of London, then head to Primrose Hill where you can play ‘spot the landmark’ without having to worry about vertigo.

Animals in London?! You may be surprised to learn that there are ample opportunities to spot our four-legged friends throughout the city. From deer spotting in Richmond Park to hanging out with the pelicans at St James’s Park, you can walk, talk and hang out with the animals.

London is a mecca for history buffs, and you cannot leave London without paying a visit to The Globe theatre on London’s South Bank. There is actually a wooden reconstruction of the great Bard’s original playhouse, too! The Natural History Museum is also a ‘must see’; here you can marvel at the exhibitions that celebrate all things pre-historic. If history is your thing, but you are looking for something a little bit more recent, then pay a visit to The Tower of London where you can marvel at the Crown Jewels and over 1000 years of history. Other wonderful places to visit include the British Museum and the National Gallery.

Love shopping? Who doesn’t?! In addition to some of the greatest high street outlets in the world, London is also home to the some of most on-trend boutiques and best vintage clothing shops.

So, now that you’ve found your perfect outfit, you then need an opportunity to showcase it in London. From an evening out at the West End to a quirky night out in East London, there are so many things to do in the UK’s capital.

If you are after a fab soiree in the city of London, why not have a night out at one of London’s many casinos? The Grosvenor is an ideal place to visit if you are after a delicious meal (check out the steak!), a few cheeky cocktails and a little turn on the tables. Even professional poker players visited the capital of the United Kingdom last year. If you are looking for some great dinner options, why not check out some of the fantastic Michelin-star restaurants that are on offer?

Whether you are planning a visit with your significant other or with friends, or even if you’re riding solo, you can find a wealth of exciting things to see and do in London. From an exciting bar and club scene to cultural offerings and historic ventures, you won’t be short of things to do whatsoever. By the end of your trip, you won’t be ready to say ‘Cheerio’ to Blighty for very long as you will be too busy planning your return trip.

Ask a random sample of travellers, across a range of ages, what places are on their “Top Five Must Visit” lists and chances are most will say Cuba – unless they’ve already been, in which case they’ll probably say that they want to go back. It is one of the world’s travel hot spots. As for myself, I’ve visited six different times one of the things that always lures me, aside from Havana, are the white sandy beaches and all-inclusive resorts. My last trip took me to in May of this year took me to Villa Tropico, located in Playa Jibacoa, a small fishing village in the Mayabeque Province of Cuba. The Villas Trópico resort is located on the lovely Arroyo Bermejo Beach, about 75 km from Havana and 70 km from the Varadero airport.

Picking this resort over hundreds of others in Cuba seemed to be a daunting task at first, but after looking through some traveler’s photos and reviews it became clear that this was an excellent resort where I could spend the days relaxing by the beach digging my feet into the sand while the sun splashes across the horizon.

Without a doubt Villa Tropico is a paradise retreat perched along the Northern Coast of Cuba, nestled among seven hectares of lush vegetation. Just steps away from on of the country’s most pristine coral reefs and lush mountains, nature lovers and divers alike will enjoy the incredible reefs that offer great snorkeling and diving.

Guests will also enjoy plenty of luxury amenities including a large pool, air-conditioned fitness facilities, Tennis court, and nightly entertainment. There is plenty of pool space to go around, and the two-level design of the pool offers lots of shade or sun depending on your preference.

It offers over 100 bungalow-styled rooms with traditional Caribbean influences. My room was a large ocean view bungalow which included a queen-size bed. Expect the beds to be a bit harder than you may be used to. It also included a large desk to work at with a light and a basic chair. There was a stocked bar fridge in the room and a kettle for coffee and tea.

An hour’s drive from both Havana and Varadero, the natural beauty here is the result of eons of Mother Nature’s handiwork. The limestone-covered seabed offers good snorkeling and the forested rocky cliffs covered in pine and palm trees invite explorers.

