Cancun vs The Bahamas: Which Island is Best for You?
Category: The IslandsFebruary 27th 2023Back to our Sandals Blog > > >
Cancun and
If you're caught between these two worlds and you're trying to decide which destination will be best for your next getaway, have no fear. By the end of this article, you'll know more than enough to help you make the best destination decision for the ultimate vacation!
In this article on the Sandals blog, we compare The Bahamas vs Cancun on:
Activities: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
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Relaxing on the beach
Beaches in The Bahamas
The Bahamas makes for the ideal beach escape with more than 2,000 beaches to choose from. These beaches are spread across the chain of 700 islands and over 2000 cays that make up this coral archipelago. There is a beach to suit just about every mood- relaxation time, adventure, and exploration.
The soft white sand of
Expert tip: We've got the scoop on the
best beaches in The Bahamas ! Find out which of these many shorelines are total must-sees.
Beaches in Cancun
The beaches in Cancun each offer a unique atmosphere that will suit the experience and adventures that you seek. If you're looking for some downtime and a sun tan, Playa Defines is the place to be! The strong currents will encourage you to stay on shore and get some Vitamin D while relaxing and sampling local food and drinks. If you're up for an adventure, then the Puerto Morelos beach in the South of Cancun gives you access to the Mesoamerican Coral Reef - the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere.
Snorkeling/Scuba diving: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
Snorkeling and scuba diving in The Bahamas
When it comes to
Some divers prefer to start in Nassau (the capital), with dive sites like Runway Wall, the James Bond Wrecks, and Bahama Mama. From Nassau, it's easy to make your way to the other islands like Eleuthera where you can dive at Current Cut, Grand Bahama with the popular Tiger Beach, Bimini's Victory Reef, or the Andros Barrier Reef in Andros. Snorkelers and scuba divers will both be happy in The Bahamas for the wide range of spectacular dive excursions to choose from, suitable for all dive levels.
Insider tip: Snorkeling and scuba diving are among the inclusions of Sandals and Beaches Resorts in the Caribbean. Check out these great
scuba diving sites in The Bahamas andsnorkeling spots in The Bahamas before you travel!
Snorkeling and scuba diving in Cancun
Diving introduces you to a whole new way to see the world. In Cancun, you can snorkel or scuba dive in places like Isla Mujeres, which is a perfect day trip. This is best reserved for the months of June through to September and is ideal for divers who won't be intimidated by big sightings - like whale sharks. There are many types of reef fish to see, and dolphins can often be found swimming a little further off. Lobsters and eagle rays are also common sightings, and you may spot various species of sea turtles, sailfish, lobsters, and maybe even nurse sharks.
Some of the best diving spots in Cancun include the MUSA Underwater Museum which features some interesting sculptures you won't have to dive too deep to see: Minesweeper Wreck, Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park, The National Reef Park of Puerto Morelos, The Cave of Sleeping Sharks, and Xel-ha eco-park.
Fishing: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
Fishing in The Bahamas
Big game fishing is popular in The Bahamas where fishermen can catch huge fish lurking in the waters such as blue marlin or yellowfin tuna. A visit to The Bahamas during spring or early summer can get you a catch of either of these fish and sometimes even the popular sailfish. Flat fishing is a possibility too, and you can try to catch the elusive bonefish that are known to swim as fast as 40 miles per hour at the first sign of trouble!
Expert tip: While Andros, Bahamas is known as the Bonefishing Capital of the World, there are lots of awesome places to go
bonefishing in The Bahamas , includingExuma and Nassau.Fishing in Nassau , especially, could be the highlight of your stay in The Bahamas!
Fishing in Cancun
Fishing in Cancun is an adventure just about everyone can enjoy, whether you are an experienced fisherman or not. Fishing takes place throughout the year! From winter up until July, you can catch sailfish that have migrated to Cancun during the cold season. Marlin is also a popular catch, and you can engage in deep-sea, sport, or big game fishing. Consider shared charters with companies such as Aquaworld, where everyone on board gets a try. Private charters are available too, where you can rent a boat for the day and enjoy a cold beer as the boat traverses the waters in search of barracuda, tarpon, snapper, and more amazing catches!
Tours & excursions: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
Popular tours in The Bahamas
Swimming with pigs (Big Major Cay, Exuma)
A boat tour through the Exuma Cays can lead to a full day of adventure in The Bahamas. You might have the chance to feed the iguanas, swim with the stingrays, and hunt for starfish. Other notable animal experiences in these cays include the
Insider tip: Guests of
Sandals Royal Bahamas andSandals Emerald Bay can book tours and excursions right from their resort - transportation is included!
Snorkeling the offshore reefs
On the southwestern coast of New Providence in The Bahamas lies Adelaide Beach, one of the best snorkeling sites in The Bahamas. It's quite easy to get to as well, whether you are walking, driving, or catching the bus. If you visit during the week, you'll probably have it all to yourself to explore the waters and marine life. Love Beach also has a lovely reef just off the coast of western New Providence. For guided snorkeling tours,
Primeval Forest National Park
All lovers of nature ought to visit the Primeval Forest National Park in New Providence, Bahamas. Seven and a half acres of land lie peaceful and untouched with a range of flora and fauna as far as the eye can see. This park is well known as a hardwood forest where hemlocks, pines, and mosses can be found. The park is usually open from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., but call to find out if you're unsure whether the park will be open on a particular day.
Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve (Eleuthera)
This national park is the first of its kind in Eleuthera and can be found in the Governor's Harbour in the center of the island. Its 25 acres are protected by The Bahamas National Trust which safeguards its rich vegetation and historical, medicinal plants. A tour of the Mangrove Boardwalk takes you through this unique area while the Coppice Trail lets you see all the butterflies and birds that live there. You'll need to book in advance if you want a guided tour of this plant preserve.
The Glass Window Bridge (Eleuthera)
This spectacular body of water is truly a magnificent wonder of nature that leaves many in awe of the contrasting colors of the waters. This Glass Window Bridge is often called 'the narrowest place on Earth' where a long strip of rock with a width of only 30 feet, separates two bodies of water. On one side are the turquoise waters of the Bight of Eleuthera and, on the other the dark blues of the Atlantic Ocean.
Popular tours in Cancun
The Mayans were some of the early settlers in Cancun and their developments and artifacts have created a rich history on this island. Here are a few places you can visit and some activities worth trying out in Cancun:
ATV Tours
Riding an ATV around this Mexican city will grant you an opportunity to explore the mangroves, grasslands, and white sandy beaches along the way. Some tours offer to pick you up and drop you off at your hotel and provide refreshments to keep you going.
Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote & Valladolid
This tour will take you to Chichen Itza, the famous Mayan site where the Kukulcan pyramid can be found. The Valladolid is an old Mayan city, and Chichen Itza is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ik Kil Cenote, a lovely natural sinkhole, can also be found near Chichen Itza.
Reef and shipwreck snorkeling tours
A reef and shipwreck snorkel tour can be a fun way of exploring the wonders of the ocean whilst vacationing in Cancun. A trained guide will take you and your friends to some of the best sites and underwater statues, and expose you to the most vibrant coral reef. These tours are usually suitable for all ages.
El Rey Ruins
The El Rey ruins once served as the hotspot for maritime trade in Cancun, back in 1200 AD. In the present day, these ruins are popular among visitors looking for a quick tour that is easily accessible.
Swim with whale sharks
Whale sharks are gentle creatures that roam the waters of the ocean, feeding on small marine animals and mollusks. A knowledgeable trainer can tell you all about these harmless animals before you dip into the water to snorkel and swim alongside them in their natural habitat.
Shopping: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
Shopping in The Bahamas
A visit to the Nassau Straw Market is a must when visiting The Bahamas. The local vendors take pride in the variety of crafts, pottery, and jewelry on sale - some of which is made with the native botanical plant, agave sisalana (sisal). The vibrant colors and authenticity of this market make for an exciting experience in and of itself, and the vendors are often willing to negotiate as well. The Bahamas Craft Center offers some more goodies, while Marina Village on Paradise Island has souvenirs, designer boutiques, restaurants, and live entertainment.
Shopping in Cancun
The Hotel Zone in Cancun is home to La Isla Shopping Village and Kukulcan Plaza - two of the most popular malls on the island. There are lots of boutiques and stores as well as handmade Mexican crafts in malls such as Plaza Caracol. The flea market downtown also has lots of great deals on items and souvenirs, and you can find high-end designer stores on Luxury Avenue.
The nightlife: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
The Bahamas nightlife
Though its beaches are quite popular, The Bahamas also has several nightclubs and bars in Freeport and Nassau that make for a fun night out on the town. One of the more popular options is Bond Nightclub, a classy but lively club where you'll fit right in if you're dressed to the nines. Aura Nightclub is also a great clubbing option if you desire a little more luxury - a glass dance floor, two bars, and a VIP section. The Skybar at Cable Beach offers a unique rooftop lounge experience where you'll have an awesome view of the big lights in this little city.
Cancun nightlife
Coco Bongo and the City and Mandala are among the popular nightlife entertainment options in Cancun where both locals and visitors like to party the night away. If you'd like VIP service, you can always reserve a table but the open bar option is cost-effective and more liberating. Carlos N Charlie is pretty exciting too with the best DJs, live bands, and a salsa special on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Casinos: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
Casinos in The Bahamas
Though locals are prohibited from gambling, you are welcome to try your hand at any of the tables and machines. Atlantis Casino on Paradise Island has over 119 tables with games such as Roulette and Poker. It's open 24/7 and is one of the largest casinos in the Caribbean. Meanwhile, the Baha Mar Casino in Cable prides itself on being the 'largest upscale casino in The Bahamas,' and has 18 types of table games and more than one thousand slot machines.
Casinos in Cancun
Games such as Baccarat, Roulette, Holdem, and Craps are popular games played at many casinos in Cancun. Red Casino at Grand Oasis Cancun is the only one of its kind to be located within a resort and horse racing and sports book betting is popular here. Casino Palace Cancun has a games room and televised sporting shows whilst the Dubai Palace Casino has more than 450 slot machines.
Historical points of interest: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
Landmarks/historical sites in The Bahamas
Three historical forts
Evidence of The Bahamas' history as a British colony can be found in the colonial-style forts in New Providence: Fort Montagu, Fort Charlotte, and Fort Fincastle. These were built in the 1700s and tours of these sites capture the island's history. Fort Charlotte dates back to 1788 and includes moats and dungeons. Fort Fincastle is a 1793 stone fort and lighthouse, while Fort Montagu dates back to 1741 - guided tours are available at these historic locations.
