EZTravelpad

Le Blanc Spa Resort in Cancun - a review

Reviewing Le Blanc Spa Resort (a Palace Resort) in Cancun, Mexico

 

Le Blanc Spa Resort is an adults only all-inclusive resort located in the hotel zone of Cancun, Mexico. It is located very close to the middle of the hotel zone actually, but exists a world away from what you would traditionally associate with Cancun all-inclusive resorts that often cater to the Spring Break crowd.

 

 

 

This resort is a far cry from typical and in high demand for Weddings and Honeymoons catering to the sophisticated crowd - urban chic, like something out of South Beach. You almost expect Rico Tubbs (Miami Vice) to walk around the corner at any minute...

The Beach is powdery white sand

The water is an blue as you dreamed it would be and The infinity pool says it all...

Guest Rooms

As you would expect, guest rooms are extremely well appointed and are as functional as they are luxurious featuring private balconies to enjoy the outdoors and 2 person in room jacuzzis to enjoy indoor.

Offering butler service in rooms, concierge service at the pools, Haute Cuisine in 5 a la carte restaurants and superior service at every turn, Le Blanc is very much a luxury oasis in Cancun. Nightly turndown service with petit fours, higher end bath products, pillow top beds that you will never want to leave all combine for a very nice package. See more at their website at this link

Beyond the typical amenities Le Blanc offers unlimited free phone calls back to the US, unlimited internet service, and best of all, $1500 resort credits on a 5-8 night stay (other levels exist for shorter and longer stays) that can be used for spa, room upgrades, wedding packages, swimming with dolphins, tours, golf at Jack Nicklaus Academy of Golf & much more!

So can you tell that I liked it? Can you tell that I can't wait to go back?

Le Blanc is not for everyone, but if you consider yourself a person of discriminating taste that would prefer to be located close to the action and shopping in Cancun's Hotel Zone as opposed to further away down along the Riviera Maya then Le Blanc may just be for you when it's time to celebrate your Anniversary, Honeymoon, Destination Wedding or even just a luxurious retreat

Aventura Spa Palace in November 2011 with EZTravelPad

Join EZTravelpad in Mexico This November for More Fun in the Sun

 

Nov 9-14 along the Mayan Riviera!

This time we will be enjoying the Aventura Spa Palace

Aventura Spa Palace is located between Akumal and Playa del Carmen - about an hour from Cancun and right in the heart of one of the most beautiful stretches of beach in the world...

Q- Who goes to Aventura Spa Palace?

A- Adults - who like spa vacations and girlfriend getaways & couples looking for a high value luxury all-inclusive vacation

Q- Who likes Girlfriend getaways?

A- Girlfriends.... and guys looking for girlfriends!! (seriously, travel agents often hear about the exploits of the women and/or men who hooked up while on vacation, so if you are single......)

Q- How's the beach?

A- See for yourself... Check out the live webcam and see live beach shots - right now at this link

Q- What are the rooms like?

A- Rooms feature-

• Balconies (all rooms)
• Hammocks (most rooms)
• Double Jacuzzi (all rooms)
• Combination of ocean views (premium) and garden view rooms

Q- What's included?

A- Resort features-

• Beach coves
• Freestyle pool
• 3 outdoor Jacuzzis
• Swim-up bars
• Cross current pool
• Lap pool
• Indoor liquid sound pool w/2
• Waterfalls
• Daily activities
• 3 lit tennis courts (at Aventura Cove Palace)
• Kayaks & snorkeling
• Spa facilities ($)
• Fitness center
• Aerobics room
• Spinning room
• Yoga hut
• Obstacle course
• Climbing tower
• Meditation pond
• Themed parties or shows nightly
• Andromeda disco at Aventura Cove Palace

Q- So what's the cost?

A- 5 nights from about $1375pp includes RT air and tranfers based on double occupancy (exact price varies based on point of departure)

Q- So children are not allowed?

A- No, but there is a sister property next door that is family friendly, so if you wanted to come join us but bring the kids along, there is that option

We are going to have a great time enjoying the pool, the spa, the beach, the entertainment, the food and the drinks! Hopefully you can come join us- if interested please contact EZTravelpad ASAP for best possible pricing

 

Intercontinental Thalasso Resort & Spa - Bora Bora in French Polynesia - A Review

Intercontinental Thalasso Resort & Spa in Bora Bora is Phenomenal

 

Welcome....

