Mark the Travel Dad

11/11/2024

SPRING BREAK DEAL ALERT TO CANCUN! I just came across some FANTASTIC deals to Cancun from DES MOINES for Spring Break. Starting at $5558.57 for a family of 4!

Dates - 3/13 - 3/18 (5 nights)
Flights - From DSM on United
FREE CARRY ON BAGS. FREE SEAT SELECTION.

The below pricing is based on a family of 4 with one child under 12 and one child over. Contact me for pricing for other family sizes/ages or other dates!

Dreams Sands - $5558.57
Beach Palace - $5888.00
Paradisus Cancun - $6098.15
Hard Rock Riviera Maya - $6188.28
Riu Palace Mexico - $6179.65
Dreams Natura - $6687.81
Iberostar Selection Paraiso Lindo - $6804.19
Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres - $7153.39

This is very reasonable pricing for Spring Break!

If you’re still considering a spring break trip, contact me ASAP before prices go up! Send a massage to me or email [email protected]!

11/10/2024

SPRING BREAK DEAL ALERT TO THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC! I just came across some FANTASTIC deals to Punta Cana from Minneapolis for Spring Break. Starting at $5688.81 for a family of 4!

Dates - 3/13 - 3/18 (5 nights)
Flights - NON-STOP flights on Delta
FREE SHARED GROUND TRANSFERS. FREE CARRY ON BAGS. FREE SEAT SELECTION.

The below pricing is based on a family of 4 with one child under 12 and one child over. Contact me for pricing for other family sizes/ages or other dates!

Iberostar Selection Bavaro Suite - $5688.81
Majestic Colonial Punta Cana - $5794.86
Hard Rock Punta Cana - $5872.89
Dreams Royal Beach - $5991.51
Dreams Macao Beach - $6472.64

Folks, it’s worth the drive up to Minnsapolis for savings like this. Pricing is roughly $3000 cheaper than from Des Moines!

If you’re still considering a spring break trip, contact me ASAP before prices go up! Send a massage to me or email [email protected]!

11/02/2024

Congratulations to Ms. “A” who just booked herself a trip this spring to Cancun! She’ll be staying at the Riu Palace Kukulkan!

Riu Palace Kukulkan is an adults-only, all-inclusive hotel located in the vibrant “La Isla” neighborhood of Cancun. Riu Palace Kukulkan is the perfect option for guests who are wanting a trip that can marry the fun and exhilaration of Cancun, with the flair of RIU! Guests can choose from a host of amenities including 4 pools, a gym, a spa and more.

Ms. “A” will be staying in an Elite Club Ocean View room which gives her quit a few extra amenities like:

- Premium room locations
- Exclusive lounge at the lobby and beach area with private bar
- Access to exclusive, premium branded drinks at select bars
- Exclusive pool area with premium branded drinks
- Upgraded in-room liquor dispenser with premium brands
- Upgraded mini-bar with snacks and bottle of wine
- Dedicated check-in area & Elite Club wristband
- Dinner reservations available for the à la carte restaurants through the Riu App
- Upgraded room service menu with variety of choices from specialty restaurant
- Exclusive Elite Club à la carte restaurant for dinner
- Exclusive restaurant for breakfast, including à la carte menu options

If you would like a quote for Riu Palace Kukulkan or any other all-inclsuive resort in Mexico, the Caribbean, or Costa Rica, send me a message or email [email protected].

10/23/2024

Congratulations to Ms. "O" and Ms. "N" who just booked a friends trip to Jamaica this January! They'll be staying at the Grand Palladium Jamaica for 6 nights!

Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort and Spa is set on an incredible piece of beachfront bathed by the gentle, turquoise waters of a small bay near the village of Lucea, approximately 25 mins. west of Montego Bay. The modern design and luxury facilities are in perfect harmony with the attractive, natural surroundings characterized by the turquoise-blue sea and the verdant landscape. Guests staying at the all-inclusive Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort and Spa are able to use the facilities of the Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort and Spa, located in the same complex.

Resort guests enjoy breakfast and lunch in one of the three buffet style restaurants and dinner featuring buffets or à la carte service in one of the seven specialty theme restaurants. Drinks are served in the 17 bars located throughout the complex and snacks are served at the Beach Bar or at the Sports Bar.

If you would like a quote for Grand Palladium Jamaica or any other all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean or Mexico, send me a message or email [email protected].

