Unforgettable Experiences in the Riviera Maya

I am traveling to Riviera Maya in Mexico this week. If you happen to be traveling there soon and are unsure of how to spend your time there, you have many options.

While you can stay cooped up in a resort during your whole visit, that is no way to create an unforgettable experience. Resorts may be entertaining at first, but they are nothing compared to the wonders and natural beauty found off resort property.

So, to help you make the most out of your trip to the Riviera Maya, here is a list of some locations that’ll undoubtedly create memories you'll cherish for many years to come.

The Underwater Museum

Buried beneath the waves in the Riviera Maya is a collection of over 400 life-like statues. This sunken museum can be best viewed through a scuba mask, and is certainly a view you won’t forget. These sculptures act like a human-made reef, which was initially created by a group of artists who hoped to inspire the protection of the local sea-life. Whether you’ve never put on a scuba mask, or are something of an expert, anyone can dive down to this spectacular and unforgettable sight.

Visit the Mayan Underworld

While this may seem unsettling at first, the vast network of caves near Rio Secreto is a sight to behold. The caves are carved by a complex system of underground rivers, which wind through the bedrock for miles. Keep in mind, this adventure is not for the faint of heart, as it includes plenty of tight spaces, hiking, and time spent in places that are cold, dark and wet. Although, if you’re up to the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with a memorable sight of a beautifully submerged world far and away from anything you could have ever imagined.

Explore the Mayan Ruins of Coba

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be in an archeological site before a dig, the ancient Mayan city of Coba may be the next best thing. Coba is an overgrown ancient ruin, located near four natural lakes. Jungle and Mayan architecture are contrasted side by side creating a sight that can’t be found at other ancient Mayan cities like Tulum and Chichen Itza. Visitors can even snorkel in the turquoise-tinted waters of the four natural lakes and be blown away by the abundance of life nestled below.

Creating Your Own Unforgettable Experience

There are plenty of wondrous sights to be had in The Riviera Maya, all you have to do is be willing to look for them. While you can stay on the beaten path of your resort, you can create your own unforgettable experience by taking a chance and exploring all the gorgeous natural landscape the Riviera Maya has to offer.

We’d love to help you plan your trip. Contact us at info@ScenicEscapesTravel.com or 405-889-8980.
#VacationAwaits #MakeItAScenicEscape #ScenicEscapesTravel #TravelAgent #Mexico #RivieraMaya

Vacationing in Nassau, Bahamas

THE PERFECT JOURNEY EXISTS

The official start of summer has come and gone.  Scenic Escapes Travel spent the Memorial Day holiday in Nassau, Bahamas at Riu Palace Paradise Island. The resort underwent a much-needed renovation about two years ago. Overall, the resort did not disappoint.

We were provided accommodations in the penthouse sea view suite and even Mr. Brown was impressed with the suite and view from the balcony/terrace.  

The suite was spacious and well equipped with a minibar, liquor dispenser, air conditioning and coffee machines.  The sitting area was a great addition.  The television was on a swivel thus, Mr. Brown was able to enjoy the TV from the sitting area while I napped.

The bathroom was equipped with double sinks and two showers both with dual shower heads; one shower also had a full-size bathtub attached.

The only downside to being on the penthouse floor - - if being on the penthouse floor can have a downside - - the elevator.  Only one elevator served the penthouse floor but was usable and accessible to all other floors as well.  It would have been better if the one elevator that serviced the penthouse floor was a direct and private elevator. #FirstWorldProblems

The specialty restaurants at Riu Hotels are included in the all-inclusive costs.  But, Riu does not take reservations for its specialty themed restaurants.  I was looking forward to eating at Kulinarium, the newest addition to Riu’s restaurant offerings.  Gourmet Kulinarium is a concept based on the fusion of modern and Caribbean cuisine, using mainly local products.  And, boy did it not disappoint!  I enjoyed the grouper filet while Mr. Brown enjoyed the Nassau Surf and Turf offering (lamb, chicken, and lobster).  I have eaten at every restaurant offered by Riu and hands-down, Kulinarium is the best.

My favorite part of the resort was the resort staff.  We arrive early and our room was not yet ready.  Even though we were able to have full use of the resort facilities while our room was prepared, I was hesitant to leave my luggage and personal items unsecured.  Demond, the porter, went out of his way to make me confident that he would secure my luggage.  Bartenders, Kellen and Donny, concocted tasty vodka cocktails without added sugary and syrupy additives in deference to my keto needs and never once questioned it. Our housekeeper, Sharleen, maintained our suite without re-arranging all of my toiletries and personal items which I had strategically placed around the suite.  She seemed to appear and re-appear like a ghost, moving and working in silence.  The resort staff was experienced and focused on making our stay one to remember.

EXCURSIONS

Conch Salad Cooking Lesson and Tasting

While in Nassau, we embarked on two excursions.  The first tour was promoted as a Conch Salad Cooking Lesson and Tasting tour operated by Bahamian Hospitality.

We were expecting to visit a local-approved conch stand on the bay and learn how to prepare authentic Bahamian conch salad from start to finish. 

We also expected to see how to remove the conch from its shell, score and slice it, and add other ingredients such as peppers, cucumber, lime, and tomato to make the fresh and spicy dish conch salad, and then taste some for ourselves.

Slim, our driver, transported us to and from the resort. Slim was very entertaining and knowledgeable about the Bahamian islands and its culture and heritage.  Although we made the most of the experience, the tour was not as expected or advertised.  

Bites of Nassau Tasting and Cultural Walking Tour

Our second excursion was everything we wanted and more.  

For three hours, we explored Bahamian cuisine and culture on this food and walking tour in Nassau’s historic neighborhood.

We enjoyed tasty food from six venues – including family-owned restaurants and specialty shops; sipped on handcrafted rum cocktails while nibbling on classic conch fritters and Bahamian mac ‘n’ cheese. The food quantities were equivalent to a hearty lunch.

Beyond the bites, we also experienced the rich culture and architecture Nassau had to offer. It was a small-group tour of about 13 people which ensured a personalized experience.

Highlights:

• Stop at six Bahamian food venues – plenty of tastings for a full lunch;

• Tastings ranging from classic conch fritters to locally sourced artisan jams;

• Travel off the beaten path to discover hidden culinary and architectural gems with a local guide;

• Small-group tour ensures personal attention from your guide;

• Enjoy exclusive privileges from tasting locations including in-store coupons, recipes, and behind the scenes access to local chefs and restaurateurs; and

• Excellent photo opportunities at major historical sites and downtown landmarks

THE BAHAMAS IS A GEM

Paradise Island is a wonderful destination where you can spend a well-deserved vacation.  You will certainly enjoy the beaches, Nassau, and other tourist attractions. I look forward too many more visits.

Allow yourself to play and enjoy the little yet exquisite moments that make life worth living.  Contact Scenic Escapes Travel for your vacation needs. #VacationAwaits #MakeItAScenicEscape