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It’s hard to compare decorations as we are here at Christmas when they go all out. I did notice that they did some elaborate decorations with fruit & vegetables in Kabah buffet today. Selection was excellent; two grilling stations with fish, steaks,chicken, pork (6 items to choose from) 3 types of paella, large pans of shrimp & mussels, delicious roast chicken and the usual offerings of hot dogs, hamburgers, turkey burgers and things for the kids like pizza, pasta, french fries.Kabah is the main buffet on the WS side and is huge and not at all busy at lunch time.It is similar to La Hacienda on Colonial except larger. The only dinner I ate in the buffet was on Christmas Eve so can’t comment on that but I know they still offer the grilling selection of 6 items to choose from.. Haven’t seen any weddings.
Abby & I had a wonderful dinner at La Adelita. We went by Hemingways to find a book but way too many books to sort through and many not in English. Will return with a flashlight. I am visitng with Filiburto and Ventura. Pedro just came by to say hi as we often see each other on FB.
Abby went for a nap. We may meet in Riviera for some entertainment later. Will post more pics in the morning.
Heard a great band in Riviera lobby.
Actually only spent about an hour at the beach. Red flag day and VERY windy. Back at the Royal pool.
Sitting in Royal lobby waiting for a wi fi password to use in non-Royal areas. Wi fi has been great here in Royal. Roxanna just arrived to give me the code.
Jessica in Royal has been wonderful as have all the staff. She asked Abby about her birthday. Attention to detail.
We both had lobster at El Jardin.Abby had the tortilla soup and I a shrimp salad. We shared some lamb chops. Eating our way through the days! Yum.We try to walk to wear off some of this food.
After sitting through some rain while sipping cappucino in the Royal lobby Abby and I decided to go into PDC.Abby was hesitant to take a colectivo as the last time we rode one we had to literally hold the door closed! I assured her that they are much improved. We wandered out the Colonial gate and there was a colectivo waiting.It sat for awhle until it was mostly full of hotel guests. In PDC the colectivos gather at the corner of Calle 2 & 15th, just a short walk to 5th Ave. I stopped first in Playa Mart where I have always found what I wanted at a good price. The gentleman there was very helpful and we kept his suggestions and prices in mind as we wandered out. We went to the newer section (south) where Abby found a dress for NY Eve. We then wandered back and checked some local shops. One woman made us feel very highly pressured and had purchases wrapped for us before we had agreed. She tried to grab my CC. We immediately felt uncomfortable and went back to Playa Mart for our tequilla and vanilla where they gave us a very good price. Then we began walking back to the colectivo when Abby spotted just the item she was looking for.The shopkeeper was very quiet and polite and gave us a good price so we were very happy. Had to wait in line for colectivo back but no problem. $3 US each so price was right.
Some lines we heard, “I give a good price to pretty girls. For you almost free”. “I saw you at breakfast at the Palladium this morning”(not so – saw our bracelets). So beware. If it doesn’t feel right keep walking.
We enjoyed a lovely lunch at Kabah which has more of a selection than El Gran Azul as does La Hacienda.
Brenda, You are awesome. I don’t know how we managed without you!
If anyone has any questions just ask. I have the full menu.
I am here now. Resort is nearly 100% full as it is Christmas.
While November is usually quiet it seems that you hit a busy wedding week. I have not seen one wedding this week but have experienced large family groups here for Christmas. They have not interfered with our stay in the least.
My daughter and I got a late start today and went down to the beach at 11. Absolutely no problem finding loungers in sun or shade. Pools were busy then.
Regarding the buffets I did notice the El Gran Azul above the main pool feels much more casual and guests there seemed to gravitate more towards hamburgers, pizza, etc. Today I went to La Hacienda, interior AC restaurant for lunch and it was as I remember and in fact better as it was beautifully decorated, had a vast variety including 3 different paellas, large selection of fresh food for grilling and fresh linens, decorations etc.