In the early sixties Chuchu (who is the hotel plumber) and Lulu (head of housecleaning) began demolishing defense works (constructed along the coast during the Missile Crisis) with many others, to prepare the property for what was to become Villa Tropico, opened in 1962.

Here, nature’s bounty abounds. Just 50 meters offshore is a 3-kilometer long reef, reached by swimming or in a pedal boat (included). Reef shoes are recommended and take some snorkel gear to explore the underwater wonderland. The hotel has a diving center offering several off-shore dives.

The beachside hotel complex is backed by picturesque cliffs where guided hikes are possible on a network of established trails.

The only restaurant in this resort is a buffet restaurant opened for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  It offers very good homemade meals with a variety of meats, including beef, chicken, pork, fish, and on special nights even lobster. Most importantly, it’s always clean and the waiters are very helpful.

Moderately priced, the Villa Tropico (Villa Jibacoa) is among Cuba’s best-kept secrets. Built and run by local staff, it attracts nature lovers, divers, and those looking for a tranquil getaway. While not fancy, the natural setting provides excellent added value.

For more information please visit the hotels’ website.

When traveling on a budget, there tends to be some downtime in between flights or while on your train or car ride, etc. Instead of being bored, we suggest pre-loading your phone or mobile device by downloading mental sports apps such as card games, movies, or other fun apps so you have something to do during this time. It can really pass the time while waiting for the next leg of your trip to start.

It may seem silly to plan for vacation downtime, but it really is a must. In fact, we suggest you plan downtime into your vacation so that you aren’t trying to fit too much in. So, besides the unwanted travel downtime, plan for small spurts of downtime in between events that you may have planned. Whether you are traveling alone with that special someone or with a group of loved ones, you will appreciate the downtime. Depending on your age or interest, however, the types of things you need for scheduled downtime will really differ.

Groups of All Ages: Some people on your trip may need more to keep them happy during downtime. While some may want to download a movie ahead of time from somewhere like Netflix or Amazon Prime, others may prefer books, coloring books, board games, a small bag of toys, etc. to pass the time. Regardless of their preference, it is important to have something handy in your travel pack for any down time to pass the time while hanging by the pool, in the hotel room, or wherever they are enjoying a restful period as a group. Not only will your group get their second wind, but they’ll also end up much happier for the rest of the day, especially if you schedule these short downtime or rest periods that are custom for their specific age. On trips to Disney or something similar, we would recommend going back to the hotel a couple days of the trip in the afternoon to either enjoy some rest time around the pool or to take naps before going back out for dinner at night.

Couples: For a couple’s vacation, it is important to know what one another likes or needs to rest while on vacation. Some people like to read a book or magazine while others like to take naps, enjoy a cocktail around the pool, and so on. One thing’s for sure, encourage one another to truly unplug as much as possible; no phones, tablets, or gaming devices during the actual vacation. Keep those items for your travel downtime in the airport or car. You will feel much more rested and rejuvenated at the end of your trip and ready to get back into the real world if you do so.

Sports Enthusiasts or Adrenaline Junkies: For these types of people, we understand that taking downtime to rest will be more difficult. That’s why we suggest choosing activities that are more low-key to give your body and mind a break. For example, taking a walk or an easy hike instead of mountain climbing or swimming in the pool or ocean instead of jumping off cliffs/waterfalls into the water. It’s not that these are things that you shouldn’t do on your vacation; you just shouldn’t do them 100% of the time.

Take time to relax in the best way that works for you. We also hope that you don’t forget to plan for the downtime during your vacation to ensure you get some quality rest while you travel. And remember, do what works for you and enjoy your trip!

Paris’ grandeur is inspiring but what I love most about the city is its intimacy. Its quarters are like a patchwork of villages, and while it’s one of the world’s major metropolises – with all of the culture and facilities that go with it – there’s a real sense of community at the local shops, markets and cafes that has stood the test of time. Yet because every little ‘village’ has its own evolving character, one can constantly discover and rediscover hidden corners of the city.  I hope you enjoy this postcard for your collection and feel free to send it to someone who needs a smile.