Crystal Lambkin Travel Blog
Here’s your opportunity to get the inside scoop on travel destinations and what to do when you’re there from our very on Crystal Lambkin. As manager of Paragon Travel, Crystal not only sells travel she lives it too! From rive cruising to island life, Crystal has done it! Every time Crystal travels, you can be sure to check up on her on this site and follow her journey and her recommendations.
Paragon Travel Presents : Our very own Amazon Princess
This spring, our very own amazon princess was born. Crystal said goodbye to us on May 27th and set out on an Amazon experience like no other with her notepad in tow so she could give all of you the very best advice on travelling in the amazon. Not only did she have an amazing trip, she was able to gain insight for all you future travellers. So now, she has first hand knowledge on how to get the most out of your Amazon experience. Here is a little taste of what she has to recommend to any of you blog followers that are thinking of become a jungle princess this year.
La Amatista – Tour to the Amazon
Day 1, Friday, May 27,
Arrive Lima, so nice to be met by the International Expeditions representative, with a sign with my name on it, even though our flight had arrived an hour late.
The hotel of choice for IE is the Swissotel, a beautifully luxurious 5* hotel. A very nice touch was a welcoming bottle of wine and cheese plate, along with a welcome card from the manager. Getting into bed was like slipping into heaven with the fluffy pillows.
Day 2, Saturday, May 28,
½ Day city tour, along with the a visit to a house of the Ariega’s have lived for 17 generations. The matriarch is still alive at the age of 99. She is hoping to celebrate her 100th birthday this summer.
The city of Lima is really quite modern and sophisticated and impeccably clean.
Lunch was at the Sheraton, and the meal was delicious, with some of the best fish ceviche I’ve had. The guide assured me that everything served there was safe for North American stomachs. Afternoon flight to Iquitos, approx. 1 hour, using the orange colored luggage tags provided by IE facilitates their porters to gather the bags from the baggage carousel and you simply have to identify your bags and walk to the waiting bus. Iquitos is a stark contrast to Lima, you’re really transported back in time to a city where there are few vehicles, but littered with the 3-wheeled rickshaw type carromotos. There is electricity only for about 20 miles
The drive to the port in Nauta where you take a small skiff to the Amatista, home for the next week.
It is a charming river boat with surprisingly quite spacious accommodations. There’s plenty of storage space under the bed for luggage as well as plenty of shelving for clothes and person items. There is 110 voltage to charge camera batteries as well as laptops.
Activities for the following day are pretty much decided that day, as everything is dependent on water levels and weather conditions. No use taking you out in the pouring rain, you will just get wet and won’t see anything. However, the weather can change on a dime and its good to have your day pack well prepared for rain, a light water-proof poncho is best, sunscreen, insect repellent, a light rain jacket. It is best to dress in layers, as it can start off cool in the morning setting out and be quite hot in the sun when the clouds clear.
Day 3, Sunday May 29,
Now our first day aboard La Amatista our excursions begin. The first morning they were easy on us with breakfast at 7:30 am and a departure at 8:30am. The first trip lasted about 2 hours with a briefing back on the boat to go over what we had seen. It is very important to bring the Amazon Guide of 76 pages, as there is a list of birds and animals you will likely see and you check them off in review of the excursion with the Naturalist. During the excursions they also do an excellent job of showing you in the guide book what you’re looking at as you see it.
A high light of the trip, pink dolphins, a school of them as well the gray dolphins. We actually encountered them just outside of the town of Requena, where the Ucayali River and a tributary meet, where the “black” and brown waters mix is a normal hangout for pink dolphins. Unfortunately, pink dolphins are very difficult to photo, but you do clearly see them. I felt it was better to just enjoy the experience.
6:30 was Happy Hour with live entertainment from members of the crew that played Peruvian music, and of course Anna and I had to get up and dance, which only made the band play longer!
After dinner I joined the crew in watching the political debate between Llanta and Keiko Fujimore, daughter of former President of Peru, but currently in jail for corruption and human rights crimes. She however is a 36 year old well educated, and well spoken young woman. Her opponent, has ties with Venezuelan President Charez, and share similar ideologies. This has lead to a country with a very divided opinion of who should next be in power. Is Peru ready for a 36 year old woman president, can they tolerate
Day 4 – Monday, May 30,
Our day started with a 6am wake up call, ready to board our skiffs for a 6:30am departure for more exploring. We don’t want to miss a thing. Today another highlight, the 3-toed sloth, 3 of them in total. Then tiny little spider moneys, at least 5 in one tree, running down and hopping from branch to branch. The Naturalist knows where they are close because of their sound. We also saw several Horned Screamers, known as the ‘airbus of the Amazon”, due to their size as well as so many “Amazon Kingfishers” distinctly recognized by their blue feathers, with a copper colour under belly. A rare sighting was the head of a Cayman, similar to an alligator, with a short snout, this one just 4 -5 feet long. We found it hanging out in the marsh area. Breakfast this morning was on the skiffs, well executed, and delicious!
