murmel

I have pictures of the jewelry in my planning journal. We also included a silver necklace for the pendant (but I don't have a photo of that, but it was a very simply chain). The earrings were about 1 1/2" long, and I think were the most expensive at $25-30 a pair (I can't remember the exact price), the pendant was about $15. Remember to bargain hard, and if you get multiple items at the same stand they usually cut you a good deal. http://www.bestdestinationwedding.com/t/69198/murmels-planning-journal-pic-and-template-heavy Hope that helps.

We went into Cancun. See the note below for vase info please! The jewelry we bought at the local Market 28-the souvenir and jewelry market. Instead of jewelry, about a nice shoulder shawl? Cool pair of new sunglasses? Or a nice bottle of wine (at home)? Groomsmen- we bought them watches (but it was closer to $100 each). But there are lots of beautiful watches out there for $50. Fossil, Casio, etc. Other ideas- personalized flask, pen. That's true. You cannot take glass as carry-on. However if it is securely packed into your checked luggage (ie. suitcase) they will accept it. Just be prepared to have the glass break. Which might mean packing extra, or being able to deal with the idea of missing a few vases/centerpieces. We actually went into Cancun. (both Cancun and Playa del Carmen about 20 minutes away). We hired a private driver with SUV through Lomas (and I think it was about $160 for 4 hours). I can also suggest a few rental car companies which will pick you up, take you to their office and then get you into a car. (they will cost you about $55/day). We travelled to Market 23 and found the vases and limes there. You can also visit the local Walmart=we have seen vases there as well. (just be prepared to have a different size/shape. When we went there were square, oval and cylinder vases. We knew going down that we wanted a vase...we were open to shapes/sizes and found them no problem.) (if you were to look at a map we found the vases in a party supply store which was on a road, in the south east corner of Market 23 (it's known as the food/candy/party market.)) We did not get menus included with our wedding. We had menus printed at home and brought them with us.

I promise I will email you early next week. I have a bunch of family coming to visit for the weekend and am busy trying to get the house ready.

We simply went into town and bought some large vases at the local market. I think 8 vases cost us $14US total. Then we bought limes and put them into the vase and filled it with water. Nothing exciting but I think it cost us about $25 US for all 8. You could easily change the fruit to be a number of colours-orange, yellow, red, etc. (see photo below) I think we spent about the same. I bought the girls some silver jewelry from Mexico (earrings, necklace) and then paid for a manicure and pedicure. You could pay for their hair and get some cute jewelry down there (it's better easy to find some unique pieces which don't cost a lot.).

That's a really kind idea to help another bride. My dress after the ceremony, dinner, a trash the dress (ocean, rolling in the sand, pool, and hot tub) and then surviving 2 at home receptions has been retired. LOL The bottom is quite trashed and the inside layers are ripped. But I am hoping to use the lace from it someday....

Hmmm....that's such a tricky one. Unfortunately I think this will really depend on the resort itself. Even though the latern is biodegradeable, I don't think that's the issue. Most hotels are worried about the laterns floating into buildings. And since so many building in Mexico have straw/reed roofs they are worried about fire concerns. I know this was the case in 2 seperate resorts we have visited. I have never heard about the permit issue. The lanterns are beautiful. And I think if it's not to pricey, that I would take it with you and see once you are there if the hotel will allow it. But also be ready for them to say no and not be disappointed. I realize price is a huge factor, and depending on where you and your guests are flying from Mexico, Cuba, Dominican, and Jamaica can all be priced from "affordable" to "never going to happen" . This is the one time I think you have to really decide what you want. You are the bride and groom-and it's your wedding! If Jamaica is calling your name, look at that option. You might be surprised to find some resorts that work into your budget. And remember- the cheapest option may not be the best. It will be no fun if the the resort has horrible rooms, bad food, and bad drinks. As for legal requirements in Mexico to be married. You both need your birth certificates, should one of you be divorced-the paperwork showing the divorce is complete, and passports. Then in Mexico you will have a blood test (we were told it was to check for HIV and that the people getting married were not related-not sure exactly what it really does). The paperwork the day of your marriage is done in Spanish, you sign the papers, as well as apply a fingerprint to "seal the deal". After this you will have to have the marriage papers translated into english (usually most hotels will do this for you, but it can take 2-4 months). Then once you recieve your english copy, you take this to your city hall, etc. and have them essential legalize it and enter it into the system. You will usually also get a local marriage certificate. (if you don't do the step at home in Canada, you will not be legally viewed as married). Hope that helps.

