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Monthly Archives

September 2018

Travel: The Natural Remedy for Mental Health

By | Article, Blogs, Food for thought
September 25, 2018
Julia Chapman
TRAVEL… it’s the only thing you can buy that makes you richer.

For most of us that travel; it’s a planned event to have fun, renew family connections, and embark on a new adventure. It’s a time to throw caution to the wind, explore parts unknown, and celebrate friendship!

For others, however, travel is a lifesaver.

Do you or someone you know suffer from mental health, like depression, anxiety, PTSD ~ or all of the above?

Travel just may be the key to lessen the effects. Suffering from a mental illness is lonely. You tend to isolate yourself from family and friends. Who wants to be around someone that’s suffering internally all the time?

Those that suffer from depression tend to lean toward negative thoughts and emotions.

So why is travel helpful?

Traveling forces you to pay attention to your surroundings. You have a heightened awareness of everything around you; which actually opens yourself up to exploring new friendships and experiences. It distracts you from negativity and brings about a sense of calm. Creating new memories may help you to cope when inner negativity approaches.

Traveling creates inspiration. When you engage with fellow travelers ~ you see the life they are living the way they want to live; not the way society chooses for them to live.

You can eat what you want, sleep when you want, do what you want… Travel is the place of YES!

As you create a bond with fellow travelers; sharing similar experiences opens up your heart to see the world in a new perspective. Meeting people from all walks of life, and the friendships you forge while traveling can be a constant reminder of positivity which may help you carve out a new way of life, even at home.

For me; the sound of the ocean, the sand between my toes and sitting in the ocean digging for seashells causes me to focus on this beautiful world in which we live. Every time I travel, my goal is to do something I’ve never done before. Zip lining is top on the list… I CAN do it!
– Julia Chapman, Luxevo Vacations Travel Specialist
Ready to plan your vacation? Just ask Julia!

Surviving Long Flights

By | Article, Blogs, Tips & Tricks

LONG FLIGHTS ARE ESSENTIAL to get to some of the most far out places on the planet. So, even though the entire experience of the trip can be exciting, the flight is what is dreaded by most. How are you supposed to keep yourself entertained in a tiny air space, thousands of feet off the ground, surrounded by strangers? With these 10 tips, long flights will no longer be something you dismay in your traveling experiences!

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Pick Your Seat Wisely

If you plan to sleep most of the flight, then you should pick the window seat because you can rest your head on the side and no one will be waking you up to go to the bathroom. But, if you plan on staying awake for most of the flight then consider the aisle seat, so you can get up as you please.

Ask to Upgrade

It never hurts to ask the flight attendants if you can upgrade your seat to first class or if there is another open seat with the extra leg room, because let’s be honest, that extra leg room on a 10 hour flight could be lifesaving.

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Wear Comfy Clothes

If you are going to be sitting on a plane for 5+ hours, dress comfortably! Wearing lose, stretchy pants or sweatpants is great for sitting for hours and being able to adjust, stretch your legs, and curl up in a ball on your seat. Always wear comfortable shoes for walking purposes, and bring a jacket or sweatshirt because you never know if you are going to be cold on the plane or not.

Bring Entertainment

If you struggle to sleep on a plane, then make sure you bring enough entertainment to keep you busy for your flight. Download movies onto your phone/laptop/tablet beforehand. Bring headphones and make playlists with different genres of music or podcasts. Books are also a great way to kill some time because they are time consuming and always helps with sleep. Cards are a great way to keep yourself entertained, as well, or even make a friend on the flight.

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Sleep is Important

Sleep is important for traveling and we know it’s not the easiest thing to sleep on the plane, so make sure you bring a pillow/neck pillow, blanket or sweatshirt, sleep eye mask, and if needed, a sleep aid helps for flights over 8+ hours. Sleep is essential so when you land, you can start your trip on a positive note instead of feeling exhausted and wasting the day sleeping.

Keep Your Electronics Charged

Before your flight, make sure if you are utilizing your electronics, keep them charging. Also, for the flight, bring a portable charger to keep everything charging. You don’t want to have 6 hours left on your flight, and your tablet died in the middle of the movie. So, be smart, keep your electronics charged and invest in a portable charger.

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Don’t Forget to Eat!

