I'm incredibly honored to share that I've been named one of just 15 travel advisors from across the U.S. and Canada selected as AP Partner of the Year for Velas Resorts!

This recognition is especially meaningful because Velas is a brand I genuinely love sharing with my clients. Known for its exceptional all-inclusive luxury experiences in Mexico, Velas has built a reputation for delivering something truly special, and after spending three days with their team in Puerto Vallarta, I have an even greater appreciation for what makes this brand stand out.

A Mexican Family-Owned Brand with a Legacy of Excellence

One of the things that makes Velas Resorts so unique is its history. The brand has been family-owned and Mexican-owned since its creation, and that heritage is woven into the experience.

During our visit, we had the opportunity to meet with Mr. Vela himself and hear about:

• The family's rich history,


• Their vision for the future, and


• The exciting innovations and continued investments happening throughout the brand.

It was a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the people and passion behind the resorts and their commitment to continuing to raise the bar in luxury hospitality.

What Makes Velas Resorts So Special?

I had the opportunity to visit multiple Velas properties in Puerto Vallarta, and one thing was clear: the attention to detail is exceptional.

From the beautifully landscaped grounds and impressive facilities to the incredible food and genuinely outstanding service, every element feels thoughtfully designed.

This is what I consider true all-inclusive luxury. It's not just about having everything included; it's about:

• The quality of the experience,


• The level of service, and


• The little details that make your vacation memorable.

Think beautiful surroundings, exceptional dining, personalized hospitality, and that unmistakable Mexican warmth. Total Encanto vibes!

It's no surprise that Velas continues to earn industry awards and recognition year after year. Having experienced the brand firsthand, I can absolutely see why.

Which Velas Resort Is Right for You?

If you're considering a luxury all-inclusive vacation in Mexico, Velas Resorts is definitely a brand worth knowing.

Whether you're:

• Planning a romantic getaway,


• Celebrating a special occasion,


• Traveling with your family, or


• Simply ready to treat yourself to a more elevated vacation,

there are beautiful options to explore.

Each property has its own personality and experience, and finding the right fit makes all the difference.

Let's Plan Your Velas Getaway

As a luxury travel advisor and proud Velas partner, I love being able to offer my clients firsthand insight into the resorts I recommend.

My relationship with the brand, along with opportunities like this recent visit, allows me to share more than just photos and resort descriptions. I can help you:

• Understand the differences between properties,


• Find the right accommodations, and


• Choose the experience that best fits the way you want to travel.

If Mexico is on your travel wish list, I'd love to introduce you to Velas Resorts. Sometimes the best vacations start with finding a resort that truly gets everything right.

Ready to experience Velas luxury for yourself? Let's start planning!

Jessica Riediger

Luxury Travel Advisor | Vincent Vacations

[email protected]

A Magical Destination Wedding at Secrets Playa Blanca

Some weddings just stay with you long after the last dance, and this was absolutely one of them. From the very beginning, working with Ryan and Shelby was a dream. They were so incredibly sweet, filled with excitement, and had a clear vision of a romantic, unforgettable wedding in paradise. And let me tell you—Secrets Playa Blanca in Cancun delivered in every way!

A Sunset Ceremony to Remember

The couple exchanged vows in the breathtaking beachfront wedding gazebo, with the golden hues of the setting sun painting the sky behind them. The moment was pure magic—ocean waves as their soundtrack, a warm breeze gently flowing, and their closest loved ones witnessing their “I do’s” in a setting straight out of a dream.

A Garden Reception Under the Stars

After the ceremony, the celebration continued in the resort’s lush garden, surrounded by swaying palm trees and twinkling bistro lights. The ambiance was pure romance—warm, intimate, and filled with love. Guests toasted to the newlyweds, shared heartfelt speeches, and danced the night away under the Cancun sky.

A Celebration Beyond the Wedding Day

One of the best things about a destination wedding is that it’s never just one day—it’s a whole experience. Many guests extended their stay, taking extra time to soak in the stunning beach, relax poolside, and enjoy everything this adults-only all-inclusive resort has to offer. From spa days to beachfront lounging, it was the perfect blend of celebration and vacation.

The Sweetest Couple, the Best Memories

It was truly an honor to bring Ryan and Shelby’s dream wedding to life. Their love, their joy, and the warmth of their friends and family made this a wedding I won’t soon forget. Wishing them a lifetime of happiness, adventure, and endless love! 💕

About Secrets Playa Blanca

Secrets Playa Blanca is a beautiful adults-only resort just north of Cancun, known for its stunning beaches and peaceful atmosphere. One of its standout features is the jungle pool, tucked away in lush greenery, offering a unique and relaxing escape. With great dining, a gorgeous beachfront, and plenty of ways to unwind, it’s a perfect spot for a romantic getaway or a laid-back vacation.

If you’re dreaming of your own destination wedding, let’s make it happen! There’s nothing quite like saying “I do” in paradise. 🌴✨

I recently sailed Alaska's 7 Day Alaska Itinerary out of Vancouver on the Disney Wonder. We had stops at Dawes Glacier, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. The weather was amazing-70's and 80's many days in the ports and really clear weather until the last day at sea. We saw whales, porpoises, seals, and bald eagles without ever even leaving the ship. It was an incredible experience for my children.

