Alli Talley

October 20, 2016

Tips for the Ultimate Weekend Getaway South of the Border

Alli Talley

October 20, 2016

For those of you that are new to traveling, and anxious to explore, but not sure how. And for those of you that have been bit by the travel bug but are short on vacation time… We just discovered a location that we believe is the PERFECT combination of adventure & culture, and ease & comfort.

The Royal Suites Punta de Mita by Palladium Hotel Group is everything you’d want in an all-inclusive, PLUS the rich culture and authentic Mexico flavor you’d want to to explore. This is a rare all-inclusive that truly does highlight and appreciate local culture - and that is extremely hard to find!!

Here are some ways we maximized our stay at the Royal Suites!

1. TRAVEL TIME :: When making the most out of a short weekend trip, it’s crucial that travel time is very minimal. Lucky for us, getting to the Royal Suites was a breeze! We flew out of our local airport in Orange County and made sure we had a 2-hour direct flight to Puerto Vallarta. Before we could say “Hola!” we were being greeted with margaritas and smiling faces at the airport, and from there it’s only a short taxi ride to the Royal Suites!

2. MAKE A PLAN :: We know what you’re thinking. Plan when you’re on vacation?! What is that?? But hear us out! Since you only have a few days - plan out the “must-see’s” that you want to do during your stay. Whether that’s horseback riding on the beach or a massage treatment, get those set up before you go so you don’t have to worry about them when you get there. The last thing you want to do on your vacation is spend your time contemplating what to do, where to go, etc. Have everything set up so that you can relax by the pool with a margarita as much as possible. ;)

3. DON’T DO IT ALL :: This might sound contradicting from our last tip, but listen. You’re on vacation. Escape from expectations. At a place like the Royal Suites, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with all of the countless entertainment and activity options...

4. TURN OFF :: Turn off your phones. Turn off your e-mail. Turn off “work mode”. For most of you, this might be the hardest, but most needed tip you’ll get. And we stand by it. For this one weekend, forget about what you have on Monday and LIVE IN THE MOMENT! Take a walk on the beach, bring a deck of cards, drink champagne from your jacuzzi tub… You deserve it. And your sanity will thank you!

We stayed at the Royal Suites from a Thursday through a Sunday, which some might think is too short of a trip when traveling to another country. We beg to differ. We were able to see, do, and eat everything we wanted - and came home feeling completely revived and refreshed! International travel doesn’t mean you need to use up all your vacation days and clear out your schedule. You truly can have a relaxing and fulfilling getaway - all within a long weekend!

Alli Talley

October 15, 2016

Mexico

Destination Wedding Goals :: The Royal Suites Punta de Mita by Palladium Hotel Group

Alli Talley

October 15, 2016

Mexico

On the hunt for the perfect destination wedding location? Look no more - we’ve found it. We recently stayed at the Royal Suites Punta de Mita by Palladium Hotel Group and their staff was gracious enough to let us experience some of their amazing wedding packages. Friends, this place is LEGIT. If you are planning a wedding (or anticipating planning a wedding) and you and your significant share a love of travel, we can’t think of a better place to get married than at the Royal Suites! Here’s why:

1. It’s Picture-Perfect

We could go on and on about how insanely beautiful this property is. How the saltwater pool glistens in the sunset, how every pool manages to have a to-die-for view of the ocean, how the colorful and vibrant the scenery is, and how every time we stepped outside we couldn't help but gasp at where we were... but we won't go on and on. We'll let the photos speak for themselves on this one! How could you NOT want to get married here?!

2. It’s UNIQUE!

We've never been anywhere like the Royal Suites. It's timeless and luxurious without being stuffy or assuming. The fact that they have a zoo on the property alone is unreal - and can we talk about the activities?! From surfing, to pool aerobics to sushi making... you're sure to knock several items off of your bucket list!

As far as actual wedding planning goes, the staff will do their best to ensure that your wedding exceeds your every hope and dream. They have several options for ceremony locations and packages, each one is special and breathtaking. If you’re traditional, they have the most charming and romantic yellow church on their property. If you’re all about the panoramic views, we recommend getting married on the beach or at one of their stunning lookout spots. Out of all the packages, our personal favorite was the "Tropical Promise", which features gorgeous, colorful decor, tropical flower arrangements that are to die for, and the most amazing champagne cocktails with matching starfruit. They really do think of EVERY detail!! For the reception, we say definitely have it on the beach! You can book traditional dancers, dj’s, tequila tastings, need we say more?! This place is the DREAM!

3. The BEST Staff You’ll Ever Have

Serious. We can’t stop talking about them. The staff at the Royal Suites made our trip, and we can only begin to imagine how incredibly accommodating and helpful they would be on your wedding day. And being “newlyweds”, we know how crucial it is to be surrounded by helpful, efficient people when you’re getting married. You won’t need to worry about a thing, and they’ll make sure your favorite drink is always in hand. Very important. ;)

4. The FOOD!!!

Not going to lie, eating was probably our favorite activity while we were at the Royal Suites Punta de Mita. No matter what you order, you can’t go wrong. (We would know, we ordered pretty much everything! Ha!) You can wow your family with a special lobster feast, or treat your bridesmaids to the perfect “wedding day” brunch… or you can go the traditional Mexican route with table-side Guacamole and fajita bowls! Whatever you choose, it will be amazing and you will want more. Get ready.

5. Your Guests Will ETERNALLY Thank You.

By having your wedding at the Royal Suites, you will have introduced your friends and family to one of the most incredible havens they’ve ever experienced. They’ll come home refreshed, tan, and full on food and priceless memories.

Alli Talley

October 13, 2016

Mexico

A Home Away From Home - Royal Suites Punta de Mita

Alli Talley

October 13, 2016

Mexico

Have you ever traveled to one of those places that instantly felt like home? When you know right away that you’re somewhere special, somewhere you HAVE to go back to someday? That’s how the Royal Suites Punta de Mita by Palladium Hotel Group was for us. From the moment we stepped through the doors we knew this property would have a special place in our hearts. Little did we know JUST how amazing this boutique all-inclusive would be!

The staff was phenomenal. Everyone knew our names. Not only that, but they knew our favorite drinks, how we liked our eggs, and continuously went above and beyond to ensure our experience was top-notch. Special shout out to Claudio, who excels as their wedding coordinating mastermind. And Rusbel, who made us our favorite mezcal concoctions! And Cesar, who taught us how to master the art of making sushi! Okay, we could keep going, but we won’t. While we were extremely sad to leave such a stunning location, we were just as devastated to leave the staff that we came to love so much!

The room was so cozy. From the big, soft bed to the jacuzzi tub and private balcony, our room was a welcomed haven and retreat - even if just for a nap and some pre-dinner room service! ;) Because the Royal Suites are adult-only, we never had to worry about loud kids or disturbances coming from our building. It was quiet, peaceful, and serene. We slept SO well!!

Everything was convenient and easy. Whether it was lounging at the pool for the afternoon, taking a stroll along the beach before dinner, or exploring the Palladium’s zoo (that’s right. They have their own ZOO!!), everything was accessible and only a short walk away. Even if we wanted to take a taxi into town, our trusty butler would call a taxi for us and we could be there in no time! Life at the Royal Suites is effortless and peaceful… just as it should be!

Our last night at the resort was spent at their Mexican restaurant, drinking mezcal, eating chips and guacamole, and sharing memories from the weekend with our new friends. We found ourselves getting emotional - we weren’t ready to leave! There was so much more to do, see, and experience! We can’t wait to head back to the Royal Suites and be reunited with our “family” again!