It is important that you maintain your health while on the flight. We know plane food isn’t the best tasting for you, but by eating you are maintaining your nutrient levels, giving you the right amount of energy. So, make yourself sandwiches, dried snacks like nuts or trail mix, crackers, anything solid that can pass through TSA. Pack smart, but pack healthy.

Hydrate or Die!

Just kidding, but not really… Stay hydrated! It is super important to drink lots of water on these flights because the elevation levels can throw you off and being confined to a tiny space can almost make you feel dried out. So, pack an empty reusable water bottle, and keep drinking because you are going to need your energy when you land.

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Refresh Yourself

After sitting on a plane for hours, you might feel a little dirty, like you need to shower or change your clothes, so bring a mini toiletry bag with a toothbrush, toothpaste, baby wipes to clean up, hairbrush, deodorant, face wash, and a change of clean clothes, so you can get off the flight feeling refreshed and new.

Be Respectful

This is the number 1 rule of a long flight or any kind of flight, or airport experience. Be respectful! You are all in this situation together, so being respectful, makes for an easy going airplane experience.

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Ready to book your next vacation? Let us help you with that!

Mondays are for Margaritas

By | Article, Blogs, Food

AS A MILLENNIAL, I love social media hashtags, like #TravelTuesday, #WanderlustWednesday, #TBT (throwback Thursday), #FridayFeeling, #SaturdaySelfie, and #SundayFunday.

So, I thought we would celebrate this wonderful Monday with a popular hashtag on Instagram, #MargaritaMonday by presenting you with the best margarita recipe! These ingredients will have your mouth watering for a margarita by the end of the day.

Use this as your #MondayMotivation to get through the day!

Ingredients

  • 3 ounces blanco tequila
  • 2 freshly squeezed limes
  • 1 fresh squeezed lemon
  • 1 fresh squeezed orange
  • 1 ounce Simple Syrup

Directions

SIMPLE SYRUP:

  • Boil 1 cup of water in a small saucepan and add 1 cup of sugar.
  • Cook over low heat, stirring, until the sugar dissolves.

NEXT:

  • Squeeze 2 limes, 1 lemon, and 1 orange to make fresh juice.
  • Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add tequila, lime/lemon/orange juice, and simple syrup.  Cover and shake until mixed and chilled, about 30 seconds.

OR

  • Blend ice, tequila, lime/lemon/orange juice, and simple syrup in a blender for a frozen margarita.

FINISH:

  • Take a chilled glass, rub a lime slice around rim, then press rim of the glass into kosher salt.
  • Pour margarita into the glass
  • Garnish with a slice of lime, lemon, orange or all 3!
  • Drink up!
  • Repeat.

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10 Best Beaches in Mexico

By | Article, Blogs, Destinations, Vacations

EVERYONE LOVES DISCOVERING NEW BEACHES. There’s just something about stepping onto the sand, staring out at the grand ocean, feeling the breeze on your face, and sun on your skin that gives a sense of liberation. And because we eat, breath, and live beaches, we provided you with the 10 best beaches in Mexico that everyone needs to explore at least once in their lifetime.

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Cancun

This popular destination spot is located on the Yucatan Peninsula and has a reputation for bringing in “Spring breakers” and tourists because of the infinite shades of blue of the ocean, there is a wide variety of aquatic activities, like some of the best scuba diving, centuries of Mayan history, and a lively atmosphere! Cancun is 14 miles of dream-like, white sand beaches that overlooks the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico and remains warm all year round, minus a few rainstorms.

Playa del Carmen

This growing coastal town along the Yucatan Peninsula is known for its palm tree-lined beaches, white sands, tranquil waters, and coral reefs. This is still a touristy area because it is located in the Riviera Maya, which is filled with all-inclusive resorts, but you still get to experience the unique culture of this chic town.

Tulum

This bohemian beach is the first beach outside of the tourist locations. You get to enjoy the bluest water and soft sands, but also get to experience peace and quiet because it’s about 90 minutes from Cancun, giving you that freedom to get away from chaos, while still being able to explore the lively atmosphere. You feel a sense of privacy and solitude on this little strip of paradise.

Maroma

This delicate secret in Mexico is settled on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, 30 minutes outside Cancun. Thankful, it is an unfamiliar spot, so it keeps all the “spring breakers” away. Wandering into the world of Maroma, you get to enjoy serenity, warm transparent waters, white sands, and rich tropical foliage.

Los Cabos

This little island known as “Land’s End” is situated between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo which is located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. You get a full contrast of the natural beauty of tranquil waters, fiery deserts, and exploratory mountains.

Sayulita

This island, along the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains, is the ultimate surfing spot in Mexico. Because of the strong pressure under the water, this is the only beach that produces big enough waves for surfers to get adventurous and for newcomers to take surfing lessons. This quiet little spot over the last 10 years has built up due to the high demand of wanting to take surf lessons while in Mexico.

Isla Mujeres

This beach is split into North (the tail end) and the Southern tip. The North end is where you will find white, sugary sand and tranquil waters, while the South end is more adventurous, rocky, and rugged. Because this island is totally out of the tourist zone, so it feels extremely relaxed, making it the ideal for anyone that needs to get away from the hassle of everyday life.

Yelapa

This little beach town is totally off the radar because it is ONLY accessible by boat, so for anyone looking to enjoy a boat excursion, this is the spot for you. Because this little island is secluded from everything else, it makes it for another “sleepy” beach town because it is not top on everyone’s list due to the 30 minute transportation ride to get there. But, that’s okay with us because over the years, this beach has been kept spotless, making it dreamlike when you pull up in the boat.

Mismaloya

This little fishing town is mostly locals only! Which is nice if you want to escape the mayhem of touristy spots and overcrowded beaches. It is surrounded by Jungle-fringed coves keeping it a hidden gem. Mismaloya means “place where you can catch fish with your hands.” This great fishing spot means, the local restaurants along the beach, always have fresh fish available! So, if you like peace and fresh fish, then this is the spot for you.

Bucerias

This is another local spot in Mexico, known for its slower pace. It’s very quiet area, strictly for anyone that needs to relax and just be pampered. It is great for anyone that is strictly on vacation to lay on the beach, with not a care in the world, and no one bothering them, but if you’re looking a lively atmosphere than you have 9 other beach spots to check out!

Ready to visit one of these beaches? Connect with a Travel Specialist today!

Which El Dorado Resort by Karisma You Should go to Base on Your Zodiac Sign?

By | Article, Blogs, Food for thought

IF YOU’RE INTO ASTROLOGY and believe that zodiac signs actually hold valuable insight into a person’s character and personality, than this article will help you understand which El Dorado Resort by Karisma is perfect for you and why!

Element: Air

Signs: Aquarius (January 20th to February 18th), Gemini (May 21st to June 20th), Libra (September 23rd to October 22nd)

El Dorado Seaside Suites – Riviera Maya, Mexico

Those who are the Element of Air look at the world as a place that is filled with possibilities, much like Karisma’s Seaside Suites! Seaside Suites is divided into two distinct sections, the Infinity and the Palms. Aquarius’, Gemini’s and Libra’s like to be in control and having the option to choose between authentic Mexican architecture and modern luxury décor is right up their alley! The resort offers infinite opportunities for both adventure and relaxation, which is perfect for Air-born characteristics, as they have an eccentric personality but need time to recharge in order to restore their charismatic energy.

Element: Water

Signs: Pisces (February 19th to March 20th), Cancer (June 21st to July 22nd), Scorpio (October 23rd to November 21st)

El Dorado Maroma – Riviera maya, Mexico

Those who are the Element of Water are super friendly, compassionate, and intuitive people. They are found to be highly emotional and sensitive beings, and they much rather prefer intimate atmospheres where they can easily connect with others. El Dorado Maroma is very intimate and serene, allowing those with the Water element to flourish in their empathetic and generous characteristics. In addition to being friendly, they also need a great deal of alone time for rest and to reflect on their spirituality. Maroma offers a luxurious and unique spa that combines today’s most innovative practices with ancient Mayan principles, which help both the body and mind. Being a Water sign, Pisces’, Cancer’s, and Scorpio’s love to be surrounded by water. Maroma Resort sits on the beautiful and famous Maroma Beach, which was actually named one of the top ten beaches in the world by Travel Channel!

Element: Fire

Signs: Aries (March 21st to april 19th), Leo (July 23rd to august 22nd), Saggitarius (November 22nd to December 21st)

El Dorado Royale – Riviera Maya, Mexico

Aries’, Leo’s and Sagittarius’, being Fire signs, are extremely active beings. It is in their nature to exude youthfulness, energy and confidence, making El Dorado Royale the perfect Karisma Resort for Fire signs! El Dorado Royale offers exciting nightlife, lively entertainment, and activities from all across the board that are sure to keep these active and adventurous beings out, about, and having the times of their lives! With tequila tastings, scuba diving lessons, yoga classes, kayaking trips, listening to live bands perform and so, so much more, the last thing a Fire sign vacationing at Royale will feel is boredom or lackluster-anything.

