#beach Archives - Four Columns of a Balanced Life

Port Dover, Ontario, Canada: A Picturesque Maritime Haven

admin — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 13:22:02 +0000

Port Dover is a picturesque town in Norfolk County, Ontario, Canada. It is situated on the northern shore of Lake Erie and is known for its scenic waterfront, beaches, and vibrant community.

Nestled along the shores of Lake Erie, Port Dover stands as a testament to the timeless charm and maritime allure that define the Canadian experience. With a population that hovers around 6,000, this quaint town in Norfolk County has carved a niche for itself as a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. From its rich history and vibrant community spirit to its scenic landscapes and thriving cultural scene, Port Dover encapsulates the essence of small-town Canadian life.

One of the defining features of Port Dover is its deep-rooted maritime heritage. Established in the early 19th century, the town was initially a vital port for shipping timber and grains. Today, remnants of this historical significance can be found in the architecture of the town, where charming Victorian buildings stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era. The picturesque harbor, with its bobbing boats and seagulls, evokes a sense of nostalgia and showcases the enduring connection between Port Dover and its maritime roots.

Here are my favorite things to do in Port Dover.

Visit the Beach

Enjoy the sandy shores of Port Dover Beach on Lake Erie. It’s a great place to relax, swim, or take a stroll along the waterfront.

Lighthouse

The heartbeat of Port Dover is undeniably its iconic pier and lighthouse. Jutting out into Lake Erie, the pier offers breathtaking water views and serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. On any given day, one can witness the rhythmic ebb and flow of the lake, accompanied by the laughter of children, the chatter of fishermen, and the occasional cry of seagulls overhead. Standing proudly at the end of the pier, the lighthouse serves as both a functional beacon for mariners and a symbol of Port Dover’s maritime identity.

Dining

Given its proximity to Lake Erie, Port Dover often features fresh seafood on its menus. Many restaurants in the area take advantage of locally sourced ingredients to offer a diverse and delicious culinary experience. Whether you’re in the mood for casual dining, pub fare, or fine dining, Port Dover typically has something to suit various tastes. The atmosphere in Port Dover can be relaxed and welcoming, reflecting the town’s small-town charm.

My first pick is the Arbor. The restaurant has been feeding customers since 1919 and is famous for foot-long hot dogs, fresh-cut fries, Golden Glow, and ice cream.

If you like ribs, briskets, chicken wings and amazing BBQ sandwiches then Fat Back BBQ is for you.

If you want to sit down and enjoy the view of the lake then I recommend Callahan’s Beach House or 211 Main.

Downtown Shopping

The town’s main thoroughfare, Main Street, is a charming stretch lined with local shops, restaurants, and boutiques. From quaint cafes serving freshly brewed coffee to artisanal boutiques offering unique handmade goods, Main Street reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of the town’s residents. Visitors can stroll along the sidewalks, exploring the diverse array of offerings and immersing themselves in the warm and inviting atmosphere that defines Port Dover.

Lighthouse Festival Theatre

The Lighthouse Theatre is a 200-seat theatre that focuses on musicals and comedies in the summer.

Lighthouse Festival was established in 1980 when Sara Staysa rallied the community to repair the Port Dover old Town Hall roof so that the auditorium could once again be a theatre. Staysa was the Artistic Director of Carpet Bag Theatre Company out of Brantford and was looking for a building to operate out of. To avoid confusion with the original Carpet Bag Theatre Company, the new company in Port Dover was named Lighthouse Festival Theatre. The theatre has continued to operate working through renovations to the historical building and financial challenges, always with community support, now staging a very popular summer season of comedies, musicals, and stories for the soul, the one-act festival from January to March annually, community and young actors’ productions, as well as numerous guest events that keep the theatre busy all year round.

Port Dover is renowned for its vibrant and close-knit community. Residents take pride in their town, evident in the numerous community events and festivals that dot the annual calendar. The most famous among these is the Friday the 13th motorcycle rally, a tradition that began in 1981 and has since grown into a massive gathering of motorcycle enthusiasts from far and wide.

