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Mark the Travel Dad, Norwalk, IA (2026)

08/28/2026

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. "M" and Mr. and Mrs. "M" who just booked a repeat trip to Secrets Playa Blanca this February in Cancun! They'll loved their first stay so much they brought other family members this time! They'll both be staying in a Swim Up King suite!

Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres is an AAA Five Diamond award-winning, adults-only sanctuary tucked along a secluded, expansive stretch of pristine white-sand beach just 12 miles north of Cancun. Seamlessly blending modern elegance with earthy, organic architecture and local Mexican art, the resort creates an upscale yet laid-back atmosphere perfect for romance and deep relaxation. Guests can immerse themselves in the brand's signature Unlimited-Luxury experience—which includes wristband-free access to nine gourmet à la carte restaurants, eight top-shelf bars, and 24-hour room service—or unwind across four distinct pool areas, ranging from a lively oceanfront infinity pool with a swim-up bar to a quiet, lushly shrouded jungle oasis. Complete with a world-class, 18,000-square-foot spa, swim-out suite options, and convenient proximity for day trips to Isla Mujeres, this tropical haven masterfully balances tranquil privacy with unforgettable Caribbean exploration.

Why Secrets Playa Blanca?

☑ All-suite, luxury oceanfront resort located along the Costa Mujeres shoreline, featuring a pristine and expansive white-sand beach with secluded natural surroundings and crystal-clear waters

☑Handmade local art adorning each guest suite

☑Four large swimming pools including two oceanfront infinity pools with
breathtaking views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea, one activities pool, one jungle-inspired pool plus 10 smaller pools exclusively for guests staying in swim out suites

☑Ideal location for snorkeling, kitesurfing, whale shark swimming experience, scuba diving and sport fishing – the world’s second largest barrier reef sits close to the resort’s shore

☑Unique culinary experiences including kitchen tours to meet chefs, cooking classes and tequila/wine tastings

☑9 reservation free restaurants and 8 bars

☑State-of-the-art Spa facilities, the ideal place to pamper yourself and your loved one

☑Limitless access to gourmet à la carte dining options without reservations required

☑Unlimited international and domestic top-shelf spirits

☑Unlimited natural fruit juices and soft drinks

☑24-Hour room service

☑Concierge services

☑Pool and beach wait service

☑Daily refreshed mini bar with soft drinks, juice, bottled water and beer

☑Daily maid service

☑Endless daytime activities and live nightly entertainment

☑Theme parties, oceanfront bars and entertainment venues

☑No wristbands required

☑Free Wi-Fi

If you would like to take that special someone to Secrets Playa Blanca or any other all-inclusive resort in Mexico or the Caribbean, click the Contact Us button for my Travel Request Form, send me a message, or email [email protected]!

08/15/2026

Huge congratulations to the future Mr. and Mrs. H! They just booked their dream honeymoon for this June at Impression Moxché by Secrets in Playa del Carmen, and I could not be more excited for them.

To make their celebration extra special, they went with a Signature Swimout Suite Tropical View room. This place is an absolute jaw-dropper. It offers nearly 1,000 square feet of pure luxury with a King bed and top-tier amenities. Unlike traditional swim ups, these suites essentially give them their own oversized private pool right off the terrace, which can even be heated upon request for total vacation bliss.

Because Impression Moxché is an ultra-exclusive, boutique section built directly inside the main Secrets Moxché property, Mr. and Mrs. H get the absolute best of both worlds. They will enjoy the ultimate privacy of the upscale Impression side, plus full exchange privileges to explore the entire sister resort right next door. This means they have dual access to 12 total pools, including a stunning lagoon pool and 3 unique man made cenote pools, plus a hidden speakeasy, live music, and every single restaurant and bar across both properties.

Here is a glimpse of what is waiting for them:

VIP Treatment: A dedicated personal butler available via WhatsApp from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm to handle restaurant lists, room customization, and daily itineraries.

Rooftop Luxury: Lazy days spent lounging on complimentary Bali beds at the breathtaking, exclusive Cielo rooftop infinity pool while catching stunning panoramic sunsets.

Incredible Food: Access to an elite culinary lineup, ranging from the private Seaside Beach Club to over a dozen global dining options across both resorts, perfect for adventurous foodies.

Discerning Perks: High end boutique luxury within a secure gated community, complete with complimentary daily laundry service to keep packing light and stress-free.

If you would like a quote for Impression Moxché by Secrets or any other all-inclusive resort in Mexico or the Caribbean let me know! You can send me a direct message, click the Contact Us button for my travel request form, or email me at [email protected].

08/05/2026

Huge congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. K, who just booked a well deserved anniversary trip this February to Atelier Playa Mujeres in Cancun. They had a specific list of exactly what they wanted out of a resort, and Atelier hit every single requirement on their list.