Parliament Square (Downtown Nassau)
In 1815, Parliament Square was built to resemble some of the most impressive infrastructure found in North Carolina at the time. These pink-colored buildings now house official government venues, such as the House of Assembly where officials meet. Since 1921, the Supreme Court has also been housed here.
The Queen's Staircase in Nassau
The Queen's Staircase refers to the 66 steps that lead up to the historical 1793 Fort Fincastle. These limestone steps serve as a grand entrance to the fort and are named in honor of the late Queen Victoria of England. Construction took place in the late 18th century and was a tedious process, taking more than a year to complete.
Cloisters and Versailles Gardens on Paradise Island
The Cloisters and Versailles Gardens can be found on Paradise Island in Nassau. This large garden extends about 75 feet and it is located near Nassau Harbor. Stone steps, marble statues, and the sweet smells of bougainvillea, hibiscus, and other fragrant flowers can be found in this beautiful garden. This definitely can be a romantic experience, with lots of photo ops!
Government House in Nassau
In 1737, the Government House was built in Nassau on a 10-acre estate on Mount Fitzwilliam Hill. Today, it serves as the official residence of the Governor General of The Bahamas. Tours of this historic building are available at pre-scheduled times - while there, take some time to scope the Nassau Harbor from this vantage point.
Christ Church Cathedral in Nassau
The 17th-century Christ Church Cathedral is known as the oldest church in The Bahamas. It is regarded as the 'mother' of all Anglican churches. Throughout the years it has gone through many changes having been destroyed, rebuilt, and extended. In fact, the 1900s was the era when several restorations took place and this church can now be found on George Street in Nassau.
Landmarks/historical sites in Cancun
The Maya Museum
Any visitor who yearns to learn more about Cancun should stop by The Maya Museum to take a look at the hundreds of Mayan artifacts kept as a way of preserving this crucial historical time. These include jewelry, ceramics, and sculptures of the Mayan people as well as skeletal remains from 14,000 years ago. There are architectural and art exhibits, and you can stop by the San Miguelito archeological site located nearby.
El Meco
To the north of Cancun lies the El Meco archeological site in the Bay of Isla Mujeres, which is just about seven kilometers from the hotel area. At a height of 40 feet (12 meters), the El Castillo pyramids in El Meco have the highest structure of its kind in the northern peninsula and it is believed to have been used for maritime navigation since it was first occupied in 200 AD. A climb to the top of the El Castillo site offers an aerial view of the Caribbean Sea.
San Miguelito and El Rey
Kukulkan Boulevard separates San Miguelito and El Rey, two sites that were once connected a long time ago. San Miguelito was an agricultural and fishing area with four specific areas, known as the North Complex, Dragon Complex, the Chaak Palace, and South Complex, with the last two being the most well-preserved.
Ek' Balam
The word Ek' Balam means 'black jaguar' in Mayan and refers to the city which existed from 600 BC to 1600 AD and measures 15 square kilometers. Since 1997, these ruins have been preserved so well that there are 40 or so buildings ready for you to explore.
Uxmal
The Pyramid of the Magician, which serves as the tallest building of the Uxmal ruins, was built on other pyramids which already existed. Due to this, the site has been named Uxmal which means 'thrice built'. This ancient city is believed to have been inhabited by about 20,000 Mayans.
Landscape & climate: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
The landscape & climate of The Bahamas
The Bahamas is a tropical archipelago that includes 700 islands and more than 2,000 cays. Most of these islands are not as developed as the capital, Nassau, but many are still major tourist attractions and are preserved by the Bahamian government. Though The Bahamas is very well preserved and green in general, on the more developed islands the infrastructure is quite advanced in comparison to some Caribbean islands.
The topography of The Bahamas is rather flat, so you won't find much in terms of waterfalls and rolling hills. The territory does however have a number of interesting limestone cave systems, some of the deepest blue holes in the world, and beautiful woodlands.
Expert tip: The Bahamas is warm and beautiful year-round. Check out our articles on
the best time to visit The Bahamas for more on the temperature, weather, and activities available at different times of the year.
The landscape & climate of Cancun
Cancun is located on the northeast point of the Yucatan Peninsula, 350 miles southeast of Miami, Florida. Cancun is a tropical region with predominantly flat terrain, and many limestone caves.
Peak season: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
The Bahamas
In The Bahamas, the peak season occurs during the months of December to April. During this time, temperatures range from 63°F- 82°F, making it the perfect time to escape from colder climates. Even if you can't make it to the islands during this time, The Bahamas is amazing to visit year-round.
Cancun
The peak season in Cancun begins in November and, like many Caribbean islands, ends in April, which is about the end of winter in the United States. There's also another peak during spring break around Easter.
Local people: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
The people of The Bahamas
People from The Bahamas are known as Bahamians. Bahamians are generally friendly, and laid-back. The Bahamas has a colorful colonial history. About 91 percent of the population is Afro-Caribbean, and English is the main language spoken in the country.
The people of Cancun
People who hail from Cancun are known as Cancunenses. They are known as lively, amicable people. Around 90 percent of the population speaks Spanish, with a small percentage being fluent in regional dialects. English is also widely spoken.
Culture: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
Culture of The Bahamas
The majority of Bahamian residents are of African descent and they continue to practice the cultural traditions of their ancestors, which can be seen particularly in celebrations like
Culture of Cancun
Mexico is well regarded for its rich culture, and its cities such as Cancun are no different. Centuries ago, the Mayans occupied this island and left their landmarks, which still remain proof of their brilliance, advancements, and interesting culture.
The language: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
The language of The Bahamas
English is the official language of The Bahamas. Many people in The Bahamas also speak Haitian Creole or a Bahamian dialect that includes African elements.
The language of Cancun
Spanish is the language most widely spoken in Cancun, much like Mexico in general. Many tourism workers also speak English. Mayan is another common language, particularly with the indigenous population. Many people will converse with visitors in English and then converse between themselves in their native tongues of Spanish and Mayan.
The food: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
The options are endless for unique dishes in both Cancun and The Bahamas. What you'll really have to decide on before heading to either of these destinations is whether you prefer Spanish food or the heartwarming flavors of the Caribbean.
Popular food in The Bahamas
The Bahamas is great if you want to try classic Caribbean food, but even with the similarity of cooking styles in the islands, the food scene in The Bahamas has an identity of its own. Some of the commonly used ingredients in Bahamian cuisine include guava, rock lobster, and conch. There are hints of cooking flair from the American South in the seasonings and some of the side dishes, such as grits. Other dishes like fresh seafood, fried fish and chicken, and peas n' rice are common to the Caribbean and complement some of the more original Bahamian dishes.
Popular menu items in The Bahamas include minced lobster, conch dishes (conch salad, conch fritters, cracked conch, conch chowder), baked macaroni and cheese, steamed/baked chicken, and beverages like Switcha (Bahamian lemonade), Sky Juice (a cocktail with coconut water, gin, and condensed milk), or a
Popular food in Cancun
Popular dishes in Cancun include Marquesitas (crispy crepe rolled up and filled with melted shredded cheese and a sweet filling), castacan (fried pork belly), panuchos (tortilla shell stuffed with refried beans with added toppings), salbutes (similar but less crispy than panuchos and also with no refried beans), sikil pak (Mayan pumpkin seed dip), tacos de Cochinita Pibil (slow-roasted pork dish), sopa de lima (lime soup), drinks like pozol (highly energizing), the Banana Monkey (coffee liquor, chocolate, banana, and coconut), Michelada beer, and so much more. There's definitely no short supply of things to try in Cancun, which is great for adventurous travelers.
The music: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
The music of The Bahamas
Soca and calypso are popular in The Bahamas, especially around the time of carnival which is observed annually in May. Other popular threads include the traditional 'rake and scrape' music originating from Cat Island. Concertinas, Goombay drums, and a handsaw are typical features of this genre, which usually features instrumental tunes. While on vacation in The Bahamas, you'll find that American culture has also influenced the music there in recent times. Famous musicians from The Bahamas include The Baha Men, Ronnie Butler, and Kirkland Bodie (KB).
The music of Cancun
Cancun is an entertainment center in Mexico where lots of famous artists perform and live. Celebrities such as Marc Anthony, Lusi Miguel, and Usher have performed in Cancun over the years. Locally, the music here has Mexican flair, but international hits are also popular on the entertainment scene.
Where to stay: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
Where to stay in The Bahamas
Islands in The Bahamas including New Providence Island (Nassau), Paradise Island, Abaco, the Exumas, Eleuthera, and Harbour Island are popular choices for you to The Bahamas.
Where to stay in Cancun
It's a good idea to stay in Zona Hotelera if you're interested in being near the beach in Cancun. This area is also a good place to find luxury and all-inclusive hotels. Budget travelers will prefer the Cancun Downtown / El Centro area. Punta Cancun is a good nightlife option and Isla Mujeres is great for families.
Transportation: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
Transportation in The Bahamas
In The Bahamas, it'll be easy to get around on a 'jitney', which is the Bahamian term for the local bus. Jitneys cost $1.25-2 (Bahamian or U.S.). You can choose to take either a jitney or a cab from the main airports, which includes the Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau and Freeport's Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO), to your place of accommodation. Guests staying at
Transportation in Cancun
You'll be able to get around Cancun fairly easily by bus. You'll pay around 12 Mexican pesos (about 60 cents) for a one-way trip. The bus is a lot cheaper than getting a taxi. When hiring a taxi, the general rule in Cancun is to choose your taxi and don't let this work the other way around. You can identify a government-certified taxi as these will have a license with a picture of the driver and the taxi number on display inside. Usually, taxis of this type have meters, which unfortunately don't always work. Make sure the price of your ride is determined before getting in.
Currency & economy: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
Currency & economy in The Bahamas
The Bahamian dollar (BSD) maintains a steady 1:1 exchange rate with the USD, but the latter is still a widely accepted currency in the islands. The Bahamian economy runs mostly on tourism and offshore banking, and it is the richest country in the West Indies. Though this is a high-end destination, you may still encounter street peddlers. You don't need to feel intimidated - if you're not interested in what they're selling, a firm 'no, thank you' will suffice.
