Sunday 25 March 2018

March Break

Spring break is one of the most anticipated weeks in March. It's time to shake off the Winter blues, de-stress, unwind, and travel. Last year my sister and I visited Ireland and had an amazing time touring the emerald isle. This year, we were considering a trip to Boston, but rumours of a snowstorm were circling and we wanted somewhere a little warmer. After a chat with my travel agent, we settled on Riviera Maya in Mexico. We also gained a travel companion, my 11 year old nephew, Zach.


My travel agent booked us at the all-inclusive Grand Bahia Principe Tulum and after looking at images like this one, we knew our trip would be relaxing. I've been to Mexico a couple of times before, but this would be the first visit for both Bobbie and Zach. It would be Bobbie's first all-inclusive vacation as well.



We caught an early morning Delta flight out of Detroit but had to sit on the tarmac as they de-iced the plane. Of course it was snowing and cold when we left. After a short delay, we were in the air and anxiously awaiting to touch down in Cancun where the temperature was considerably warmer. Nothing better than swapping out boots for flip flops!


We reached our hotel after about an hour's drive from the airport and checked in. We grabbed a welcome drink and some lunch, then changed into our swimsuits and hit the pool. Our room was a junior suite located on the first floor and we had a great view of the resort. The grounds were lush and well tended and there were plenty of birds and iguana along the path. Zach wanted to get close to them but not too close.








The entertainment the first night was Michael (Miguel) Jackson. I've seen a few impersonators at various resorts and in Vegas. This show was pretty good and there was a large turn out. He did a lot of Michael's greatest hits including Beat It, Smooth Criminal, Billie Jean, and of course, Thriller. Zach was so tired after traveling, eating, being in the sun and drinking virgin Mudslides, he could barely keep his eyes open.









                                                 MEXICAN FIESTA 🎊


Hello Donkey



On our second night we attended a Mexican Fiesta that was located minutes from our hotel. It was situated outdoors with games and market stalls.  After getting our photo taken with the donkey, we were seated at a table close to the stage. We were instantly served drinks (tequila for Bobbie and I, red pop for Zach). We enjoyed a 5-course traditional meal. The wait staff were incredible and kept topping up our drinks. Aclamaciones!



There was a mariachi band that entertained us with lively music throughout the dinner.


After dinner, there was a performance showcasing the Mayan history and traditions. The story was of a human sacrifice which was common in the Aztec culture. These blood offerings would keep the gods happy and hopefully lead to both good weather and crop. They also sacrificed animals to the gods. The show was mesmerizing and the costumes were stunning.




ST. PATRICK'S DAY 🍀

Last year Bobbie and I celebrated one of our favourite holidays in Belfast and we didn't think we'd ever exceed that. We were in for quite a surprise in Mexico. We had just finished doing our morning water aerobics when the music changed, the entertainment staff came out dressed in green and the pool turned into a party with balloons and a conga line.

Zach has his balloon on his head
















There was a trivia game and Zach won an Irish hat and headband. For lunch, there was a huge BBQ and lots of dancing. It did feel a bit weird to drink tequila on St. Patty's Day instead of green beer!

We had a wonderful 6 days in Mexico. The weather was glorious, the food and drinks delicious and plentiful,  and we met some nice people. I think Bobbie enjoyed her first all-inclusive, starting with mimosas at breakfast and ending the night with a Mudslide, or two.








We were sad to say goodbye to the sunshine but flying business class on the way home made us a feel a little bit better.  We were completely pampered by our flight attendant and Zach loved getting a blanket and pillow.






Now that we're back at home in Canada, we are still waiting to say goodbye to Winter, even though Spring has officially started. The cold weather is hanging on as our skin peels and tans fade. We had a fantastic Spring Break and those memories will keep us warmed until the next vacation.

Hope you all enjoyed your March Break!



~MT