Waegook Tom

A Blog About A Globetrotting English Teacher

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Luxury Travel Mexico: Puerto Vallarta Vacation Rentals with Chef Service!

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Without a doubt, in the past few years, Puerto Vallarta has developed into a popular travel destination for foodies, with a growing number of gourmet restaurants. At the same time, a lot of resorts now offer their guests “all-inclusive” packages to satisfy their thirst and appetite 24/7.

Sounds delicious? Then how about an even more luxurious option, a truly “all-EXCLUSIVE” vacation rental, with your own private chef cooking for you and your group right at your villa?

Private Puerto Vallarta villas with chef service have become the ultimate in luxury travel.

Many of our villa’s chefs were trained at gourmet restaurants and world famous luxury hotels prior to working as personal chefs, so a lot of them already have their signature dishes and well-established seasonal menus.

But that does not mean that these suggestions are set in stone. Prior to your arrival, our staff will work with you on a personal preference sheet including every single guest’s favorite dishes and drinks, dietary needs and special requests. Based on that preference sheets, the existing menus will be constantly updated during your stay to reflect every guest’s preferences.

So no matter if you prefer traditional Mexican fare or international haute cuisine, a seafood feast or a healthy salad, a light snack or a five-course dinner with a theme, the chefs and their team are there to satisfy your cravings.

Another huge advantage of a private chef is the ability to cater to various dietary restrictions, food allergies or religious restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, low-sodium, Kosher, Hindi, etc.

The actual chef service is usually included in the price of the rental; the guests only have to pay for groceries and for drinks. The good news is that groceries and even alcoholic drinks are fairly cheap in Mexico, while at the same time local produce and seafood are extremely fresh and delicious. The average daily cost is only $25-$40 per guest for two or three meals including drinks.

Most of the high-end luxury villa rentals come with private chef service, however here is a handpicked selection of some of our most luxurious properties known for outstanding personal chef service:

Villa Mandarinas

A stunning 10-bedroom, 20,000 square foot villa which is big enough for up to 22 guests and features ample indoor and outdoor dining space, an open state of the art kitchen and outdoor BBQ areas.

Chef Eusebio Cuevas, a former executive chef at Four Seasons and his assistant will prepare up to three meals per day for the guests. A team of bartenders and waiters will make sure that the guests’ glasses are never empty.

Villa Balboa

This oceanfront villa offers 12,000 square feet of living space stretching over five floors and sleeps up to 16 guests in eight bedrooms. The expansive formal dining room or the ocean-view patio are the perfect backgrounds for memorable culinary experiences.

Executive chef Jose Luis and his team are there for the guests from Monday to Saturday for breakfast and lunch and the villa’s own concierge is more than happy to make dinner reservations at one of Puerto Vallarta’s fabulous restaurants.

Villa Bahia

With five bedrooms and over 10,000 square feet, this luxury oceanfront property is big enough for groups of up to ten guests. It features a gourmet kitchen with a bar opening to the expansive patio as well as a fully equipped outdoor kitchen and dining area overlooking the ocean.

Chef Cesar is known for his creative dishes. He went to culinary school in Guadalajara and has worked for numerous prestigious hotels and restaurants as an executive chef before joining Villa Bahia’s staff. Meal service twice a day, drinks and snacks are included in the rental, an third meal can be added at an additional service charge.

Luxury Travel Mexico; Punta Mita Vacation Rentals with Golf Course

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Punta Mita is a fishing village and resort town located on a small peninsula about 40 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. While internationally known for its abundance of beautiful and luxurious vacation rentals and luxury resorts. Beside the famous Punta Mita luxury villas community, it is also home to two world-class golf courses: Punta Mita Pacifico and Punta Mita Bahia, that are both part of the Punta Mita Club de Golf.

The private Golf Club can exclusively be used by Punta Mita homeowners, guests renting a Punta Mita villa, and hotel guests of the Four Seasons and St. Regis resorts.

Aside from the two outstanding 18-hole golf courses, the club offers state of the art practice facilities with experienced teaching staff, a pro-shop and several restaurants and bars. Residents and guests also have access to the tennis courts, the gym and the spas as well the as to exclusive beach clubs surrounding the golf course.

Designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, Punta Mita Pacifico was built in 1999. On eight holes, golfers will play right next to the waters of the Pacific Ocean and Banderas Bay.  The Pacifico is the only golf course in the world to feature a natural island green at hole number 3B, nicknamed “The tail of the whale”. At low tide, players can drive their own cart to the green over a paved sandbar. At high tide, an attendant will shuttle the players back and forth using a 6-wheel amphibious cart – a truly unforgettable experience for every avid golfer.

In 2009 Punta Mita Bahia was created as a counterpart to Punta Mita Pacifico. Also designed by Jack Nicklaus, this course features six stunning Oceanside holes, expansive water hazards and undulating greens and fairways, making it even more challenging and fun to play even for experienced players.

After a long day of golf, Punta Mita offers its guests world-class restaurants, upscale shopping, rejuvenating spas, sandy and secluded beaches and much more.

Arguably the best way to experience the beauty and sophistication of Punta Mita and its world-class golf venues is a stay at a luxury villa. All the featured Punta Mita villas are located in close proximity to the golf courses. Concierge staff will assist the guests with arranging tee times, transfers, dinner and spa reservations etc. Preferred tee times and reduced green fees are available to guests of selected properties as well.

Villa Lunada

Located on the southernmost tip of the peninsula, Villa Lunada sits right above the beach, offering stunning views of the Bay of Banderas. The 5,000 square foot villa has five bedrooms and sleeps up to 12 guests. A golf cart is included in the rental for easy transportation on the premises. The villa is fully staffed with a cook, a concierge and a housekeeper.

Villa Luna Lagos del Mar

Villa Luna Lagos del Mar offers its guests expansive views of the golf course and the ocean.

Up to ten guests can enjoy this Zen-style oasis, with designer furniture, high-end finishes and meticulous landscaping.  A personal chef, a butler and maid service is included in the price of this rental.

Villa Cascadas

Villa Cascadas is located inside the small-gated community “Paradise Cove” with only 12 other properties.  With five bedrooms and a total square footage of over 10,000 square feet, Villa Cascadas offers plenty of space for up 10 guests. The adjacent beach boasts some of the best surf waves in the area; Water sports equipment like surfboards, kayaks and snorkel gear is available for the guests. As with the other properties, personal chef service and house staffs are included as well.

What You Need to Know About Breckenridge

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Fans of winter sports flock to Breckenridge, Colorado, for a few days of fun on the slopes. Everyone from solo travellers to those with their family are welcome at this alpine resort in the Rocky Mountains. There are lots of incredible and cosy Breckenridge cabin rentals to set the mood for a perfect winter (or summer) getaway. And you don’t have to spend all your time hitting the slopes in this famous North American ski resort. A range of other activities will keep every visitor entertained for the duration of their trip.

Accommodation:

Let’s start off by saying that Breckenridge has a total of five peaks (called Peak 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10). Most tourists will stay at Breckenridge Town, a small winter wonderland with postcard views. You can also find accommodation on some of the peaks for easy access to the trails of your choice. Other lodgings are a little further afield and have some of the best views of the mountains.

It’s easy to find the perfect place to stay with the variety of options available. This isn’t a budget destination, and you can expect to be spending quite a lot on lodgings. But, when you consider the luxury and facilities at your resort or vacation rental, it’s worth the costs.

Free shuttle buses ferry tourists from the village to the ski lifts, and you can rely on this to get around. The accommodation on some of the peaks is also accessible on the shuttles. However, if you want to enjoy the nightlife and entertainment, it’s advisable to stay in the town centre as shuttle services stop in the evening.

Getting In and Getting Out:

Denver is about a two-hour drive from Breckenridge. Tourists arriving at Denver International Airport have the option of either renting a car and self-driving to the resort or relying on the airport bus. The first has many advantages and gives you the flexibility to move around, but drivers also need to be confident on icy roads. The bus service is comfortable and a much better option for those without driving experience in wintery conditions. But, the service is expensive and runs on a limited schedule. Other options include hiring a private transfer or getting a taxi.