10/13/2024

Congratulations to Ms. "K" and Ms. "V" who just got in on that great deal I posted the other day to El Dorado Royale near Cancun! They are a mom and daughter celebrating a milestone birthday! I can't think of a better way to celebrate!

El Dorado Royale awarded 4 Diamonds by the AAA for its high-quality services is Mexico's premier adults-only beachfront resort travelers can enjoy a unique experience. Voted one of Condé Nast Traveler’s Top 100 Hotels in the world, El Dorado Royale, a Spa Resort, is Mexico's premier adults-only, beachfront resort where guests savor a unique experience and a vacation that fosters togetherness. Stretching on a secluded beach, the resort provides indulgences from gourmet cuisine, luxury swim-up suites, to a lush health club and concierge service. Situated in the center of the Riviera Maya, facing the beautiful Mexican coast.

If you would like a quote for El Dorado Royale or any other all-inclusive resort in Mexico, the Caribbean, or Costa Rica, send me a message or email [email protected]!

10/10/2024

CANCUN DEAL ALERT! Starting at $2311.86 per couple! January 12 – 17 (5 nights). Includes round trip air from Des Moines, ground transfers to/from the resort, all-inclusive accommodations at El Dorado Royale, free catamaran & snorkel trip, access to a waterpark, access to a stunning beach club (offsite), and a trip to an ecotour ranch with a cenote and animal rescue!

Yes, that price is correct! $2311.86 per couple and in includes pretty much EVERYTHING! That is an incredible deal for mid-January.

El Dorado Royale awarded 4 Diamonds by the AAA for its high-quality services is Mexico's premier adults-only beachfront resort, where couples, weddings and honeymooners enjoy a unique experience. Voted one of Condé Nast Traveler’s Top 100 Hotels in the world, El Dorado Royale, a Spa Resort, is Mexico's premier adults-only, beachfront resort where guests savor a unique experience and a vacation that fosters togetherness. Luxuriously romantic, stretching on a secluded beach, the resort provides indulgences from gourmet cuisine, luxury swim-up suites, to a lush health club and concierge service. Situated in the center of the Riviera Maya, facing the beautiful Mexican coast.

Guests may choose from among nine gourmet restaurants, convenient snack bars and 24-hour room service is available for those special times when a romantic dinner on the terrace is preferred.

More Inclusive Included Features and Activities:

- Transportation Included - Start your vacation stress-free with round-trip transfers from Cancun International Airport to your hotel and the exclusive parks in the Riviera Maya

- Catamarán & Reef Snorkel - Feel the sea breeze and exhilaration as you embark on a catamaran ride or explore the crystal-clear waters surrounding Maroma Beach through snorkeling

- Maroma Beach Club - Experience full access to the Beach Club with sunbeds, Cocotales Restaurant, non-motorized water activities and recreational activities

- Aqua Nick Water Park – Dive into excitement at Aqua Nick with full access to the water park and indulge in delicious food and drinks at Aqua Bites

- Ecotourism Ranch – Escape to the tranquil and serene ranch, where you can interact with horses and take a refreshing dip in a cenote

Other upgraded room types are also pricing out fantastic!

Luxury Junior Suite - $2311.86
Premiere Luxury Junior Suite - $2425.13
Beachfront Junior Suite - $2538.34
Swim-up Junior Suite - $2696.89
Premiere Swim-up Junior Suite - $2821.52
Beachfront Swim-up Junior Suite - $2951.76

Check out the resort here: https://www.lomashospitality.com/en/hotel-dorado-royale-in-riviera-maya/

Check out the TripAdvisor reviews here: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g150812-d574249-Reviews-El_Dorado_Royale-Playa_del_Carmen_Yucatan_Peninsula.html

If you would like a quote for El Dorado Royale or any other all-inclusive resort in Mexico, the Caribbean, or Costa Rica, send me a message or email [email protected].

*Pricing was valid as of 10/9/24 and does not include trip insurance.

10/04/2024

10/04/2024

FEBRUARY DEAL ALERT! As low as $2571.62 per couple to Cancun – including flights from DSM and adults only all-inclusive accommodations! 5 nights – February 9 – 14. Check out these great options that are all less than $5000 per couple!

