At the beginning of February, we took a one week get-a-away to Mexico. Edmonton winters are just too long for my blood. Thank goodness Mexico has gorgeous weather, amazing beaches and all inclusive packages :) What made this trip special? We booked this holiday back in September along with 8 other friends. This gave us something nice to look forward to.
We stayed at the Grand Xcaret Occidental Hotel. I really enjoyed it. For couples on a budget wanting a destination wedding, I'd recommend this place. First and foremost, it wasn't expensive and secondly the grounds offered lots of great photographic opportunities for amazing images!
The hotel had a smaller beach then most hotels I have stayed at, but it was clean and warm. There were no sand bags on the beach, aka "beached whales" and no sharp rocks in the water so no water shoes needed! Majority of my beach time was spent rocking on a king size bed, catching all the rays I could. There was also a huge bar at the beach and a great buffet over looking the ocean. There were 5 restaurants: The Mexican, The Oriental, The Steak House, The Italian and The Mexican to choose from.
One day was spent at the Xcaret Park (ishcaret). This is a massive park where wildlife, ecology and the Mexican culture meet. During the day you enjoy the beach or walk through the jungle exploring wildlife. In the evening they have an amazing Mayan and Mexican dancing program, "Xcaret Mexico Espectacular" it is approximately 2 hours long.
Towards the end of the trip, 5 of us took a little day tour of the Playa del Carmen city. We did a little bit of shopping and relaxed at the local beach. Had a great time. I really liked that little town. Next time we head to the Mayan Riviera, I promised myself to stay in the town.
Now a holiday wouldn't be quite that without 'something' going wrong. Iza, lost her beach/underwater camera with most of our group photos :( Although we were all sad, we still have wonderful memories from our trip.
Here are some of the shots from our trip:
This is the beach of the Grand Xcaret Occidental Hotel.
The Palm Trees at Sunset.
The hotel grounds had little ruins by the ocean. Great place for photographs.
Magda and I on the deck.
One of our amigos, Lee.
Iza, Karolina and I enjoying some laughs at the beach.
Karolina and Lee :)
Rafal and Magda.
Magda, David and I at day at the beach. We were getting ready to get some lunch!
Magda enjoying her ice cream. Gorgeous catchlights in her eyes, I had to take this shot.
The buildings had beautiful textures.
Lots of potential for portrait photography around the hotel.
Xcaret Park
The outside of the Xcaret church.
Inside the church, there were many brightly painted wood figurines.
This figurine is kind of scary, but it has character ;)
A clock tower.
Right across the church, there was a huge tree. Towards the top, there was a carving of Jesus. Neat!
Lots and lots of scarves for purchase.
We took a stroll through the jungle to get out of the heat. Once I started looking for the light, I noticed how beams of sunlight pierced through the palm trees onto the leafs. Pretty cool.
Xcaret Park, 'Swim with the Dolphins' area.
I love dolphins.
The Xcaret Park had an amazing turtle sanctuary. Turtles of all sizes. From the baby to the gigantic ones.
These things were everywhere. They love the sun and aren't too afraid of humans. If you get in their way, they hiss. VERY loudly. Yes, I'm speaking from experience.
The Xcaret Park had a butterfly sanctuary. Quite lovely.
This flower looked and felt plastic, but it was real.
All made by hand.
There were LOTS of skeleton like figurines and skulls. Not sure what their significance is though.
I really wanted one of these. Now I regret not getting two.
The Xcaret Beach is one of the prettiest I have seen.
A trip to the Xcaret Park wouldn't be official without a photo with the Xcaret rock.
My hubby enjoying the rays...he is meant to live in warm countries.
Mikes floating around. Believe it or not, these floaties were complimentary with park admission.
The Xcaret Park had an orchid breeding facility.
The Phaelanopsis White Orchid, is my personal favorite. I want my office gently decorated with them in green pots :)
We took a trip to Playa del Carmen one day. From left to right: Me, Dave, Magda, Mike and Rafal.
Cigar store.
This is a coconut lamp.
Beads galore.
After a stroll through 5th Ave, we hit the beach.
An older 'gentleman' just walked by wearing bright pink speedos. I took a photo, but decided NOT to post it.
Dave (left) and Rafal (right).
Gorgeous beach at the Playa del Carmen.
A couple enjoying the view.
Rafal and I :)