For those seeking natural beauty, Port Dover does not disappoint. The surrounding landscapes, characterized by rolling hills and fertile farmland, provide a picturesque backdrop to the town. The nearby Backus Woods, a Carolinian forest and nature reserve, offers hiking trails and a chance to connect with the region’s diverse flora and fauna. In the warmer months, the beaches along Lake Erie beckon, inviting locals and tourists alike to bask in the sun and enjoy the refreshing waters.

Port Dover, Ontario, Canada, is more than just a charming town on the shores of Lake Erie; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of Canadian life. Its maritime heritage, vibrant community, and natural beauty converge to create a destination that captivates the hearts of those who visit. It invites all to experience the warmth and charm that define this maritime haven.

The post Port Dover, Ontario, Canada: A Picturesque Maritime Haven appeared first on Four Columns of a Balanced Life.

Now Emerald Cancun Mexican

admin — Sun, 26 Feb 2023 19:47:15 +0000

Now Emerald Cancun is an all-inclusive hotel that offers an amazing experience that the whole family can partake and enjoy the Cancun Mexican experience. You can enjoy unlimited gourmet food and beverages at 8 restaurants and 8 bars. The Barefoot Grill offers grilled specialties like hamburgers and sandwiches by the pool. Enjoy the sound of the ocean waves and delectable Italian food at Capers. Carnival offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily buffet style. Cin Cin gives you gourmet Mediterranean food. Paramour is French and for adults only. Tamarindo has all the Cancun Mexican favorites and Coco Cafe offers amazing coffee, snack, and delicious ice cream with a Cancun Mexican twist. Spice is the ultimate glass-enclosed restaurant with amazing views and out-of-this-world sushi and Pan-Asian dishes.

Before you read my review regarding the food at the resort, I strongly recommend that you read my article on how to enjoy an all-inclusive vacation and how to have a great restaurant experience.

My review of this resort will be broken into the following sections:

Introduction
How to enjoy the food at this resort
Have a romantic day at the Now Emerald Cancun
Take in all the activities

In this section, I will guide you as to how to enjoy a week here with healthy and delicious food.

Now Emerald Cancun is aware and sensitive to the fact that we are eating away from home and it can be challenging and concerning for those with food allergies and a special diet.

Day 1 Breakfast

Carnival Restaurant Breakfast: 7 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Lunch: 12:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. Dinner: 6:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

The host will ask you for your room number, the number of people, and any allergies and you will be seated. This is your first day at the resort. At the buffet restaurant, there is a bar, and different sections for an omelet, a grill, salads, fruits, cornflakes, hotdogs, French toast, pancakes, loaves of bread, and dessert.

The coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are amazing. The green juice which is a mix of fresh orange, pineapple, and spinach is amazing. Have a plate of fresh fruits with juice.

Have the finest buffet waiter in the business Tito serve you.

Day 1 Lunch

Barefoot Grill Lunch: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

You are on vacation. Relax by the pool. Order a cocktail of the day.

The Barefoot Grill is next to the pools and offers burgers, sandwiches, fries, nachos, and salads. Everything is delicious here. My favorite is the artisan sandwich with fries.

Day 1 Coffee

Coco Cafe 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

It’s 4 pm. You get the craving for coffee. Head to the Coco Cafe and let Theo work his magic. There is a whole variety of coffees to choose from and also have a snack.

Day 1 Dinner

Spice Pan-Asian Specialties and Sushi 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

The glass-enclosed restaurant has an amazing view.

Guillermo the deft and professional server starts me with an amazing glass of white wine.

Guillermo recommends that we start with an array of sushi with a variety of sauces.

For the main course, we have Thai noodles and teriyaki salmon. Both dishes are outstanding.

For dessert, we share the ice cream tempura. Delicious.

Guillermo and his team are amazing.

After dinner head over to Moments the bar in the Lobby and ask Sergio to make you a cocktail.

Day 2 Breakfast

Carnival

Carnival is spacious and well-lit.

Try an omelet made in front of you, along with some fruits and Danish pastries.

