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For those who have not tried this here are some simple steps and tips, it is as easy as posting a picture on Facebook.
1) Click in the insert image icon above
2) Select the camera icon at the end of the source category.
3) Choose file location from your device or PC.
- On my android phone the source was located in >Documents>Gallery. Your device may differ slightly.
4) Choose image and voila, the picture should appear in your post.
I hope this helps, happy posting !
Lots of great informatiom ! I recall the tourist card issue being the only supprise when visiting Punta Cana. The Punta Cana Airport used to be so tropical feeling. It is nice that you can buy them ahead of time now. They used to take a picture (souvenir) when you arrived that you could purchase upon your departure. I have ours somewhere. I wonder if this is still done. ? I wish I had known ahead of time so I might have freshened up a bit. lol
We are making a fun Playlist for Unofficial Palladium. Please add your favorite songs, don’t be shy, go crazy and have fun !
Here is what we have so far > Friends of UP Vacation Faves
Whoo hoo… Which section will you be staying at ? So exciting to be trying a new Palladium destination. I cant wait to hear all about it.
Congratulations ! I think you will love GP Jamaica for your honeymoon the sunsets are amazing.
So, things that I think may interest you as a new couple would be..
1) A couples massage
2) A sunset dinner at the Poseidon a la carte restaurant.
3) Some time at the adult only beach and Coral Pool.
The Palladium Hotel Group website also mentions this “Honeymoon couples can also enjoy other amenities such as a superior room upgrade (when available), a fruit basket, a bottle of rum and a romantic a la carte dinner.”
I am sure you will find plenty to do and will discover your favorite place to hang out. Dont miss trying the Jerk Chicken from the hut located at Sunset Cove, served every day at lunch.
It is so very true. We are asked why when we could go anywhere, do we keep returning to the same resort ? The answer is simple, The Grand Palladium in the Riviera Maya has always had a special place in our hearts but beyond that, the attention to detail, the ability to always make us feel special and continued improvements and the best staff we have ever encountered are just some of the reasons we keep returning. Do we travel elsewhere ? yes but we always find ourselves wishing we had just gone to our favorite place, our “home away from home”.
I don’t know abut you guys but I am looking forward to a nice quiet weekend, a glass of vino and some baby shower planning are on the to do list for me… have a wonderful weekend !
Here is a sneak peak of the Facebook group profile picture.
Thank you to all who contribute each month ! Keep on snapping those pictures….
Thanks for posting, I’ll add this to the storm watch thread. I have been a slacker around here as of late..lol
From Facebook :
Brenda Wegert : “As hard as it is to hear the negatives about a resort chain we have come to love and trust, it is good to hear unbiased opinions. I know management will use these comments to continue to make improvements in the future. I wish your vacation had been perfect but alas there is no such thing. I’m hoping you will try another Palladium destination. I have not yet been to the Palladium in Punta Cana, the Grand Palladium in the Riviera Maya has our hearts.”
Dan Peshkin : “We will absolutely not give up on palladium. From everything we have heard riviera maya would be the next. We had a great time but all of the reviews were spot on. Unfortunately we didn’t find this page til after we booked.”
Hi Patti,
We went and really enjoyed it, even though it was a full day. When we went we booked with a tour company from the resort. We have also used AGI Tours for the day when we went to Coba Ruins. Depending on how many people in your group that may be a nice option as opposed to “the big bus”.
And boy oh boy do we LOVE the Palladium ! Seriously though… I really love giving back after receiving so much help and information from Anne and all of you who use this site. The pleasure is truly mine.
I hope you are all enjoying the new version of Unofficial Palladium and continue to contribute as we all move forward.
Hello AmanDJinMayheko, welcome to the forum. The Colonial Mayan Suites are indeed villas 30-32 as shown on the map here > MAP
The best seafood for lunch can be found at any buffet, indoor or outdoor, at the fresh grilling stations. I would recommend Punta Emila for dinner, you must reserve this one a day in advance with guest services in either the Colonial or Riviera lobbies. The seafood platter is very good !
If you have any other questions we are happy to help !
So, if an a la carte is busy and the wait times are too long, one should in theory be able to find the same or similar offerings on the new buffets. That should ease the line ups which have been discussed recently. I have yet to experience many of the new changes the resorts have implemented. I look forward to trying many of the new offerings on our next visit. It will feel like the same place we have come to love with a new flare.
Here is the link to the Love song Playlist
Favorite Love Songs by Palladium Fans, courtesy of Felipe Martinez (Many thanks to Felipe for putting the playlists together.)