Currency & economy in Cancun
The currency exchange rate between Mexican Pesos and USD is about 21.5:1, but the exchange rates can go up and down over time. USD is widely accepted in Cancun, though it is advisable to convert some of your money into the local currency before going out shopping, exploring, or on excursions as this can cause your funds to stretch a bit more. This is because the rule of thumb exchange rates used at various vendors and stores may vary.
Safety: The Bahamas vs. Cancun
Safety in The Bahamas
The Bahamas is a tourist-oriented destination, and many people have shared positive experiences of their vacations on the islands. Travelers can feel safe leaving their resorts in The Bahamas, as the islands' government pays special attention to the safety of both its visitors and its residents. When Downtown (Nassau) and in more populated areas, you'll notice a visible police presence while you go about your explorations. Like in any other destination, avoid going out into secluded areas alone.
Safety in Cancun
Cancun is one of the most sought-after destinations in Mexico. Of course, you should always exercise caution within the confines of your accommodations, as well as out in the city. There have also been reports of people becoming sick after consuming contaminated alcohol in Cancun's Hotel Zone. As this is a popular destination, it's certainly something visitors should be aware of.
The Bahamas vs. Cancun: Now you can decide for yourself!
There's nothing like a vacation in the tropics to help you relax, unwind, and live your best life. With so many
Cancun is a nice vacation gateway that stands out due to its culture and landmarks. However, there are few beach destinations that can compare to The Bahamas. The territory's simply out-of-this-world beaches are waiting to be savored, and there are far more adventurous experiences to enjoy thanks to its multitude of islands. Both areas have a lot to offer to foodies, whether you're in the mood for Spanish food or Caribbean cuisine.
The Bahamas eases ahead of Cancun when it comes to phenomenal accommodation options. All-inclusive resorts like Sandals offer a luxurious experience where you will have everything you need all in one place. The unlimited food, drinks, and entertainment in your
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TWO LOVE BIRDS PACKAGE
Applicable for 2 people.
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templates
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During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding event team: event
coordination, setup & breakdown
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for the bride and groom (not applicable
to retail items)
On Your Wedding Day
• $200 credit towards select photography
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• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
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boutonniere
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and non-alcoholic beverages
- Reception table with white linen
• Two-tiered white fondant wedding cake
with white or magenta dendrobium topper
• Reception table with white linen and white
cushioned Chiavari chairs
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• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine
at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of your choice
• $100 credit towards either a private
candlelight dinner, scuba, snuba, beach
or pool cabana
For Your Anniversary
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with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category
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entire group (not applicable to retail items)
On Your Wedding Day
• 20 digital images
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• Picturesque ceremony location*
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• One speaker and one microphone
• Rose bouquet
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with rose topper
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cushioned Chiavari chairs
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from the plated menus and a premium bar,
non-alcoholic beverages including freshly
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On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine
at a resort specialty restaurant
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- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of your choice
• $100 credit towards either a Private
candlelight dinner, scuba, snuba, beach
or pool cabana
For Your Anniversary
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with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category
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Applicable for 52 people or more
Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website
templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license
• 6th Room Free* when traveling with 5 paid
double rooms between Sept. 1 - Dec. 20
(up to 5 complimentary rooms)
• 12th Room Free* when 11 paid double rooms
travel between Jan. 2 - Aug. 31.
(up to 5 complimentary rooms)
Pre-Wedding Events
• One-hour private welcome cocktail
- Heavy hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar
- Cocktail tables with white linen
• 2-hour private pre-wedding celebration dinner
• Wedding day treats : frozen fruit kabobs
& small bites with sparkling wine for bride
and groom (in-room while getting ready
on day of wedding)
During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding event team: event
coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for the
entire group (not applicable to retail items)
On Your Wedding Day
• $500 credit towards the Royal Romance
photography package
• $500 credit towards the Ultimate videography
package
At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• One speaker and one microphone
• Rose bouquet
• Rose boutonniere
• Rose bouquet for up to 2 members
of wedding party
• Rose boutonniere for up to 2 members
of wedding party
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs
At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Passed hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar, sparkling wine toast, signature
cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverages
- Cocktail tables with white linen
• Three-tiered white fondant wedding cake
with rose topper
• Reception table with white linen and whitecushioned Chiavari chairs
• Private two-hour dinner reception with selection
from the plated or buffet menus and a premium
bar, non-alcoholic beverages including freshly
brewed coffee and a selection of herbal teas
• One sweetheart table to include white linen,
standard place setting & 2 white-cushioned
Chiavari chairs
• Two-hour DJ entertainment
On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine
in resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of choice
• $100 Credit towards either a private
candlelight dinner, scuba, snuba, beach
or pool cabana
For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay
with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category
RETIE THE KNOT PACKAGE
Applicable for up to 10 people.
Before You Arrive
• ReTie the Knot planning team
• Celebration gift registry and website templates
During Your Stay
• Onsite ReTie the Knot team: event
coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for bride
and groom (not applicable to retail items)
• One 5x7 photo print
• One keepsake gift
At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid bouquet
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid
boutonniere
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs
• ReTie the Knot commemorative certificate
At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Passed hors d' oeuvres
- Sparkling wine toast, signature cocktail,
and non-alcoholic beverages
• Single-tiered white fondant cake
with dendrobium topper
• Reception table with white linen
& white-cushioned Chiavari chairs
On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine
at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of choice
For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay
with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category
Some of our destination weddings
Sandals Grande, St. Lucia, Large Group, Destination Wedding
I wanted to share (with permission) these gorgeous pictures from a destination wedding 2 weekends ago we had the privilege of being a part of and booked by Lia. She chose this over the water wedding chapel in St. Lucia with friends and family there to help celebrate. I love her flower crown and her dress and how happy she is. Picture perfect. Congratulations Kate and Curtis! We are so happy for you!