El Dorado Royale - $2571.62
Paradisus La Perla - $2758.82
Hilton Playa del Carmen - $2991.17
Royal Hideaway Playacar - $3008.87
Secrets Tulum - $3043.63
Breathless Riviera Cancun - $3284.62
Riu Palace Kukulkan - $3142.32
Secrets Riviera Cancun - $3881.40
Live Aqua Cancun - $4240.50
Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya - $4288.86
Secrets Akumal - $4769.05

I don’t expect these prices to last long so if you are interested, send me a message or email [email protected]

*Prices are per couple and do not include ground transportation or trip insurance. Prices are based on the lowest priced room available. Prices were valid as of 10/3/24 but are subject to change at any time.

09/26/2024

Congratulations to Mr. "K" and Ms. "M" who just booked a weeklong trip this February to the stunning Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres near Cancun! This resort is absolutely stunning and gets fantastic reviews!

This spectacular 5-star All-inclusive resort is surrounded by the most breathtaking landscape, making it an ideal place for Caribbean lovers and first timers visiting Costa Mujeres in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Two words “Sophisticated and luxurious”, offer a perfect description of the new property. The resort is more adult oriented with almost 70% of the rooms dedicated to adults only in the Elegance Club (Adults Only 18+) and the balance are Family Section (All Ages).

Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres is located north of Cancun, 20 miles away from the Cancun International Airport. Costa Mujeres is known for its turquoise calm waters and white sand beaches surrounded by vegetation.

If you would like a quote for Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres or any other all-inclusive resort in Mexico, the Caribbean, or South/Central America, send me a message or email [email protected]!

09/26/2024

HUGE PRICE DROP! January 19 - 24 (5 nights) to Cancun from Des Moines is pricing out FANTASTIC right now. Check out these 5 ADULTS ONLY All-inclusive deals! Pricing is PER COUPLE:

Riu Latino - $2634.94
Royal Hideaway Playacar - $2760.88
Live Aqua Cancun - $3041.01
Hilton Playa del Carmen - $3063.96
Riu Palace Kukulkan - $3186.28

All of these resorts get a 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor. Got a specific resort in mind? Send me a message and I can price it out for you!

*Sample pricing was based on the lowest priced room available and does not include ground transportation or insurance.

09/23/2024

SPRING BREAK DEAL ALERT! Check out the great pricing for Iberostar Selection Bavaro Suites in the Dominican Republic! Starting at just $5344.37 for a family of 4 (both kids 12 or under) March 13 - 18 for 5 nights with NON-STOP flights out of Minneapolis! This is over $2000 less than from Des Moines. See below for pricing for families up to 6!

At the beachfront all-inclusive Iberostar Selection Bavaro Suites, you can have it all. Name your pleasure. Swimming, scuba diving or explore the island. How about just kicking back and letting your cares wash away in the dazzling sea--all in a spectacular setting of sun, sand and tropical abundance. Only 13 miles from the Punta Cana airport, you can be relaxing in the warm Caribbean sun, splashing in the sea, or relaxing under an exotic palm, just minutes from the time you deplane. Add to your pleasures a relaxing massage in the spa, sumptuous delicacies in top notch restaurants, Turkish baths and a fully equipped fitness center. Then top it off with the deluxe accommodations and great amenities you'd expect from a great all-inclusive resort.

With 6 reservation free restaurants as well as access to the restaurants and bars at the neighboring Iberostar Waves Punta Cana and Iberostar Waves Dominicana hotels, you won’t go hungry! Room service is also included!

There are also a ton of things to keep the kids occupied! Check out this list of activities included:

- 3 Lighted Tennis Court(s)
- Ping Pong
- Beach Volleyball
- Dance Classes
- Snorkeling
- Kayaking
- Windsurfing
- Sailing
- Water Aerobics
- Catamaran

Family of 4 - (both kids 12 or under) - $5344.37
Family of 4 - (one over and one under 12) - $5570.12
Family of 4 - (both over 12) - $6784.72 (2 bedroom suite)
Family of 5 - (any ages) - $8134.30 (2 bedroom suite)
Family of 6 - (any ages) - $9483.83 (2 bedroom suite)

If you would like a quote for Iberostar Selection Bavaro Suites or any other all-inclusive spring break trip to the Caribbean, Mexico, or Costa Rica, send me a message or email [email protected]!

*Pricing examples were accurate as of 9/22/24 and do not include trip insurance. Pricing DOES include round trip ground transportation to/from resort in the Dominican Republic.

