My personal experience at the ALG Vacations’ Ascend 2023 Conference in Cancun, Mexico.

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Recently, one of our Boscov’s Travel Advisors attended the ALG Vacations’ Ascend 2023 conference where she took daily classes, toured resorts and learned information and vacation ideas to bring back to YOU, our valued clients!

Ascend 2023 Conference

This fall 2023, I had the pleasure of attending an exclusive event hosted in Cancun, Mexico.  Ascend 2023 is an invite only, Travel Advisor event presented by ALG Vacations. The event exceeded and went way beyond all my expectations! ALG Vacations blew me away with all of the branding, participants in the gigantic trade show, guest speakers, lectures, entertainment, and the 600+ professional travel agents that were invited. Everything was truly top of the line. During the conference, I attended lectures, classes, breakout sessions and saw resorts which allowed me to bring back first-hand knowledge to our clients. As a Boscov’s Travel Advisor, I am continuously looking to travel and learn about the destinations and attractions that I think our clients would love.

Royalton Chic Cancun

Junior Suite Oceanfront Double Room

View from Oceanfront Room

With that being said, during the conference Travel Advisors were placed at five different large resorts. I ended up staying at the beautiful Royalton Chic Cancun. The Royalton Chic Cancun was truly stunning and located in the heart of Cancun’s beautiful beaches! I’ve personally been to Cancun eleven times, but have never stayed in the hotel zone which is where this resort is located. Needless to say, I enjoyed it very much!

Beach

With nine dining options (delicious), multiple pools, large well-appointed rooms, and a staff that exceeded my expectations, the resort did not disappoint. There is a rooftop party pool with private cabanas and guest DJ’s accessible to guests and the public for a fee. The resort’s beaches were stunning with perfectly turquoise, warm water. A neat feature the resort has is a keyless entry ID bracelet for resort guests that made access to the room easy-peasy. On top of that, the entertainment team and nightly shows were engaging and fun. The resort truly was incredible!

Ascend 2023 Conference

I recommend the resort to anyone looking for an active resort filled with activities. The Royalton Chic Cancun truly has an energetic adult vibe with luxury features and amenities. If you’re considering a trip to Cancun, you can’t go wrong with staying there. With our wealth of knowledge, your local Boscov’s Travel Advisor can help you plan your next vacation to Mexico today. See you at the pool!

My personal experience visiting Dreams Tulum for Dia de los Muertos

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Last year one of our Boscov’s Travel Advisors took a trip to Tulum, Mexico for Dia de los Muertos. Read her incredible experience below.

I was fortunate enough to experience the celebration of Dia de los Muertos while visiting Tulum, Mexico.  Although celebrated around the same time of year, Halloween and Dia de los Muertos are not the same. Celebrated throughout Mexico and parts of Central America, Dia de los Muertos is a multi-day celebration of family and loved ones who have passed away. It honors their memory and helps to guide them on their journey to the afterlife. It is a celebration of life, and a reminder that all life is cyclical.

While celebrating Dia de los Muertos, I was able to see elaborate alters which are created out of flowers, seeds, paper banners, water and fire – the four elements – to provide the loved ones’ spirits with everything they need for their journey and to guide them on the right path.

While in Tulum I also visited the Temple of the God of Winds. Tulum is a pre-Columbian Mayan walled city that is on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean sea. It was a port city for the nearby ancient city of Coba whose ruins are also available for the public to visit.

We stayed at the Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa, which was about a 10 minute cab ride from the ancient ruins, and the small town of Tulum where there are many shops for souvenirs and a number of lovely little cantinas to stop for a cervesa or two. The resort sits on an expansive white sand beach and has two pools including a heated relax pool and a heated activities pool plus a splash park for kids.

You’ll never be hungry or thirsty at this resort, with 6 a la carte, sit down, themed restaurants and a large international buffet to choose from. There are also 6 bars throughout the property and a smoothie bar for all of your drink desires.

