Spring Break Essentials

Hello Friends!!

With spring fever in full effect and seemingly everyone escaping to warmer weather for spring break, I wanted share my spring break essentials and a few things that made it into my carry-on.

Last year I went to a bachelorette in Miami and learned the hard way that you should always have a few key pieces tucked away in your carry-on.  Since I was flying from wintery weather to 80 degree temps I was woefully unprepared and ended up purchasing a swimsuit, sunglasses, cover up, sandals, and some toiletries.  I have since learned my lesson and am now sure to include one day's worth of fun in my tote.

Here are a few things that I packed in my carry-on to Secrets Akumal (I like a plane to beach tote like this one $39 or this one $139):

A One Piece: I love that they double as a body suit so can be worn multiple ways. This pink one from Phax Swimwear is definitely a favorite - the deep V and low back are such flattering cuts and the bright pink is perfect for the beach. Also, love my gingham and bow suit $52, and this one $35

Bikini:  Always need a good bikini to work on that tan! I love the colors in this one - starting at $69, and the high neck cut of this one - starting at $49

Cover-up: A nice cover-up is a must.  I loved mine from Phax Swimwear (worn here) that was perfect for the beach but still lunch appropriate.  I also love this one and this one.  

Shorts: My shorts are old, but these $55 and these $78 are very similar and SO affordable $55 and I wear them all spring/summer long! 

Sunglasses: I wanted to bring sunnies that I wasn't scared would get scratched, sandy, or lost and these were perfect $12!  And these $200 are my favorites and I have purchased the same pair 3 times because I love them so much.

Sandals: If you can only take one pair of sandals, take these $117. They are nice enough for dresses and casual enough to wear to the pool.

Toiletries: Don't forget sunscreen, and bug spray

Highlights from Secrets Akumal

Happy Friyay!

We have been on a major spring like streak since I returned from Mexico.  It has been in the 60'/70's all week which has made for a nice transition from the tropical temperatures in Riviera Maya.  However, we know in Colorado we can just as easily have two feet of snow on the ground tomorrow, so I am soaking in the sun while it lasts.

A few weeks ago, I had a serious case of the winter blues... serious!! And I got an invitation to attend a viewing party of Top Chef at Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya, where it was filmed, and I could not reserve my spot on the beach fast enough.  Apple Vacations and Amstar made this last minute trip seamless!  They booked everything and made sure transportation to and from the airport was a breeze.

Every direction I turned at the resort was simply picture perfect.  However, more importantly the service was wonderful.  We were greeted with cocktails upon arrival (big bonus points), and the staff made us feel right at home.  Several people have asked about the food because I guess all inclusive resorts are typically not known for their cuisine, and I have to say, the food was absolutely a highlight!  

Secrets Akumal has 7 restaurants and I was so impressed with each one.  Lacey and I loved the breakfast spread at The Market - the smoothies were the perfect start to my morning! And I also loved the all pink French restaurant, Bordeaux, and the sushi spot we dined at our last night.  I wore this dress with these comfy wedges ($39) to our progressive dinner tour which commenced in the main kitchen of the hotel with the most delicious and creative eight course dinner.  I could not have been more impressed!

For me, the most important part of truly enjoying a beach vacation is laying out.  Jonny would have something to say about that, so as much as I missed him, it was nice to be on a girls trip with some lovely ladies who understand the importance of soaking in some rays.  After spending a sufficient amount of time laying out and swinging on the swings at the beach bar we spent the afternoon relaxing in the Pevonia Spa.  It was the perfect way end to the day!

Hope you have a wonderful weekend - would love to hear what fun spring break trips you have planned! And as always, please let me know if you have any questions or suggestions!

xo

This post is in collaboration with Secrets Akumal . As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible!