Archive for category TravelDesigned

TravelDesigned Tweeting Live from Dreams Resorts Huatulco

Posted by TravelDesigned in Mexico, TravelDesigned, Uncategorized on June 24th, 2010

#TD@DreamsResorts is the hashtag to follow on twitter July 23-30, I will be tweeting live from Huatulco

Huatulco (wha tool co) is a resort development set on 9 bays and 36 sandy beaches. It is on the Pacific coast of Mexico in the state of Oaxaca. The climate is perfect for beach vacations year round with an average temperature of 82 degrees. The Bahias de Huatulco (Bays of Huatulco) are framed by the Sierra Madre Sur mountain range. The majority of the visitors are Mexican nationals because of the limited international flights available. During the winter months Canadian and American charter vacation flights are available. The resorts of Tangolunda Bay, where Dreams Huatulco Resort and Spa is located, are about 20 minutes from the small international airport (HUX). Prior to development in the mid 80's, the area was a fishing village surrounded by coffee plantations. There are 3 small towns in the area to visit: La Crucecita, Santa Cruz (the main marina-where smaller cruise ships dock May- Oct ) Santa Maria de Huatulco. It is easy to visit these communities by taxi for a few dollars, car rentals are also available. With taxis so reasonable in this area, we will stick with them this time. Oaxaca is about 175 miles NW drive inland and Acapulco is approximately 300 miles south.

We are thrilled to be guests of the newly remodeled Dreams Huatulco Resort and Spa this week. It is a dream come true for us to take our two oldest grandchildren to Mexico for an all inclusive beach vacation! The Explorer's Club for kids will certainly be a big hit with Jack and Ella. They are looking forward to swimming, sailing on Hobie Cats, kayaking, camping on the beach and the Euro Bungee! Terry is anxious to show off his award winning ping pong skills -he was the 7th grade champ,(mind you, that was over 50 years ago). Keeping up with all of these activities, I know I will DEFINITELY NEED some time in the the Dreams Spa by Pevonia.

We know the children will certainly find their favorites at the World Cafe Buffet and the Seaside Grill. We can't wait to take them to Himitsu, the Asian inspired restaurant. My grandson is a huge fan of noodles and sticky rice. The night the kids are camping on the beach with the Explorer's Club, Terry and I will most likely dine at Portofino, the adult only Italian restaurant. Though, I think it would be not only fun but romantic to dine privately on the beach! I am certain Terry will TRY to eat ALL the freshly caught seafood at the Oceana Restaurant. And what would a vacation to Mexico be without tequila tastings and dining at El Patio for Mexican cuisine?! Terry is hoping they will have Mezcal tastings as Mezcal is distilled in this area. He is quite fond of Mezcal, I will stick to my friend, Tequila.

I havent planned the whole week yet, but I think we may go snorkeling at La Entrega, a shallow snorkeling beach recommended to us by my clients. I know we will go to La Crucectia to see the zocalo (the town square), markets, bakery and shops. I want the children to get a taste of the Mexican culture and life. We hope to go horseback riding but it will depend on the trail conditions and weather. We definitely will be going on a boat tour of the bays. Now I am wondering, will a week be enough?

I hope you will follow our family adventures on the feed below or on by search #TD@DreamsResorts on twitter. I also hope be posting photos on facebook on the Dreams Huatulco fan page daily too.

Dreams Huatulco, family vacations, Huatulco

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Huatulco Dreams

Posted by TravelDesigned in Mexico, TravelDesigned on June 23rd, 2010

Huatulco Dreams (part 1 of our Huatulco, Mexico trip with our grandchildren)

These days I am having Huatulco dreams. We will be traveling with our grandchildren, Jack -10 and Ella- 8, next month to Dreams Huatulco Resort and Spa. I don’t know who is MORE excited, the kids or us!

I have been doing a lot of research about Huatulco, Dreams and traveling with children. My twitter pal, Cindy Richards from http://www.travelingmom.com called to reassure me everything will go fine! She reminded me to take a power strip for recharging all our electronic gadgets (dvd player, gameboy, Ipad, cameras, phones, laptop) and a splitter so the kids can listen to a movie without disturbing other passengers. Cindy told me I could not pack enough food and snacks for the kids to eat at the airport and on the plane or enough Ziploc bags for a million and one uses! I was glad she suggested we take our own masks for snorkeling. Cindy explained an ill fitting mask will definitely bring a sudden halt to a fun day. I already have my own prescription mask so I would have never thought of this! Thank you, Cindy for saving the day, it has been a LONG time since I have traveled with children.

I have been dreaming about a trip like this for quite a while. I have always been VERY envious of other grandparents with their grandchildren on vacation, I can’t help myself.

One thing for sure, Dreams Huatulco will be the perfect place for our first, of hopefully many to come, “multigenerational” vacations. Jack and Ella will love the Explorer's Club for kids. They were sold on the idea when I showed them the website. Jack and Ella are already excited about the weekly campout, the movies on the beach, sandcastle contests, arts and crafts, euro bungee (a bungee jumping trampoline) and the treasure hunt. I wish I were young enough to join them! Though, my mind is completely at ease knowing the Explorer' Club staff is CPR, first aid and Red Cross trained. I will even be given a pager in the event I am needed in a moment’s notice.