The buffet last night for Christmas Eve was out of this world and nothing was spared. There was one large family group but they were tucked away and did not bother us.
Overall I think you just hit it on a busy wedding week. Christmas is the busiest time of the year and we have no complaints. Some changes but still someting for everyone IMHO.
After a bit of a late breakfast walked over to Kantenah. Stopped at Punta Emilia to give Lucy a small Christmas gift for her expected baby. Absolutely no problem getting a lounger, even at 11 am. There was some wind and that brought in the seaweed so many people were choosing the pools over the beach, I think. There was some surf today so many were enjoying the surf. Abby tried the water and found it refreshing.
We had a late lunch then walked back to the Royal pool which we enjoy in the afternoon. Very relaxing.
While we were getting ready for dinner a knock at the door -beautiful assortment of sweets and (another)fruit basket. I declined the fruit as it was out third basket! Dinner at Punta Emilia was wonderful. Two racoons were chased off by staff. We both had garlic prawns.I had the seafood assortment and Abby the steak which was extremely tender. Waiter Eric was very attentive and ensured I would not be served Mahi Mahi which I am allergic to. No problem.
Sittng in Royal lobby wondering if we can make the pirate show which doesn’t begin til 10:30. Gets excellent reviews. There was an 8 pm pirate showw with Raggs for the kids. Tomorrow we are thinking of going into PDC. Forecast looks overcast.
I am here now. The beach bar on Coloial has hot food out for the kids and others who want to eat in their bathing suits. That includes chicken nuggets, french fries, hamburgers, hot dogs, nachos, fruit, ice cream, etc. I ate in La Hacienda interior buffet today (Colonial) and there ws a huge, fresh selection of all of the same as well as pizza, pasta and just about anything kids would want. I’ll take some pictures beore I leave.
Tons of kids here now and they seem very happy.Watched a good kids show last night which was well attended. They also had kids writing letters to Santa and meeting with Santa. Tons of kidsplaying games in the new kids pool supervised by staff.
I think Diego has some privacy settings. I’ll try and get some pics downloaded – soon
We spent several hours on the Kantenah beach. We’re at the Royal pool now.
Wild day today. Rain,sun clouds and wind on and off all day.
Very busy “foam party”with music and dancing. “Coconut” drinks served. Waited in line for those mainly for a photo op. Live music continues at El Gran Azul. Got to say hello to Lucy (at Punta Emilia)who is pregnant, Fernie at La Jarra, Ricardo, Memo.Saw Landi but she was rushing around.
We are now at the Royal pool stayng dry under a palapa.Lots going on tonight.
We are in Royal being treated royally.Had some excellent shrimp cerviche and salmon through room service when we arrived.
Cappuccinos at the pool. When we came back from the pool they also deliverd more champagne, pastries, choco covered strawberries and a fruit basket. We have so much food and champagne in our room,oh and a bottle of wine, we can have you all over for a party! We also can get four bottles of liquor but didn’t order any.
Went to El Jardin for dinner. Very good lobster. Abby enjoyed the lamb chops. We were both too full for desert. Visited various lobbies looking for music and they are just setting up so we probalby won’t make it. We’ve both been up since very early.
All is all it’s great to be home. I’m sitting with Filiburto for a nightcap and will have an early night I think.
Lucy is now at Punta Emilia. She wanted more time with her daughter so that is working well. Venturas is with Filiburto. Fillie just showed me a new liquor called Patron – chocolate tequilla. He says very good with capuccino.
Gracias. We are now both in Florida in different airports. A is racing to her next flight. Fingers crossed. I am waiting.
Gracias Louise. Wishing you, Keith, your kids and the doggie a wonderful Christmas.Hopefully we will get together in the New Year.
Thank you Blueskies. Wishing you and your family a new year of good health, peace & joy.
Although I feel like I know you maybe we will finally meet at a P one day! Thanks for all you do.
Thanks Kern. 2 more sleeps. I went to the library and got some books I have already read as well as some new books by authors I enjoy.