 

The Intercontinental Resort & Thalasso Spa is located on a motu (small islet) just off the main island of Bora Bora in The Society Islands of French Polynesia - or in short- The South Pacific. Actually the name of the spa is The Deep Ocean Spa so check out that link....

As the name implies, this resort is all about the spa. From the moment you step foot into the reception area you immediately notice soothing mood music - relaxing - totally. The decor, layout and furnishings are all designed to be in harmony with the spa nature of the resort....

Initially I wondered, what is a Thalasso spa? As they say everyday is a school day, so if YOU don't know - here goes....

A Thalasso spa specializes in Thalassotherapy (derived from the Greek word ‘thalassa’ which means ‘sea’). The spa uses the beneficial aspects of the marine environment- the climate, sea water, seaweed and algae, mud and sand—all for therapeutic purposes. This spa even uses the seawater for air conditioning!

Sea water is sucked from a depth of 3500 feet (trust me- it's cool down there) and circulated amongst the buildings on property for cooling purposes. The water is available from this fountain in the spa and guests are encouraged to take a daily sip - maybe 1/2 oz or less for better health. I did, and it's not bad...

 

 

Like nearly every resort in French Polynesia the bulk of the buildings are bungalows. All guest rooms are in bungalows at this Intercontinental resort, as are the massage therapy rooms which are located in the overwater bungalows pictured below.  Guests can enjoy a soothing massage while relaxing as they watch fish swimming in the reef immediately below the massage tables - Clear viewing windows in the floors allow an up close experience and are a fixture of most overwater bungalows in the area, another part of the experience of French Polynesia...

 

 

Had a long flight and feeling like your ankles are swollen from the lack of mobility combined with the warmth and humidity of the climate? This may be just the ticket- a Deep Chiller Walk pool. The pool of cool water is approx 25 feet in length and designed to  allow you to walk back and forth in shallow cool water while being pounded by current...nice!

 

Tying the Knot

Considering French Polynesia as a destination for your wedding? There may exist a more romantic view than this, but if there is I am unaware of it. Imagine exchanging your vows in front of a huge plate glass window featuring Mt Otemanu as a backdrop - and standing on a clear floor with the reefs below..... this is the wedding chapel that dreams are made of.

A memory that will never, ever fade

 Yes, I have an inside shot of the view, but trust me- it just doesn't do it justice. Maybe a more professional photographer can- check this link

 

So yes, the spa is amazing - the wedding chapel is to die for - but what about the accommodations? How are the bungalows? Are they nice? How are the views? See for youself at their website. Suffice to say that the huge picture windows that are located at the foot of the King-sized beds in the bedrooms of the bungalows will afford a view like no other - provided that you know what to ask for.....

 

So is the Intercontinental Resort & Thalasso Spa the top resort in Bora Bora? Probably not for everyone. Some might opt for a larger resort - others may choose somewhere a bit more family friendly....but if you are a spa enthusiast who supports Green initiatives and you want to totally relax during your escape in paradise then this may be the best resort for you in all of French Polynesia.....

Can you book it thru some online "discount" source?

Sure- but why would you when the voice of experience is waiting for you - "Your friends....in the travel business" are here to help - Consider EZTravelpad - your source for unbiased advise and best price.

Don CeSar in St Pete Beach - perfect for Destination Wedding

For a Destination Wedding at Florida's Sunset Capital it's Loews Don CeSar Beach Resort

Don CeSar Beach Resort - a Loews Hotel in St Pete Beach is a perfect spot for a U.S. based Destination Wedding. Stately, Classy, Gorgeous, and with a first class spa, this is a wonderful choice for discriminating couples interested in tying the knot beachside...

If coming in with a low budget is something that you want to accomplish for your Destination Wedding then this might not be the first choice, but compared to other more modest resorts in the area Don CeSar is surprisingly affordable.