I emailed the hotel for the consent form for the Explorer’s Club. I wanted to make sure I knew what information would be required. I am glad I did, one of the questions asked their blood type! They will also be informed of any food allergies as they will be having lunch and dinner with the Explorers. It is kind of like a day/evening camp. Certainly, we will be spending plenty of time together, but I want the Jack and Ella to have fun doing "their own thing" — and of course, I will need time to do "my thing" too! I can hardly wait to hit the SPA!! I do have ulterior motives

All on my own I made up the following consent form for my daughter and son in law to sign and have notarized in the unlikely event of an emergency, I don’t want any problems. Better to be safe than sorry, I ALWAYS say!

Authorization for Minors to Travel We, ___________________________________________, Mother and ___________________________________________, Father
hereby authorize our minor children, names as appearing on their passports : ____________________________________________ and ______________________________________
to travel out of the United States from ____________ 2010 to _________ 2010
traveling to Huatulco, Mexico
under the custody of their grandparents: @TravelDesigned and Mr. @TravelDesigned We also give them consent to make any medical treatment decisions required.
Mother’s printed name and signature Date: Father’s printed name and signature Date: Notary stamp: Notary Signature:________________________ Date:_______________

What are your tips for traveling with children?

Huatulco Dreams to be continued……

Dreams Resorts, Huatulco, Mexico, multigenerational travel, traveling with children, traveling with grandchildren

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Tasty TwEats

Posted by TravelDesigned in My Travelin' Tweeps, Sustainable travel, Travel Information, TravelDesigned, Uncategorized on June 7th, 2010

Tasty TwEats

Have you ever wondered how the French seem to always make their croissants just right, or exactly what Italians do to make their sauces so mouth-watering wonderful? Can you identify all the spices in an authentic Moroccan dish, or pick out the seasonings that make a Midwest barbecue famous? If you've ever wondered how the flavors of the world converge, Tasty TwEats is for you.

The first and only cookbook created by travelers and conceived from #TNI (Travelers Night In, a weekly Thursday travel conversation on Twitter at 3:30 EDT. Tasty TwEats is a mash-up of all the best food and recipes from around the world, as tried and tested by those who've traveled far on an empty stomach.

But of course, we haven't been everywhere… so we're relying on you to contribute some of your favorite recipes. All submissions are completely voluntary and no money is exchanged between writers.

Tasty TwEats is a travel e cookbook, after all, so we're proud to feature some of our favorite travel companies from around the world in our cookbook. If you want to sponsor a part of Tasty TwEats, let us know! A minimum $25 donation is required for either a 1/4-page ad or on your 5×8 recipe page. 100% of all sponsorship or donation dollars to Tasty TwEats goes directly to Planeterra, a global grassroots organization donating to the people and communities around the world. You can choose how your donation is used, either by selecting a a specific project or submitting to a non-profit with the greatest need. There are over 30 project to choose from and all donations are matched 100%, which means if you donate $50, your charity is going to get $100.

The cookbook will be available for download Aug. 1 for a minimum $10 donation.

Thanks to Melanie Nayer @chic_travel for donating her time and writing for this post. Hugs to you, Melanie!

#TNI, charity, Planeterra, Sustainable travel, TastyTwEats

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Tequila 101

Posted by TravelDesigned in Mexico, My Travelin' Tweeps, TravelDesigned on April 25th, 2010

Tequila 101

A tequila expert, I am not but here is a little Tequila 101 and how I learned to LOVE Tequila! It all started about 12 years ago in Puerto Vallarta. I was invited by the Tourism Board to a private tasting with the manager of the Porfidio Distillery. I accepted graciously though I was dreading it, I didn’t EVEN like Tequila! But I knew it was a very special invitation I should not decline. Boy, am I ever glad I went! What I learned is… I don’t like cheap Tequila, imagine that! After tasting the different classifications and various ages, re-tasting to make sure I knew what I liked, I REALLY don’t know how I got back into the van! All I know is, I am glad I had a driver and my preferences began at a mere $75! The most expensive bottle I tasted was about $300 –if I remember right

I was taught to drink my Tequila neat, no ice, just sipping it. None of that lick your hand, pour some salt, down the hatch and bite the lime mess for me. Savor the flavor, each one is different and sip it like a very fine wine. Oh, and Tequila does not have a worm in it, that is Mezcal and cheap ones at that. The whole worm thing is just a marketing gimmick.

What I also learned is there are 2 categories of Tequila and at the time, there were 4 classifications. The 2 categories are 100% Blue Agave and Mixto, which is at least 51% Blue Agave and 49% sugars. I look for 100% Blue Agave or 100% Puro de Agave (the word Azul may also be found) on the label, it is a Mixto otherwise. 100% Blue Agave currently can only be distilled in certain regions of Mexico. This is similar to the international laws of champagne. The area of Tequila has been designated a UNESCO world heritage site, It is where the original blue agave fields are and where Tequila was first distilled. There are many species of agave, tequilana weber blue is harvested for Tequila production. Each distillery is issued a unique NOM (identification) by the government to ensure quality and standards are met. The NOM can be found on the label. Some distilleries manufacture more than one brand. As of 2006 Mixto may be distilled in other countries.

