Where can you get picturesque island charm with moderate year-round climates (and have no chance of ever seeing a hurricane)? Where are nights filled with concerts of sound and light, days full of sights and attractions, and nature meets cosmopolitan city life in a harmonious blend? Just a quick hop from Vancouver, British Columbia, the provincial capital, Victoria, offers a refreshing palette of attractions complemented by local hospitality that is both old-fashioned yet warm and accepting of diversity. It’s no surprise that many same-sex couples come here to exchange vows, and come back for the relaxing pace. An excellent backdrop...

Maroma Resort and Spa lives up to its reputation for exceptional amenities, unique spa experiences and high-quality culinary offerings in the Riviera Maya From the moment clients are greeted by the transfer attendant at the airport, board a leather-trimmed SUV and are handed cold towels and bottled water, they will know that their guest experience at Maroma Resort and Spa, located on Maroma Beach in the Riviera Maya, will be superlative. It’s the small touches that define a true luxury property’s service, like the soothing guitar music that starts to play as the driver whisks them away and, then, the personalized greeting at the...

Luxurious guestrooms and a dizzying selection of dining experiences await at the Barcelo Maya Palace Deluxe. Located midway between Playa Del Carmen and Xelha, Barcelo Maya Palace Deluxe is the crown jewel of the Barcelo Maya Beach Resort complex. This luxurious all-inclusive property has the best of both worlds: the peaceful ambience of a boutique five-star resort with the perks of a megaresort close at hand. The main lobby is decorated with a cosmopolitan chic aesthetic reminiscent of Miami’s South Beach, providing many areas to mingle or sit back and relax. Lobby terraces and balconies are furnished with trendy yet inviting seating,...

All-inclusive Riu Emerald Bay Mazatlan is a large-scale family resort that knows how to pack in value. Clients looking for good food and excellent accommodations at affordable prices need look no further than the Riu Emerald Bay in Mazatlan, Mexico. Not only is the 716-room property on Playa Las Brujas family-friendly, but it is also very popular with locals — occupancy typically hovers well above 90 percent. “What makes Riu Emerald Bay unique is the warmth and personalized service from our staff,” said sales manager Fernando Del Toro. “Riu Emerald Bay is the newest and most spectacular hotel in Mazatlan.” Due to its architecture,...