Luxury Redefined: A 9-Night Caribbean Voyage on Explora I

If you're searching for a luxury cruise experience that blends the elegance of a high-end resort with the freedom of the open sea, Explora I from Explora Journeys should be at the top of your list. I recently had the incredible opportunity to embark on a 9-night sailing, exploring breathtaking destinations from Miami to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Barths, Tortola, and back. Spoiler alert: it was an unforgettable journey.

Itinerary & Accommodations

Vessel: Explora I
Duration: 9 nights
Route: Miami → Dominican Republic → San Juan, Puerto Rico → St. Barths → Tortola → Miami
Fully Inclusive Rate: Starting at ~$5k per person (double occupancy) in the entry-level suite

We initially booked an entry-level suite but were thrilled to receive an upgrade to the Premier Penthouse (Room 10045) just days before sailing. The extra space was fantastic, and if I sail again, I would absolutely love to experience the Cove Residence, which features a separate bedroom and a private Jacuzzi on the balcony.

Our suite host provided excellent service, keeping our space spotless and ensuring a seamless turn-down service each evening.

Dining & Culinary Highlights

One of the most exciting aspects of any luxury voyage is the dining experience, and Explora I delivered in every way. Guests raved about the food, and the diverse selection of restaurants meant there was something for every palate.

Dining Overview:

• Room Service: Stellar! We enjoyed breakfast in our suite daily with a wide variety of options.

• Specialty Dining: A variety of culinary experiences were available, each with its own flair. The Italian specialty restaurant, which is complimentary for our clients, was an exclusive experience worth trying.

• Bars & Lounges: The drinks onboard were expertly crafted, with the lobby bar on Deck 4 standing out as a favorite spot for a perfectly mixed cocktail.

Onboard Experience & Entertainment

Explora I is designed for relaxation and refined luxury. The ship offers an array of entertainment and leisure options:

• Multiple Pools & Sun Decks: We particularly enjoyed the Deck 5 pool, which was perfect for families and had just the right depth for kids. Poolside service was impeccable.

• Fitness Studio & Sports Deck: A well-equipped gym, a movement studio, and a walking track provided plenty of opportunities for fitness lovers. The pickle-ball and basketball courts were a fun addition.

• Shore Excursions: Embarking and disembarking at ports was seamless, making it easy to explore new destinations stress-free.

Candid Thoughts & Guest Experience

Explora I delivers a refined, resort-like atmosphere at sea. The clientele was mostly well-traveled, sophisticated cruisers who had experienced other luxury lines. Many guests we met had been on several Explora Journeys and spoke highly of the service, ambiance, and overall experience.

One of the standout features was the Wi-Fi quality, which was excellent throughout the sailing.

Where Explora I Excels

• Spacious, well-designed suites with top-tier service

• Gourmet dining with a variety of options

• Seamless embarkation and disembarkation at ports

• High-quality onboard entertainment and fitness facilities

Perks for That Blonde Travels Clients

Booking through That Blonde Travels grants access to exclusive benefits, enhancing your Explora Journeys experience. These perks include:

• Up to €300 Journey Experience Credit per suite

• Complimentary Transfers (varies by destination)

• Complimentary Dining Experience at Anthology, the Exclusive Specialty Restaurant

• Complimentary Access to Hydrothermal Spa Areas

Final Thoughts

Explora I redefines luxury cruising, combining five-star service with a laid-back, resort-style atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or embarking on your first journey at sea, this experience is sure to impress. From world-class dining to impeccably designed accommodations, this was truly an unforgettable way to explore the Caribbean.

Would I sail with Explora Journeys again? Absolutely. The journey was seamless, luxurious, and a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

For more details or to book your own Explora Journeys experience, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help plan your next luxury escape!

Back in January, I had the absolute pleasure of experiencing the ultra-chic Palm Heights in the Cayman Islands! This boutique, all-suite beachfront hotel is pure paradise and offers the perfect mix of luxury, relaxation, and stunning aesthetics.

Everywhere you turn, there’s a picture-perfect moment waiting to be captured. From the stylish, retro-inspired decor to the dreamy ocean views, Palm Heights truly exudes effortless elegance.

Situated on the iconic Seven Mile Beach, reaching this luxury retreat is a breeze. Simply fly into Grand Cayman’s Owen Roberts International Airport, and within a quick 10-minute drive, you’ll find yourself in paradise. I always recommend renting a car to explore the incredible local dining scene—trust me, the food here is absolutely worth it!