Element: Earth

Signs: Taurus (April 20th to May 20th), Virgo (Auguest 23rd to September 22nd), Capricorn (December 22nd to January 29th)

Palafitos Overwater Bungalows – Riviera Maya, MExico

Those with the Element of Earth appreciate the finer things in life and don’t mind working hard to achieve nothing but the best. The Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma by Karisma is, also, nothing but the best they have to offer. With innovative glass bottom floors, a private bungalow for two complete with a Jacuzzi tub, infinity pool, and private access to the turquoise water, these were designed for those with royalty running through their veins. Taurus’, Virgo’s and Capricorn’s enjoy materialistic goods and possessions, and they will absolutely love the fine dining experiences and top-of-the-line exuberant service provided at this intimate yet lavish resort. Because Earth signs are very responsible and disciplined, this resort offers a safe place for them to let their hair down a bit and just enjoy life!

The amazing things about all of Karisma’s Resorts is that they offer something for every element and every sign!

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Ready to plan your next sweet escape? We've got you covered!

Karisma + Margaritaville

By | Article, Blogs, Industry, Vacations

Where are our Jimmy Buffet fans at?

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Well, good news for you! Karisma Hotels & Resorts partnered with Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville! They are in the process of developing a collection of all-inclusive Margaritaville Resorts. These family-friendly resorts will be built on gorgeous, beachfront destinations, scattered all over the Caribbean. The first location will be in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, following that will be Jamaica, The Bahamas, and Antigua. The combination of tropical-luxury architecture, gourmet inclusive foods, premium drinks, and a carefree lifestyle inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of the infamous, Jimmy Buffet, really inspires vacationers to just let go of any life’s stresses.

Doesn’t all you can eat, drink, and endless Jimmy Buffet memorabilia, sound amazing?

“Our partnership with Margaritaville, an esteemed brand filled with flavor, fun, and a likeminded desire to delight travelers with unforgettable vacation experiences, allows us to introduce a collection of new casual luxury resorts set in stunning tropical destinations,” said Mandy Chomat, Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Premier Worldwide Marketing, the exclusive representative of Karisma Hotels & Resorts. “Karisma’s expertise in delivering elevated all-inclusive concepts around the world makes this partnership a perfect fit. With Margaritaville, we look forward to delivering a taste of the good life very soon!”

Karisma Hotels & Resorts is a collection of award-winning all-inclusive, luxury resorts in Mexico, Caribbean, Latin America, and Europe. They will have a total of 30 resorts by 2020. The types of resorts that they operate vary anywhere from family-friendly to adults only.

Margaritaville has seven resorts across the Southeast United States and Caribbean, four gaming locations, and more than 60 food and beverage chains, including their signature bar, 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill and LandShark Bar & Grill.

The combination of Karisma’s outstanding service, quality food and beverage, and facility for personalized experiences, with Margaritaville’s unique combination of entertainment and relaxation, signature food and beverages, and iconic tropical elements, makes this a fresh resort model.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts by Karisma
Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort

“We are excited to team up with Karisma Hotels & Resorts to create a resort product that will deliver carefree vacation experiences in some of the most beautiful places in the world,” said Tamara Baldanza-Dekker, chief marketing officer for Margaritaville. “Karisma, like Margaritaville, puts the guest experience and employee culture above all else. With these common values, and our shared commitment for first class service and exceptional amenities in a fun, relaxed environment, our partnership with Karisma is a match made in paradise.”

Mandy Chomat, along with everyone else involved in the planning, constructing, and the reveal of these Margaritaville resorts are excited for the turn out.

“This is going to be great for Millennials because Millennials are all about authentic experiences, but Margaritaville is going to attract Parrot Heads and there are Parrot Heads out there from Millennials to baby boomers,” Chomat expressed. “You would be surprised by the demographics and the ages that cater to Buffet’s songs and products.”

Every year, millions of travelers visit Margaritaville and Karisma Hotels & Resorts, to explore new latitudes and change their attitudes.

So, get ready because Margaritaville has begun construction and will be completed by 2019!

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