We stayed in the Preferred Club section, which gives the guest upgraded status and amenities such as an upgraded, in-room minibar, a Preferred Club section on the beach with Bali beds and wait staff, and a concierge to arrange your reservations, excursions, and spa treatments. It also gives you access to the Preferred Club lounge that serves hot and cold hors d’oeuvres throughout the day, a sit down breakfast service, and top shelf international brand liquors.

When the sun goes down, the night heats up with many activities, entertainments and open bars with live music. One evening they had a complete Mariachi band perform and dance with the guests. Another evening they performed an elaborate stage show depicting Mayan culture and Dia de los Muertos that was wonderful. They had a Cirque du Soleir-like acrobatic performance over the pool with a fire and water theme that was equally enjoyable on another night. Needless to say, their entertainment team is top notch!

If you are considering a trip to Riviera Maya, you can’t go wrong with staying at Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa. While it is a little over an hour away from the airport, it is worth the trip. With our wealth of knowledge, your local Boscov’s Travel Advisor can help you plan your next vacation to Mexico too! Contact us today. See you on the beach!

My personal experience at RIU Dunamar Costa Mujeres, Mexico

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Recently one of our Boscov’s Travel Advisors took a trip to Costa Mujeres, Mexico. Read her incredible experience below.

We travel to Mexico two times a year and stay at different resorts each time. We enjoy the beautiful sand, drinks, and food – it’s a great place to go! In the past some of our favorite hotels that we have stayed at are RIU Palace Costa Mujeres, Hard Rock Riveria Maya, Sun Palace and Blue Bay Esmeralda. This April 2022 we stayed at the RIU Dunamar, Costa Mujeres, and all-inclusive beachfront and kid friendly resort. We loved it!

This resort is across the bay on the mainland, just north of Cancun. The beauty is its location. This area feels calm and secluded, but is just thirty minutes away from Cancun’s bustling restaurants and nightlife. Isla Mujeres is visible from the resorts in this area.

Some of the best parts of our trips to Mexico is the all-inclusive amenities! RIU Dunamar offers four specialty dinner restaurants, a lunchtime poolside barbecue grill, six bars, including a 24-hour bar with snacks, and two swim-up bars.  I would highly recommend this resort to families because of the Splash Water Park, RIU Land Kids’ Club and poolside activities during the day which are geared towards families.

When staying in Mexico there is a lot you can do with many excursion options to choose from if you want to stray away from your resort. Every time we take our vacation, we take a day trip from our resort to explore the area. On this trip we took a three-hour snorkeling excursion that picked us up at our resort to visit a coral reef, the MUSA statues which are made of material for coral to grow on, a shipwreck and underwater cenotes. The entirety of the excursion was beautiful, fun and educational. Afterward, we visited El Meco which is a small archaeological Mayan Ruins site, which was stunning.

The Mayan Ruins have eighteen structures located off the beaten path to the North of Cancun en route to Costa Mujeres near the Puerto Juarez ferry dock. It has the tallest pyramid on the Northeast Yucatan Peninsula. From the top of the Castillo Ruins one can see the Caribbean Sea, all of Cancun’s lagoons, and Isla Mujeres. I highly recommend visiting some of the Mayan Ruins on a vacation to Mexico.

Obviously, we love vacationing in Mexico and I highly recommend going at least once. Cancun, Rivera Maya and Costa Mujeres are all great vacation spots for singles, couples and families. Since I have a wide range of knowledge on the area, and with all the lodging options and areas to stay in, it is important that I qualify my clients to fit them with the right resort for what they expect on their vacations. Your local Boscov’s Travel Advisor is ready to help you find the perfect fit for your next vacation in Mexico and beyond. Contact us today!

 

Premier World Discovery 2022 Tours

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From the breathtaking scenery, rich cultural history and wide-open spaces, the western United States and Canada is a must for your future travels. Do you want to check off some of these awesome places from your bucket list? Well now you can! We’ve partnered with Premier World Discovery and hand-picked 8 exciting tours for 2022. Premier World Discovery is one of our premier travel partners for guided tours with excellent feedback from clients who have traveled with them in the past. We are confident you will be in great hands if you choose to embark on one of these incredible journeys.