Palm Heights is an all-suite hotel, making every room feel like a private retreat. I stayed in the One-bedroom Oceanfacing Penthouse, and WOW—it was spacious, beautifully designed, and had the most incredible sunset views from the balcony. The mid-century modern decor mixed with warm Caribbean touches created the perfect vibe.

One of the standout highlights of Palm Heights? The incredible dining scene. This hotel offers a variety of exceptional culinary experiences, from the freshest seafood at Tillie’s to expertly crafted cocktails at The Coconut Club. Every dish was a celebration of local ingredients and bold flavors, making each meal unforgettable. Adding to the charm, the service has a unique European beach club feel, with staff from all over Europe. I especially loved getting to know everyone—shoutout to George for making our experience even more memorable!

Another standout feature? The wellness and spa experiences. Whether it was morning yoga with ocean views or a deep-tissue massage at The Garden Club spa, every moment felt rejuvenating.

For That Blonde Travels clients, my VIP amenities include:

• Complimentary daily breakfast for 2

• Resort credit to use towards dining or spa treatments

• Upgrade on arrival (based on availability)

• Early check-in/late check-out (based on availability)

If you’re looking for a high-end, effortlessly cool escape in the Caribbean, Palm Heights is IT. I’d love to book this dreamy getaway for you! Email me at lauren@thatblondetravels.com or fill out my contact form to get started!

This hotel is truly a standout among Caribbean luxury resorts—perfect for honeymooners, couples, and even solo travelers looking for a stylish retreat!

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C/O Ritz Carlton Yachts

Luxury at Sea: Aboard ILMA with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

If you're looking for an ultra-luxury yachting experience that blurs the line between a private yacht and a high-end cruise, ILMA from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection should be at the top of your list.

The Yacht Experience

ILMA offers an all-inclusive, highly personalized journey at sea, with rates starting at approximately $10,000 per person (double occupancy) for a 7-night itinerary. This price tag grants access to an intimate and luxurious sailing experience that prioritizes comfort, exclusivity, and world-class service.

WHAT Sets ILMA Apart

Beyond its stunning design and five-star service, ILMA boasts unique features that truly set it apart from traditional cruising experiences:

• The Marina: A floating water playground accessible when anchored, offering kayaks, paddleboards, and more. It’s the ultimate way to feel like you’re aboard a private yacht rather than a traditional cruise.

• Pop-Up Workshops: Guests can participate in engaging activities like nautical knot-tying, mixology classes, jewelry cleaning, and even photography enhancement workshops.

• Exclusive Event Nights: ILMA hosts themed nights like Havana Nights and the White Party, offering an elevated entertainment experience.

C/O Ritz Carlton Yachts

C/O Ritz Carlton Yachts

The Ritz-Carlton Level of Service

The level of service on ILMA is nothing short of exceptional. Every guest has a Suite Ambassador who seems to anticipate needs before they even arise. The dining staff quickly learn names and preferences, adding a personalized touch to every meal. The ship is not particularly family-oriented, with only 5% of total capacity allocated to children, making it an ideal option for adult travelers seeking a sophisticated experience.

C/O Ritz Carlton Yachts

STARS Perks for That Blonde Travels Clients

Booking through That Blonde Travels grants access to exclusive Marriott STARS benefits, enhancing your Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection experience. These perks include:

• Personalized welcome confection and an upgraded bottle of champagne or wine delivered to your suite.

• A complimentary dinner for two at a specialty restaurant—a $375 per person value and a truly special fine-dining experience.

• A personalized welcome from the Hotel Manager.

• A bridge tour at the Captain’s discretion—a rare and exciting behind-the-scenes look.

• An exclusive Suite Upgrade* for added luxury (based on availability).

• Complimentary access to Starlink premium Wi-Fi services, ensuring seamless connectivity at sea.

C/O Ritz Carlton Yachts

Final Thoughts

ILMA delivers an ultra-luxury experience at sea, blending world-class hospitality with an intimate and sophisticated ambiance. With only 50% of guests being seasoned cruisers, ILMA is proving to be a game-changer in the luxury travel space. Whether you’re a yachting enthusiast or a high-end traveler seeking a new experience, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s ILMA is a voyage worth taking.

Would I sail with them? In a heartbeat.

Have questions about ILMA or looking to book your own Ritz-Carlton Yacht adventure? Reach out to That Blonde Travels for expert guidance!

C/O Ritz Carlton Yachts

I just returned from an amazing two week island hoping journey through Greece. On our last stop, we stayed on the island of Crete in Chania. Domes has a couple of properties in Chania - Domes Zeen Chania, family friendly and Domes Noruz, adults only.

