Where do I start? In January of 2020, I was sitting with my friend, Vic Micolucci, (pictured above), being interviewed on WJXT, Channel 4 in Jacksonville, Fl. We talked about the new ships on the horizon for 2020, including Virgin Voyages, “Scarlet Lady”, but who knew what was about to happen to the world.
Doug Parker of CruiseRadio provides a great timeline of how the cruise industry weathered the COVID storm of 2020: https://cruiseradio.net/timeline-2020-cruise-ship-industry-shutdown/
If you’ve been following me for any length of time, you know that a couple who I’ve known for over 30 years shared with me their love of Palladium Hotel Group all-inclusive resorts. At first, I told them that I had no interest in resorts in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica or anywhere else!
The first time I experienced a true all-inclusive resort was in March of 2019. When I arrived at Grand Palladium Riviera Maya, about 90 minutes south of the Cancun airport, I couldn’t speak for a day and a half. The absolutely beautiful landscaping, the extremely large suite, the amazing food and entertainment of Chic Caberet left me beyond words. The staff consistently went above and beyond to provide me a vacation unlike any other. I was hooked!
https://www.thecruisegenius.com/grand-palladium-resort-and-spa-riviera-maya-mexico/
Considering that COVID forced the cruise industry to stop sailing in 2020, I took advantage of returning to TRS Yucatán. Shortly after that visit, I was able to visit TRS Coral/Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres, TRS Turquesa/Grand Palladium Palace and TRS Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic.
The number one question I’m asked is, “When will cruises resume?” I honestly don’t know, but the Jacksonville, Fl based Carnival Ecstasy is scheduled to sail on March 4th, 2021. I’m planning on sailing on the ship in March to see 1st hand the COVID measures that will be in place!
I know for a fact that Palladium Hotel Group all-inclusive resorts are open now, they offer every guest free medical insurance, and I will be visiting the resorts frequently in 2021 starting with Grand Palladium Puerta Vallerta in February.
Be sure to check out my YouTube channel, “Like and Subscribe”, and email me at slara1961@gmail.com to book your vacation!
From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