09/22/2024

Congratulations to the “B” family who just booked their spring break trip to beautiful Punta Cana, Dominican Republic! They’ll be staying at Iberostar Waves Punta Cana in a Family Suite. This suite is perfect for families with children and teenagers. They’’ll have tons of space, with a king-size bed in the main bedroom, and a second bedroom with two double beds for children and a shared bathroom.

This family opted for the non-stop charter flights out of Minneapolis and saved an incredible $5249.01 vs. flying out of Des Moines on the same dates. That is INSANE.

Iberostar Waves Punta Cana offers friends, families and couples a lovely getaway in the beautiful destination of Punta Cana. Located on Bavaro Beach, the hotel is ideally located for both natural beauty and recreation on land and sea. The resort can also host group events such as conferences, weddings, parties and more, and kids and teens clubs offer guests of all ages the opportunity to make friends and memories all vacation long!

Guests of Iberostar Waves Punta Cana have access to the 6 themed restaurants and 2 buffets on property. All restaurants and bars at both Iberostar Waves Punta Cana and neighboring Iberostar Waves Dominicana are open to guests of the resort, so guests will have no shortage of delectable food and delicious drinks.

Whether guests want to keep up a daily fitness regimen or try something new like kayaking or tropical dance lessons, Iberostar Waves Punta Cana offers it all! Volleyball, tennis, gymnastics and more activities are available for all ages to partake in. The beautiful Bavaro Beach also serves as a relaxing retreat for guests who prefer to take it easy on vacation. Whatever the preference, Iberostar Waves Punta Cana strives to fulfill everyone's needs.

Included Activities:

- Tennis
- Ping Pong
- Volleyball
- Tropical Dance Lessons
- Gymnastics
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Windsurfing
- Snorkeling
- Aerobics
- Fitness Center

If you’re ready to book an all-inclusive spring break trip to the Caribbean, Mexico, or Costa Rica, send me a message or email [email protected]!

09/21/2024

Congratulations to the "H" and "D" families who decided to join their friends on the Spring Break trip to Dreams Natura in beautiful Cancun!

This is an absolutely fantastic family resort with tons of activities for kids, including a water park, lazy river and a Rollglider aerial ride! They are both families of 5 and will be staying in a guaranteed connecting ocean view suite with 1 king bed in one and 2 doubles in the other.

Located 10 minutes away from Cancun International Airport, this family-friendly AAA Four Diamond award-winning beachfront resort offers guests an Unlimited-Luxury vacation, where everything is included: 24-hour access to unlimited food and beverage options, à la carte dining with no reservations, endless activities for all ages and more. Rooms and suites feature comforts including a private balcony or terrace and a fully stocked mini bar. At Dreams Natura, guests will enjoy the benefits of Unlimited-Luxury where everything is included, and no wristbands are required, 9 restaurants and 6 bar options which include non-alcoholic bars for teens are available so everyone in the family will be satisfied with options including kid-friendly menus, buffets, international à la carte restaurants, grilled snacks, a café and an ice cream parlor. There are endless exciting daytime activities like a water park and Rollglider ride, one main pool, a lazy river, a splash pool for children, Explorer's Club for Kids, Core Zone Teens Club and the Now Spa by Pevonia.

If you would like a quote for Dreams Natura, or any all-inclusive resort in Mexico, the Caribbean or Costa Rica, send me a message or email [email protected].

09/21/2024

Exciting news! Renewing your passport just got a whole lot easier!

Thrilled to announce the Online Passport Renewal (OPR) system is available to U.S. citizens 24/7. Now, millions of Americans can renew their U.S. passport online at their convenience and from the comfort of their own homes!

- Secure and paperless process
- Saves time and effort
- No more printing forms, writing checks, or mailing in applications

This is just one way they are modernizing services to better serve you.

Want to see if you qualify? Check out travel.state.gov/renewonline and take the first step towards hassle-free passport renewal today!

09/19/2024

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. “K” who just booked an adults only trip to the newly refurbished Riu Palace Macao in the Dominican Republic next month!

Riu Palace Macao is an all-inclusive, adults-only (18+) hotel in the Riu Resort complex, located in beautiful Punta Cana. Elegance and comfort meet an abundance of activities, setting the tone for a perfect vacation. The tropical landscape combined with Riu Pool Parties, Splash Water World and a host of other recreational options make this a fun and active Dominican paradise.