Now there are 5 classifications of Tequila. The first is Plata/Silver/White/Platinum, the “true” Tequila. It is typically bottled immediately after distillation though it can be held for 1 -2 months in stainless steel containers for a smoother taste. I really haven’t found a Plata Tequila I Iike. Maybe I just haven’t tried the right one… yet!

The Gold/Oro/Joven has additives for color and sweetness and usually made from Mixto. I make margaritas out of this type or out of a lower priced Reposado. Some high end Jovens are crafted by combining Plata, Reposado and Anejo, the price will reflect this as well as the designation of 100% Blue Agave.

The Reposados –now we are talkin’! It is rested for 2 -11 months more commonly in oak barrels. Often the barrels have been previously used for wine, bourbon or cognac though virgin barrels are also used. This naturally enhances the color and flavor of the Tequila. I find it hard to tell the difference between a high end Reposado and an Anejo but as I said,I am no tequila expert.

Anejos are classified as extra-aged, aged for 1-3 years in barrels holding less than 600 liters. I find them smoooooth (not a typo) and the color is darker than a Resosado- and of course with age comes price, some are several hundred. If given a choice and a “reasonable” price ($40-75), I prefer these. My favorites have a slightly sweeter finish. Some of the bottles are collectible, they may also be numbered like artwork ( 26/1200) especially if it is bottled in a hand blown, talavera, crystal bottle or from a small batch. I hate to admit it, but we have quite a collection of empty bottles!

Most stores in the US do not carry the newest classification, Extra Anejo. This category was added in 2006 and is given to the Tequila aged over 3 years. I have to admit, I’ve not purchased this quality of Tequila, I have tasted it. I am certain it is worth the price, I just haven’t found one I can afford! I will keep searching, there has got to be one, I just know it!

Gaining popularity in the last few years are Tequila infusions and flavored Tequilas, liquors and crèmes.

I tend to shy away from these. I have seen pepper, fruit and herb infused Tequilas. Tequila has become

so popular it is now reviewed and rated by criteria such as aroma, initial taste, body,smoothness, finish, presentation

and price just like fine wines-with notes and hints and yada-yada. These reviews can help you select Tequila based

on your preferences. I like what I like and hope you will try a tequila tasting or flight of tequila given the opportunity.

Like me, you may find you just needed to sip a better quality of tequila!

Do you have a favorite, let me know–I am always on the hunt for a good Tequila

PS:

Saturday we went to Woodmans in Rockford to replenish our stock. We chose Jose Cuervo Tradicional Reposado, Herradura Anejo, Cielo Reposado, El Tesoro Anejo, Casa Noble Reposado this time. El Tesoro is new to us. A Mexican businessman in Cancun told us if we put the Jose Cuervo Tradicional in the freezer, it gets very creamy and is a popular way to serve in Mexico. Casa Noble is one of my favorites,it is organic and distilled by Cofradia.(-remember how a NOM is issued to each distillery) .Herradura means horseshoe and is a longtime favorite.

In a future post, I will share with you some of the nice bottles we have purchased and glassware we have collected.

Mexico, Tequila, UNESCO

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Treasures From My Trips

Posted by TravelDesigned in Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, New Zealand, South Pacific, TravelDesigned on April 25th, 2010

Treasures From My Trips

With the treasures from my trips, my husband swears I could open a gift shop! I must admit I have quite a collection of collections from our travels. For over 25 years Terry has considered me a special envoy aiding the world economy. I just can't help myself! It is a rare occasion I leave a shop without a purchase. Some of my treasures are a little on the expensive side and others not so much. No matter the cost, I love them all dearly!

One of the things I always look for are magnets. They are useful, relatively inexpensive and make GREAT gifts. I especially love handcrafted magnets. Of course, the ones my friends gift me hold a special place in my heart. To me, my magnets are miniature works of art. They remind me of the happiest days of my life and my wonderful friends.

Here is my collection of souvenir magnets:

You can mouse over most of the magnets to see where they are from

		This is the first in a series of photo essays on my travel treasures. What souvenirs do you collect? Do you have one you hold near and dear to your heart?

You Can Do It All or Nothing At All

Posted by TravelDesigned in Caribbean, Mexico, My Travelin' Tweeps, Travel Information, TravelDesigned on April 21st, 2010

You Can Do It All or Nothing At All

This is what I always say about Mexico, “You can do it all or nothing at all!” This is especially true about a Yucatan holiday! There are party boats, romantic sunset cruises and pirate ships to sail. You can swim with whale shark, dolphins, sea turtles and manta rays.

If you like watersports, you have come to the right place. There’s windsurfing, kayaking, hobie cat sailing, snorkeling, diving and windkite surfing. At Rio Secreto you can swim in cenotes (underground rivers) and see amazing stalactites and stalagmites formations.

Do you love waterparks? The Yucatan is the place for you! There’s the traditional waterpark WetnWild in Cancun however, unique to the area are nature themed waterparks. At El Garrafon on Isla Mujeres you can go ziplining, walk around the sculpture park, snuba or climb 50ft into the air. Near Playa del Carmen, Hidden Worlds has extensive ziplining trails. Go early and stay late at Xcaret. Don’t miss the butterfly world, jaguars, or Mayan ball court game. At Xel-Ha, near Tulum, is a natural snorkeling aquarium, manatee experiences and so much more!

Speaking of Tulum, it’s the only Mayan fortress by the sea. Inland find the Mayan ruins of Coba and Chichen Itza, a UNESCO world heritage site. Spend your vacation at the ruins of Chacchoben, Chac Mool, Dzibilchaltun, Ek Balam,Uxmal, Mayapan, Muyil, Kohunlich, Dzibanche and Oxtankah. Discover natural wonders at the Sian Ka'an Biosphere, another UNESCO site.

Bring your game- you can play a different golf course every day of the week! There’s El Camaleon, Playacar, Puerto Aventuras, Riviera Maya Golf Club, Pok Ta Pok, Hilton Golf Course and Playa Paraiso.

Only in the Yucatan will you find a certified thalasso spa with Mayan Shaman and their temazcal treatments. Or just relax on miles of beaches or at the pool with your favorite flavored margarita. As you can see on a Yucatan holiday,

you can do it all or nothing at all!

I wrote the above blog as an entry for the Yucatan Holidays Travel Writers' Contest

Mexico, Riviera Maya, Tulum

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Natural Wonders and Voluntourism Coast 2 Coast

Posted by TravelDesigned in Gap Adventures of the Week, My Travelin' Tweeps, South America, Sustainable travel, TravelDesigned on April 11th, 2010

Winner of the Gap Adventrues Create Your Own Adventrue Contest will be announced May 25, 2010

Voting has ended.

This is my dream Gap Adventure of the Week. I created Natural Wonders and Voluntourism Coast 2 Coast for the Gap Adventures Create Your Own Adventure Contest There were over 5000 entries. My tour made the Top 20 and is in the running for the Gap Adventure of the Year! Now I need your vote to make my dream a reality not only for myself but for others as well. Voting ends April 25, 2010, Please spread the word!

The concept of this tour is nature and volunteer work while traveling in style, with spa and beach time too!

This button will take you to the poll

Natural Wonders & Voluntourism Coast 2 Coast

Created by Stephanie

Countries Visited Ecuador

Brazil

Argentina

Tour Duration 16 days

Tour Description

Natural Wonders & Voluntourism Coast to Coast in South America
Created by Stephanie Diehl

Countries visited: Equador, Brazil and Argentina

Tour duration: 16 days

From city highlights, relaxation, natural wonders and voluntourism, everything is included in this coast to coast South American adventure. Voluntourism doesnt mean you have to sacrifice the comforts and conveniences or free time with this tour!

Day 1: City tour of Quito on arrival

Day 2(B,L,D): Planeterra Project in Quito: Your time will be spent helping children with their studies and they help you understand their daily lives.

Evening: dinner & folklore show

Day 3(B,L): 1/2 day Planeterra Volunteering
1/2 day Shopping & Spa
Evening is free to explore dining and nightlife on your own.

Day 4-8 Isabela Island -the largest island of the Galapagos, yet the least visited!
Day 4(B,D)
Day 5-7(B,L,D)
Day 8(B)
Nature awaits you with visits including:

*Flamingo Lagoon-the breeding ground of the flamingos
*Sierra Negra Volcano-by horseback- *Concha Perla-snorkeling
*Giant Tortoise Breeding Center
*The Wall of Tears-a former penal colony
*Islote Tintoreras-snorkeling with white tipped sharks
*Penguins, sea lions, marine iguana, many exotic colored fish
*Beach time

Day 8(B): Isabela to Rio de Janeiro

Day 9: Arrive Rio de Janeiro from overnight flight- city tour on arrival – free afternoon and evening to rest or explore on your own

Day 10-12(B,L): Volunteer at Planeterra's project -Favela Roupa Suja -learn about day to day living by helping with a 50 child full service day care. No special skills required-just the willingness to open your heart to help these children.

Evenings and free time in Rio are yours to explore the culinary delights and this magnificent city's treasures.