Then back on board for our review of what we saw as well as a detailed explanation of the Indigenous people as well as the “Ribeneros” or River people. Our guide George also took some time the explain the current political situation, as they are less than a week away from presidential elections.
He further explained the situation of the Amazon rain forest depletion. Most have heard of the situation in Brazil, and sadly only 35% of the Amazon rain forest is still there. On the Peru side the story is much more positive, 88% of their rain forest still exists. There is a valiant effort to conserve the rainforest, and only use the resources of the rain forest in a sustainable manner. The government in recent years have established special classes in the school titled Environmental Sciences, so that the next generation have a better appreciation of the unique value of the rain forest.
Day 5, Tuesday May 31,
Another early morning start, our wake up call was for 6:00am for a 7:30 am departure, without returning to the boat until 2:30pm. We would travel from PV1, or Ranger forest Station 1, all the way to PV2, or you guessed it, Ranger Station 2, some 25 miles away by skiff. Going down the river it was beautiful to see so 20 Great Egrets, flying simultaneously. (See picture) This area is all considered part of the wetland, a very marshy area. Temporary floating islands appear out of no where from one week to the next. As the main river was blocked by logs, we had to take a “short cut”. We literally had to cut a new path with the boat moving the floating islands. Today we saw the elusive Howler Monkey, but he was practically impossible to get on camera.
Our Naturalist, Juan has an eagle eye and spotted 3 very rare Scarlet Macaws. Unfortunately because they were so far away and high up they could only be seen clearly with high powered binoculars, an absolute must on a trip like this.
Finally we reach PV2 where we will have lunch. I had the chance to meet the volunteer ranger at the station and here about his sightings. Now because the water is still high but receding, we weren’t able to go on a walk around the station. Also the animals are further inland because of the high water levels.
In his time as a volunteer ranger he has seen everything, even the extremely rare Jaguar. I asked him if he had ever seen a kill. He said no, but that they had come upon Jaguars when they were feeding. They eat such animals as the Paca, a large rodent like animal reaching 28 in, a Agoutis, and even a Capybara, a large brown rodent , reaching 4 feet in length, most likely to be confused with a pig. What I found most interesting was that they eat the head of the animals, and particularly like the brain.
At another turn, we were lucky enough to spot the now quite rare chicken like bird, the Hoatzin, at one time thought to be prehistoric due to its appearance with the crest on its head.
Day 6, Wednesday June 1,
Today was definitely the highlight. We stopped at a little village of approximately 100 people. Juan our Naturalist gave us the history of the village and introduced us to the village mayor. A tour of the village included a visit to the local school house. George played a came with the children, where they had to chant out the names of their guests. They also sang the National Anthem of Peru, very heart warming. We were encouraged to bring gifts for the children, and the children had to answer a skill testing question to receive their teach. The people were poor but very hospitable. I had the opportunity to speak at length with one 17 year old girl in Spanish, and emphasized the importance of education and teaching the other younger ones how to read and write. Truly a memorable experience.
Day 7, Thursday, June 2,
More fun today, Piranha fishing! Again we set out on our skiffs in search of Piranha for lunch. There is a real art to catching fish with just a pole, string and bate, one that I unfortunately didn’t master. My catch comprised of a twig, leaf and tree. I’m glad my fellow travelling companions were more skilled fishermen!
Day 8, Friday, June 3,
We did the exploration of the Jungle Expeditions Lodge, a private reserve protecting the environment and natural habitat. People from 2 different village located nearby work at the lodge. There is a natural lake within the property that we canoed on to see a variety of animals, including the largest rodent in the world, the Capybara.
We also saw 10 tiny, and extremely well camouflaged bats.
Upon disembarking from our canoes, we were ready for our hike through the jungle to the lodge waiting for us. Today was the farewell luncheon of our wonderful week together.
Our ever knowledgeable guides pointed out a variety of plants and trees including one that is used now for treating cancer.
The ant we saw was 1 inch in length, and poisonous if it stings you.
Half way along the way is a rest stop where they have cold water waiting, a welcome treat in the hot jungle. The young man assisting us on our canoe ride found a Poisonous Dart Frog, very rare and a treat for us to be able to photograph.
Carrying on with our trek John our guide points out a Walking Palm. They have several roots, not just one, and move seeking out light. They will move approx. 6 feet in 60 years, huh, there really are Tree People from Lord of the Rings!
Finally we reach our Oasis, the Jungle Expeditions Lodge, complete with Dining area, pool, and a live 7 piece band waiting to entertain us. If you want a land experience this would be a good choice, the rooms are clean and with electricity, and it’s quite near to Nauta, the city of embarkation to La Amatista. (ask about other activities at the lodge).
After that hot trek through the jungle, its time for a well deserved dip in the pool!
The staff had an excellent feast prepared for us, including rotisserie chicken, a large fresh fish of the Piranha family, a variety of salads. There were beautiful gardens surrounding the property.
This afternoon was the quiet trip back to Nauta for disembarkation the following morning for our journey back home.
The evening ended with another delicious meal and all of the crew and officers dressed in their formal attire, accompanied by music of course.
All the passengers left, refreshed, enlightened, and more knowledgeable of the Amazon and all of the wonderful life their due our wonderful Naturalists, George and Juan. Truly a trip of a lifetime, and I’m very appreciative of the Peruvians that are protecting the Amazon Rainforest and sharing it’s beauty with us.
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Playa del Carmen -
Hotspots & Highlights
14 years ago when I first visited Playa del Carmen, it was little more than a sleepy little fishing village. I have been back 7 times since. There have been remarkable changes to the Mayan Riviera. It is one of the fastest growing cities in Mexico. In the Mayan alone, there are over 70 resorts. From small boutique hotels to large mega resorts specializing in adults only, family travel, and even clothing optional resorts. There is truly something for everyone. To get a better view, click on the hotel names and see my personal pictures of the resorts & surrounding areas.
Being located close to Playa del Carmen gives singles a great opportunity to enjoy the fast expanding nightlife, even boasting a brand new Coco Bongo’s. While they do put on a good show, my preference is still the one in Cancun which is less of a show and more of a nightclub. The nightlife is abundant and there is a great selection for everyone’s style.
Frequently I am asked about the safety of traveling to Mexico given the drug wars in the north. There is plenty of police presence from the municipal, provincial, federal and tourist resources. As I speak Spanish I have asked many times about the safety of traveling independently and everyone says the same, “Playa, muy tranquilo”, or Playa del Carmen, very tranquil or quiet. I myself have ventured by local transportation up to Cancun and to Port Juarez to take the passenger ferry across to Isla Mujeras. You can take a taxi from the bus terminal to the port for 5 dollars or a “colectivo”, a local bus the workers take for just about 50 cents. I like doing things the local way and at all times I felt completely safe.
Isla Mujeras is very laid back and has one of the nicest beaches I have ever seen. June through September whale sharks are in the area. You can arrange to take a tour to swim with them.
This trip I did 9 site inspections including the Riu Palace Riviera Maya, Riu Palace Mexico, Riu Yucatan, Riu Tequila, Iberostar Grand, Azul Sensatori, El Dorado Royal, and Casistas, Azul Beach and Azul Maroma.
Previous visits I have stayed and or toured, the Iberostar Paraiso, Iberostar Lindo, Iberostar Maya, Barcelo Caribe, El Caracol, Porto Royal, and the Gran Bahia Principe Resorts.
-This is where I stayed for the week. Of the 4 Rius I toured it is the grandest, with the most impressive lobby. They boast the best beach. They have had sand imported in last year so it is whiter and softer than the sand at the Riu Palace Mexico; but both are on the same beach, which is deep and long.
-Food selection appeared to quite similar at all of the properties in the buffet restaurants. Of course at the 2 Palace resorts there was champagne in the morning for mimosas or just the champagne if you wished. The a la carte restaurant selection is also more extensive at the Palace resorts than the other 2 Riu resorts.
-The service was excellent, bar none. It was a rare occurrence to walk past anyone and not be greeted with at least an “hola” or “buen dia”.
-All of the rooms are junior suites that are very spacious and well laid out. All rooms have a mini fridge, and liquor dispensor. There is always plenty of water, pop and beer in the fridge. The hotel also has ice machines throughout the resort for your convenience. The room service menu is 24 hours, but quite limited.
If you were hungry late at night there are always sandwiches and hamburgers in the sports Bar with a good selection of condiments for the burgers and who can forget the nachos and cheese!
Riu Palace Mexico-still in the Playacar section of Playa del Carmen, the Riu Palace Mexico is still very nice, with few differences. The foliage is much more filled in, but shares a very similar layout.