Done. How fortunate we are to have found our favorite Palladium Resort(s) and be asked to contribute to even more improvements. The wonderful management is always going above and beyond. THANK YOU, Palladium Hotels and Resorts and all those who make our vacations the best they can be.
Your time in paradise is getting close, you must be getting so excited. I look forward to your posts, Iv’e been living vicariously for awhile now..I cant wait to get back one day. Have a wonderful time !
How exciting Pat ! We love the suites as well but find the JR. Suites are just fine. Either way 10 days in the Royal will be amazing. We flew with Aero Mexico years ago, great food free drinks and over all a very nice flight. I see they are still serving a meal, beer and tequila as part of the fare. Here is a link you may like.
http://aeromexico.com/en/travel-with-aeromexico/on-the-plane/in-flight-dining/?site=us
Let the countdown begin !
The only renos I see mentioned are :
The Palladium Hotel Group is renovating its zoo between 18 April and 18 June 2016. The renovations will not affect access to and use of the hotel’s facilities. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the renovations and are available to answer any queries or questions that may arise.
I would think it is still the same. A very nice pool/bar. I love the views !
That looks like it was a fantastic meal. For those that get the opportunity to attend this; you wont be disappointed. It is on Wednesday nights at El Jardin for those who have dining privileges there. I believe you can view the menu the day prior near the entrance. It used to have to be booked a day ahead, I’m not sure if that is still the case. Just ask if in doubt.
Thanks for sharing !
Ask your captain, he may be able to recommend a local establishment that will prepare your catch. I know some places in Akumal do this; La Cueva del Pescador is one of them. Im sure there will be somewhere that will accommodate . You could probable email Capt. Rick’s ahead of time and inquire.
From Facebook : Cut a sponge into small squares, soak in dish detergent and allow to dry. Take with you to clean your insulated mug.
From what I can tell they are coupons that can be used towards the cost of various services, a romantic beach dinner for two, Zentropia SPA treatments, car rental or excursion, and more!
I have read that as an example you get:
(2) $30 credits toward “Hotelextras excursions”. One credit can be used per excursion..
(2) $10 credits towards the segway tour, (1) $30 credit toward a minimum 2-day car rental, and (1) $30 credit toward scuba diving and others such as a coupon towards an upgrade ect.
Although this is a nice “extra” and you may find some of these useful when visiting; I would not book just for this. I would imagine based on my past experience with this sort of deal from other hotels there will be many limits and restrictions.
I just had a peek at the PHG website. It appears that for most dates in June you can still book a Royal JR. Suite. Dont forget to use promo code PHG2016 for an additional %10 savings.
Hi Summerlove,
Sorry to hear of your husbands health issues. I know how hard it can be to plan travel when life throws us a curve. I hope all will work out and you enjoy many future visits to the Palladium.
If you have your heart set on Royal and know your dates you may want to try calling direct to see if they can find you a room. If you are willing to chance not staying Royal and hope to upgrade you may want to mention your situation in your request. Everyone at the Palladium goes above and beyond when possible. Maybe our wonderful founder Anne can offer some assistance. The call center numbers are
USA (toll free)
+1 888 237 1226
Canada (toll free)
+1 866 685 8524Is it possible for you to pm them or comment about this on their Facebook Page ? Im thinking they might respond from there. I wonder what is taking so long for them to respond. Also check your spam or junk folder in case the confirmation is there. Let us know how you make out.
That is nice to hear, thanks to Felipe for always answering the concerns of Palladium guests. I would bring insect repellent and use it diligently regardless.
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You may add a signature and /or a countdown ticker that will appear at the bottom of your posts.You can create your timer from any source you choose. http://www.daisypath.com is one of many.(after creating your ticker choose “forums” “PseudoHTML, UBBCode and BB Code” as your link code.Copy and paste into your signature box in your profile.)
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I just thought I would share this recipe idea as an alternative or in the event you don’t find what you are looking for.
How to Make Low-Carb Sports Drink
It turns out that two tablespoons of lemon juice contain almost exactly the amount of potassium in 8 oz of a typical sports drink. So, if you want to make your own low-carb sports drink, it’s quite easy. Just mix together:
1 cup (8 oz) water (not carbonated)
2 Tablespoons lemon juice
small pinch of salt
Flavoring and sweetener to taste
Flavoring Ideas:
Crystal Light Drink Mix
Unsweetened Kool Aid (with sugar substitute to taste)
Sugar-Free Flavored Syrups such as Mio which comes in many flavors and are sweetened already are very handy.1) We love any of the buffets for breakfast, Punta Emilia or Gran Azul for Lunch ( grilled fish and pico de gallo) and El Jardin or a buffet for dinner.
2) Not an entre but LOVE the pumpkin creme brule from La Adalita, not sure if the still have it.
3) We look for the live music and sit for a couple prior to dinner. After dinner we walk around the resort and enjoy the quiet most evenings.
4) Love the Kantenah end of the beach.
5) We try to spend a few afternoons at the salt water pool. Not really pool people unless weather forces us inland.
6) Segway is always fun ! If it is your first time in the area I feel Chichen Itza is a must.
Suggest you try a few places around the resort, you will find your fave. If you don’t explor a little you are missing out. Every pool or beach location offers a different experience. Have Fun !
I just read that as of a few days ago (March 2016) the GPRM is offering 11 pesos per 1 USD as their exchange rate at the front desk.
I think the activities are offered at both pools. ( a quick double check at check in will confirm ) If you look at the activities guide you will see to the far right side a number or letters corresponding to each event; 1,2,TC,TR. There’s is a legend at the bottom noting for example TC = Colonial Theater, TR = Riviera Theater and so on. This is the location where they will start from. Hope that helped. Have fun planning !
I came across this video I thought you may enjoy.
The Children of the 80’s Party replaces the Bikini Party held in the Riviera Lobby at 11pm.
Also if you haven’t already read Annes trip report check out part 5 there is alot of info regarding entertainment around the resort. Here is a link to it. TR part 5 Entertainment and New Stuff
Unbeatable sunsets and fantastic dining. I always thought we would not enjoy the Pacific side but we were pleasantly surprised and would return without hesitation. So many Palladium’s so little $$ to go as often as we would like.
If it makes you feel any better, we pay on average $700 pp return to Mexico. Punta Cana flight run $800 and upwards. We have been saving miles/points for what seems like forever and plan to use them for a PC trip in the future. From Canada packages are always more affordable.
Have you considered ordering said amount of pesos or USD from your bank and paying in cash ? We as Canadians have a good run with our dollar the past few years, it is hard to go back. Things will inevitably cost more now than they have in awhile. ( insert sad face)
No. I think that may be awhile, if ever. I just linked to http://www.daisypath.com for now. Instructions added to the Facebook and new features post.
Wow, I don’t recall you ever having such a long countdown. How exciting, you can add a countdown ticker to your signature soon.
I understand your frustration. My suggestion would be to get a credit card with no international transaction fees. Two that are available to Canadians are the Amazon card and the Rogers card. There may be others but not many. That will save you a minimum of 2.5%. Secondly since the peso is valued against the USD there is no real advantage to paying in peso’s. If you pay in USD you should not have to pay the conversion twice. It should just be USD to CAD.
Sorry for the delay Bill and welcome to the site. Any questions, feel free to ask, if we dont know the answers we will ask for help and find them.
Tough question. I personally would keep my existing reservation. Although the weather may be warmer in Jamaica and you would get to experience a new Palladium… well I’m no help. lol
Jamaica is lovely its just different than RM if you do switch go with an open mind and enjoy all it has to offer. Great sunsets, wonderful coffee, and delicious jerk chicken, beautiful views around every corner.Here is the new menu to go along with the beautiful new sports bar.
I think people fear the unknown factor in any of these “new” diseases. Only time will tell how and whom this will all affect. All we can do is make the choices that we as individuals feel comfortable with.
Travel Weekly- The Travel Industry’s Trusted Voice
THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S TRUSTED VOICEMexico: Zika not a threat to tourists
By Jamie Biesiada / February 04, 2016
59
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Mexico’s tourism agency said that the mosquito-borne Zika virus does not pose a threat to tourists, citing the low number of cases in the country and the location of those cases — in rural areas, not near the more popular tourist destinations.
An uphill battle
The proclamation by Mexico’s tourism agency that Zika isn’t a threat to tourists seeks to reassure apprehensive travelers, but Classic Vacations President David Hu said it likely won’t help much.
“We have seen a few cancellations, but as with all these situations, travelers have a hard time delineating facts from their emotions,” said Hu. “In particular, this disease impacts pregnant travelers, who already have heightened sensitivities regarding their health; as such, as much as I would love for the announcement to instill confidence, I am not hopeful.”
He said that as the media coverage of Zika continues, it is only likely to only increase concerns about the virus.
Classic has a notification on its agent-facing website informing agents about Zika-related advisories by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization.
— Michelle Baran
On Tuesday, officials from Mexico’s Ministry of Health met with tour operators from the United States and Canada in Cancun. Mexico’s tourism agency said the meeting “focused on a report of the latest Zika virus facts, the prevention and containment efforts by the Mexican government and tourism industry, and a continued practice of close coordination with the international tourism industry.”