Domes Zeen Chania is where we stayed and we enjoyed their half board program. We took advantage of breakfast and pool-side lunches so that we could experience all of the dining options in town.

The resort is located on a pebbly beach close to Chania town. We rented a car to be able to explore on our own but the hotel also offers a shuttle into town for 10 euro each way.

Their pool was amazing for kids as it started really shallow and then gradually became deeper. It was awesome as Charlie was able to swim on her own for the most part. The kids all loved playing together so she was definitely warn out by the end of the day! This resort is amazing for kids with a ton of family friendly amenities - kids club, playground, swimming pool, beach, and a lounge with snacks!

We stayed in the Family Villa 2 Bedroom Private Pool which was perfect for us. This resort is really large and built into a hill. This villa was located at the top near the Haute Living area but also the furthest away from the pool and beach. Not to worry though, the resort offers golf carts that will come and pick you up to take you where ever you need to go.

C/O Domes Zeen Chania

The food was very good here with a lot of options for breakfast and pool-side lunch or snacks. Service was excellent as well and the bartender can make a very good (very spicy) bloody mary!

Overall, we loved our stay at Domes Zeen Chania and we are already planning a trip to go back!

I would love to book this fabulous property for you and your family today! Send me an email at lauren@thatblondetravels.com or fill out my contact form to get started!

Or you can always VIP yourself using my booking link here (Send me an email for the password).

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Before I get started on my review, don’t forget that I am a preferred partner with Four Seasons! What does this mean for you? Extra perks for no extra charge!

Preferred Partner Perks when you book with That Blonde Travels:

Daily Breakfast for 2
Resort Credit
Early check-in/late check-out *based on availability
Upgrade on arrival *based on availability

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From the moment you step foot on the pristine shores of Four Seasons Resort Anguilla, it’s clear this is no ordinary vacation destination—it's an oasis of tranquility, sophistication, and natural beauty. My stay at this stunning resort was nothing short of extraordinary, and I can’t wait to share my experience.

Location & Setting: Situated on a breathtaking stretch of Anguilla’s coastline, the resort boasts two immaculate beaches, each with soft, powdery sand and crystal-clear waters. The sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea are simply mesmerizing, and the resort's design does a wonderful job of blending into the natural landscape, creating an atmosphere of relaxed luxury.

Whether you’re lounging by the infinity pools, enjoying water sports, or exploring the nearby beaches, the resort’s setting immediately transports you to paradise.

Service & Hospitality: The hallmark of Four Seasons properties is their impeccable service, and Anguilla is no exception. Every staff member I encountered was friendly, attentive, and genuinely eager to make my stay unforgettable. From the personalized welcome to the farewell, I felt like a VIP throughout my time there. Special shout-out to the concierge team and Chavez, who helped arrange everything from private boat trips to dinner reservations at the island’s exceptional restaurants. Chavez also helped me create a route on google maps for the day that we rented a Moke! Above and beyond! Also, a special shout-out to the pool servers, Yella and Del, who helped make our days perfect!

Accommodations: My one bedroom ocean-view suite was spacious and elegantly appointed, with a private terrace, featuring a plunge pool, offering stunning views of the turquoise sea. The attention to detail was evident in every corner, from the luxurious linens to the state-of-the-art amenities. I particularly appreciated the large bathroom with a deep soaking tub—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Dining: Food at Four Seasons Anguilla is a true highlight. The resort offers a range of dining options, from casual beachside meals to refined, fine-dining experiences. I dined at Salt, where the steak and fresh seafood was outstanding.

For breakfast, the buffet also at Salt was perfect—offering everything from fresh tropical fruits to made-to-order omelets and pastries. I also loved the beach bar, where I could sip on a refreshing cocktail while watching the sun set. Don’t skip the Mojitos!

Activities & Amenities: Beyond lounging and relaxing, Four Seasons Anguilla offers a host of activities for those looking for adventure. We particularly enjoyed renting a Moke for the day and driving around to see the island! There’s also a world-class spa that offers indulgent treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind, and a fitness center that’s well-equipped for those who like to stay active.

Final Thoughts: Four Seasons Resort Anguilla is the epitome of modern resort luxury. It’s a perfect destination for anyone seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and top-notch service in one of the Caribbean’s most stunning locations. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the beach, savor world-class dining, or explore the island, this resort delivers it all. My time at Four Seasons Anguilla was truly unforgettable, and I can’t recommend it enough to anyone looking for a slice of paradise.