Talk to some of these amazing servers and learn a few words of Spanish while enjoying your fresh juice, coffee, or even a mimosa.

Day 2 Lunch

Carnival

There is a wide selection of salads, soups, hot and cold starters, and a variety of meat, fish, and seafood available daily. There is also a variety of desserts.

Start with a nice healthy salad.

Have a delicious hot Mexican starter.

For the main course, you can have roast beef or seafood.

For dessert help yourself to a variety of pastries and fresh fruit.

Day 2 Dinner

Cin Cin

Cin Cin is an a la carte fish and Mediterranean dining experience for adults only, open between 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Cin Cin serves soups, fish, seafood, salads, and desserts.

Start with the Galician octopus with confit potatoes. The second starter I recommend is the lamb with pita.

For the main course have the salmon with romesco sauce and the short ribs.

For dessert, go for the Baileys and goat cheese flan and Baklava.

Go for a walk on the beach or head to one of the bars and order a glass of Champagne.

Day 3 Breakfast

Coco Cafe 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

An amazing cafe next to the adult pool. Coco Cafe has a great selection of Danish pastries, fresh fruit and fruit salads throughout the day. Have a Danish along with a specialty coffee.

Day 3 Lunch

Carnival

Have a delicious salad and for the main course try the beef fajitas.

Day 3 Dinner

Tamarindo 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Tamarindo offers a la carte Mexican food served in a friendly atmosphere with traditional dishes. This is the best of Cancun Mexico.

Start with delicious guacamole and chips.

Experience the best of ceviche and spinach salad.

For the main course pork with avocado and steak Mexican Cancun style.

Tamarindo has a variety of desserts to finish an amazing meal.

Day 4 Breakfast

Carnival

At Carnival try some cold cuts with bread or a Mexican Cancun option of fried plantain and cheese quesadilla.

Day 4 Lunch

Carnival

Carnival offers a variety of salads at the buffet.

For the main course have fish and vegetables

For dessert help yourself to fresh fruit and pastries.

Day 4 Dinner

Capers 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Capers offers a la carte Italian food served in an elegant, friendly atmosphere with traditional Italian dishes.

Start with bruschetta, Caprese salad, fried cheese or risotto.

For the main course try steak or fish.

For dessert the famous tiramisu or flan.

After dinner head to one of the bars and try the cocktail of the day.

Day 5 Breakfast

Carnival

This is your fifth day. It is time to take some risks. Chocolate was used by the Mayans for thousands of years. Try it Mexican Cancun style.

Have a European-style breakfast with German cold cuts and Italian cheese with bread.

Day 5 Lunch

Carnival

Have the chef cook in front of you. You can try grilled chicken, fish, and sausages. Have vegetables or pasta with it.

Go ahead. You are on vacation. Try an array of desserts.

Day 5 Dinner

Mexican BBQ by the pool

Get ready for a feast in Cancun Mexican style and have a great night of food and entertainment.

Day 6 Breakfast

Carnival

Try a plate of fresh fruit from the buffet.

Day 6 Lunch

Carnival

Try a worker’s lunch with vegetables and Mexican seasoning.

For dessert head to Coco Cafe and try their amazing ice cream.

Day 6 Dinner

Spice

Spice is the best restaurant in terms of food, service, and views.

Start with avocado sushi.

For a hot starter have fried wontons.

For the main course chicken with rice and fried rice.

For dessert a delicious cake.

Day 7 Breakfast

This is your final day and your flight could be after breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Carnival

Try the Cancun Mexican equivalent of the hot cross bun it is delicious.

If you are being picked up after breakfast for your flight, pick up some bananas or an apple. Or pick up a snack from Coco Cafe.

Day 7 Lunch

Carnival

If you are being picked up around 12.30 for your flight, I suggest going to the buffet and having a quick salad and getting ready to be picked up.

These are fresh, healthy, and filling.

Day 7 Dinner

Carnival

This is your last meal at the resort before you are picked up. Go try the sushi and raw tuna and salmon.