Day 13-16(B) Iguassu Falls -a UNESCO world heritage site!
Includes:
*1/2 day tour of the Argentinean Iguasso Falls
*1/2 day tour of the Brazilian Iguasso Falls
*zodiac tour-Argentian side
*helicopter tour-Brazillian side
*nature-bird park
*Evenings at your leisure

daily breakfast
all meals on Isabela Island
lunch on volunteer days
Dinner with the folklore show in Quito

dinner and folklore show
1/2 day Shopping & Spa tour
city tours Quito and Rio
volunteer project in Rio and Quito
Iguassu Falls trip (similar to code TSAIFS)
zodiac boat tour of falls
helicopter tour of falls
daily breakfast
all meals on Isabela Island
lunch on volunteer days

Galapagos Islands (Ecuador)
Iguassu Falls (Brazil)
Iguassu Falls (Argentina)
Quito (Ecuador)
Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)

Boutique Hotels
Twin-Share hotel

Boat/Sail boat
Airplane
Private Vehicles

This will take you to the poll

Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Galapagos, Iguassu Falls, Rio De Janiero

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Things to See and Do in Los Cabos

Posted by TravelDesigned in Mexico, My Travelin' Tweeps, TravelDesigned on March 28th, 2010

Things to See and Do in Los Cabos

I learned there are WAAAY more things to see and do in Los Cabos than what I thought. Los Cabos, the capes, is really several destinations in one. There’s San Jose del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas and the 20 mile Corridor which connects the two towns. Most of the more than 30 miles of gorgeous beaches are not swimmable because the currents are too strong where the Pacific and Sea of Cortez meet. If swimming in the ocean is of the upmost importance to you, the hotels of Medano Beach are where you should stay. That said, the resorts located on the other beaches are some of the most beautiful and luxurious in the world. They have some of the most spectacular pools I’ve ever seen and most of them are on beaches that can be walked forever. It’s a playground of the celebrities for relaxation and fun. If it’s good enough for them, then it is good enough for me!

Golf enthusiasts will LOVE it here, it rarely rains. Cabo boasts 350 rain free days a year with winter temperatures in the 80s. Though the environment is a subtropical desert, many of the world class courses have holes with picturesque views of the Sea of Cortez. Reservations for tee times are highly recommended. Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort and Spa even has a dedicated golf concierge.

Cabo is such a relaxing destination! Spend the day at one of the many spas, most have signature treatments. The spa at the Marquis Los Cabos is a holistic spa. I had the pleasure of experiencing my first Aromatica massage here. I chose lavender as the essential oil to fill my senses and massaged into my body. It creates a greater sense of relaxation, relieves stress and helps restore the natural balance between the mind and body. I definitely needed this after a jam packed long weekend of site inspections and activities. All I can say is, “Mission Accomplished”!

Los Cabos is rich in cultural heritage. There are more art galleries than you can shake a stick at in San Jose Del Cabo! Not to be missed is the Art Walk on Thursday nights, November-May, in the historic art district. Galleries are open late with paintings, sculptures and works of arts in various media available for viewing and purchase. After the Art Walk there are plenty of restaurants in the area. An evening topped with a fine dining experience at La Panga Antigua would make the end to a perfect day!

Cabo is a nature and adventure lover’s paradise. Zoetry Casa Del Mar is honored as one of three hotels designated as a protected Olive Ridley sea turtle hatching ground by the federal government. There are 20 other hotels working with PROFEPA, an environmental protection agency to watch and rescue the turtle eggs. There’s zip lining and repelling in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Boca de Sierra Biosphere Reserve. An ATV or dune buggy adventure with Baja Buggys is a fun way to spend the day too. With the desert, ocean and mountains there sure is plenty to explore!

A beach vacation wouldn’t be complete without spending time on the water. Take a boat ride over to Playa del Amor- Lover’s Beach, be sure to pass by El Arco -the famous rock formation jetting out of the sea, you may even catch sea lions basking in the sun. I enjoyed America’s Cup experience from Cabo Adventures. I boarded an authentic America’s Cup racing yacht, learned how to perform tacking and jibing, grinding the winch, trimming the sails and actually competed in a racing match well, sort of- I watched while my friends did the work! In Cabo there’s diving, whale watching, sunset cruises, wave runners, kayaking,surfing. THE place to see and be seen in Cabo is Passion Club. Dress to impress and enjoy open air dining at Nikki Beach before the party starts! There are so many things to see and do in Los Cabos, there’s never a dull moment unless you want there to be!

Medano Beach Hotels All Inclusive Resorts

Casa Dorado Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf and Spa Resort

Me Zoetry Casa Del Mar

Villa Estancia

Villa del Palmar Resorts

Villa Los Arcos Marquis Los Cabos Resort

Capellla Pedregal

Tour Operators Westin Resort and Spa

Cabo Adventures

Baja Buggys Restaurant

La Panga Antigua

Night Club NIkki Beach

Passion

I would like to thank the Mexico Tourism Board and the Los Cabos CVB for their invitation to learn about Los Cabos. I also want to thank those listed above for their hospitality during this trip. I am a professional travel agent and these are my honest opinions and experiences.

My Q&A Twitter Interview with TravelDudes

Posted by TravelDesigned in Mexico, TravelDesigned, TravelDudes on February 25th, 2010

#Q&A Twitterview between @TravelDesigned & @TravelDudes

Stephanie is all about travel. Adding Service, Value & Experience to your Travel. Love gardening and photography too! Check out her site: http://www.traveldesigned.com

& follow her on Twitter:

@TravelDesigned

(to follow any #Q&A Twitterviews, please follow @Traveldudes on Twitter or search on Twitter: #Q&A)

Melvin @Traveldudes

Love to travel, to discover the world, to travel free & untroubled & still be informed like an insider! For Travelers, By Travelers!