These trips are a great value and include roundtrip airfare from Philadelphia International Airport, first-class hotel accommodations, deluxe motorcoach transportation, the services of an experienced tour director and local guides, selected meal packages, entrance to included parks and sites, and more. Now for what you’ve been waiting for – the trips and highlights!

The Magnolia Trail & the Heart of Texas, April 23 – 27, 2022

Trip Highlights:
– Dallas City Tour
– Tour of AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys
– Historic JFK Sites & Locations
– Magnolia Markets at the Silos
– Fort Worth Stockyards Historic District & Cattle Drive Viewing
– & more!

Utah’s Mighty National Parks, May 1 – 7, 2022

Trip Highlights:
– Canyonlands National Park
– Arches National Park
– Grand Junction Colorado
– Scenic Byway 128
– Colorado River Cruise
– & more!

Idaho Adventure, June 15 – 21, 2022

Trip Highlights:
– Ketchum & Sun Valley
– Sawtooth Mountains
– Salmon River Jetboat
– Silver Mine Tour
– Rider Ranch Cookout
– & more!

 
Majestic Canadian Rockies, July 10 – 15, 2022

Trip Highlights:
– Emerald Lake
– Banff National Park
– Dinner at Chateau Lake Louise
– Moraine Lake & Valley of the Ten Peaks
– Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer Ride
– & more!

Great Trains & Grand Canyons, September 25 – 30, 2022

Trip Highlights:
– Two Railroad Journeys: Grand Canyon Railway & Verde Canyon Railroad
– Grand Canyon National Park
– Sedona Trolley Tour
– Chapel of the Holy Cross
– Montezuma Castle
– & more!

Explore Santa Fe & the Land of Enchantment, October 23 – 28, 2022

Trip Highlights:
– Albuquerque
– Santa Fe City Tour
-Taos Pueblo
– Madrid
– Loretto Chapel
– & more!

Southern Harmony, November 6 – 11, 2021

Trip Highlights:
– French Quarter Walking Tour
– Mardi Gras World
– New Orleans City Tour
– Steamboat Natchez Cruise
– Gulf Island National Seashore
– & more!

Montreal & Quebec City Christmas Markets, December 8 – 12, 2022

Trip Highlights:
– Montreal Christmas Market
– Montreal City Tour
– Quebec City Christmas Market
– Quebec City Tour
– Quartier Petit Champlain & German
– & more!

Now that you’ve seen the tours and the highlights, the hard part will be picking only one! We have an incredible booking discount where you can save up to $400 with no risk deposit or change fees. So, what are you waiting for? Book today! Don’t forget, book using your Boscov’s Credit Card and receive special financing. Contact your Boscov’s Travel Advisor today to book and check off another destination on your bucket list.

 

Consider an All-Inclusive Resort for Your Romantic Getaway

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An incredible honeymoon, anniversary, or just alone time is something most couple’s desire. There’s nothing like getting away from the “noise” and being on vacation, spending time with that special someone. Toes in the sand, drink in your hand, and your love by your side… what is better than that? Not much! Whether you like to relax or have an adventure, all-inclusive vacations are the way to go for a special romantic getaway.

You deserve the all-inclusive romantic getaway of your dreams. We’re going to take you on a journey to describe what an all-inclusive vacation means, explain why you should have a romantic getaway, and show you some great all-inclusive resorts. We’re partnering with Apple Vacations to give one lucky person a Romantic Getaway for two with a 5-night stay at the incredible RIU Palace Macao in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic! Watch out for more details on this in September.

What is an all-inclusive vacation?

An all-inclusive vacation means everything is included! Most of the time all food, drinks, activities, and entertainment are already included. You can drink and eat as much as you please. Count us in! Some resorts even include round trip airport transfers, which means no hassle finding transportation. Many resorts tend to differ with what is included. Also, resort styles and atmospheres differ – some are more romantic, laid-back, adventurous and even family-friendly, so be sure to choose one that fits your needs.

