Resort Transfers...what do I do?

Alright you got off the plane, made it through immigration, baggage claim and through customs. You have all your stuff and don't know what to do?

Apple Vacation is our operator and as part of your all-inclusive resort package it also included a Round-Trip transfer from the airport to the resort and yes back again (did you not pay attention, round-trip). As indicated in your documents we are suppose to walk out of the airport secured area for ticketed passengers and find the Apple Vacation representative who has an ID badge, dresses in a flower Hawaiian style shirt & pants. But be cautious, there are IMITATORS and HUSTLERS trying to hit on you to sign-up for timeshare opportunities, transportation services and who knows what other "you don't want to miss this deal of a lifetime opportunity, mi amigo". Stop! Focus! And look for the person who should be ID with the Apple Vacation regardless of their colorful shirt and uniform. You're looking for APPLE VACATION and going to the NOW Jade Riviera Cancun Resort...remember that, muy importante!

Once you connect then you should be fine...the ride is about 20-30 minutes from the airport. So relax and catch your breathe....breathe in & breathe out!

Photos provided by Flickr:corsiphotos

Today's Technology...Mobile Phone, Internet, Laptop & More?

I'm not an expert in this arena so will just touch lightly to get you thinking and perhaps to encourage you to do your own research or follow-through as your needs are dictated. So let's get started....

MOBILE PHONE

Each carrier is different and so if you are wanting your mobile phone to work. Be sure you get in touch with your carrier and inquire that you will be in Cancun/Riviera Maya Mexico and you want to know what it will take to make your phone work. Be sure you also have them explain the International Rates and how it applies, both in calling & receiving phone calls. It can cost you quite a bit so be cautious, unless you don't care! Also want to remind you that each room has a direct line phone, so we're not roughing it.

INTERNET & LAPTOPS

As a Preferred Club Guest, which our group is...I understand that there is a special lounge that has two complimentary computers that we can access and use. I also read in my research that in the Preferred Club Junior Suite Ocean View & Ocean Front their is internet access. I also found on

Orbitz.com this information: WiFi service is available throughout all guest rooms, meeting rooms and most areas including pools, beach and some restaurants. This service is provided by AVI(external supplier) and can be purchased in prepaid cards at the front desk or online and billed to your credit card.

Please be advised that though we are at a luxury resort theft can occur and so securing your laptop is of importance. You might want to get in touch with either Karen or Mike as they often travel with their laptops as they might have some tips for you.

The other warning, I read about is the constantly fluctuating electricity which will eventually damage your hard-drive. The notation was found on Fodor's 2010 Cancun, Cozumel & the Yucatan Peninsula Book I own. They recommend purchasing a Mexican surge protector (available at most electronic stores for $50) to handle the frequent brownouts & fluctuation in electricity. Honestly, this convince me that for a week I can leave my laptop at home. Hey, after all I am on vacation right? And after this blog I could use a break from typing? So I'll bring a book or journal instead.

ELECTRICAL ADAPTER

Will be bringing this with us as this is something we have on hand and is so small and easily

fits in the suitcase. Better prepared then not and we do plan to bring my Apple Shuffle for music.

I understand that the standard electricity is 110 volts/60 cycle. An electrical adapter may be required for a 3-pronged plug for the ground. I also came across this additional information regarding adapters on Fodor's travel blog article . Hope it helps!

Can you think of anything else?

Photo provided by Flickr. jonjon2k8

Location, Location, Location

Welcome to the NOW JADE RESORT & SPA...Our resort (if you only knew) has made its journey through us in a number of processes! For one, when we were trying to find a resort in the Riviera Maya, we checked out some 20-30 places before making this our final selection. Our exploration ranged from high end luxury to simple tropical rustic resorts. Of course you all know Diana, so tropical rustic was an easy cross off and since Roger is also part of the partnership...well, you know a retired-purchasing pro requires a value bargain as a "must have" for his decision factor. So we are very thrilled to introduce the NOW Jade Resort & Spa as our destination choice for our 20th Anniversary Renewal in March 2011.

The NOW Jade Resort & Spa attracted us with it's modern and sleek appeal. In particular, the openness, fun loving warmth of colors and design of the resort was a definite wow factor for us. Another selection highlight was that in our communication with the lead resort staff. We found that they were very responsive in our inquiry and needs. We are hoping that our personal experience will demonstrate a positive customer service for all of you as well. What was Roger's true draw you ask? Well he loved two things, value of our trip (well duh) which includes your meals and yes, booze and secondary ...he's trusting his "One & Only" for knowing what he likes!

As many of you know, Roger & Diana are cruise lovers, so the all inclusive option was perfect and the fact that your booze was included added an extra bonus & thrill. So keep in mind that staying at the resort will keep your expenses tight to your original budget, or if you like, you can explore outside the resort and hang with the locals, but know it will cost you extra.

If you haven't checked out the looks of the resort yet - double click on the NOW JADE RESORT & SPA website and take a peek into your home for the week. Hope you enjoy it!

Photos by Apple Vacation & Now Jade Riviera