All packed. Just need some $$ nd I’m ready to roll.
Got to the library,got prescriptions filled, figured out camera, did laundry. Just need to do a little ironing and go to bank.
Concerned about daughter’s flights.Read reviews on Spirit Air which concerned me. Same thing happened to me last Dec.with major delays. Won’t read any more reviews.
Excited.I usually leave those hot pink Palladium stickers on my luggage to help identify it. The last airline took off my stickers. Just found a hot pink luggage tag. Doesn’t take much to get me excited!
Thanks Kern. Need to get a little more organized. Things are falling in place. Will feel better when Abby and I are finally together.
Just went through our book list. We have similar tastes in books. Any recent good reads? I need to go by the library today.
Very Long list. Something for everyone. If you have a suggestion feel free to post here.
https://unofficialpalladium.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Beach-books_2015PDF.pdf
Ha ha fun memory. Found this post on the beach book thread.
travelnman
Posted On: 4/4/2011 at 11:05 pm“Hi Anne – Remember the guy with the two gals,@ Jardines , he, having his “Birthday dinner” March 4th 2011 – invited you to join the party as you where manifest in your singularity, spontaneous and hilarious in conversstion with a manifesto of powerful words of knowledge, backed with sincerity. This event without you would have been fine, but with your presnts made the event most memorable, long-lasting and left a picture of you etched in our minds forever.
Thank you for being there, the memories,photo ops. Last but not least – say a big hello to your daughter
Ben & Patricia Jelley Judi (sister-in-law)
.Unplug small appliances if no one will be there.
Set lights on timers for extra security.
Meg Simoni I have a good one. If you have a security system, wipe your key pads with an alcohol swab to remove your finger prints. Thieves can dust your pad to figure out your code.
Meg Simoni Turn off the water to your home, never know when something will break.
Cape Cod Anne Meg I don’t miss living up north.It’s still in the 70s here (SC). However, even in SC I once had a toilet burst so turn off water to toilets and washing machine.
n
Lisa Thorne Thompson DONT Post your dates of travel on FB….lots of break-ins occur Cancel any paper delivery, and empty the fridge of “smelly foods”Cape Cod Anne Agree.Also hackers are out there
Lynn Shallenberger Also make a copy of your passports and keep them separate…Just in case you loose the originals…also leave a copy home with a trusted person…
Lisa Thorne Thompson Keep your medications with you in your hand luggaage….leave your travel info and emergency info with a trusted friend or family member.
Jason Rodgers Leave your guns at home. We see it all the time at the Canadian boarder where people show up with their hand gun. If declared you get to claim it back at the US boarder upon re-entry, if it isn’t say goodbye to it as it will be kept and destroyed.
Cape Cod Anne Jason something I did not think about.
Jason Rodgers People forget the laws are different in other countries.
Cape Cod Anne Jsson I on’twant this to turn into a gun isssue
Lisa Thorne Thompson When we pack my husband and I “split” our luggage, some of my stuff in his, some of his stuff in mine….just in case on gets lost smile emoticon Which hopefully doesn’t happen but at least one of you don’t have to run around naked!!!
Meg Simoni Same here Lisa Thorne Thompson
Ann Thompson Martel Pack Ann in your suitcase!
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Woohoo.Boatchick just told me they have cardboard coffee cups at the beach bar. I have been asking for this for 2+ years.
Hooray!!
Great report. Thanks for sharing.
How wonderful for Lany. She is so special.
Do they still have lobster every night in El Jardin? Do you remember which night they had the crepes?
Fabulous way to celebrate a birthday!!
Ok found a dog sitter so that is good.Hopefully Murph will be 100 % so I don’t worry about that. Now getting quotes for a transfer.
Welcome and thanks for sharing Jacek. Sorry you were disappointed. I’ll be there soon and will report back.It could be it was just a fluky week or not. I’ve been going for many years and though the resort has undergone change I have felt that most of the changes were for the better.Will be reporting here and maybe UP FB.