I have laid out countless options for you at this resort. There is so much variety of food and they are all delicious. Enjoy your stay.

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Now Emerald Cancun

admin — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 23:06:50 +0000

Now Emerald Cancun is located in Cancun’s Hotel Zone between the Caribbean Sea and the Nichupte Lagoon. The all-inclusive hotel offers an amazing experience that the whole family can partake and enjoy. This beautiful ornament is set on a beautiful white sand beach with crystal blue water and features 427 rooms and suites with garden, lagoon, and ocean views. Now Emerald Cancun is located eight miles from Cancun International Airport. The hotel is ensconced in a plush of palm trees with all the conveniences of an all-inclusive. Enjoy unlimited gourmet food and beverages at 8 restaurants and 8 bars. Victor Martinez and his entertainment team will keep you entertained with endless daytime land and water activities. The options are endless with an amazing spa, three beautiful pools, and an adult only pool.

I am in the ocean-view room, facing the jewel-blue sea. The sky is clear, the sea song of the waves dash the sand and it is soothing to the mind, body, and soul. The beach looks like it has been dipped in earthshine gold. The palm trees are dancing to the ambling wind, welcoming me to paradise. I am here to savor this beauty and let it seep into my conscience. As I cast my eyes out to sea, the horizon is confined in sardine silver and it is mesmerizing. The creamy clouds are dangling in the sky as perfect ornaments. The cormorant is diving time and time again to catch the fish. This is feng shui at its best.

I am on vacation at the Now Emerald Cancun. I am glad to get away from the daily hustle and bustle of life.

Before you read my review, I strongly recommend that you read my article on how to enjoy an all-inclusive vacation.

My review of Now Emerald Cancun will be as follow:

Introduction

The food at the all-inclusive

Have a romantic day at Now Emerald

Enjoy the daily activities

Getting to Cancun Mexico

Visitors to Cancun fly into Cancun International Airport.

When landing at Cancun International Airport, travelers can expect a smooth and efficient arrival process. Upon landing, passengers will disembark the aircraft and proceed to baggage claim to retrieve their luggage. The airport is well-equipped with baggage carousels and baggage carts, making it easy for travelers to collect their belongings.

After collecting their luggage, travelers will proceed through customs and immigration, where they will need to show their passport and any necessary travel documents. Visitors from some countries may also need to obtain a visa prior to arriving in Mexico.

Once through customs and immigration, travelers will enter the arrivals hall, where they can access various facilities and services. These include currency exchange desks, ATM machines, and rental car agencies. There are also several duty-free shops in the arrivals hall, offering a range of products, including souvenirs, jewelry, and electronics.

For those who have pre-booked transportation, it is advisable to proceed directly to the designated pick-up area outside the terminal. Taxis and shuttle buses are readily available, and many hotels also offer airport transfer services. For those who prefer to rent a car, several car rental agencies have desks located in the arrivals hall.

In conclusion, landing at Cancun International Airport is a straightforward process, with a range of facilities and services available to ensure a smooth arrival experience. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, you can be assured of a warm welcome upon landing in this popular Mexican tourist destination.

Now Emerald Cancun is 20 minutes from the airport.

Check-In

The entrance is lined with palm trees and a step waterfall.

The check-in process is easy and flawless. You are also welcomed with cocktails and champagne. There is a good chance if you come in the morning or early afternoon the room will not be ready. Go and have a walk around the property and get a feel of it.

I then want you to go and find the chief concierge Abel Castorena. This man is the magician. He can make things happen. If you have any problem or issue look for him.

Now go and look for a restaurant and enjoy the meal, have a cocktail, and get ready for an amazing vacation.

If you want to go on a shopping tour or are looking for other services ask for Eric or Gerardo.

Relax, have a great time, and treat people exactly the way you want to be treated.

It is true that the people who work at an all-inclusive resort can have a significant impact on the overall quality of the experience for guests. The staff members who interact with guests directly, such as those who work in restaurants, bars, and activities, can make or break a guest’s experience. Friendly, attentive, and helpful staff can create a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere, while rude, unhelpful, or uninterested staff can leave guests feeling disappointed or even frustrated. The competitive advantage of Now Emerald is its amazing staff.