Your Destination Wedding is in Good Hands

When putting together a destination wedding there are a few things to think about- location & reputation, capabilities and quality. Don CeSar has you covered, with 3 wedding coordinators on staff preparing to host over 400 weddings this year, rest assured that you are in good hands. If the service and attention to detail is anything like I experienced there recently I couldn't be anymore comfortable in suggesting this as a great spot to tie the knot.

Offering exemplary service at every turn, you will not be disappointed by the staff, by the facilities, or by the dining options....

Flatbread topped with shredded island chicken, black bean spread & vegetables - Potato & plantain chips served with traditional guacamole and pineapple guacamole - Yum!

For some people a grilled chicken breast over a rice pilaf is just fine- others require something a bit more interesting. A more interesting menu is what you will find at Don CeSar, but is doesn't stop there. The spa features 16 treatment rooms as well as a private deck overlooking the gulf - oh, and it smells like heaven when you walk through the door of the spa! Body toning water aerobics and beach yoga are complimentary for all guests.

Beach Resort = Beach + Pools

Beachside pools offer full service including complimentary refreshments (Italian ice, frozen grape kabobs, smoothies, chilled towels , etc) plus a full menu of activities include volleyball, beachball dodgeball, cannonball contest, and lots & lots of pool pampering are all in store for you if you stay for a few days.

Putting a Price on Service

How can you put a price on service? It's the little things that mean so much - like the general manager stopping to have a chat - or walking into a restroom that smells of mint and eucalyptus - or being greeted by smiles from all the staff....lots and lots of staff can you put a price on that? Would you want your wedding celebration to be anywhere that offered less?

view of Don Cesar from beachside - looking great from every angle

My reason for stopping into Don CeSar was to find a Destination Wedding and Honeymoon resort located in Florida that I could feel good about recommending. I found it. So if a Florida based Honeymoon or Destination Wedding is something that you want, let EZTravelpad help guide you there - or wherever else your heart desires. After all, it's your special day - but it's not your responsibility to plan it all.

Greg Norman on Sandals Emerald Bay Golf Course

Golf Enthusiasts Wanted at Greg Norman Designed Sandals Emerald Bay Golf Course

Sick of the cold weather? Ready for a break - and a round of golf on the most gorgeous course in the Caribbean?

Maybe it's time to hit the links at Sandals Emerald Bay Golf course on Great Exuma in the Bahamas. But don't hear it from me, let Greg Norman tell you why....

 

By the way, if you saw The Golf Channel's Big Break Bahamas series, you know how gorgeous this place is...

Sure, you can book it yourself, but why pay too much and worry about whether you are selecting the room category that best suites your needs? Get a little help from "Your friends....in the travel business" let EZTravelpad help with the little details, and even the tee times! You just pack your bags and get ready to relax in the sunshine!

Travel Pulse interviews AMResort's Alex Zozaya

Travel Pulse is a daily news digest available to Travel Consultants (agents). Travel Pulse is produced by Performance Media Group, a publishing company(both electronic and print)that focuses on the business of travel, and does a fantastic job of it.

The following is an interview with Alex Zozaya, the President of AMResorts that was posted today on Travel Pulse- I thought it was noteworthy for a few reasons-

• The commitment to expansion shows that there are companies that believe in growth - even today
• The diversity of offerings might interest All-Inclusive Vacationers (we LOVE them!)
• The casual reader can get a sense of vacation destinations they may not have yet considered

I hope you enjoy-

Alex Zozaya, President, AMResorts

By Kerry Medina

Published on: August 27, 2010

Less than 10 years after entering the market AMResorts is making strides to reach the 10,000 room mark by 2012. Last year, the company reported more than $500 million in sales and total future investments exceeding $1.5 billon. In March, AMResorts announced a new $400 million development in the Dominican Republic. The project, “Gems at Cap Cana,” will be comprised of a four-resort complex consisting of the 200-suite Zoëtry Gems at Cap Cana, the 350-suite Secrets Gems at Cap Cana, the 350-suite Now Gems at Cap Cana, and the 200-suite Now Preferred Gems at Cap Cana. The company has already introduced its first two Now Resorts in Mexico and announced plans for two Puerto Vallarta properties, a $150 million project that will introduce the first Secrets and Now Resorts & Spas. In April, the company also unveiled a dedicated new website for travel agents, www.AMRagents.com. We spoke with Alex Zozaya, president of AMResorts, about the company’s aggressive growth strategies.