@Traveldudes: Hi Stephanie, thanks for being my
interview partner. First, let us explain what we are doing. It's simple! We are having a Twitterview… the twitter way. Short & informative! To be a part of it, just follow us or follow/search for "#Q&A" (Question & Answer). Easy as that.

Let's begin! You are a travel agent. Do you have any specific region/destination you focus on?

@TravelDesigned: Yes… I've been a travel agent for over 16 years. I plan to travel all over the world but I specialize in the Caribbean and Mexico.

@Traveldudes: So these are the destinations you know best. When have you been there last?

@TravelDesigned: Yes, because I live in the Midwest of the US that is where most people here want to travel. I was in the Riviera Maya in October & Los Cabos in November.

@Traveldudes: What is the reason that most people choose to go there?

@TravelDesigned: It is cold & snowy here in the winter and it is not far to travel & it is relatively inexpensive

@Traveldudes: These are very good reasons! So what exactly are your services… in Twitter length?

@TravelDesigned: LOL! I arrange air, hotel, transfers -pre/post hotel with parking & insurance. Tours & Cruises too! I just don't do too much with just airline tickets. I arrange travel packages.The whole Enchilada!

@Traveldudes: So it's pretty much what a travel agent does & more. Do you have an office, where people visit you?

@TravelDesigned: My office is in my home & meet people here, I also make appointments in their homes & treat to drinks too.

@Traveldudes: Sounds gemütlich (cozy). But you are also very active on twitter & have your own website http://su.pr/1E915l

@Traveldudes: I see there is a tab called #MexMonday. Tell us more about it. http://su.pr/7YomFb

@TravelDesigned: Travel was really slow last year due to the US economy then with H1N1 No one would go and it really had a bad effect MX economy. Mexico was the #1 destination – so I decided to tweet all the great deals to Mexico hopefully build biz & reputation as a reliable source. You can find the whole story on the #MexMonday homepage http://su.pr/7YomFb We also have a weekly photo contest & sometimes blog contest too.

@Traveldudes: Wow… you should call yourself a Mexican tourist office…

So I'm sure you've got a special insider tip for us?

@TravelDesigned: You say that.. in a Mexico newspaper/blog #MexMonday was referred to as an unofficial ambassador. LOL
People in Mexico are very kind & many enjoy working in hospitality industry. I don't know where you can get better service than in Mexico. The hotels are gorgeous, the food is very good & not usually spicy — though some is…
There's lots of fresh seafood & TEQUILA TOO

) There are many historical sites as well as soft adventure and lots of beautiful nature to see in & out of the water. I find the culture and people fascinating!! For ideas on where to travel, what to see & do in Mexico follow us on #MexMonday & www.visitmexico.com/wb2

@Traveldudes: Great! & here you'll find some #travel tips
www.traveldudes.org/north-america/mexico For Travelers, By Travelers!

@TravelDesigned: Of course — how could I forget TRAVELDUDES!! Your resource for travel worldwide!!

@Traveldudes: LOL! Thank YOU for this nice #Q&A Twitterview!

@TravelDesigned: and thank you — this was fun! Next time… I will interview YOU!!

reprinted with permission

Mexico, MexMonday, TravelDesigned, traveldudes

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Name the Suite: Los Portales of Hacienda Tres Rios

Posted by TravelDesigned in Mexico, Sustainable travel, TravelDesigned on February 18th, 2010

Los Portales is MY SUITE

Hacienda Tres Rios is having a contest to name their new suite. They have chosen select travel professionals and travel bloggers to help them name their new connecting Ceiba Junior Suites. I am one of the lucky chosen ones! My mission is to get all my friends and followers to first FAN Hacienda Tres Rios then vote/Like my suite on their Facebook page. If my suite receives the most LIKES/votes, I will win a 3 night stay!

So go to this link on Facebook, become a fan, click on the tab Suite Contest and look for my logo and Like it.

Here is a bit about my suite name and the resort:

TheTTTTthtatag The tagline of the Hacienda Tres Rios, an all-inclusive luxury resort in the

Riviera Maya, Mexico is:

Nature …Culture … Experience.

These are some of the key elements I seek when traveling and why I am excited to participate in the contest! The name of my almost 1300 sq. ft suite is Los Portales. Los Portales- VERY loosely translated- means a grand arched entrance, passage or doorway. It is a type of Colonial architecture found throughout Mexico, the grand large arched entrances often found at haciendas in Mexico-very similar to this photo of the entrance of the hotel:

Los Portales is the perfect name for my suite when you know what the experience offers!

Hacienda Tres Rios offers suites of over 600sq ft, most are ocean view and have Jacuzzis for two! (Couples-I need your vote–fan first,click on logo and LIKE it)

There are connecting suites for families and age appropriate activities at the Kid's Club.