Petr: From Juan Mullin “I have a question for Panzita: I have been TC member since 2012. Since then I have used my weeks in Imbassai twice and RM 5 times. At my arrival at RM in the previous 4 times We were given 2 spa sessions and a tour. The last trip, november 2015, we were received by a new staff member called Youseff and he grave us only the two spa sessions. When I asked him for the tour he toldos me that there was no tour, that I had to choose between a tour or the two spa sessions. He did not know If it had changed because he was a new staff member.
The question is if there have been changes or If they have been mistaken giving me both benefits in the past.
Thx in avance!”Peter,
There is a request on FB to get feedback on the pros & cons of the TC. You are probably the most knowlegeable & balanced person to provide this when time.
Gracias.
Under 10 days.Uber does not take reservations so scratch that.It works great for my daughter in NY.
Murph is better. Still not sure what I am doing about him. I’d like to leave him home. I’ll see.
Wow Boatchick has tan lines on her birthday!! Brenda you have done amazing things with this site.You rock.
Last thing on my list I need to figure out who will take care of Murph.His caretaker moved away. I would like to leave him home if I can get caretakers.
Oh and I’m thinking of using Uber to the airport. My daughter uses that every day in NY.
I started packing and may have to bring a bigger suitcase this time as I have a few Christmas gifts and am bringing some toys down per an employee request. Murph is just moping around looking at me.He has been sick having eaten some laundry but seems more himself today thankfully.
Gorgeous weather here for December.
Resort markets to families http://www.palladiumhotelgroup.com/en/riviera-maya/grand-palladium-colonial-resort-spa/children/
Very kids friendly.I’ll get some pics but the menu above has chicken nuggets,pasta, (with or without sauce) pizza and many kid items.They go way above and beyond for kids.The Raggs breakfast on Wednesdays is amazing. I’ll get some pics of kids food.
Lokes: Last day in London (heading home today) https://www.facebook.com/groups/109354655764349/
Lokesin London, War Museum, Festival, Hyde Park
Took the tube to Imperial War Museum and saw the stuff we missed 2 years ago due to renovatins. Then stopped at Hyde Park Corner to attend a festival of Christmas which is free. We watched an outstanding German Band for a very long time in a covered Pavillion. LOTS OF OLDIES AND NEWER MUSIC TOO. FUN TO WATCH Mostly younger peple have so much fun. Lots of EinProsits as the festival is mostly “Bavarian”.
From London:Used our Oyster cards to take the tube Down town to Trafalgar and the Covent Garden. Looks like most of the Christmas services and caroling start next week so a little early. Fun anyway and good cider and Br Ale.
Very warm at 13 degrees and the tube, restaurants etc are baking. We have a very nice window that opens in our hotel room so ve cool for sleeping. The sun actually showed it’s face today so all is lovely.
In Europe our favorite TV was Big Bang Theory in German but now the British have a whole channel on quiz game shows so we can reacquaint our lack of smarts with our guesses.
Live from ZUrich: Through security with usual Louise incident . But all is well, must be her magnetism body. Everytime.
Difficult to say goodbye to so many good friends made in the last few days. Beautiful families and groups from Malaysia and Singapore. Some very nice Yanks and Aussies and one other Cn lady.
Looking forward to a relaxed pace in London. Germanic food is good but whoa a lot of pork. Zurich is a beautiful and very busy city but Sooooo oooo clean and neat.
We are well and slept pretty good last night at Mvinpik Hotel. Hotels for this trip have been superb!
From Louise:Wèather foggy so pics are not the best. On bus now, Swiss history lesson going on. Guide is great.
To Strasbourg yesterday which is in France, beautiful small city. Decorated to the max. Security everywhere. We were allowed in to country easily but all over city, guards with machine guns etc. We felt safe. Cars going in & out of old city searched. So our bus was parked a bit far out & we walked which is slow with some can’t go faster. Long day with local guide, then a tarte flambé & salad for lunch. Markets nice but all the same.