Riu Yucatan I would rate the Riu Yucatan a 4 ½*. It was abuzz with activities and it seems to be a very good family resort. The food selection at the buffet appeared to be exactly the same as the Riu Palaces. The beach was quite deep with plenty of selection for beach chairs and shade. Extensive tennis courts, well maintained and in good condition. There are approximately 20 steps down to the beach so perhaps it is not a good choice of resorts for those with mobility issues.
Riu Tequila is across the street from the Riu Yucatan, so it is not directly on the beach, however it does have access the beach club with a shuttle to bring you there. It is home to the only nightclub for all of the Riu properties. It was clean and well maintained and I would rate it a 4* Mostly due the shuttle to the beach and lack of selection of a la carte restaurants.
Azul Beach by Karisma, is a small boutique hotel located just 20 minutes from the Cancun Airport, with a focus on family fun. They provid things such as a playpen in the room, and a change table when needed. Even a little tiny robe for the little one, great attention to details. There is a special kids menu in the dining room, high chairs, and toys if you wish.
A fun special feature of the resort are the “swing beds” located in both the bar and along the beach.
There is a beach butler with a supply of cold bottled water, towels, and reading material.
While the beach is narrow, it is quite long and a good quality swimming beach with beautiful soft white sand.
El Dorado Maroma - This little gem is likely where I will stay the next time I visit the Mayan Riviera. It is an adults only (16+)intimate 72 suite, boutique, luxury hotel featuring swim-up Jacuzzi & infinity pool Jacuzzi Suites. It is “Located on one of the 10 best beaches in the world” according to the Travel Channel. The staff are extremely attentive. Special Candle Light Dinners on the beach can be arranged making this a terrific place for romance.
Iberostar Grand - from when you first walk in the front door there is an opulence and grandness to this resort. There is a Venetian
theme throughout the property, even sporting it’s very own Gondola! The rooms are spacious and lavishly decorated, all being junior suites. For each section there is a concierge and butler service to attend to the details of your vacation. In keeping with the Iberostar style, the grounds are immaculately maintained.
Azul Sensatori, the latest pride and joy of the Karisma chain. This is a great choice for families and multigenerational groups traveling together, as there is a great focus on provisions for families traveling with children as well as an adults only section of the resort.
You can see the focus on children from when you first walk in the door with the private check in for children. The menus also offer a separate children’s menu.
There is a teens club, with activities planned specifically with teens in mind. It is being completely redone.
The rooms come complete with bottle warmers, cribs, car seats, a great selection of Fisher Price toys that the children can keep in the room to play with.
The resort also boasts a big water park complete with dumping water buckets and waterslide. In the same area there is a rock climbing wall. There is an excellent kids clubs, complete with miniature theatre, and mini gymnasium with balance bars. Among the little ones pottery painting seemed quite popular.
Azulitos , the kids club also has the option of evening hours if mom and dad want to have a romantic dinner alone from 7:30 – 9:30pm.
The family suites can accommodate 2 adults and up to 3 children, complete with smoked sliding glass door, for a bit of privacy and a flat screen TV in each room. Very spacious with lots of room for lounging.
It is a great resort for a destination wedding with the Sky wedding option. See photo and research more details of this. Offers a private wedding option with a beautiful view overlooking the ocean.
There is a very stylish restaurant in the adults only called the Le Chique Restaurant.
There are nice swim up pool rooms.
The bar area by the pool also features the fun swing beds.
Fairly good wine selection for Mexico.
What appears to be just another a la carte restaurant, they pride themselves on demonstration tables, but still have the option to eat a la carte if you wish. Overall, a wonderful property that I would be happy to stay at for my own holiday!
A sample of a few Tours available:
Dolphin Discovery – swim with Dolphins, Sea Lions and even Manatees.
Camel Safari – believe it or not, you can ride exotic camels through the jungle and along the beautiful while sands of the Mexican Riviera.
The Galleons of Captain Hook – Board a pirate ship for a hilarious show and Steak or Lobster Dinner with open bar. 2 ships set sail, with a mock battle and sword fight. It is an evening of non-stop fun and laughter!
Aqua World – don’t scuba dive or snorkel but still want to see the abundant underwater see life? Take a trip on the Subsee Explorer.
Chichenitza, one of the new 7 wonders – tour to see this remarkable Mayan Pyramid.
Swim with Whale-Sharks – swim with one of the largest fish in the ocean, a beautiful docile creature.
Available June – September.
For more information on the local excursions available please go to:
Coming Soon : Planning the perfect wedding in Punta Cana, DR.