However, it is also important to note that the quality of the facilities, amenities, and activities at the resort can also play a significant role in the guest experience. A well-maintained property with a variety of options for dining, recreation, and relaxation can enhance the guest experience and make up for any shortcomings in the staff’s performance.

Ultimately, the quality of an all-inclusive resort is the result of a combination of factors, including the quality of its people, its facilities, and its amenities. A resort that excels in all of these areas is likely to provide an exceptional guest experience. Now Emerald excels in all these areas.

The post Now Emerald Cancun appeared first on Four Columns of a Balanced Life.

Palladium Vallarta: Activities

admin — Sat, 16 Nov 2019 20:33:35 +0000

The Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort & Spa is a lavish, all-inclusive resort occupying a flourishing swatch of the manicured jungle with an enticing private beach, about a 45-minute drive from Puerto Vallarta. The 420 rooms have jetted tubs and furnished terraces and the master suites have outdoor whirlpools. The beach resort has activities from morning till night for singles, couples, and families to enjoy.

Before you read my review, I strongly recommend that you read my article on how to enjoy an all-inclusive vacation.

My review of this resort will be broken into the following sections:

Introduction

How to enjoy the food at this resort

The Chef’s table

Have a romantic day at the Palladium

Take in all the activities

Do a tour

Ali and Danilo will keep you fit and active from 10 am to 5 pm at the pool.

The activities on land include archery, basketball, dance lessons, fitness center, nature walk, paddle court, ping-pong, pool tables, soccer, Spanish lessons, tennis and volleyball. The multiple pool and waterslides are where all the activities take place.

The sports bar has a couple of pool tables and also a wide selection of sports t-shirts.

The kids will love spending time at each club designed for babies, little kids and even teens! There’s a playground and swings for little kids and video games and movies for the teens.

The water activities include aquafitness, catamaran, deep-sea fishing, fishing, kayaking, non-motorized water sports, paddleboard, snorkeling, surfing, and waterpolo.

At the pool, there is always a hawk to keep the birds away.

On the beach, there are many parties, BBQs under the watchful eyes of management.

The shows at nighttime include Viva Mexico, Time Machine, Pirate Show, Magic Box, Time Machine, La Vie Burlesque, Rock Forever, White Party and I’d Do Anything.

If you still are not interested in doing anything you can lie by the beach or the pool or find an amazing hammock and relax.

The Palladium Hotel is committed to sound social and environmental policy. The resort was built to be 87% environmentally friendly. They have a marine tortoise protection program. In the last couple of years, water consumption has been reduced by 40% and energy consumption by 30%. They buy ethical and separate solid waste. They participate in park reforestation, beach cleaning and donate to communities. They participate in Planet Hour and work with several NGO’s.

Photo Credit: Ana Acosta

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Palladium Vallarta – The Food

admin — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 20:51:10 +0000

The Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort & Spa is a superb destination for friends, couples and families to enjoy some time off. The resort has two buffets, four specialty restaurants and seven bars. Hemingway is an adult’s only bar after 6 pm. The four a la carte restaurants serve up delectable and appetizing cuisine. Viva Mexico serves authentic Mexican food, El Dorado has steaks and ribs, Portofino delivers Mediterranean fare and Bambu takes over your palette with Asian cuisine.

Before you read my review, I strongly recommend that you read my article on how to enjoy an all-inclusive vacation.

My review of this resort will be broken into the following sections:

Introduction

How to enjoy the food at this resort

The Chef’s table

Have a romantic day at the Palladium

Take in all the activities

Do a tour

In this section, I will guide you as to how to enjoy a week here with well-prepared, pleasant food.

Palladium is aware and sensitive to the fact that we are eating away from home and it can be challenging and concerning for those with food allergies and a special diet. Palladium has a Palladium Dietary Card program. Please contact the front desk or guest services. You will be given a card that can be carried along to the different restaurants around the resort. When you show the card at various restaurants around the resort, the host will give you the required assistance.