Couple relaxing pool side being served cocktails

Why choose all-inclusive?

All-inclusive is super easy! Almost everything is already paid for and included in your price before you leave for your trip. Your planning time is trimmed because you don’t need to worry about activities or restaurants because they are already included. There’s really no reason to leave your resort unless you choose to explore other places.

When staying at an all-inclusive resort you don’t need to walk around with your wallet or purse or worry about tipping- everything is already taken care of. This allows for a more relaxing vacation since you’re not paying for every indulgence. You and your sweetheart can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the limitless food, drinks, and more!

Why have a romantic getaway?

Romantic getaways are fun, exciting, relaxing, and most of all they bring people closer. When you’re on a romantic getaway you’re away from every day life with someone you love. Being away from life’s hassles allows for quality bonding time with your partner. A relaxing and fun environment can lead to more open communication and build relationships. In addition, intimacy can be restored after just a few days of alone time. Doesn’t that sound incredible?

A romantic getaway will help you continue your incredible relationship and keep the relationship strong. You’ll be reminded of why you fell in love with your partner in the first place. It’s a time for you to create amazing and unforgettable memories with your love.

5 All-Inclusive Resorts Perfect for Romantic Getaways

With so many options to choose from you may feel overwhelmed. Working with a professional travel advisor that knows the resorts can be helpful. Tell them what you want and they’ll match you with the perfect location. But let’s wet your appetite a bit – here are just a few of our favorites:
*additional charges and reservations may be required

#1 – RIU Palace Macao, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
– All-Inclusive, adults only
– Five restaurants, no reservations required
– Romantic Dinner on the beach*
– Six bars, unlimited beverages
– Two pools, one with swim-up bar, jacuzzi tubs
– Beach
– Entertainment
– Sports and activities
– Free admission to “Splash Water World” water park
– Spa*

Photo Credit: Princess Hotels

#2 – Platinum Yucatan Princess, Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
– All-Inclusive, adults only
– Six restaurants, only one requires a reservation
– Eight bars, unlimited beverages
– Thirteen pools, pool bars
– Beach
– Entertainment
– Sports and activities
– Spa*
– Use of nearby resort’s facilities Grand Sunset Princess and Grand Rivera Princess
– Honeymoon Offers*

#3 – Couples Tour Isle, Ocho Rios, Jamaica
– All-Inclusive, couples only
– Six restaurants, two require a reservation
– Romantic Seaside dining*
– Five bars, unlimited beverages
– Four pools, jacuzzi
– Beach
– Resort’s private island
– Entertainment
– Sports and activities
– Spa*
– Spa villas with personal plunge pools*

#4 – Dreams Playa Bonita Panama, Playa Bonita, Panama
– All-Inclusive
– Seven restaurants, no reservations required
– Private Dinner in Romantic Locations*
– Four bars, unlimited beverages
– Four pools, one adult-only
– Beach and Rain Forest
– Entertainment
– Sports and Activities
– Spa

#5 – Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
– All-Inclusive, adults only
– Four restaurants
– Five bars, unlimited beverages
– Two pools, pool bar
– Beach and tropical gardens
– Entertainment
– Sports and Activities
– Spa*

Now that we’ve shown you all-inclusive resorts and the ins and outs to an all-inclusive romantic getaway, are you ready to plan your trip? We are here when you’re ready! From the unlimited food and drinks to the relaxing and adventurous romance- every couple deserves to have the romantic getaway of their dreams. Start planning your romantic getaway with us today!

All-Inclusive Resorts Make Vacations Easy

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All-inclusive resort with pool and beach
When you consider your next vacation, don’t forget about all-inclusive resorts. No matter how you say it – the works, the whole nine, the full monty, the whole shebang – that’s what you’ll get with an all-inclusive resort. Ask anyone who’s been to one and they can’t stop raving about it.
Here are a few reasons we can’t get enough of an all-inclusive vacation.