What are some future destinations where AMResorts is either currently planning new properties or simply would like to have a presence one day? In terms of destinations where we don’t have a presence yet, but are currently in negotiations, we’re looking mainly at Samana and Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, and in Mexico we are negotiating right now in Cozumel, Ixtapa and Manzanillo. We’re also looking at Turks & Caicos, Tobago, St. Thomas and Aruba. We’ve already signed a new 400-suite Dreams resort in Costa Rica, which will be the fourth country where we have a presence. It will be located north of Papagayo, about an hour away from the Liberia airport, near the border with Nicaragua and in an area adjacent to a national park. The area is called Santa Elena. We’re hoping to open the property before the end of 2012. We want to start construction before the end of 2010 and build in 20 months. Basically, we’re looking to grow further in Mexico and the Caribbean because that’s where U.S. travelers are a natural market. But we’re also looking at Hawaii, specifically the Big Island and Maui.

What prompted AMResorts to make such significant investments in destinations like the Dominican Republic? In Mexico and the Dominican Republic, we have the know-how and good relationships and strong distribution in the destinations, so we already have the infrastructure. The Dominican Republic is where we started our company. We’re investing significant money there and we have a long-term commitment to the destination. We want to bring a higher-end product to the country as well as higher-end customers who are currently going to other places in the Caribbean because they see the Dominican Republic as a high volume destination without a lot of luxury. I believe that perception has changed some, but it will change a lot more in the future. There’s opportunity to grow our higher-end brands and increase the number of American travelers who are going to other places in the Caribbean and Mexico, staying in the U.S. or going on cruise ships. I believe Mexico has the potential to double and triple the number of Americans going there every year. We’ve gone into new destinations within the country because investors recognize that we are doing very well and that we have a formula to reconvert properties that are underperforming. We already have 11 properties between Cancun and the Riviera Maya, but we could have 20. We can add even more value to those investments because the more units we have in a single destination, the more cost efficient we become, and that’s a strategy that’s naturally been growing with us. You would think that in these difficult times it wouldn’t be smart to increase supply. But there are projects that are going to happen with or without us, so I would rather be able to control the inventory and keep it under our platform rather than have our competition doing it.

Why did the company decide to launch Now Resorts & Spas in addition to Dreams Resorts & Spas? We already had too many Dreams and Secrets Resorts in certain locations. But there were some great opportunities with great hotels that could be converted to our brands, although we already had a strong presence with Dreams and Secrets. So we thought it was time to come up with a new brand that would enjoy a presence in a location where we had already established operations, distribution and infrastructure. We wanted a new brand with a different approach to the market so it won’t confuse the customer. Now Resorts are geared toward couples, weddings and families, but they are more lively, more colorful, more dynamic than Dreams Resorts. Now Resorts offer more activities because we’re trying to appeal to guests who are looking for a more activity-oriented vacation. In addition, Now Resorts have bigger and more sophisticated groups and convention facilities. The brand will enable us to have larger groups, not just the smaller, social groups that we have at Dreams and Secrets.

How is the newly relaunched Master Agent Program being received by travel agents? Travel agents are no longer looking to be an intermediary without having value and so our programs are very well regarded by them. We really give travel professionals the tools to become experts on our products in order to better sell the properties. These agents have a higher ratio of converting sales and can really add value. We still have more to do because our company is growing so fast and we want agents to be well informed of our new developments and have accurate information about them.

How much of a draw is Zoëtry’s wellness component for the brand’s guests? The main reasons guests go to Zoëtry Resorts are to disconnect, to relax and to rest. But the sophisticated customer is coming for the wellness part, the environmental aspect and to learn. They don’t want to be in one more place that they’ve already seen. They want to learn new things and have new experiences. That’s why we offer so many activities. But we’re not a nutrition center -- we serve alcohol. Our guests come to us because they want a small luxury hotel in a beautiful place and they can choose between us and the Mandarin Oriental, Orient Express and Four Seasons. But they choose Zoëtry because they want the wellness aspect without feeling guilty for indulging, as well as a commitment to the local community and to the local environment. There’s always something going on at Zoëtry for guests to entertain themselves: a yoga class, a tequila course or a cooking lesson, live music or kayaking. Zoëtry Resorts offer much more than a traditional luxury EP hotel and consumers have started to understand this convenience and value for money. It has nothing to price. Consumers understand that for the same amount of time and money, they can have a much better experience. And that’s what drives our growth.