(Moms and Dads -may I pretty please have your vote–fan first,click on logo and LIKE it)

They are furnished with beautiful Mexican marble, tile and mahogany.

The resort has 150 acres of undeveloped land which is reserved for sustainability to protect the amazing natural resources

(I hope this gets the attention of all my green and Gapper friends,fan first-click on logo and LIKE it- then please vote for me).

Kayaking in through the mangroves at Hacienda Tres Rios

The activites included at Hacienda Tres Rios are far too numerous list, some are: bike tours, snorkeling and kayaking.

I am thrilled they have complimentary wi-fi.

(Techies and Adventure Travelers, please -you need to fan first-click on logo and LIKE it to enter your vote)

Would you look at the at beach?!!

(Beach Lovers–please, dont forget to fan first,click on logo and LIKE it for your vote)

I am really excited about the prospect of checking out their Botanical Gardens as we enjoy gardening (well…I supervise & Terry digs, of course–gardening friends–I need to fan first-click on logo and LIKE it for your vote).

We love nature! Learning about the cenotes and visiting the bird sanctuary is right up our alley!

(I'll need you to fan first, click on logo and LIKE for the vote of all the nature, bird and animal loving friends)

Swimming in the cenotes at Hacienda Tres Rios

We will visit the Admiral's Yacht Club with a VIP cruise around Isla Mujeres–I can hardly wait!

(Luxury travelers and cruising friends, can I count on you to fan first-click on logo and LIKE it for your vote?!)

We'll be going horseback riding in the jungle at the nearby Equestrian Center

(photos of me horseback alone are WORTH YOUR FAN AND VOTE! )

Tequila tasting & dining at Hacienda Tres Rios

I can't wait to taste the delicacies of the Yucatecan cuisine and I am certain we will do our share of TEQUILA tasting as well!

(Foodies and Tequila lovers–I need your fan-click on logo and LIKE it to vote)

A visit to their spa for a massage will definitely be on my list of MUST do!

(Sorry -this is as solo as I get-solotravelers, please fan -click on the logo and like it for you to vote for me anyway )

I'll take memory cards FULL of photos (photography friends–I need your vote)

I will take you with me

(through the power of social media) and tweet you our

Nature…Culture…Experience Adventure.

Look! The resort is shaped like Los Portales –a grand arched entrance to the Riviera Maya

So, please all my friends and followers–the friends of friends, followers of my followers–

Please vote for @TravelDesigned and Los Portales!

Polls open Monday, Feb. 22 and close Monday, March 1

Just click on the logo below, it will take you to

the Facebook page to fan and vote

Thank you EVERYONE for your consideration, fan and vote!

If you would like to experience the Hacienda Tres Rios for yourself,

I 'd be happy to assist you with your travel arrangements!

P.S. JourneyWoman and followers -You know I love you, George Clooney and chocolate! Thanks for your fan and vote!!

P.S.S. Global Bloggers Network , bloggers everywhere and Matadors too– I am trying–I know I need more work, please fan and vote for me so I will have something to blog!

P.S.S.S. Terry–my very own personal luggage handler and love of my life –outside of social media–Thanks you too!

He is already packed-please don't disappoint him

contest, Hacienda Tres Rios, Mexico, Riviera Maya, suite, Sustainable travel

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Resolutions: Never, Not Me.. Well, Just This One!

Posted by TravelDesigned in Blood Donors, My Travelin' Tweeps, TravelDesigned, Uncategorized on January 9th, 2010

Resolutions: Never, Not Me.. Well, Just This One!

Stephanie Diehl

Follow me on twitter: @TravelDesigned

I'm all about travel. Adding Service, Value & Experience to your Travel. Love gardening and photography too!

Resolutions: Never, Not Me… Well, Just This One!

I have never been a fan of New Year’s resolutions. I don’t like to make promises I know I am not going to keep, not even to myself. This year though, I have made a resolution and it’s one I can keep!

It all started on January 2nd when on Twitter I received a tweet from my tweep DiffWorldMexico asking me to reach out to my twitter friends with a link to a Facebook page. The page had a plea for blood needed for Phil Pain, a young British student studying in Mexico, who fell from a 7th story balcony on New Year’s Day in Mazatlan. He was in desperate need of a substantial amount of O negative blood before the doctors could even begin to operate.

This really got me thinking about people who travel that experience accidents and about the need for blood everyday in general. I started doing some research on the websites of the American Red Cross and the Canadian Blood Service. What I learned absolutely shocked me! I am sure worldwide the statistics are just as staggering, if not more so.

• Every minute someone in Canada needs blood and every 2 seconds In the United States
• More than 5 million patients a year need blood in the US
• Less than 38% of the population in the US can even give blood and only 8% actually do
• O-negative blood is needed in emergencies before the patient's blood type is known and with newborns who need blood.
• Only 7% of people in the US have the Universal donor blood type, O negative
• Patients from car accidents often require 100 pints
• Cancer patients often need blood during chemotherapy treatments, sometimes daily
• Platelets critical for cancer patients only have a shelf life of 5 days

Procedures. Units Needed.