Then to a cute town of Colmar , another long walk with local guide. Group very tired , traffic heavy, short cut highway closed so had todo long route. Fog has slowed the coach down often. Found a cute very old pub & Mary Ann we had a lovely glass of Gewürztraminer with some pomme frites as lunch was worn off & will be a late dinner of duck. K had pasta! Packed bags,I managed to get some sleep last night. Sleeping pills have not helped me much.
Today thick fog. Jim we could not see the Rhine Falls due to fog, that’s how thick it is. We are on way to Zurich. Farewell dinner tonight, 5 min drive to the dinner so late night. We have to be at airport tomorrow at 7am. with our bags in order for security. Should be fun!!.some people have done so much shopping they need a second bag. Not me. Just a stirred mess in my bag! No time to organize.
We have a man on coach who missed the whole week with vertigo & have cancelled the last leg of their trip.his wife has handled it well. They took a train trip to meet us in Lake Titisee &. He is in board today. A trip from hell all the way from Australia.
Hope all is well at home
From Louise: In Lake Titisee . Awesome . View of lake. Hotels have been the best ever.Group is quite good. Met some great people we hang with mostly. One lady keeps us laughing. One young girl from California a single missed plane so missed first day. Late for departures so got tuned in but she still doesn’t get why she has to be on time.
The markets are beautiful but I made up my mind not to buy more Xmas decorations , have enough. Some have to buy another suitcase. Did not go on horse & carriage ride in Innsbruck, . Not as cold as thought so we have these great big fleece jackets to haul around. The Aussies are cold though.
Will walk about titisee today. Early start to Strasbourg & colmar tomorrow with a late night. Saturday to Zurich. Rain has stopped since yesterday. Only snow on Mts. Went up mt in Innsbruck on funicular, then a cable car. Played snowballs at top but view poor due to thick fog.
We must carry our passports at all times unlike other trips where we left them in safe. Guide had to take a longer route from Austria back into Germany as traffic going into Germany super slow. We sat a long time when leaving Germany into Austria & the security looked at our bus & waved us through. Guide was sure they would go through bus & check each person. We feel safe but then we do not venture out of the touristy areas or late at night .bus drops us off at door & picks us up at door in our evenings out. Guide stays with us at night during events or dinners. He is very good & checks on anyone not well etc.
Louise sent us more pics. Hofbrauhaus is a famous beer hall. Crowded. Christmas shoppers were out. Visited museum. Soup tureen similar to El Jardin!
It was very funny because some people were bothered by that (veal) and management had the menus re-written but “veal” still was used when it should have said beef.
I asked recently and was told it has not yet been relaxed in RM but probably will be in 2016. No long sleeves required. They do not allow tank type tops but do allow T shirt type shirts.
Safe travel Louise. Miss you guys. Have a great trip.
Tell K I hope to have a discussion at one of the Ps in Mexico during happier times!!
Blueskies Brenda sent us some exclusive pics. Let me know if you want a peek. Estimated completion 2017.
Great report! Thanks so much for sharing Brenda. It’s always fun to share our home away from home with newbies!
Orange “user friendly” is my speed. When Brenda joined us I gave her free reins as long as we are UF.
Jen, It will be great to finally bring your little guy to the P. Looking forward to hearing about that.
Comments:Lynn Shallenberger I do not have kids…but being a former preschool teacher..I noticed how the staff engage the kids and how they care for them at lunch buffets and when they are taking them around the resort….What I have observed, the staff are amazing…and seem well trained when handeling those ” little crisis moments” that kids can have… Staff seem very well trained and Know kids well… Great Job..
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Harriet Marels
Harriet Marels We found the kids club and all of its staff to be amazing too! Karla was particularly amazing!! She made my daughters day every day! They work extremely hard and have a great way of communicating to all nationalities! The shows they do in the evening after less than 1 hours rehearsal are fabulous too. Much love and respect for the team! ?