Oh, and in case you're thinking, hey- I can save a little money by booking one of those resorts myself.... you can't. I guarantee you will save money by using EZTravelpad (and I can make that promise because I own EZTravelpad - "Your friends....in the travel business")

The Greenbrier- America's Resort opens new Casino

The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, WV is Amazing.

Whether you go in the front door...

or the back door-

the feeling is the same- stately!

This is no typical West Virginia back porch!

and The Greenbrier is no typical resort!

The Greenbrier Resort, located in White Sulphur Springs, WV calls itself America's Resort. Situated directly in the middle of God's Country - in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, just a handful of miles from the Virginia state line, and just off I-64, the Greenbrier has entertained Presidents and A-list celebrities for nearly as long as the United States has been around.

The resort was constructed, in various stages, beginning it 1778. At one point the Greenbrier was home to the top secret "bunker" - an emergency home to the U.S. government in case of a nuclear attack- today you can tour this space that was once so very secret

Recently emerging from bankruptcy, and purchased by West Virginia native and business man Jim Justice, the Greenbrier is in the infancy of it's resurgence.

On my visit there in July you could feel the excitement in the air- you could see and hear the enthusiasm on the faces and in the voices of the employees- The Greenbrier is back!

In early July a major event took place, the grand opening of a new casino at The Greenbrier brought in celebrities like

• Jennifer Garner
• Ben Affleck
  
• Jessica Simpson
  
• Brooke Shields
  
• Jane Seymour
  
• Raquel Welch
  
• Barbara Eden
  
• Charles Barkley
  
• Jack Nicklaus
• Shaquille O'neal
• Michael Richards

A West Virginia native, Garner was quoted as saying - "I've been to a lot of beautiful places in this great country of ours and I haven't been to anything as glamorous as this"

But it's not just about gambling and casinos-

Recently the Greenbrier hosted a PGA tournament aptly named "The Greenbrier Classic"

Stuart Appleby shot a 59 on the last day of the tournament (which means I could expect to shoot 110 on a good day).

The are 3 courses to play at The Greenbrier- The Old White, The Greenbrier and The Meadows will challenge and invigorate you (or maybe that is due to the clean mountain air).

If other diversions are more your style, try your hand at-

• Falconry
• Archery
• Bowling
• Carriage Rides
• Croquet
• Geocaching
• Horseback Riding
• Hunting
• Kayaking
• Paintball
• Mountain Biking
• Shuffleboard
• Spa
• Tennis
• Trap, Skeet & Sporting Clays
• Whitewater Rafting
• Children's Programs
• and many more activities

You can enjoy a scenic view from the outdoor pool overlooking the golf course and Blue Ridge Mountains

 

Or an equally impressive indoor facility...

Arrive by rail-

When was the last time your were able to arrive at your resort by train (Amtrack stops at the front entrance)?

How cool would that be? Get on the train in downtown DC or Chicago, take a snooze, and next thing you know you're at the resort!

The Greenbrier is a great place to retreat to the mountains, and there's still time to enjoy the beauty this summer, and into the fall for the seasonal fall foliage.

Whether you are celebrating or just retreating, The Greenbrier is perfect for- 

• Honeymoon or Destination Wedding (PERFECT for that!)
• Family Vacation
• Relaxing Retreat
• Spa Vacation
• Corporate Team Building

EZTravelpad "Your friends....in the travel business" can help you find your way to Greenbrier, or other vacation destinations across the street- or across the globe.

A New Year - A New You .... Be better in 2010

Start 2010 with a Plan - Start with Yoga in Ocho Rios

Everyone business person knows that adding value to your customer's experience is a key to being a successful business. Whether it's something as simple as remembering you as a valuable customer - or something as complicated as devising a new product or service - adding value is what it's al about these days. Royal Plantation In Ocho Rios, Jamaica has come up with a great value added proposition for lovers of self-help

A New Year, A New You Retreat at Royal Plantation in Ocho Rios from Jan. 7 to 11. 