Day 1 Breakfast

El Bosque Breakfast 07:00 – 10:30 Hrs. Lunch 12:30 – 15:00 Hrs. Dinner 18:00 – 22:00 Hrs

This is your first day at the resort. Take your time and walk to El Bosque. After you are seated, start with a glass of fresh orange, papaya, guava, tamarind or beetroot juice. The waiter will also bring you a pot of tea or coffee.

Help yourself to a nice fruit salad.

Have a bircher muesli, different cold cuts or a whole assortment of pieces of bread.

The highlight of my morning was being greeted daily by Nancy and Daniella. They are the most outstanding employees at Palladium. Always a smile, always friendly, they know you by name and your room number. The epitome of service.

After a nice breakfast, collect your beach towel and head to the beach or the pool.

Day 1 Lunch

Las Terrazas 11:00 – 16:30 Hrs

The Terrazas is just across the pool. You will find a variety of juices, snacks, sandwiches, tacos, salads, and desserts.

Day 1 Dinner

Viva Mexico Restaurant

Hey, you are in Mexico. Start by having dinner at the a la carte restaurant Viva Mexico. You can sit inside or outside.

If you sit outside you are facing the Pacific, the San Madre Mountains and can hear the waves. The setting is gorgeous.

The menu is decent with lots of variety and the guacamole is made in front of you. You have a variety of wines and Tequila to choose from. You can get steak, fish, and seafood and every dish is delicious and tasty.

The dinner was delicious and the atmosphere is wonderful. Elias and Marcos provide professional service and have a sense of humor.

It is 10 pm and now it is time to head to one of the many bars at the resort. The Sports Bar is the center of where everything happens. The theatre is in the front, the disco is on top, the sports cafe is next to it and you are at the center of attraction.

Every kind of liquor is available here and most beers on tap and bottle.

Russell was the outstanding barman.

Day 2 Breakfast

The Mexican food, atmosphere, water, and everything else is in your blood. It is time to have breakfast. You have already been to El Bosque. How about you start your day with a Mimosa? Go ahead. You are on holiday or try a Ceasar.

Go ahead to the bread and danish pastries buffet. Make it your goal to try different slices of bread and pastries daily.

At El Bosque, you have various stations. There is a station where the chef is making different kinds of eggs, pasta, slices of bread, steaks, fish, and Mexican food.

Day 2 Lunch

Once a week, Chef Esau and his team go fishing and the guests get to see the fish headed, gutted, dressed and steaks made. It was amazing to see Mahi Mahi brought from the Pacific and to eat it fresh. It is grilled in chili oil or garlic oil.

The fish is served with rice and a whole range of different salads.

Day 2 Dinner

On the second evening, have steaks and ribs at El Dorado. The steaks are done on a charcoal grill and are delicious.

After dinner head to the adult section, next to the Mexican restaurant, and have a drink there at the infinity pool is open till midnight.

Day 3 Breakfast

There is a whole section at the El Bosque where the Chef makes eggs. Have an omelet, a fried egg, a scrambled egg, or a Mexican-style Mango salad. Then choose from a variety of baguettes and taste the many kinds of cheese that are available.

Day 3 Lunch

For lunch try everything Japanese at El Bosque. I would start with the makizushi and Nigiri.

The cold yakitori is simply delicious.

Finish with tempura and edamame.

Day 3 Dinner

Portofino has a Mediterranean flair and you cannot go wrong with the carpaccio, the various wood oven pizzas, and the grouper.

After dinner, go for a walk on the beach, listen to a live performance, go for a show or head to the disco.

Day 4 Breakfast

How about a day of romance? Order room service for breakfast, head to the spa and have a light lunch and then head to the chef’s table.

Another suggestion I have is to have a Mexican breakfast at El Bosque. The pan dulce here is to die for. I ate three daily. The chilaquiles, migas, huevos rancheros, moletes, tamales, pozole, breakfast torta, breakfast enchiladas, breakfast quesadillas, breakfast tacos, and breakfast burritos are amazing. I would recommend having a michelada with breakfast.