To make the milestone celebration even better, they chose an Inspira Swim Out suite.

Atelier Playa Mujeres is an incredible adults only, all-inclusive property tucked away in a quiet gated community. It sits right on a pristine stretch of soft white sand beach. Because the coast is protected by nearby Isla Mujeres, the turquoise water stays calm, shallow, and peaceful. The property is famous for its world class, personalized hospitality. The highly attentive staff anticipates every need, offering flawless beachside wait service so guests never have to leave their loungers. The resort also features 13 restaurants and 12 bars, making it a perfect spot for a romantic getaway.

By upgrading to the Inspira Suites category, Mr. and Mrs. K get some great VIP perks during their stay. They will enjoy a personal butler to take care of restaurant reservations, unpacking, and random requests. They also get exclusive entry to the INSPIRA Rooftop Pool, a dedicated lounge, and a private Inspira beach section with its own premium beach bar. Their room will include upgraded amenities like a rolling bar with premium spirits, plus custom pillow and room scent menus. They even get a free hydrotherapy session at NUUP Spa.

On top of the Inspira perks, the Swim Out Suite gives them a large private terrace with direct access to a heated swimming lane right outside their door. They can step straight into the water whenever they want, which is total vacation bliss.

If you would like a quote for Atelier Playa Mujeres or any other all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean or Mexico, let me know! You can send me a direct message, click the Contact Us button for my travel request form, or email me at [email protected].

07/28/2026

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. W who just got in on that tremendous deal I posted the other day to Majestic Mirage Punta Cana! The price was so good they decided to go for an additional night and upgrade to a swim out suite!

Majestic Mirage Punta Cana is the ultimate all-suite Caribbean paradise, delivering a flawless blend of luxury, entertainment, and world-class hospitality. Guests are greeted with the ultimate upscale convenience of dedicated butler service, ensuring that your premium vacation needs are seamlessly handled from arrival to departure. The culinary journey across the resort is exceptional, featuring eight distinct restaurants that operate on a hassle-free, first-come, first-served basis—meaning you can walk right into the gourmet Argentinean steakhouse, authentic Italian eatery, beachfront seafood grill, or international buffet whenever hunger strikes. The only two exclusive exceptions requiring reservations are the entertaining Teppanyaki cooking tables at Kabuki and the fine-dining French restaurant, L'Essence, both of which your butler can easily book for you upon arrival. Beverage options are equally impressive, with 11 premium bars scattered throughout the property, including swim-up bars, sophisticated lounges, and a 24-hour sports bar serving top-shelf liquors. During the day, guests can cool off in multiple sparkling swimming pools and winding swim-up rivers, or take part in a robust schedule of daily activities including non-motorized water sports, beach volleyball, and fitness classes. As the sun sets, the resort comes alive with vibrant evening shows, live music performances, and an on-site casino and disco that keep the energy high well into the night.

Check out my personal review of Majestic Mirage here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1NuojG372k/

August 28 - September 2 (5 nights) is still pricing out great at $2875.10 per couple for a Mirage Club Suite in the adults section including flights from Des Moines!

If you want a quote for Majestic Mirage Punta Cana or any other all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean or Mexico, let me know! You can send me a direct message, click the Contact Us button, or email me at [email protected].

07/26/2026

Congratulations to Ms. L and Ms. W, who just booked their annual girls' trip for this coming February. They scored a fantastic deal on the new Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana, which officially opens on August 30.

Booking a brand-new resort during its introductory phase can result in some absolute bargains, and this trip is no exception. Located along the shores of Cabeza de Toro, the property sits nicely between a white-sand beach and the calm waters of the Bávaro Lagoon. It is also highly accessible for travelers, located just a twenty-minute drive from the Punta Cana International Airport. The resort itself offers a relaxed, casual, and social atmosphere designed for modern travelers who want to skip rigid schedules and formal dress codes. Instead, the focus is on wellness, creative workshops, and low-key acoustic music.

Dining is completely hassle-free with nine distinct food and beverage venues, including five à la carte restaurants, a global food hall, and a beach club, none of which require reservations. Guests can also enjoy four outdoor pools, a swim-up bar, and seven lounges, including a hidden speakeasy jazz club.

The ladies will be staying in a Vantage Club Ocean View Swim-Out room with two guaranteed queen beds. The room features a sleek, modern bathroom with a double vanity, a separate walk-in shower, and a private terrace that steps directly into a semi-private swim-out pool. Because they are staying in the Vantage Club tier, they get a long list of extra perks. This includes access to two dedicated club pools and an exclusive beach section along Cabeza de Toro away from the main resort crowds. They will also enjoy private breakfast and lunch at Terramar Restaurant, double the lounge space with two private club lounges, and expedited check-in and check-out handled directly by a concierge. The club amenities also cover premium top-shelf spirits at the private bars, choice suite placement for the best views, upgraded luxury bath products, a premium daily minibar, and personalized concierge service. To top it off, they each receive a complimentary pass to the resort spa's hydrotherapy circuit during their stay.

This property is still pricing out incredibly well, even during the traditionally expensive winter months. While traveling to a brand-new resort means there might be a few minor opening hiccups as the staff gets their footing, the massive savings make it well worth it. If you want a custom quote for the Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana or any other all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean or Mexico, feel free to reach out. You can send a direct message, click the Contact Us button to fill out my travel request form, or email me directly at [email protected].

07/25/2026

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. J and Mr. and Mrs. J who just booked a couples trip to Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya this November!

This is my number selling adults only resort in Mexico for several reasons. With so many massive, ultra-modern hotels out there right now, the Valentin just gets it right.

The dining is actually stress free. Many all inclusives make you wake up at the crack of dawn to fight for dinner reservations on an app or wait in a line in the lobby. At Valentin, you just walk up to any of the 7 restaurants whenever you're hungry. The food is great, and not having to plan your life around a dinner schedule is a game changer.

The pool is massive but has two totally different vibes. It’s one of the biggest pools in Mexico. If you want swim-up bars, music, and a lively party, go to one side. If you want to read a book and nap in peace, go to the other. You don't have to choose between a "party resort" or a "quiet resort", you get both.

It actually feels like Mexico. A lot of new resorts look like clinical, white-box concrete buildings that could be anywhere in the world. The Valentin is built like an old-school Mexican hacienda. It’s full of lush jungle, fountains, and local wildlife roaming around. Plus, no annoying plastic wristbands.

The location is perfect. It’s on a quiet, private stretch of beach about 25 minutes from the Cancun airport. You get to bypass the long, exhausting shuttle rides down the coast and start your vacation immediately.

If you want to see what the hype is about for your next getaway, click the contact us button for my travel request form, email me at [email protected], shoot me a DM, or leave a comment below.

07/24/2026

DEAL ALERT! Check out this deal to the Majestic Mirage in Punta Cana! I just returned from this resort and we had a great time! August 28 - September 2 (5 nights) is pricing at $2875.10 for 2 adults including flights from DSM! That's crazy cheap! These are the ONLY dates that are coming in this cheap from Des Moines. Want to bring kids, let me know and I can price that out too.

While this resort does allow children, it really caters towards adults. 5 buildings are dedicated to adults only and only two allow children. Adults also have exclusive access to the Mirage Club pools and swim up bars along with a dedicated beach where kids are prohibited.

Majestic Mirage Punta Cana is the ultimate all-suite Caribbean paradise, delivering a flawless blend of luxury, entertainment, and world-class hospitality. Guests are greeted with the ultimate upscale convenience of dedicated butler service, ensuring that your premium vacation needs are seamlessly handled from arrival to departure. The culinary journey across the resort is exceptional, featuring eight distinct restaurants that operate on a hassle-free, first-come, first-served basis—meaning you can walk right into the gourmet Argentinean steakhouse, authentic Italian eatery, beachfront seafood grill, or international buffet whenever hunger strikes. The only two exclusive exceptions requiring reservations are the entertaining Teppanyaki cooking tables at Kabuki and the fine-dining French restaurant, L'Essence, both of which your butler can easily book for you upon arrival. Beverage options are equally impressive, with 11 premium bars scattered throughout the property, including swim-up bars, sophisticated lounges, and a 24-hour sports bar serving top-shelf liquors. During the day, guests can cool off in multiple sparkling swimming pools and winding swim-up rivers, or take part in a robust schedule of daily activities including non-motorized water sports, beach volleyball, and fitness classes. As the sun sets, the resort comes alive with vibrant evening shows, live music performances, and an on-site casino and disco that keep the energy high well into the night.

Check out my personal review of Majestic Mirage here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1NuojG372k/

If you want a quote for Majestic Mirage Punta Cana or any other all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean or Mexico, let me know! You can send me a direct message, click the Contact Us button, or email me at [email protected].

Pricing was accurate as of 7/23/26. Price does not include trip insurance or ground transfers.

07/21/2026

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. W, Mr. and Mrs. H, the W Family, and Mr. and Mrs. H on booking their March spring break getaway to Princess Grand Jamaica!

Princess Grand Jamaica is a modern, upscale all-inclusive property beautifully situated right on the coast between Montego Bay and Negril. One of the best features of this resort is that all 590 of its spacious suites offer stunning ocean views, giving everyone a perfect private balcony to take in the Caribbean Sea.

During their stay, they will get to experience a massive lineup of top-tier amenities. Food lovers can indulge in nine different restaurants serving everything from Mexican, Italian, and Asian fusion to local Jamaican delights, plus casual food trucks and eight different bars. On the activity side, the resort features an expansive aquatic park with thrilling water slides, three pools, tennis, pickleball, basketball, yoga, and water sports. For the W family, the resort offers a fantastic kids club with structured activity zones, a thematic teens center, and optional nanny services so the adults can get some well-deserved relaxation.

If you want a quote for Princess Grand Jamaica or any other all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean or Mexico, let me know! You can send me a direct message, click the Contact Us button, or email me at [email protected].

07/20/2026

Congratulations to the B, K, F, and A couples on booking their January getaway to Majestic Elegance in Punta Cana! Having just stayed at Majestic this past summer, I can personally say you made a fantastic choice.

They are staying in the Elegance Club Majestic Junior Swim Up suites, which are absolutely perfect if you love the water. These ground-floor rooms open right up to a private garden area with two dedicated sun beds and direct access to the resort pool. Inside, the suites feature an indoor whirlpool bath, a double-sink vanity, and a walk-in shower.

Because they booked in the Elegance Club, they will enjoy full access to the adults-only section of the resort. This upgrade includes 24/7 room service, dedicated butler service, premium liquor, and a welcome bottle of sparkling wine waiting in their room. They will also get exclusive perks like a la carte breakfast and lunch at a private club restaurant, access to multiple club-only bars, four separate pools, a dedicated beach area, and much more.

Majestic Elegance sits on a beautiful, unspoiled beach and does a wonderful job of balancing high end luxury with natural surroundings. It is a great spot whether you want to relax or stay active with golf and water sports.

If you would like a quote for Majestic Elegance or any other all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean or Mexico, let me know! You can send me a direct message, click the Contact Us button, or email me at [email protected].

07/18/2026

SPRING BREAK BARGAIN ALERT! You can book an all-inclusive 5-night March 17 - 22 getaway to the gorgeous Moon Palace Jamaica in Ocho Rios starting at just $5288.00 total for a family of 4, or starting at $5810.00 total for a family of 5, and that even includes flights from Des Moines.

Why is this such a great deal? Most schools are back beginning March 22, but if your kids can miss just one day of school, this itinerary saves you a BUNDLE. You simply will not find a better peak holiday deal for Spring Break.

Here is a quick look at what this resort offers:

The Concept: Located right at the head of famed Ocho Rios Bay, this smoke-free, family-friendly mega-resort perfectly balances Jamaican culture, high-end luxury, and non-stop activities.

Modern Suites: The base price locks in a Deluxe Resort View room with a Private Balcony, offering your choice of 1 king or 2 double beds. Rooms feature a double whirlpool tub, high-speed wireless internet, and a daily restocked mini-bar. A rollaway bed will be provided for the 5th guest. Quotes for other room types available upon request.

World-Class Dining: 6 distinct culinary options with zero reservation requirements. Choices include seafood, Italian, Asian, a steakhouse, and authentic Jamaican Jerk, plus a gourmet food corridor.

Top-Shelf Bars: 6 unique bars serving brand-name spirits and cocktails from sunup to sundown, including a premium Martini bar and multiple swim-up bars.

Epic Fun & Pools: 4 refreshing pools, a dedicated kids' pool, and the thrilling FlowRider Double Wave Simulator for endless surfing excitement.

The Playroom Kids Club: A supervised dream oasis for kids aged 4-12 featuring indoor and outdoor playgrounds, an Xbox room, treasure hunts, cookie-making, piñata-making, and movie nights.

Amenities & Activities: A state-of-the-art fitness center, a dedicated wellness area, a teens' Wired Lounge, the Noir Nightclub, and complimentary non-motorized water sports like kayaking and windsurfing.

Pricing Details:
Family of 4 (2 adults + 2 kids under 18) - $5288.00 total
Family of 5 (2 adults + 3 kids under 18 - Includes a rollaway bed for the 5th guest) - $5810.00 total

Pricing is for the base level Deluxe Resort View room with Balcony and includes flights from Des Moines, all hotel taxes, and gratuities. Pricing does not include ground transfers (approximately $220 for 4 people / $275 for 5 people) or trip insurance. Club Mobay VIP arrival service can be added for $50 per person. Prices were valid as of today 7/17/26 but can change at any time. The price is not locked in until a deposit is made (approximately $571 per person) with the final balance due by February 15.

If you would like a quote for Moon Palace Jamaica or any other all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean or Mexico, please send me a message, click the Contact Us button or email [email protected]!

Mark the Travel Dad

08/28/2026

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08/05/2026

07/28/2026

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