If you’re visiting during the summer when snow and ice aren’t an issue, it’s highly recommended to get your own transport. Breckenridge isn’t just a ski resort and has a lot of hiking trails, waterfalls and natural beauty within a short distance of the town. Combine this with the abundance of scenic drives makes getting your own wheels a top priority.

The Must-Do Things in Breckenridge:

Regardless of what time of the year you visit, one thing every tourist should do is get a taste of this former gold mining town’s past. The Main Street has buildings that date back more than 100 years, and you can take part in gold mining tours and actually pan for gold. The history of Breckenridge adds to its charm. Old buildings covered in a carpet of white snow juxtapose against the steep mountains in the background. A photographer’s paradise.

Skiers and snowboarders have the choice between almost 200 trails to get their adrenaline pumping. The novice can learn at ski school while the experts test their skills on the double black routes at Peak 8. Come back in the summer, and you can hike to the peak of Breckenridge or explore the natural beauty.

Families also love this mountain retreat. You can find a variety of child-friendly activities all year round. What child wouldn’t want to play in the snow or ride the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster? Most of the restaurants are also child-friendly with some even offering entertainment for the little ones. The best time of the year to bring the kids is during Christmas. Snow is a guarantee, and they’re sure to have a fantastic experience in December. However, you’re not alone in choosing this time of the year and if you do want to plan a getaway, expect higher prices and large crowds.

Eating and Drinking:

For a small town in the mountains, Breckenridge has a very active bar and café culture. Everything from award-winning restaurants to sushi and burgers are available giving visitors the choice of almost everything they could possibly imagine. Cafes serve hot drinks next to the warm fire where you can sit and watch the snow flutter down to the ground, which makes a perfect way to spend a few hours. And the bars fill up later in the day with those wanting to unwind after an active day on the slopes.

A top tip if you’re skiing and want to make the most efficient use of your time is to plan your meal times. During peak season, around Christmas and New Year, masses of visitors tend to eat at the same time. The limited number of restaurants will fill up quickly, especially around lunch and dinner time. If you’re flexible, get your lunch before 11.30am or after 2.00pm, and you’ll avoid the crowds. This means your food will arrive faster and you get back to the slopes quicker.

Everyone Loves Breckenridge:

A trip to Breckenridge makes a perfect winter getaway or relaxing break when the weather starts to pick up. Various types of accommodation, cafes and are along Main Street in the centre of the town. There’s something for everyone at this mountain retreat and families are welcome too. So, why not start planning your perfect holiday to Breckenridge regardless of the time of year now?

What To Do When Your Flight is Canceled

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Whether you’re traveling for work or leisure, there’s really nothing that can cause more dread in a flyer than hearing that your flight is canceled. While a canceled flight can be incredibly frustrating, there are things you can do to mitigate the adverse effects of the situation.

The following are some of the things you should do when your flight is canceled.

Understanding Compensation

First and foremost, so many travelers don’t know their rights and options when it comes to compensation for a canceled flight. There are different rules for compensation from different airports, but in many cases, airlines are legally required to provide compensation.

With that being said, if a flight is canceled because of a natural disaster or something beyond the airline’s control, they may not be legally obligated to provide compensation, but there are still options.

There are apps that will automatically go through your flight itineraries, and when you have a flight that’s canceled or delayed, they will file claims for compensation. Most airlines will offer something to passengers, but so many people don’t try to reclaim any compensation at all.

An automated app makes it much easier to file a claim so that you don’t have to worry about the right format or submitting it.

In general, before you travel with an airline you should review your rights. Read over the contract of carriage to know more about specific policies for the airline.

Call or Tweet the Airline

If you’re at a gate surrounded by plenty of other angry passengers it can be tough to even talk to an airline representative. You might be better off and get a faster and more desirable response if you call the airline or even tweet their customer service team.

If you are trying to speak to someone, it’s important to be firm and proactive, and have in mind some alternate options, but you should still try to be polite because being rude isn’t necessarily going to get you a great response.

Cancellations Because of Airline Problems

When it comes to cancellations because of events out of an airline’s control which can include everything from weather to civil unrest, your compensation options are more limited than if the airline cancels a flight because of something that’s within their control. This can include things like a shortage of crew members or a plane change.

In the event of this situation, you can often get meal vouchers if your flight delay is for more than four hours, and for extended delays you can get hotel accommodations, but you need to ask because most airlines would rather not hand these perks out.

Finally, if you’re traveling outside of the U.S. and you’re in the EU, you have even more traveler benefits in most cases. If you’re on a flight within the European Union, you are often entitled to things such as alternative transportation or a refund, and various compensation options if you get a replacement seat, but it means a delay of at least three hours.

Cities you probably haven’t heard of but should travel to right now

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Tired of all the same “top travel destinations” you see online? Perhaps you’ve visited all the conventional ones or would like to go somewhere few people have been. Well, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll go outside the box for vacation destinations.

Here are some lesser-known cities that some people are yet to discover. Check them out and see why you should visit them real soon.

Dubrovnik, Croatia. Fancy Game of Thrones? This Croatian city portrays King’s Landing, so brace yourself for a trip to the very land where one of the best television shows are shot. Known to travellers as “The Pearl of the Adriatic”, this city is filled with stunning Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque churches, palaces, monasteries, and fountains.

Visit Mount Srđ for a nice hike that offers a marvellous view of the town, upon of which sits a stronghold containing a small yet enthralling history museum. And don’t forget to try some Pag Cheese!

Cancun, Caribbean. This relatively unknown city lies on the shore of the Caribbean, with pristine beaches and lapping waves. It is however well-known to North Americans for its exciting nightlife and splendid resorts. Here you’ll find traditional and quaint downtowns that offer a good contrast to the all-inclusive nightclub districts and high-rise hotels, so you can always find and afford what you like.

Its superb beaches and flawless climate offer spots for families seeking some solitude, plus it’s a gateway to the ruins of Tulum and Chichen Itza. Visit the MUSA (Museo Subacuatico de Arte), an underwater museum of art. And don’t forget to sip Margaritas while in Cancun!

Almaty, Kazakhstan. Boasts as the cultural and commercial centre of central Asia, Almaty is also the former capital of and largest city in Kazakhstan. It is framed by majestic snow-capped mountains and gridded with easily navigable streets. Awesome for winter vacations, and also serves as a great jump-off point for eco-adventures in the steppes. If you prefer a city life, Almaty offers nightlife, good food, and a metro system that makes navigating the city easy and fun.

Here you’ll find cafes, a small zoo, an amusement park, souvenir shops as well as beaches to enjoy panoramic views. Medeu, which is the highest Olympic-sized ice stadium is also found here.

Basel, Switzerland. Known as one of Europe’s most unrecognized tourist destinations. Basel is Switzerland’s third largest city and sits on the Swiss border where it meets both France and Germany. It is beside the stunning Rhine river and also known for its amazing winter carnivals and the yearly Art Basel festival, which is a celebration of some of the best international modern arts. Walk up cobbled streets, check out Marketplatz for produce, try the street food, and bask in the sun on the banks of Rhine!

Havana, Cuba. Cuba’s biggest city is still littered with Spanish colonial architecture of the 16th century. It’s colourful alleys and narrow streets still retain a strong sense of history and the local culture. You can still see ancient American cars, music and laughter emanating from every blog. Indeed, it’s a town of life and vigour.

Bask in the beauty of the UNESCO Heritage Site La Habana Vieja, which boasts gorgeously restored building humming with life as the citizens of Havana strolls around. Don’t forget to learn some Spanish before you go and try the street side churros too!

End Note

There you have it! Some of the world’s most gorgeous cities that are yet to be filled with hordes of tourists. As most of these locations will be relatively new to you experience wise, don’t forget to secure an overseas travel insurance to ensure that any travel issues you may experience pre-flight and during your stay is covered so you can focus on the fun and not on worrying.

What are you waiting for? Invite your friends and/or family and plan ahead.