Chef Jose is the ultimate example of someone who is always smiling, goes out of his way to say hello, comes to your table to serve, makes your food, and is outstanding.

Day 4 Lunch

Head to the sports bar. Watch a soccer game, play Xbox, play pool, play foosball, cards and have your selection of nachos, chips, hot dogs and hamburgers.

Day 4 Dinner

It is time to try Asian food at the Bamboo. Go ahead and enjoy soups, salads, Japanese inspired cuisine. After dinner head to one of the bars and then head to the disco.

Day 5 Breakfast

The Hemingway Bar is the best-kept secret at the resort. It took me a couple of days to find it and I thought it was for members only. From 9 am to 6 pm onwards it acts as a cafe with the best croissants, Danish and sandwiches. Betty serves up the best cappuccinos I have ever had. You can play cards, backgammon, chess, checkers and many other board games. A real classy place.

Day 5 Lunch

Today is a roast beef day with salad and potatoes. Head to El Bosque for that.

Dinner Day 5

Try some of the different grilled salads and have the chef at the station make you a grilled steak and a grilled fish.

Breakfast Day 6

Get up and go to the Infiniti pool. Ask Elizabeth to get you breakfast. Elizabeth is the best waitress at the resort. It takes her 2 hrs to get to work. She is on her feet for 8 hrs a day. She is always smiling.

Lunch Day 6

Spend the whole day at the infinity pool. Just walk down to the beach and have a BBQ, Enjoy various burgers, salads, hot dogs and a variety of tacos.

Dinner Day 6

Let us make it fish teriyaki and an assortment of salads at El Bosque.

Day 7 Breakfast

Go ahead it is your last day. Try yogurt, corn flakes, bananas, french toast or an egg on a tortilla.

Day 7 Lunch

Head to the pasta section and have the chef make you fresh focaccia and fresh pasta with seafood.

Day 7 Dinner

Try the chef’s table.

Desserts

The selection of desserts at the buffet and the a la carte restaurants is huge. I am going to include some samplings here and you decide what you want to try.

I have given you a variety of food that is available at the Palladium. There is more. Enjoy and treat your service staff well.

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Palladium Vallarta

admin — Sun, 29 Sep 2019 00:49:00 +0000

I am surrounded by lush and opulent gardens, on a cliff nestled in the gorgeous, natural and innate setting of Riviera Nayarit.

In front of me is an incredible and stunning view of the Pacific Ocean.

The Sierra Madre mountains provide an awesome drop to stunning sunsets.

The beach is private with transparent waters.

These prodigious surroundings give me the tranquility and comfort along the Bay of Banderas.

The only noise I can hear is the waves caressingly assaulting the beach.

Am I in heaven? Am I dreaming? I am on vacation at the four-star Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort and Spa.

Before you read my review, I strongly recommend that you read my article on how to enjoy an all-inclusive vacation.

My review of this resort will be broken into the following sections:

Getting to Puerto Vallarta Mexico

Visitors to Puerto Vallarta fly into the Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport or Puerto Vallarta International Airport is located in the municipality of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. The British, Germans, Americans and Canadians book a 7-day all-inclusive package to Puerto Vallarta by choosing their hotel and vacation provider. The airport transfers are included. I used WestJet Vacations for this trip.

The flight time from Toronto to Puerto Vallarta is 4 hours and 50 minutes. From the time you land to passing through customs is about 30 minutes. After you get your baggage go straight to the terminal and to your representative. Pass through all the timeshare sharks who will say anything to get you to their booth.

The Palladium is a 40-minute drive from the airport.

The Lobby

The entrance to the hotel is lined with palm trees on both sides.

We were welcomed with a nice cocktail and cold towels. The lobby is huge and welcoming.

Our room was not ready and I told the timeshare salesperson we were not interested in an upgrade or attending a seminar. We headed straight to the restaurant for lunch. After lunch, we had our baggage delivered to the room and unpacked. After unpacking we hit the pool.

Photo Credits: Ana Acosta Debbie Godinho

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