Beaches Resort, Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Destination Wedding
Lia was very helpful for us in planning our destination wedding to Ocho Rios, Jamaica. We had gone through a few other travel planners first who didn't seem nearly as interested in our needs. We really appreciated the way Lia helped us navigate through some of the complexities, including the local laws of Jamaica and the planning with the resort itself. Even once we got to the resort and ran into a few snags, Lia was able to quickly get those resolved very quickly. We would highly recommend her for anyone planning a destination wedding or any other vacation. Thanks, Lia, for making our destination wedding the most special day of our lives.
Playa Del Carmen, Large Group, Destination Wedding
Wedding planning can be stressful and overwhelming, but if you're planning on having a destination wedding, especially with a large group, I would highly recommend using All Inclusive Weddings!
From beginning to end, they help with every step; i.e., finding the venue, creating a custom wedding website, and booking all your guests. Their office manager, Linze, was very responsive, helpful, and so sweet! Everything turned out smoothly and we couldn't be happier!
Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Destination Wedding
Stephanie was our incredible travel agent for our destination wedding! She helped with every aspect, quick communication and AMAZING coordination with over 50 different people over 8 states. Stephanie from the beginning, gave options and talked through so many questions I had. I could not have asked for a better right hand woman! 10 out of 10 for Steph, we could not appreciate & trust her more!
Incredible Agent For Our Destination Wedding! 10 Out Of 10 For Steph!
Such an amazing week of memories,laughter & love! Thankful for our people and truly blessed beyond words ♥ï¸â™¥ï¸
Royalton Blue Waters, Montego Bay, Jamaica, Destination Wedding
My husband and I worked with the company's owner, Lia Vincent, and office manager, Linze.
Lia & Linze were both very warm and friendly, and from day one, we could tell cared about us as a couple and our destination wedding success, rather than just seeing us as more clients. I get stressed out easily, so planning my own wedding alone was overwhelming, even though my wedding was 10 months out. I ended up working with Linze, and we pushed up the wedding date with a little less than three months to prepare. I was initially nervous about using a travel agent / wedding planner, but it turned out to be a huge blessing, because it took away a lot of the stress and worry I was experiencing. A bride has so many things to worry about, so having someone else bear the brunt of the work and worry about the nitty-gritty details was a HUGE relief for me.
Why spend hours analyzing vendors and reading reviews, when you can have a pro do it? If you want an intimate wedding, if you want to elope, or if you want a huge all-out, go-into-debt-for-years wedding, and if you're in the market for a wedding travel agent, Lia and Linze should be at the top of your list!
The day of the wedding, everything was so beautiful, and so much better than I could have done on my own. Lia's company finds the best local vendors, so you know you'll get great value in your package, and what's nice is her company offers different packages for different budgets. We worked with and met AMAZING vendors! The reception was so elegant that as soon as I entered the reception, I felt amazement, joy, and relief because being the worrywart and control freak that I sometimes can be, it was hard for me to trust someone to somehow make everything perfect. Lia was able to give us the dream wedding we couldn't have done ourselves. Our family and friends were also amazed, and repeatedly told us how great the wedding, reception, and food were at the resort.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Destination Wedding
I used Stephanie Tindall to help me choose the perfect resort in PV Mexico for where my guests would stay for my destination wedding. She went round and round with me helping me find the perfect location. It had to be nice, trendy, not to outrageously expensive and within a certain mile radius of a marina where my guests needed to go for the wedding. She helped everyone get booked and when things became a little hectic as tracking sometimes can get. She took care of the details. One of my guests had passport issues and she helped talk them through what to do. It was such a relief to have a point of contact for travel related issues so I didn't have to be stressed about it. She did this all with a patient, positive? upbeat and kind attitude through the entire process. I highly recommend her.
Thank you again,
Darby Brown
UNICO, Riviera Maya, Mexico Destination Wedding
Unico was wonderful and the perfect place for our wedding! It was quiet and the ceremony was better than expected. We had it on the gazebo and it was away from everything, which was great. The photography was beyond our expectations. We have not received our video yet, but assume it will be just as great. I also used the in house vendor for make up and hair, and was not disappointed. The wedding coordinator, Nazareth, was so sweet and on point. We used the local host quite a bit with WhatsApp, which was quite convenient. Food and drinks were amazing. We were disappointed that 2087 restaurant was down for half of our stay for repairs. We ate at Mi Carisa on our wedding night, which was the perfect choice. Service was also best there. We scheduled 2 tours through the hotel, a sunset cruise and Chichen Itza express. The boat tour was nice. Chichen itza tour was too fast and ok. We really appreciate your recommendations and help booking our wedding and stay. It was wonderful! Thank you again, Juliet and Jason
Hard Rock Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Destination Wedding
We just got back from an AMAZING wedding weekend yesterday. I can't begin to thank you enough for your help and support during the entire process. Everyone had a great time. It truly was one of the best days of my life and I can't believe how stress-free it was once I got there. Thank you Thank you!