The good news is: just one donation can save up to 3 lives!

It only takes a little over an hour of your time.

So, my first ever New Year’s resolution is to give blood 6 times this year. I know it will make me feel good to know I am helping save lives.

It costs nothing and cookies and juice are involved

How about you? Will you join me in my first New Year's resolution? Please let me know on twitter or facebook if you are joining me in my resolution, I would love to hear from you!

Give Give the gift of life,

it's in you to give!!

and if you can't give… will you please encourage your friends, family, co-workers to become donors?

–heck, encourage your enemies too!

If you have traveled to the following countries… please check with your blood bank to see if you are eligible to be a donor.

The following information is from http://www.giveblood.org/index.php?page=faqs

No deferral means –you should be eleigilbe to give blood:

Location

	Comments
Mexico	Acapulco – No deferral Cabo San Lucas – No deferral Cozumel – no deferral Cancun – No deferral if you did not travel outside of heavily traveled tourist area or into rural/jungle areas. Calica – Travel after May 19, 2007 is acceptable if you did not travel outside of heavily traveled tourist area or into rural/jungle areas. Isla Mujeres – No deferral Oaxaca – No deferral is stayed in city, travel to rural areas one year from date of return Playa del Carmen – Travel after May 19, 2007 is acceptable if you did not travel outside of heavily traveled tourist area or into rural/jungle areas. Progresso – No deferral Puerto Vallarta – No deferral
Caribbean	Bahamas – No deferral, except for travel to Great Exuma Island which would make donor ineligible to donate for one year after return. Dominican Republic – large cities and resorts and Puerto Plata – No deferral Resort of Punta Cana and along border of Haiti – not eligible for 12 months after return. Grand Cayman – No deferral Haiti – Not eligible for one year after return Jamaica – No deferal Roatan, Honduras – Not eligible for 12 months after return Puerto Rico – No deferral
Belize	Belize City – No deferral All other areas outside of Belize City – Not eligible for one year after return
Costa Rica	Provinces of San Jose, Cartago, Puntarenas and Limon City (Jaco Beach, Quepos, Manuel Antonio Park) -no deferral Provinces of Alajuela (Arenal volcano), Guanacaste (Liberia), Heredia, Limon (except Limon City is acceptable), not eligible to donate for 12 months after you return.
El Salvador	Cities of San Salvador, San Miguel, San Vincente, Sonsonate, and Chalatenango- no deferral. Rural areas of Santa Ana, Ahuachapan and La Union provinces-not eligible for 12 months after return.
Guatemala	Large cities including Antigua, Lake Atitlan and Guatemala City – no deferral Risk in rural areas – not eligible for 12 months after return
India	Not eligible for 12 months after return.
Panama	Panama City and Canal area are acceptable. Travel to provinces of Bocas del Toro, San Blas, San Blas Island and Darien, you are not eligible for 12 months after you return.
Venezuela	Large cities along coast (Caracas, Maracaibo, Valencia) are acceptable. Travel to rural areas and provinces along borders of Columbia, Guyana and Brazil – not be eligible for one year after return.
Ecuador	Large cities in central highlands acceptable (Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca) and Galapagos Islands – no deferral
Peru	Large cities south of Lima, Cusco, Machupicchu – no deferral
Azerbaijan	Risk in all areas except no risk in Baku
Africa	Algeria – No deferral unless travel to Ihrir or Illizi province Nigeria – Not eligible for 12 months after return South Africa – Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Port Elizabeth – no deferral. Game parks, Northern, NE Kwa Zula-Natal, Mpumalanga Provinces – Not Eligible for one year after return
Saudi Arabia	No deferral for cities along East Coast, Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, Taif, Riyadh, risk in Al Bahah, Al Madinah, Asir, Jizan, Makkah, Najran an Tabuk provinces.
China	Large cities and typical tourist areas including Yangtze River cruise – no deferral. Travel to rural, non-tourist areas – not eligible for one year after return
United Kingdom	No deferral unless stayed for more than 3 months between 1980 and 1996
Europe

No deferral unless stayed for more than 6 months associated with the military between 1980 and 1996 or stayed for more than 5 years from 1980 to the present

I made my first blood donation at the Rock River Valley Blood Center on Thursday, January 14!! It was a BREEZE!! I now have to wait until March 11 to make my next one. I will keep you posted.

PSS:

I am so committed to this, I have challeged Bruce Poon Tip and Gap Adventures to a blood drive. If they will conduct a blood drive, I will give $5 per donor (up to $500, HEY! I am just a one woman operation) to Planeterra in March. Of course, Bruce has accepted! So the challenge is ON!!

I hope I have a couple of REALLY good months… now that I have laid down the gauntlet!

For more information about blood donation and to make your appointment, check the links below or contact your local blood bank:

Canadian Blood Service

Red Cross

Americans: Make your appointment here

Follow the American Red Cross on Twitter

Follow the Canadian Blood Service on Twitter

Follow Gap Adventures on Twitter

Follow Bruce Poon Tip on Twitter

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