At the Riu Palace Macao, dining is a gastronomic treat. Savor both local culinary delights and international favorites at six restaurants, Five bars offer refreshing tropical libations, cocktails, juices and soft drinks. Riu Palace Macao guests also have access to several additional bars throughout the resort complex. Snacks and beverages are available at the Riu Palace Macao 24 hours a day. For nighttime fun, lively nightly shows are featured that engage and delight all ages, and for wild, party fun, drop in at the disco!

This resort is pricing great right now! If you would like a quote for Riu Palace Macao or any other all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean, Mexico, or Costa Rica, send me a message or email [email protected]!

09/17/2024

Congratulations to the “W” Family who just booked their spring break trip to Dreams Natura in Cancun! This is an absolutely fantastic family resort with tons of activities for kids, including a water park, lazy river and a Rollglider aerial ride! They are a family of 5 and will be staying in a guaranteed connecting ocean view suite with 1 king bed in one and 2 doubles in the other.

Located 10 minutes away from Cancun International Airport, this family-friendly AAA Four Diamond award-winning beachfront resort offers guests an Unlimited-Luxury vacation, where everything is included: 24-hour access to unlimited food and beverage options, à la carte dining with no reservations, endless activities for all ages and more. Rooms and suites feature comforts including a private balcony or terrace and a fully stocked mini bar. At Dreams Natura, guests will enjoy the benefits of Unlimited-Luxury where everything is included, and no wristbands are required, 9 restaurants and 6 bar options which include non-alcoholic bars for teens are available so everyone in the family will be satisfied with options including kid-friendly menus, buffets, international à la carte restaurants, grilled snacks, a café and an ice cream parlor. There are endless exciting daytime activities like a water park and Rollglider ride, one main pool, a lazy river, a splash pool for children, Explorer's Club for Kids, Core Zone Teens Club and the Now Spa by Pevonia.

If you would like a quote for Dreams Natura, or any all-inclusive resort in Mexico, the Caribbean or Costa Rica, send me a message or email [email protected].

09/16/2024

Still contemplating that Spring Break vacation? Here are 6 great options available right now!

- March 13 - 18
- Including flights from Des Moines
- Example price is based on a family of 4 with one child over 12 and one under

Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun - $5664.31
Riu Palace Costa Mujeres - $5852.84
Hard Rock Riviera Maya - $6006.71
Iberostar Selection Paraiso Lindo - $6133.89
Dreams Natura - $6365.71
Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres - $7197.55

Want to save even more? Check out the pricing on the non-stop charters from Minneapolis!

Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun - $4888.49
Riu Palace Costa Mujeres - $5500.70
Hard Rock Riviera Maya - $5382.83
Iberostar Selection Paraiso Lindo - $5320.67
Dreams Natura - $5431.70
Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres - $6537.05

*pricing for the non-stop charters does NOT include carry-on bag, checked bag, or seat selections

Contact me for pricing for your particular family configuration. Send a message or email [email protected].

09/16/2024

Congratulations to the “D” Family who just booked their spring break trip to Dreams Natura in Cancun! This is an absolutely fantastic family resort with tons of activities for kids, including a water park, lazy river and a Rollglider aerial ride!

Located 10 minutes away from Cancun International Airport, this family-friendly AAA Four Diamond award-winning beachfront resort offers guests an Unlimited-Luxury vacation, where everything is included: 24-hour access to unlimited food and beverage options, à la carte dining with no reservations, endless activities for all ages and more. Rooms and suites feature comforts including a private balcony or terrace and a fully stocked mini bar. At Dreams Natura, guests will enjoy the benefits of Unlimited-Luxury where everything is included, and no wristbands are required, 9 restaurants and 6 bar options which include non-alcoholic bars for teens are available so everyone in the family will be satisfied with options including kid-friendly menus, buffets, international à la carte restaurants, grilled snacks, a café and an ice cream parlor. There are endless exciting daytime activities like a water park and Rollglider ride, one main pool, a lazy river, a splash pool for children, Explorer's Club for Kids, Core Zone Teens Club and the Now Spa by Pevonia.

If you would like a quote for Dreams Natura, or any all-inclusive resort in Mexico, the Caribbean or Costa Rica, send me a message or email [email protected].