Secrets Playa Mujeres, Mexico, Destination Wedding
I have never used a travel agent before Lia. I have always been the "I can do everything cheaper by myself on the internet" type person; most of the time, it works great. When my husband and I decided to have a destination wedding, we were not sure about anything - number of guests, length of stay, etc; we also have very demanding jobs, requiring constant travels up until the week before our wedding. So we thought that a travel agent may be a lifesaver; as it turned out, she was. Lia was endorsed as an expert in destination weddings on the American Express Travel website. Although she lived over a 1,000 miles away, I felt comfortable.
As I am not a "girly" person, wedding planning was not my thing; however, party planning and event coordination are. Lia and I treated this "event" like a business and I loved that about her; I needed someone to be truthful and provide honest advice. As it is with my job, I like corresponding via emails because I can have all the information on hand and in writing at all time; Lia always accommodated that, and always very promptly. I'm not talking about several emails over a few months; I'm talking about over the course of over a year. Lia was there to provide support when I had a hard time reach the wedding coordinator; she was there when I freaked out at the resort regarding my brother's return transportation (as it turned out, my brother spoke with the wrong transportation company); she was organized to be able to provide me with spreadsheet of all guest arrival information; she always submitted my requests to Classic Vacation and the resort promptly. James and I cannot thank Lia enough to make everything go smoothly for the biggest event of our lives. All 48 of us had such a great time that we absolutely see another group vacation in the future.
UNICO 2087, Riviera Maya, Mexico, Destination Wedding
Read the full details about this destination wedding in our blog post, Mark and Casey Simpsen's Destination Wedding at UNICO 2087. This couple was also featured in the UNICO 2087 Resort blog post, UNICO Destination Wedding, Casey Shelley & Mark Simpsen
Beach Palace Cancun, Mexico, Destination Wedding
Lia being referred to me saved me so much wedding planning mental anguish! I had tried with a few other travel agents before I had two different people give me Lia's name, and with each of the previous TAs they had to look into things and call me back (I'm still waiting for those calls). Getting in touch with Lia was a whole new experience, she answered all my initial questions in that first phone call, had so many recommendations, and it was obvious she knew exactly what she was doing. By the time we hung up the first phone call, I had decided on a destination and venue (per Lia's suggestion). She was a God send! A year later, we are still having people talk about what a great trip it was and people are always amazed by what a great turn out we had. We ended up with about 60 people, all booking through Lia and everyone had a flawless experience. One even asked for her name when planning her destination wedding a few months later and was just as pleased! Lia told me a lot through the planning process that I was such a laid-back bride, but it really was because she left me nothing to worry about. She answered any question I had, was always quick to respond to calls and emails, and helped me plan the most perfect wedding ever. I wish I could re-live it all again!!
Cozumel Palace, Mexico, Destination Wedding
My husband Cameron and I got married at the Cozumel Palace in June of 2014 and could not have been more happy with our experience. A destination wedding was definitely the way to go for us and Lia was a great asset in our planning.
Throughout the process we felt completely at ease as she handled some of the most important details of planning for this special time. From her first recommendations of resorts and destinations to her help arranging travel for our closest family and friends we always felt grateful having Lia on our side. We highly recommend Lia Vincent and Palace Resorts for your destination wedding!
Le Blanc Spa Resort, Destination Wedding
I am truly so grateful for you and all of your help! Le Blanc was amazing! NOTHING could have been better, except maybe the weather, but the staff, food, and service were above and beyond! We will definitely go back there!! Love, Love, Love you for all of your help - Can NOT thank you enough!!
Beach Palace, Cancun, Mexico, Destination Wedding
Our Dream Wedding!
Lia was a phenomenal help from the beginning. She was referred to me by a friend, and I was incredibly thankful that we used her. When we started planning, we became overwhelmed with all of the information that is available.
We met with her for about 45 minutes one afternoon, took her pictures of spaces we had seen online and liked, and gave her a list of our "must-haves", a list of things that would be nice but didn't matter too much, and a list of things we absolutely did NOT want. She kind of thought about things for a minute, and then listed 3 resorts that fit every single one of our needs. She then ran sample pricing from EVERY location our guests would be traveling from so we could figure out what best fit our and our guests' travel budgets. After about a million more questions from me, we finally settled on her initial recommendation, the Beach Palace in Cancun. As we went through the process, any time I had a question, problem, or was just worried about something not being right, she was my go-to person. I'm not kidding, she would answer me in like, less than an hour 99% of the time. She even took my file home one weekend to give me more time to figure something out before she ran credit cards and got it booked. She was a Godsend!
Riu Palace, Riviera Maya, Mexico, Destination Wedding
My husband Cameron and I got married at the Cozumel Palace in June of 2014 and could not have been more happy with our experience. A destination wedding was definitely the way to go for us and Lia was a great asset in our planning.