Dr. Alberto Diaz Quiñonez, deputy general director of the Mexican Institute for Diagnostics and Epidemiology, said there have been 34 confirmed cases of the virus in Mexico. Those cases have been found in Mexican nationals in rural areas, he said during the meeting, according to Mexico tourism.
“While the Zika virus is inevitable in Mexico given its vast size, climate and trade in the region, the number of cases remains very low. Strong prevention efforts have already been in practice for years to prevent similar diseases,” he said. “Given these facts, there is no threat to tourists visiting Mexico.”
Mexico tourism said that major tourist destinations and businesses have mosquito-eradication practices in place, and that the country is prepared to contain the virus.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has advised pregnant women to consider postponing travel to countries and territories where there has been transmission of Zika virus, and the CDC lists Mexico as one of those countries..
The interactive map can be seen here: https://unofficialpalladium.com/map-of-current-visitors/
The link can always be found on the side bar menu as well.
I’m hoping that “a few bad apples ” or those that will wear active wear and push the boundaries will not ruin it for all. I know many are thrilled with the new relaxed dress code.
Thanks for the update. I think of this way, it cant be worse than the big bus we have used in the past when using vacation packages.
Great trip report Lindsay, thank you for sharing your vacation with us. Trip reports help the winter days pass by a little faster. I can’t wait to return…
I look forward to hearing your thoughts once you return as we wont be going until late fall. I’m happy you heard back. The Palladium is very good with customer service.
As am I, It won’t be as “jungle like” but I really do love the rock free, walk for miles beach. Not to mention it is closer to the airport.
I hope everyone affected will be safe and warm until it passes. Peter is in the best place to wait it out.
Kern, I sent my question regarding the transfer to Zaira as she was the one handling our booking. I am sure she would help you. I simply asked for details regarding the included transfer. Here is her email address Zaira Vazquez / callcenter3.america@palladiumhotelgroup.com
We are going to try this on our next visit, sometimes the only way to know is to try it out. Cancun airport is busy, I cant imagine it taking too long and who knows they may just load you up and be on their/your way.
Kern; No she did not. They did use Hotel Beds but through the Travel Club which offers a direct transfer. Friends of theirs that booked through the Palladium website could have but chose not to as the disclaimer stated there may be multiple stops.
Thanks for your help Boatchick.
Copied from Facebook, I had forgotten all about this. Great memory Anne !
Shelley Lacroix-Goulet
October 20, 2015
Hello, the Palladium Hotel Group website says that if you book through them you get a welcome package that includes shuttle transfer for Riviera Maya and Jamaica. Has anyone used this service yet?
http://www.palladiumhotelgroup.com/…/palladium-webcome-pack…Cape Cod Anne . They use Hotel Beds. Mosty good reviews.Its not really new.
Shelley Lacroix-Goulet Thank you! I didn’t know! I emailed them to schedule our pick up !
Brenda Wegert We would love to here your opinion once you return. It is a wonderful perk, as I see it.
Shelley Lacroix-Goulet Will do!!
Peter Gittinger We have used Hotel beds several times as that is the company used by the Travel Club. We have always been pleased with their service. Jamaica, however, I believe uses a different company.
Shelley Lacroix-Goulet Is it a small shuttle van or a big bus?
Peter Gittinger The travel club offers private transportation is a shuttle bus.
Linda Wickstrom we really liked hotelbeds.com
HOTELBEDS.COM
Amara Thongchua Korpi Yes, Hotelbeds has been great for all our trips through the TC.
Lynn Shallenberger Glad to hear.. we will be using Hotel Beds for transportation the 1st time…
Dane Schadel No problem with Hotel Beds. Was very happy I didn’t have to drive!
Shelley Lacroix-Goulet Awesome! Thanks everyone!!
Joe Boucher Private transfer or the big bus?
Shelley Lacroix-Goulet I am not sure but will let you know Nov 1st when we use it.
Shelley Lacroix-Goulet
Shelley Lacroix-Goulet I guess it isn’t included in my booking:For bookings confirmed from May 2015 through our official website or CallCenter, applies the promotion for the complimentary shuttle service (shared transportation) provided by the external company HOTELBEDS. …See More
Airfares are so high now. We had to use a credit before it expired so that offset the cost a bit for us.
I have never used the transfer that is mentioned in the Palladium Webcome package. If it is included I will try it.I also would love to hear from those that have.The Palladium resorts are all very nice that way. You can stay at one and use all of the sister resorts with the exception of the Royal Suites. Some hotel chains do not allow for this.
Are you referring to the day or evening passes ? If so those are used, for example, if you or a friend are staying else where and want to visit for the day/evening. If referring to the TC “world pass” I do not know but will try find someone who can help,