The Azul Sensatori is wonderful. How old are your kids? We had to get married at the Azul because we had a number of young cousins and friends with kids. But I cannot begin to tell you how great our experience was. The hotel is only about 450 rooms, so it's easy to get around and find things. The staff and food is excellent. And if you're kids are old enough (I think it was 5 and up) you can put them into the kids club. The parents of all the kids could not stop raving what an amazing program it was. Drop the kids off around 10 am, get them back for dinner around 4:30pm. Then after 7pm til 10pm they went back to the kids club and watched the night entertain show. Meaning the parents all enjoyed their own vacation and time-including having dinner without kids! (they usually took them to the buffet around 5:30pm) Anyway the funny part was that the kids had so much fun, they were begging to go back to the kids club. They have tennis courts, rock climbing wall, video games, dance club, beach activities, some crazy inflatable ball that the kids get into and walk on water! I had visited the Azul Beach years ago, and it was very quiet and small. Last year they finished renovating the whole resort, so I am not sure how it is now. And we have had friends stay at the Azul Fives. They say it is a nice resort, but still going through some growing pains. (i.e.. all the restaurants were not open, not enough staff, etc. ) Funny enough, (we don't have kids yet), but we have enjoyed the Sensatori so much that I would say it is still my favourite resort. We have now stayed there 5 times. And we travel a fair bit, I think we have been to Mexico over 20 times now. If you want any specific details or pictures just send me a PM.

Congratulations Amanda! So glad to hear you had an amazing time, and took in every moment And good for you for not stressing over the minor issues and just going with the flow. Can't wait to see the photos.

Beautiful photo! Can't wait to see more And congrats on being a MRS.

I have not used "captain quickie's", but there are so many tour operators out there. As long as they get good reviews from TripAdvisor, friends, etc., I would say go for it. Xcaret is stunning- try to go so that you can stay for the evening show, it's worth it. As for trying to arrange a large group it can be tricky. Plus if you and FI go, it becomes a special moment just for the two of you. Word of advice, don't try to do everything (ie. excursions every day). Do one tour/outing, then the next day enjoy the pool and beach and relax! Have fun!

They do get a booklet upon check in with a map of the resort, as well as a list of the restaurants. Don't forget to tell your guests room service is included too! They also tell the guests about the spa and kids club. If you do want a map, I know I had included one in our welcome booklet. Here's the link to my planning journal, and the welcome booklet is in there. http://www.bestdestinationwedding.com/t/69198/murmels-planning-journal-pic-and-template-heavy

LOL! Ran out of room above. Anyway, try to get out at least once. The Mexican people and the area are simply beautiful. We have used a number of tour companies over the years, but I can vouch for Sunwing, Transat, Lomas being good.(ie. arrange transport, being on time, and having a representative at the hotel) If you have any other questions, just ask. I have been down to the Mayan area over twenty times, and we have down most of the parks at least once. Have fun!

There are so many things to do. If this is your first time to Mexico you should try and get out for at least one excursion. There are a lot of tour operators who have a large office just outside the main lobby that will be able to help you with booking if you want to do it there. Some things to do: -Xcaret: a nature park with underground rivers/caves that you snorkel through. A beautiful lagoon at the end with tons of fish. Night time they offer a traditional Mayan ceremony with fire/acrobats/etc. They have a swim with the dolphins area (extra $) -Xel-Ha: another nature park, with a larger lagoon to snorkel in. Also there is a small 'train' that runs up to a natural spring river (much cooler, clear water) which you can ride down on an inner tube. Very relaxing. They also have a swim with the dolphin area (extra $) - Party and shop in Cancun or Playa del Carmen: both cities have wild night clubs and great markets you can wander around in - Ruins at Tulum: at the bottom of the 'Mayan Riveria', about an hour drive south are the Mayan ruins of Tulum. They sit right on the ocean and are very pretty. All the ruins are roped off, so you can't actually climb or touch them. Take a swimsuit, one of the most beautiful beaches is located there! Also there is a wonderful market for Mexican souvenirs, crafts and lunch. - Ruins at Coba: these ruins are situated about 30 minutes inland from Tulum. They are in the middle of the jungle and some of the ruins you can still climb on. Also Mayan ruins. - Ruins at Chichen Itza: if you're really into history, these ruins are amazing! However it is about a 2 1/2 hour drive each way. This is an Aztec ruin, a very large site. -Xplor: an adventure park. You can do zip-lining, underground rafting, drive an atv. -Cancun underwater museum: (I have not visited here yet) It is a snorkelling/dive park, where they have sunk a number of statues and other things of interest. I have been told it tells the history of the Mexican people through over 400 statues. -Deep sea fishing: most of the tour companies will be able to arrange this for you. They take you out and usually are trying to find you a marlin. (just note if you pull the marlin into the boat you are required under Mexican law to have the fish mounted. Very expensive. Otherwise you just cut the line and it swims off) Most of the boats will also offer to cook up your catch for lunch! -ATV and Jeep tours: there are numerous companies that offer this. Lots of fun driving through jungle roads. Sunset boat tours or party boat tours: again numerous companies offer this. (don't forget your sunscreen for the party boat...no shade!)