Preferred Partner Perks when you book with That Blonde Travels:

Daily Breakfast for 2
Resort Credit
Early check-in/late check-out *based on availability
Upgrade on arrival *based on availability

You can send me an email for a quote at Lauren@ThatBlondeTravels.com or use my VIP Booking Link (Send me a quick email to get the password).

Back in May, my husband and I went to check out the brand new Impressions Isla Mujeres! This hotel was just voted “Most Instagrammable Hotel in the World” and boy did it deliver!

It’s hard to look anywhere without having a picturesque setting or view. We loved the ambience of this property and it’s small boutique feel.

This resort is located in Isla Mujeres, about a 40 minute boat ride over from the Cancun dock. Take an easy flight into Cancun, grab your airport transfer, and then head to the resorts dock to get on the included ride over to Isla Mujeres.

An all-inclusive, adults only resort that makes you question wether it actually is all inclusive due to the quality of food and drinks.

We stayed in the Paramount Suite Ocean Front. This room was HUGE and beautiful. It had a separate living space with a full bar and a separate bathroom. We also loved that the room had a ceiling fan, a rare find at resorts in Mexico.

Another perk of this resort is the ability to make restaurant reservations prior to your stay. One of my biggest pet peeves is arriving to a resort and them only allowing reservations once on site, or not at all.

For my clients, my VIP amenities are as follows:

Upgrade on arrival (based on availability)
Early check-in/late check-out (based on availability)

I would love to book this fabulous property for you today! Send me an email at lauren@thatblondetravels.com or fill out my contact form to get started!

This resort is definitely on par with some of the other amazing 5* all inclusive resorts in the Mexican Riviera Maya!

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C/O O&O Mandarina

I just returned from our annual exchange with my host agency, Departure Lounge, where we spent 4 nights at the Conrad Punta Mita and then ended our trip with an AMAZING stay at the fairly new One&Only Mandarina right outside of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

What is a host agency you might ask? Think of me like a realtor. Realtors work with a broker for their clients that help with relations and licensing. This is what Departure Lounge is to me. They are one of the best know host agencies in the business and are amazing for supplier relations. What does this mean to you? It means that because we have such great relationships with our suppliers they want to make sure our guests are the happiest. I love working with Departure Lounge as well as all of our VIP partners to make sure that my guests and clients have amazing vacations that they deserve!

Anyways, back to One&Only Mandarina!

This resort opened in 2021 in a new complex called Mandarina, right outside of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. It is a quick 45 minute drive from the Puerto Vallarta airport so that you are in paradise before you know it! This property felt more like Costa Rica to me than Mexico and I loved it. A beautiful mix of jungle that meets the sea!

We stayed in the Ocean View Cliff Villa during our stay. The great thing about this property are that all rooms are villa/suite type accommodations so even the entry level rooms are a great size and still perfect for a family. Kids under 12 years of age are not allowed to stay in the treehouse suites due to safety reasons. That being said, I think this is a fabulous resort for kids! The kids club is so cool with a treehouse and a butterfly garden as well as an indoor area for arts and crafts and fun play. They also have several pools around the property with the Jetty Beach Club being the best for children in my opinion. If you are wanting a more adult only vibe, there is an adult only pool that is much quieter with no kiddos in site!

There is a Rosewood that is planned to open in 2025 that will also be apart of the Mandarina complex similar to the Mayakoba complex in the Cancun/Riviera Maya area. It will connect to the Mandarina beach club and you will be able to “dine around”. I can’t wait to go back and check out this property when it opens.

For my clients, my VIP amenities are as follows:

Daily breakfast for 2
$100 resort credit
Upgrade on arrival (based on availability)
Early check-in/late check-out (based on availability)

I would love to book this fabulous property for you and your family today! Send me an email at lauren@thatblondetravels.com or fill out my contact form to get started!

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TOP LUXURY HOTELS IN GREECE

Disclaimer: This Luxury Greece Hotels List contains Affiliate Links for products I’m currently using. By using these links you won’t pay any additional fees, but support me to keep this site running!

ATHENS

ATHENS CAPITAL CENTER HOTEL

HOTEL GRANDE BRETAGNE

FOUR SEASONS ASIR PALACE

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CRETE

BLUE PALACE ELOUNDA RESORT AND SPA

SANTORINI

CANAVES OIA EPITOME

MYSTIQUE, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL

PAROS

PARILIO

MYKONOS

MYKONOS GRAND HOTEL AND RESORT

MYKONIAN UTOPIA RESORT

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Contact me to plan your Greece getaway today!

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