Leave the wallet at home (well, OK maybe not literally)

It’s rare to go on a vacation knowing exactly how much you’re going to spend. When you book an all-inclusive Apple Vacation with Boscov’s Travel, everything’s included so you know you’re within budget from the moment you leave.
Family of four on pool floats in the middle of a pool

Everything but the kitchen sink (yup, yet another way to say you want it all)

It’s in the name. All included means just that – from the flights and transfers to the resort, hotel accommodations to the daily entertainment, all meals and open bar, and any number of activities, it’s all one price. What could be simpler?
Pool side restaurant and grill

So many choices

With so many options including destinations, price points, and activities, it’s important to think about ways to narrow down your selection. Our suggestion is to start with your traveling party. Are you taking the family, is it a girls or guys getaway, or are you looking for a couples-only resort? Are you looking for fun around every corner with endless activities, or are you looking to relax and escape to a retreat? The following guide can help you zoom in on what will work best.
– If you’re looking for family-friendly resorts: Sunscape ($), Now ($), Dreams ($$)
– If you’re looking for adults and couples only + parties around every corner: Riu Palace ($$), Breathless ($$)
– If you’re looking for couples only + relaxation: Secrets ($$), Zoetry ($$$)
Couple relaxing pool side being served cocktails

Optional adventures abound!

Want to see more than just the resort? Sign up for optional excursions before you go with your Boscov’s Travel Advisor or at the resort with a dedicated AMResort representative. Here are just a few things to see and do in some of our favorite destinations:
Cancun, Mexico:
– Submarine ride to see one of the longest reefs in the world
– Swim with dolphins and meet a manatee
– Take a private fishing charter and cheers with included beer
– Explore Tulum’s ancient Mayan temples
– Zipline through the jungle
– Enjoy a leisurely afternoon on a catamaran
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic:
– Take to the high seas on a real life pirate ship and enjoy a show with your favorite scalawags
– Savor the scenery on a dinner cruise
– Learn about the culture on a heritage trip to an artisan village, cigar rolling factory and more
– Dance the night away in a cave converted to a discotheque
– Ride a horse through the countryside
– Take a trip to a private snorkeling and swimming spot
Montego Bay, Jamaica:
– Wade in the luminous lagoon, one of the most famous glowing lagoons
– Take an ATV adventure through the jungle
– Tee off at an 18-hole championship course
– Horseback ride in the water
– Ride down the shore on a river tube ride
– Bathe in a beautiful waterfall
Couple on bright colored hobie cat

What to bring?

– Sunscreen! The Caribbean is full of sunny days so be sure to pack a (Banana) boat-load! Of course if you do forget the lotion, you can always purchase at the resort gift shop…but expect to pay a premium.
– Your favorite sun hat (did we mention the sun?!)
– A copy of your booking – this will help ease the check-in process
– Break out your brightest, loudest, most fun beach towel! The resort will always have towels for you to use but if you want to find your chair easily, it’s best to mark with the your towel
– Dollar bills. Though you don’t need to, you may want to tip your favorite bartender or the helpful service staff. Perhaps you’ll want to enjoy a massage at the spa or go on an excursion, so having a few extra dollars isn’t a bad idea. Of course, none of these are required.
– Some dress-to-impress attire. Most resorts have specialty dining restaurants where you can enjoy French, Italian or Thai cuisine. Often resorts require nicer attire when dining at these special restaurants. If you prefer to stay casual, you can always hit the buffet or beach-side grills.
So who’s ready to go? You can learn more about all-inclusive vacation options on our website, and when you’re ready to travel, contact your local Boscov’s Travel office and make an appointment to talk to one of our all-inclusive specialists. Let us help make your dream vacation a reality.

Traveling with Dietary Restrictions

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Clients often ask us where they can travel while accommodating their dietary needs. In the past, options were very limited for travelers on diets due to medical reasons or by choice.