The trip focuses on self-help strategies such as a daily, guided meditation; sunrise yoga on the beach; and a dance yoga program. There's also a "self-reflection in nature" hike plus introductory instruction in Ayurveda, the healing art and science that emerged alongside yoga in ancient India. 

A $200 spa credit comes with the package, as does a menu that includes vegan options. 

Kim Valeri, a yoga teacher, spiritual counselor and founder of YogaSpirit Studios, and Josh Immel, creator of Joyful Belly, the first online tool to manage an Ayurvedic diet, will lead the retreat. 

If you want to start the year off right, and begin investing in YOU this year (which is a better investment than something like Exxon-Mobil) this is a great place to start.

For more information, or to book your package today - you know who to call!

Why, because EZTravelpad understands Value-added and will deliver better pricing or extra add-ons over and above booking direct!

Meritage Resort & Spa in Napa Valley offering AMAZING Value This Fall

Napa in the fall - THIS Fall

The Meritage Resort and Spa is at it again, offering amazing opportunities to visit the wine country of California more affordably than you dreamed possible.
We're not talking about the Comfort Inn here (not that there's anything wrong with the Comfort Inn) - The Meritage Resort and Spa Terra is an amazing spa and resort - Situated on an eight-acre private vineyard, in Napa’s Carneros Wine Country.

As Meritage explains-
We are looking forward to the Napa Valley's premiere season with all of the fabulous events and bounty of the grape harvest and the crush, not to mention our beautiful fall weather. The 4 Star, 4 diamond, Meritage Resort and Spa Terra still has some dates with some incredible pricing for you to pass on to your clients so they can come experience Wine Country in its full glory at an unbelievable value. Keep in mind, I can also offer your guests a 20% discount at Spa Terra on Sunday through Thursday plus, a special discount is available for clients of EZTravelpad due to an affiliation with a leading travel consortium, so you take an additional 20% off of our best rate and your guests get a free guest room upgrade* and a wine country gift! Book now, these rates won’t last!

What kind of rates are we talking about?

For the months of September and October rates range from as low as $143.20 to as low as $167.20 depending on the exact dates of stay (this is early and mid-week travel - weekends are higher).
Compare this to typical average rates for this resort in the $300 range and you can see what a value this is, but you better book quickly - these rates won't last long!

Take the Meritage Hop for tasting at 3 wineries and experience a wonderful afternoon of wine tasting and friend making.
See what else is happening in the Napa Valley during the time frame you will visit

Don't delay, if you're interested in taking advantage of this excellent opportunity you had better call immediately - EZTravelpad is here to help send you on your way!

Nostalgic Family Fun, OR Romantic Getaway - Mackinac Island, Michigan

A Weekend Without Motorized Vehicles

Mackinac Island (pronounced mac-in-aw) is a retro blast back into the 19th century. Back in 1898 "Horse-less Carriages" (which were later to become know as automobiles) were banned from the island, and the ban remains to this day. This may be the single best thing that ever happened to this small, quaint island located between the lower and upper peninsula of Michigan. There are two modes of transportation to the island, small plane or ferry (except in winter you can snowmobile across the few mile stretch from St Ignace). Obviously the mode of choice is the ferry, mostly from Mackinaw City.

Mackinaw City

Nope, it's not a typo - Mackinaw City is in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, and the most popular gateway to Mackinac island (spelled differently, but pronounced the same). There is some pretty nice shopping in Mackinaw City. A few restaurants, several places to buy fudge, and if you're looking for a bar, it's hard to miss.

Shepler's

Shepler's Ferry Service may provide the single best transportation service that I have had since.... maybe ever.
For only $22 round trip (if you buy your tickets in advance online) you are not only transported quickly and safely (trip takes about 14-15 minutes and runs every half-hour), but you are given a bit of island history, valet service for your vehicle (an additional $5), baggage delivery to and from your hotel (depending on where you stay) and maybe most importantly - friendly smiles all around.
When you impress my wife with your service, you are doing a GOOD JOB.

The boats are clean, spacious, and fast (they say they have the fastest boats to and from the island)

A Brief History & There's Simply No Avoiding it - Fudge!