We had a great time, but there's a few things I wish I had done differently:

• We tried to do character photos early. The lines are LONG at the beginning of the week but by the last few days the lines were much shorter and my kids were much happier after a short wait to see the characters!


• I scheduled too many shore excursions. We booked the glacier cruise, 2 excursions in Skagway, 1 in Juneau, and another in Ketchikan. A few days before the cruise we canceled our excursion in Ketchikan (and weren’t charged for it) and I’m so glad we did. By the time our last port rolled around my kids were ready for a little more freedom and to be able to explore at our own pace. They napped when we pulled into port so when they woke up we explored the town on our own and had a great time.


• We didn’t book a balcony. It’s better to go to Alaska in an interior room than not go at all, but it would have been great to have splurged and been able to use the balcony while my kids napped! From our window we saw whales, porpoises, seals and of course icebergs! The visibility from a balcony would have been even better.


• I didn’t pack swimsuits for my kids. Really, I had no idea kids would be swimming in the pools in Alaska! But we had several warm days and the pools and splash areas were used every day. We managed to grab my oldest a swimsuit in port and she got to use the pools for the last few days.

Let's skip to the good part! There are 4 things I was glad I did that made our cruise just a bit more enjoyable.

• We chose Disney Cruise Lines over other cruise lines. I’ve sailed on six different cruise lines, 2 of those in Alaska (now 3!). There’s nothing that compares for a family vacation than Disney Cruise Lines! The kid’s clubs, character experiences, family activities like crafts, animation classes, family dance parties, theme nights really set Disney apart from all the other cruise lines. There was something for all ages to participate in all day!


• I booked the glacier explorer at Dawes Glacier. I was worried my kids (ages 2 and 4) were too young to appreciate it but they were amazed by being so close to a glacier and watching seals float around on icebergs! The deck hands even brought an iceberg onto the boat and gave each child their own piece to eat and play with. We bundled them up to up on deck after we reached the glacier and they were able to watch it calve. We got MUCH closer to the glacier and wildlife than we were able to on the ship.


• We chose early dining. My kids absolutely loved the rotational dining! Their favorite drinks were on our table when we arrived each night along with crayons and a kids menu with coloring activities. Tianna’s was so fun with the Mardi Gras parade and it was such a neat experience to see our artwork come to life in Animator’s Palate! However, with the time difference, I know if we had late dining they would have been too tired to enjoy any of it.


• We packed costumes for Frozen Night. The deck party is so fun and you even see all of the moms and dads really having the best time and singing along! Frozen night happens on glacier viewing day, so be prepared at both dinner and after dinner for special Frozen activities!

I've sailed Alaska 3 times on 3 different cruise lines! I would love to help you plan your next Alaska or Disney cruise! [email protected]

Your travel planning just got easier

What is a travel agent and why do I need one?

A few things you should know about travel agents:

• There is no fee for my services. I work off of commission, just like the online companies you have most likely booked with before. When you book with an online agency, they receive a commission from the hotel or resort. When you book with a local travel agent, we receive the commission instead.


• I provide personalized service. During a consultation, I will ask you questions about your travel plans and preferences to help ensure that the resort, tour, or destination matches your travel style and expectations. I know what resorts have nightlife, and what resorts offer a quiet, relaxed vibe. The same goes for different cruise lines and itineraries as well!


• Itinerary customization. Want to visit several cities in Italy? I can book all of your hotels and transportation for you AND help you decide how long to stay in each city. Dreaming of a destination wedding? I’d love to help you with that. Taking the kids to Disney and not sure what dining plan you need? Let’s visit and I can help you weed through those decisions.


• The lowest prices. I have access to discounts and specials to help you get the lowest price. Find a lower price online? The vendors I work with value travel agents and are wiling to match online pricing if a lower price is found.


• Flexible payment options. I can often accept low deposits with final payments due 45-60 days prior to the dates of travel.


• Knowledge is power. As a travel professional, I am constantly working to keep my knowledge up to date. I participate in ongoing education and love to learn about new destinations and resorts! Travel agents visit resorts and destinations so that we have first hand knowledge of the places we send our valued clients.

Contact me for a free consultation or quote for your destination wedding or vacation!

Experience the nostalgia and elegance of the American Queen Steamboat Company

Luxury River Cruising on American Waters

What sets them apart?

What’s included?

• 1 night pre-cruise hotel with breakfast


• Transportation from the hotel to the vessel on embarkation day with luggage porterage


• All meals with a culturally immersive menu with steak and lobster included


• Unlimited drinks on board including unlimited wine, spirits, specialty coffee, and soda


• Guided tours in each port


• Daily entertainment and enrichment with local influences


• A fleet of bicycles on board to use in ports


• Pilot house tours


• Unlimited wifi on board

How should I dress for my cruise?

What rivers American Queen sail?

Can I customize my experience?

Email to start planning your luxury river cruise: [email protected]