Lia with Lia helped us plan our destination wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico. We had a total of 11 people and she helped each of them set up their arrangements. From the beginning she was so helpful and always quick to respond. She made the entire process a breeze. She communicated with the wedding coordinator at the Riu Palace and made sure everything was just like we wanted. We did not have any issues at all, thanks to Lia and all of her thorough planning. Each of our guests bragged on her and said how easy it was to work with her. I would recommend Lia for all of your planning needs whether it be just a short vacation or a destination wedding. She knows what she is doing and will make sure all of your questions are answered and that you have the best vacation.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Destination Wedding
My husband and I got married in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico right off the beach. It was pure bliss, and everything I could have ever dreamed of! I may be biased, but destination weddings are certainly the way to go and thanks to our wonderful Travel Agent Lia Vincent at Vincent Vacations, we were able to find the perfect place! I had the opportunity to be able to edit the straight out of camera photos from my wedding! Here is a glimpse of our wedding day in paradise!
Iberostar, Grand Punta Cana, Destination Wedding
We had the most amazing time at our wedding. Our guests are still talking about what an amazing trip it was! Thank you for your help with organizing this unforgettable time for us, we cannot wait to put our pictures in our new frame!
Dreams, Puerto Aventuras Resort, Destination Wedding
Lia, thank you very much for all of your help with our PERFECT wedding vacation!
Excellence, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Destination Wedding
"It was beautiful! Everybody had a fantastic time!"
The staff was wonderful, the rooms were gorgeous, and the food was AMAZING! Our wedding could not have been more perfect and if you have any brides that want a beautiful wedding on a budget, The Excellence Punta Cana would be my number one recommendation. Emy and Livia were fantastic and everything was just PERFECT! Chris couldn't even believe how wonderful it was.
Thank you again for all of your help!!!
Dreams, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Destination Wedding
Our Dream Wedding!
As soon as Jimmy asked me to marry him, I knew we would want a destination wedding. We love to travel, and we love the beach, so there was no more perfect place to start our lives together than a beach in Mexico!
I am not the wedding planning type, and I knew that with a destination wedding, we could get someone else to plan the details for us. Luckily for me, my friend Lia at Vincent Vacations specializes in Destination Weddings. Lia had taken care of trips for us in the past, and I knew she was the perfect person to help me plan this trip. I was right! She helped me look through destinations, and we found the perfect spot: Dreams in Puerto Vallarta! The package came with a wedding planner, who took care of the details for me. 21 of our friends and family came with us, and everyone loved the resort. Our party ranged in age from 7 to 82, and everyone agreed it was an amazing trip. There were activities for the kids, and plenty of excursions for everyone to choose from. The staff was wonderful, and pampered us from the time we arrived. One of my bridesmaids had a broken foot and was on crutches, and was in a wheelchair some. The hotel staff assisted her anytime she needed it, including carrying her and her wheelchair up and down large flights of stairs. They were amazing! All the rooms are ocean front, with beautiful views. Jimmy and I stayed in the "Preferred" tower, and our room came with a great balcony with a hot tub! Most of our guests stayed in the other tower, but the resort is small enough, this was not a problem at all. They all loved their rooms as well. The wedding planner met with me in advance to work out the last minute details and timing. When our wedding day came, everything went perfectly. We got married on the beach right in front of the ocean. We had a sound system and a dj who played all the songs that we picked out in advance. My Dad is a minister, and he performed the service for us. We had 21 in our wedding party, but it felt like a much bigger wedding because lots of people watched the wedding. You could see people everywhere on their balconies watching, which made us feel like rock stars. We had a Mexican band that played a few songs after the wedding. The wedding came with a photographer and videographer who did amazing job! We took pictures right after the wedding, then we had dinner which also came with the wedding. We had steak and chicken which tasted great. Of course, I also asked them for chips and guacamole. (I love the guacamole in Mexico.) They were happy to oblige. They provided the wedding cake after which was amazing. After the wedding, my husband and I stayed for another 4 days, and it was paradise. I could not have asked for a more beautiful place to get married, or a less stressful way to do it. Thanks Lia and Vincent Vacations for making our special day an amazingly unforgettable experience!
Jamaica, Destination Wedding
Love the pictures one of our brides just shared from her elopement in Jamaica! Thank you for sharing with us! Did you know we book Destination weddings of all sizes? If it's just the 2 of you or a group of 250, give us a call!
Grand Fiesta Americana, Los Cabos, Mexico, Destination Wedding
This was the best and easiest decision we made about our entire wedding! Lia at All Inclusive Weddings is the absolute best, extremely intelligent, hard working, and so caring. She truly makes you feel like you are her only client throughout the entire process. We had about 120 people coming to our Cabo wedding and even had to switch resorts, visitors coming from all different states and even Europe. She was calm, and kept the bride and groom calm! Every detail was taken care of and it was made to be the most perfect wedding!
Finest, Playa Mujeres, Mexico, Destination Wedding
I just wanted to thank you for all your hard work to arrange the hotel and transfers for Ashley and Robbie's wedding. It was perfect and everything that she had ever dreamed of! The resort was amazing! We had great food at all the restaurants. The staff went over the top to accommodate any needs that you could have had! Everyone felt safe and the beaches are beautiful. Since it's more private you don't get the crazy vendors walking the beach trying to sell you stuff. Our family loved it so much and we defiantly will be planning another vacation. You will be the first I call if we need help to organize something! Thank you again for everything
We have been in business since 2013, and booking destination weddings since 2002!
Contact us today to learn more about All Inclusive Weddings!