As hotels become more in tune with the needs of their clients, they are offering different options to cater to vacationers. From resorts which pride themselves on healthful selections, to hotels which offer meals designed to accommodate those with celiac disease, vacations can be enjoyed by almost any traveler.

If you’re a gluten free eater, there are plenty of resorts that offer gluten free choices during your time away.  You can now spend your time relaxing instead of worrying about what you can’t eat at your next meal. View the list of hotels that offer gluten free fare by viewing Apple Vacations’ recommendation of resorts to visit perfect for the gluten free eater below or view the list here – Gluten-Free.

If you have a question regarding the best resorts for you to stay to accommodate your dietary needs, email us at [email protected]

ARUBA

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

Riu Palace Aruba

BAHAMAS

Riu Palace Paradise Island

CANCUN

Beach Palace

Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa

Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun

GR Caribe by Solaris Deluxe Resort

GR Solaris Cancun

Great Parnassus Resort & Spa

Hard Rock Hotel Cancun

IBEROSTAR Cancun

Isla Mujeres Palace

Live Aqua Cancun

ME Cancun by Melia

Royal Solaris Cancun

Sun Palace

COSTA RICA

Hilton Papagayo Costa Rica Resort & Spa

Hilton Riu Guanacaste

COZUMEL

Cozumel Palace

CURAÇAO

Curaçao Marriott Resort & Emerald Casino

Hilton Curaçao

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Casa Colonial Beach & Spa

Gran Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado

Gran Bahia Principe Bavaro

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana

Hotel Catalonia Bavaro Resort

Hotel Catalonia Gran Dominicus

Riu Palace Punta Cana

Melia Caribe Tropical Resort

Ocean Blue

Paradisus Palma Real

Riu Bachata

Riu Bambu

Riu Merengue

Riu Palace Bavaro

Riu Palace Macao

HAWAII

Fairmont Kea Lani

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Four Seasons Resort Lana’i at Manele Bay

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Halekulani

Kauai Marriott Resort on Kalapaki Beach

Sheraton Kauai Resort

The Kahala Hotel & Resort

The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii

The Kahala Hotel & Resort

The St. Regis Princeville Resort

The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

Turtle Bay Resort

Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

IXTAPA

Barcelo Karmina Palace Deluxe

JAMAICA

CocoLaPalm a Seaside Resort

IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Rose Hall

Secrets Monetgo Bay

LOS CABOS

Fiesta Americana Grand Los Cabos

Golf & Spa Resort

Hilton Los Cabos Beach and Golf Resort

ME Cabo

Secrets Marquis Los Cabos

Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Resort & Spa

Villa del Arco Beach Resort & Grand Spa

Villa del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa

Villa La Estancia

PANAMA

Trump Ocean Club Panama

PUERTO RICO

San Juan Condado Plaza

RIVIERA MAYA

Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa

Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya

Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort

Omni Puerto Aventuras Beach Resort

Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla

Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda

Playacar Palace

Riu Palace Riviera Maya

Riu Tequilla

Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun

Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun

Valentin Imperial Maya

Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita

  1. LUCIA

Anse Chastanet

  1. MARTIN

Radisson Blu Resort, Marina & Spa St. Martin

  1. THOMAS

Bolongo Bay Beach Resort

VALLARTA

Barcelo Puerto Vallarta

Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Spa

CasaMagna Marriott Puerto Vallarta

Resort & Spa

Dreams Villamagna Nuevo Vallarta

Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta

Holiday Inn Puerto Vallarta

Melia Puerto Vallarta

Riu Jalisco

Riu Palace Pacifico

Riu Vallarta

Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center

Villa del Palmar Flamingos Beach

Villa La Estancia

Villa Premiere Hotel & Spa

Ready to book your Apple Vacation with Boscov’s Travel? View current Apple Vacation deals here.

List provided by Apple Vacations. While this information was correct at time of publication, Apple Vacations recommends confirming any dietary restrictions with the hotel, just in case. AD6593 8/12

Resort images from Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort and Spa.