The first thing you see, upon arrival, is a horse drawn carriage - the next thing will be - fudge!

In the 1820s, John Jacob Astor established Mackinac Island as one of the hubs of the fur trade. After The Civil War Mackinac Island became a summer escape for the wealthy. In the late 1800s The Grand Hotel was built, and Henry Murdick opened the island's first "Candy Kitchen". This was to become the first of many establishments selling fudge. There are probably TRILLIONS of pounds of fudge sold on Main St on any given day. It's unavoidable...fudge!
So let's recap - no cars, lots of fudge, remote scenic beauty - pretty good so far!

Mission Point Resort

The Mission Point Resort is located on the southeastern point of Mackinac Island, a 10 minute scenic walk (about 1/2 mile) down Main St. from the visitor's center downtown, and a world away from when you left home. This may not be the most prestigious (or most expensive - that would be The Grand Hotel), but it is a nice property with an expansive offering. Originally built in  the 1950s, the property was used as various colleges until the late 70s when it became the resort that it is today.

So what do they offer? A gorgeous grounds that hosts many weddings, restaurants, pool, spa, miniature golf, bike rental, gift shop, beautiful landscaping, premium location, and a general feel of a resort property that is service oriented.
What do you give up? It is a little rough around the edges. Paint peeling on the exterior (probably tough to maintain in the Mackinac Island winters), rooms a bit dark, shower heads low in bathrooms, lobby a bit dark due to the design and heavy wood used in construction, other small things are noticable, but easily overlooked because of the superior service offered.

A Jazz trio plays in the dramatic lobby while guests enjoy fruits & cheeses at the beer and wine bar.

Walking, Hiking & Bicycling

Ok, so besides getting married or eating fudge, what is there to do?
One of the best things to do on Mackinac Island is to get up early, rent a bike, and explore the island. There are several routes that can lead you to some of the forts that are a part of the island's history - or to some of the fascinating geological features, like Arch Rock

From Lake Shore Blvd, the 8 mile route around the island, you can hike up

through the forest of Cedar trees to get a better view of Arch Rock from above.

A couple leisurely hours of biking takes you around the entire island and offers spectacular views of The Mackinaw Bridge from the west side of the island, as well as solitude that is hard to find. When is the last time you heard silence broken only by the sounds of birds, or wind through the trees - or smelled REALLY fresh air?
WARNING! If you don't like the smell of lilacs and fudge - DO NOT GO TO MACKINAC ISLAND!

Back in the heart of the city is a different pace. Hundreds, perhaps thousands of visitors on foot, on bike, and horse drawn carriage - all enjoying a beautiful summer day of pleasant temps, sights & sounds of yesteryear, and fudge!
It's tough to beat.

A Different Pace

Mackinac Island really does take you to a different place, and time. Everywhere, and I mean everywhere, I saw happy friendly people (except for a few of the teenage girls - there's going to be no pleasing them - AS IF!).
From retired people to families with children to young couples enjoying their dream wedding, everyone seemed to be having a great time.

Affordable Luxury

So a couple celebrating their 5th wedding anniversary (Me and my lovely wife) drive about 725 miles (round trip) in a Prius, arrive at Mackinaw City, enjoy excellent service on the ferry ride over - have a bottle of wine and cheese (gotta love 3 Buck Chuck) that they brought from home, dinner of Fish & Chips and a couple of beers at Goodfellows, a night-cap Cab at Bistro on The Green complete with entertainment, best night sleep in a long time, up early the next day for 2 hours on excellent rental bikes, walk around downtown w/ lunch AND 2 of the best ice creams (alas, no fudge!) ever, hardly handled our bags at all, had a great time and spent about $325 total including tips.

And they say you can't have a great time on a tight budget....

A few tips to make your stay more enjoyable

• Wear comfortable shoes
• If you have a good bike, take it with you (the $8 cost to ferry it across beats the $8 per hour rental)
• Plan at least a couple of nights (we stayed only 1 night, not nearly enough)
• Relax
• Take in a spa treatment
• Goodfellows - for Fish & Chips (and a beer)
• Arrive early
• Take a good book
• Check the rates at the hotels section of EZTravelpad (seriously - you may save a ton)