It can vary on how you find the prices, but usually it is a per person cost. Kids will be cheaper. There are certain rooms that can handle families- but the prices also vary and you have to get them booked in advance. We had a family we 3 young boys, and they reserved the 'family suite'. It's actually 2 rooms with a large sliding door connecting them. One room has a queen bed, the other 2 singles and a pull out couch. This sounds about right. It's really too bad they have removed the price lists. I am sure if you as your WC they can send one to you. As well, if I remember correctly- a manicure was about $45, pedicure $55 (about a year ago)

Great review! Sorry to hear that some things were less than stellar. But as an outsider looking in- the wedding and your details looked beautiful! The cakes all look rather sad down there (I swear no one knows how to decorate down there LOL) And the language barrier seems to always create some issues, or lost-in-translations oops. Hopefully your experience will allow future brides to learn from this. Your dress and the colours were beautiful! Try to concentrate on the special happy moments and the other issues will soon fade

Yeah! Congratulations So glad to hear it was a wonderful day, and look forward to seeing some pictures and the review. Quote: Originally Posted by jriftin Hi, I'm getting married in July 2013 at Azul Sensatori and I am having a hard time figuring out how to go about booking a block of rooms. We have guests coming from all over US, Canada and Europe and I know Canada and US have great deals on packages (air+hotel), but have found nothing from Europe on that account. Anyone able to help me? How do I co-ordinate all the travelers? Is it better to just book a block of rooms and then have people buy airfare individually? Any help or advice, greatly appreciated, thanks! Depending on where the majority of your guests are travelling from I would try to arrange a package deal from there. Then usually a travel agent can take the room price from that package and add different flights. We had a package deal for 3 different departures (Toronto, Ottawa, Edmonton- Canada) and then for all our other guests we had a preferred room rate (based on the package) and our guests bought their own flights, or had our TA arrange it. Usually holding a package price will involve guests depositing some money up front by a specific date. And then the remainder due about 2 months before departure. If I remember correctly, we got the rate locked in late April, and guests had to reserve with deposit by August. Then full payment was due in November, the wedding was in January. Depending on the TA you may need to pay some money up front to reserve the price, or just the deposit per guests. We had guests from all over the US and Canada (11 different departure points) and they all managed to get a great room rate. There are also a number of online websites that will give you great room rates, and I don't know that it matters where you are booking from. Try: www.sunwing.ca (Canada site); www.applevacations.com (US site). Good luck!

I am so sorry to hear this. The cocktail party is not just for your guests, but for you to be with your guests! (even if only for a short time, after photos) You are right to be upset. I would write Karisma, or even talk with Valeria and let them know what happened. Hopefully your wedding itself was beautiful and you enjoyed your special day:)

The outside vendor fee is now $800 (last I heard). It's crazy!

Hi Kathy, Welcome to the forum and best wishes for your planning. We flew our photography down with us. As long as the photographer/videographer are staying as guests of the hotel for 3 nights or more, you will not have to pay the vendor fees. I have pictures of most of the sites at the Azul. If you click on my user name, go to the bottom and you'll see pictures. Just scan through there to find what you're looking for. For that size group my favorite spot is Zoloco Terrace. (but it's a maximum of about 40 people) (it the patio section of the Mexican restaurant) It's covered so you don't have to worry about rain, it's got a great view of the ocean (and blinds that can go down if it's really windy).

The Wolferts- Welcome back MRS! Hope you had a wonderful time, even if there were some issues. Can't wait to see some pictures.

I also did a boudoir album for my hubby. Had my maid of honour deliver it (and the watch I got him). He opened the watch with his buddies watching, and then my MH pulled my hubby aside and gave him the album (where his buddies could not watch!). He was blown away Plus it's a really fun thing to do. Highly recommend it!

We had 3 guests book within 2 weeks of the wedding. They did not get the same group rate we had arranged ahead of time. In terms of adding people for the reception, cocktail party;, the WC 's were fantastic! They handled it with no problem. We just got charged the extra meals/costs after the fact. My only issue was adding extra OOT bags, and the small details. So I would suggest a RSVP 45 days in advance, but maybe buy 2-4 extra of items you want need. ( ie. extra tote bags, favors, welcome booklet/ letters, luggage tags, etc- whatever you're planning) And I think it's great to send out the invites early. Gives people time to plan and save for the trip. Funny enough I just got a bridal shower invite for this coming Saturday (ie. in 5 days). So not enough time to rearrange schedules, buy gifts, etc.....so more time the better I think!

mishMash- I have included the two links for my travel brochure and the planning thread. Hope it helps. http://www.bestdestinationwedding.com/t/69198/murmels-planning-journal-pic-and-template-heavy http://www.bestdestinationwedding.com/t/65791/pre-travel-brochure-for-mayan-riveria-cancun-using-word-photos-now-added-on-page-2

The Wolferts- what a stressful few days. So glad to hear the hair issue is solved and your dog is doing better. Now take a super deep breath, finish packing and enjoy. I would pack a heavy duty conditioner for your hair (the resort has conditioner, but it 's just hotel basic- and if the salon damaged your hair, it might needy a little extra love)